The Village aims to address pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular issues at the Central Road Railroad crossing and the intersections of Central Road with Northwest Highway (US 14) and Prospect Avenue. A Phase I Engineering Study is the first step in rebuilding this crossing and intersection. Tasks of the study include performing a detailed survey of the project area, gathering vehicle, pedestrian, and train data, seeking public input on existing issues, evaluating potential environmental impacts, and developing alternative preliminary designs. The goal of the study is to determine the preferred alternative, develop a preliminary construction cost estimate, and secure preliminary approval from the Illinois Department of Transportation and Union Pacific Railroad.

The primary objectives of the project are to improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities, enhance safety for vehicles crossing the railroad tracks and traveling through the intersection, improve truck turning movements, address the blocked thru lane concerns on eastbound Central Road at the tracks, and enhance the aesthetics within the project area.   

Due to the scope of work and stakeholders involved, this project will take several years to complete.

The Village has successful working partnerships and intergovernmental relationships to resolve troublesome intersections throughout town. One such location is the area surrounding the Central Road at-grade crossing of the Union Pacific Railroad. This includes the railroad crossing and the intersections of Central Road with Northwest Highway (US 14) and Prospect Avenue. Together, these intersections act as the western gateway to downtown Mount Prospect. Pedestrian and bicycle accommodations at these intersections are minimal and require long crossing distances. Vehicle delays are primarily due to the crossing being activated by trains. Still, the left turn movement from eastbound Central Road onto north westbound Northwest Highway (US 14) is particularly problematic due to limited storage for vehicles turning left. The Village of Mount Prospect is committed to developing and implementing a plan to significantly enhance the transportation system, benefiting pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, nearby businesses, and our residents.  

While the Village has completed numerous studies in the past that reference this railroad crossing, none directly addressed the issues described above. Central Road and Northwest Highway (US 14) are under the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) jurisdiction. Prospect Avenue is under local jurisdiction. The traffic signals at Central Road and Prospect Avenue and Central Road and Northwest Highway (US 14) are owned and maintained by IDOT. The Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) owns and maintains the railroad crossing signals.  

Below is a tentative schedule and subject to change.
Phase I (Preliminary Engineering): June 2024 – December 2025
Phase II (Design Engineering) and Land Acquisition: 2026 - 2027
Construction: 2028

The Village will be seeking grant funding for the project. The project schedule may be affected should the Village successfully secure grant funding and allocate it for a specific year(s).

February 2024 – Published Request for Proposal for Phase I Engineering 

How can I get involved in the project?

Once Phase I Engineering is initiated, the Village and its consultant will develop a public involvement plan for the project. It will include at least one public meeting where residents can share their thoughts on existing issues and proposed alternatives. Updates will be made to this website, letting residents know how to get involved.