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TO: Mayor John Laesch and City Council
FROM: Tim Weidner, P.E., Engineering Coordinator
DATE: December 11, 2025
SUBJECT:
A Resolution authorizing the execution of real estate contracts to purchase property in the amount of $11,000.00 and appropriating MFT Funds for the Edgelawn BNSF Bike Path Crossing Project.
PURPOSE:
To authorize the purchase of right-of-way for the Edgelawn BNSF Bike Path Crossing Project and to appropriate MFT Funds as required by the Illinois Highway Code for Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Section 20-00335-00-FL.
BACKGROUND:
This project received Local Rail-Highway Crossing Safety Program federal funds, 90% federal funding up to $631,682.
The project limit span is from the commercial driveway (south of the BNSF tracks) to the Virgil Gilman Trail (north of the BNSF tracks). The proposed improvements include constructing an 8' asphalt bike path on the east side of Edgelawn Drive, through the BNSF tracks. The bike path will connect to the Virgil Gilman Trial to the north and paved shoulder to the south at the commercial driveway using off and on-street bike path, pavement marking and signage. Other improvements include railroad track crossing material and railroad gate/flasher infrastructure and circuitry.
The City has recently submitted 99% Final Plans to IDOT for the construction of a bike and pedestrian crossing at the BNSF Railroad at Edgelawn Drive. As part of this project, the City must acquire a permanent easement from the BNSF Railroad to construct this bike path crossing within their right-of-way.
DISCUSSION:
This resolution will provide authorization to proceed with the acquisition of permanent easement from the BNSF Railroad. The Corporation Counsel, City Engineer and respective designees shall represent the City in the acquisition of these parcels.
The City has received acceptance on the parcels required for this project. The total amount of this settlement is $8,500.00 for the easement, plus a $2,500.00 administrative fee, ...
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