Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – Jan. 10, 2025 – The City of Jonesboro has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the Federal Railroad Administration to study all 18 at-grade rail crossings located within the city.
The project is part of the Railroad Crossing Elimination program, which is aimed at minimizing interactions between trains and roadway users, decreasing accidents, improving emergency response, and enhancing freight efficiency. Successful completion of this planning phase will position Jonesboro to seek additional grant funding for engineering and construction of future multimillion-dollar overpass projects.
“This study will provide a strong foundation for future construction funding requests. The data generated during this process will arm the city with preliminary construction plans for overpasses and intersection work that not only saves the taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars but will allow us to present construction-ready plans in future grants,” Mayor Harold Copenhaver said.
The grant requires a $300,000 local match; however, half will be paid by Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway as part of a partnership forged by city administration and BNSF representatives to increase safety and reduce liabilities as Jonesboro continues to grow.
Congressman Rick Crawford echoed Mayor Copenhaver’s words by adding, “I’m pleased to see Jonesboro is receiving this grant to help address rail crossing safety. As a senior member on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I’m aware of the danger antiquated rail crossings can pose to rural Americans. Grants like these are critical to ensure our infrastructure system is both safe and efficient,” said Rep. Crawford.
The study is expected to be completed in early 2026 and will provide city leaders with a comprehensive evaluation of current crossings and recommend improvements to enhance safety and mobility for residents and local commerce. The study will include reviews of the historically problematic Gee Street, Fisher Street and Airport Road at-grade crossings, along with others throughout the city. Additionally, crossings on the city-owned 8-mile industrial rail loop will be reviewed. Ultimately, the study will also provide preliminary design for crossing elimination at 4 of the most dangerous crossings in the city, as identified during the research process.
“We appreciate Congressman Crawford’s support during this process. He has a strong record of supporting transportation and railroad safety projects in East Arkansas, including several right here in Jonesboro. I look forward to continuing to work with our congressional delegation to secure additional federal funding for critical infrastructure projects in Jonesboro,” Copenhaver added.
