Kane County Secures $25 Million in Federal Funds for Rail Safety Project near Elgin

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Kane County has been awarded $25 million in funding to improve rail safety near the intersection of Randall Road and Hopps Road on the borders of the City of Elgin and Village of South Elgin.   

The improvements, under the direction of the Kane County Division of Transportation, will eliminate the last “at-grade" rail crossing along the 36 miles of the Randall Road corridor, Kane County's most highly traveled road with 40,000 vehicles daily.   

When completed, motorists will be able to drive over the Canadian National railroad tracks on Randall Road and Hopps Road. A north-south third lane will be added in both directions on Randall Road to ease traffic flow and reduce traffic delays.

"This significant investment will not only modernize the safety and effectiveness of our transportation systems but will also be vital in enhancing the quality of life for all Kane County residents," said Kane County Board Chairman, Corinne Pierog.

The improvements at the rail crossing and adjacent intersection are designed to reduce congestion, provide greater access to responding emergency vehicles and significantly reduce the occurrences of crashes. 

“About five years ago, I witnessed a devastating, fatal accident at this intersection. I think of the victim and her family's heartbreak often. This investment will provide a meaningful, safety improvement for motorists for years to come," said South Elgin Village President Steve Ward.

The project also includes the construction of a path for people walking or biking along Randall Road.

"Thank you to our federal legislators for this significant investment. Elgin and Kane County remain committed to working collaboratively with the federal government towards continuous improvements in transportation along the Randall Road corridor," said Elgin Mayor David Kaptain.  

Construction is expected to take two years, beginning in 2026.

The funding was made available through the U.S. Government's Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) program, which is expected to provide $8 billion for INFRA programs, like Kane County's rail safety project, over the next five years.

To learn more about the Randall and Hopps Road project, click here. 

Here is a flyover video of the project. click here​