CIRCLEVILLE, OH – Major infrastructure improvements are on the way for Circleville as the city has been awarded a $20 million grant from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to construct a railroad overpass on South Court Street.
Addressing Traffic and Safety Concerns
Currently, 40 trains pass through Circleville each day, causing frequent delays and traffic disruptions. The proposed overpass aims to improve safety and enhance mobility, eliminating the need for motorists to wait at railroad crossings.
The project is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and streamline traffic flow. The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) approved a feasibility study in December 2024, conducted by American Structurepoint, which identified South Court Street as the most viable location for the overpass. The firm has been working with city officials since 2019 to explore alternatives for improving traffic congestion caused by railroad crossings.
Funding and Support
The Ohio Rail Development Commission (ORDC) partnered with Circleville and American Structurepoint to submit the funding application to the FRA’s Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program. The application received widespread bipartisan support from state and federal leaders, as well as endorsements from local community organizations.
“We are thrilled to see the South Court Street railroad overpass project moving forward,” said Circleville Mayor Michelle Blanton. “This initiative will significantly enhance public safety and mobility in our community. We are incredibly grateful to American Structurepoint and the ORDC for their partnership and commitment to making Circleville a safer and more connected place.”
Next Steps
Before securing this $20 million grant, Circleville received $2.5 million from the ORDC and committed $2.5 million of its own funds toward the project. The next phase includes conducting a feasibility study to determine the best alignment for the South Court Street overpass.
The Circleville City Council will discuss and vote on a resolution to proceed with the study at an upcoming meeting (date TBD).
With this major federal investment, Circleville is taking a crucial step toward improving its infrastructure, reducing congestion, and ensuring safer, more efficient travel for residents and visitors alike.
