Commerce St. Railroad Crossing in Lawrence County

Close-up of a freight railcar’s wheels and coupler on railroad tracks.

The Commerce Street railroad crossing (USDOT ID #350782F) in Lawrence County was identified as high-risk area for a severe crash. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) reached out to the City of Loretto and Tennessee Southern Railroad (TSRR) to initiate a collaborative diagnostic review and develop a plan for safety improvements.

The identified improvements included resurfacing, new signs and pavement markings, new constant warning time train detection, new flashing lights with gates, and an electronic bell. TDOT created the required National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation, project certifications, and reimbursement contracts. The City of Loretto installed the roadway improvements, and TSRR installed the railroad improvements.

Additional Funding Information:
Funding for the Railway Highway Crossing Program is allocated through the federal Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP). Contracts for project construction reimburse expenses and may be provided to railroad companies and local governments.

Funding Sources

Federal Funding (Section 130 Program) $254,001.84  
State Funding $479.24  
Local Funding $1,937.08  
TSRR Funding $25,779.76