Railroad crossings causing concerns

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Story Published: Apr 28, 2009 at 5:16 PM MST

Story Updated: Apr 28, 2009 at 5:16 PM MST

By Anthony Congi

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JEFFERSON COUNTY - Several rail crossings in eastern Idaho are in need of fixing.

Right off Interstate 20's County Line Road exit, a railroad crossing is causing some headaches for local drivers.

When you look closely, the wood is beat up and splintered and the road is full of pot holes.

Our viewer's wife called Jefferson County Road and Bridge about those potholes and was told the problem needed to be on their "to do list"

"She said, well you know, where is it on the list? And they said it's not even on the list. They basically said they just didn't have the money to fix it and until it got on the list and it's time came, they wouldn't be working on it," says Don Ellingwood.

Don has been here for two years and despite his efforts, nothings been fixed.

"I've stood out here a couple minutes with you, there's a lot of traffic that goes through these ties. Obviously it takes a beating," I said.
"Oh you bet. You got two places where it's gone completely. Now everybody, myself included, i drive clear over on the far side trying to miss those holes," said Ellingwood.

And here in Ririe, folks are also having a tough time with this railroad crossing right in the middle of town.

Another viewer called for help after his attempts to have the crossing fixed were ignored.

When I talked to him on the phone, he told me the Eastern Idaho Railroad kept giving him the runaround.

I tried making phone calls to get answers from both Jefferson County road and bridge, as well as the railroad.

My calls to the railroad were not returned.

However, Jefferson County's Road and Bridge Administrator told me there are several areas around the county that need fixing and they take on the worst ones first; but he will look into these crossings.

Because of the time involved with fixing these projects and the unavailability of some of the railroad managers; we will continue to take action for you and stay on top of these crossings.

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