McGregor hopes second time will be the charm in fixing railroad crossing
On Nov. 11, workers were busy erecting a fence along a new walkway to McGregor’s Riverfront Park, which is part of improvements to the nearby railroad crossing. (Photo by Audrey Posten)
By Audrey Posten | Times-Register
McGregor city officials are hopeful the second time will be the charm in improving the city’s riverfront railroad crossing.
The spot has been a source of contention since spring 2023, when Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railway (CPKC) raised the tracks due to Mississippi River flooding.
At CPKC’s expense, work was completed at the crossing last summer and fall to allow pedestrians and vehicles to better cross the tracks, but left the slope to Riverfront Park, the boat launch, Big Buoys Tiki Bar and the riverfront public parking lot dangerously steep. The grade also made getting some trailers across the railroad tracks impossible.
Now, work is underway to add fill and pavement to improve the slope from the parking lot to the tracks.
Mayor Russ Crawmer said this action necessitated a walkway next to the railroad tracks to help pedestrians more safely reach Riverfront Park. A chain link fence on the park side of the tracks will further improve safety.
Crawmer said, similar to last year, all work is being completed at CPKC’s expense.
“The goal has been to consider all aspects of a usable railroad crossing for the marina’s needs as well as the pedestrian walk,” he said. “Expect to see finished parking lot, nicely walkable sidewalk, new fencing and a working fire hydrant soon.”
But whether this fix will actually work is still being determined.
“Will it fix it? We’re still skeptical,” Crawmer admitted.
