The Village of Burnham, with assistance from the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways (DoTH), has initiated the Burnham Avenue Railroad Crossing Study which will focus on improving safety and mobility at the at-grade crossing near the intersection of Burnham Avenue and Brainard Avenue, where Burnham Avenue intersects with five (5) railroad tracks.
Currently, the Village of Burnham experiences 8,200 vehicles per day at this location and an average of over four (4) hours of downed gate time daily. This at-grade crossing results in safety, congestion, mobility, and environmental issues for the community and commuters.
In 2019, the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) identified this as a priority location as part of the Northeastern Illinois Priority Grade Crossings due to road and pedestrian safety concerns with potential rail operations. The purpose of the Burnham Avenue Railroad Crossing Study is to evaluate several alternatives that will resolve these issues and improve the quality of life for the community.
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Project Benefits
Safety
Enhancing safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, cars, and buses that intersect with freight, passenger, and commuter trains.
Congestion
Reducing congestion that currently exists from vehicles waiting at downed gates.
Mobility
Providing improved mobility in the Village of Burnham and Chicago neighborhood of Hegewisch.
Environmental
Decreasing carbon emissions by eliminating the need for cars and buses to idle at downed gates.