COLUMBIANA Crossing closing to be mulled

East Railroad Street is the only one in the village that could be closed.
COLUMBIANA -- Ohio Rail Development Commission will commit up to $175,000 to be used for active warning devices at village railroad crossings in exchange for closing one of the eight crossings.
Councilman Don Leonard says ORDC is willing to assist the village in improving safety at railroad crossings as the Columbiana County Port Authority prepares to reopen the dormant former Youngstown & amp; Southern rail line.
To be closed: Leonard said East Railroad Street crossing is the only one of eight in the village that could be closed because it would be possible to vacate East Railroad Street.
Leonard received a letter from Bill Tompos, ORDC acting director, stating that ORDC would provide money to install or improve warning gates and lights at other crossings if one were closed.
"It's a safety issue," Leonard said. "There's less chance for accidents with fewer crossings."
Council will consider the possible closing of East Railroad Street at its March 20 meeting.
Affected residents must be notified by certified mail and the village must advertise a public hearing regarding the request. Council has asked Law Director Dan Blasdell to begin the necessary paperwork.