Reminder: Railroad crossing closures at Candler and McDonough streets begin June 19
The railroad crossing near Decatur High Photo by Dan WhisenhuntBrace yourselves, because traffic in Decatur is about to get more annoying than usual.
Effective June 19, CSX will begin rebuilding its crossings at Candler and McDonough streets.
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“Site work will continue uninterrupted until its completion which is projected to take roughly seven days. Both intersections will be closed and will remain closed for the duration,” an announcement from the city says. “Completion could be delayed due to rain.”
The primary goal of the project is safety. The city says these road closures will “significantly improve accessibility and safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.” Additionally, the city hopes to encourage those who live in neighborhoods south of the CSX rail corridor, such as Winnona Park and the areas surrounding Renfroe Middle School, to walk and bike into downtown Decatur.
Among the project’s improvements are “gentler slopes” on the north side of both crossings, making the path more accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, as well as a pedestrian – and biker – friendly route located outside the railroad crossing gates.
Currently, pedestrians and bicyclists have to share the road with vehicles at these crossings. Pedestrians will also find new crosswalks where none currently exist, located on the east side of both intersections and just north of the Candler crossing, connecting to the sidewalk along the old Depot property, according to the update.
Vehicles will also benefit from the project. Both crossings will include new traffic signals on both sides, allowing protected left turns on all legs of the two crossings.
The project expects to reduce vehicular traffic and improve the pedestrian and cycling experience. Until its completion, prepare for a few detours.
The city provided the following detour maps.