Railroad replaces panels at crossings

RITZVILLE – The last week of August was a busy one for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad.

Crews replaced track panels at three railroad crossings in town. Jefferson Street near the recycling bins remained open, but crossings at Columbia, Division and Adams Streets were closed.

Crews of about 15 workers and supervisors used heavy machinery, steam rollers and shovels to replace track panels.

The project involved removal of old rail components, excavation under the rails, and tamping of newly-crushed rock.

Crews installed pre-formed concrete planks and lifted rails into position.

Workers also repaved streets at approaches to the crossings.