MACOG and DLZ announce public listening sessions to beheld for the Rail Corridor Study in eastern St. Joseph County
MACOG, in partnership with St. Joseph County and Elkhart County, is pleased to announce two public listening sessions for the Rail Corridor Study focused on at-grade railroad crossings in eastern St. Joseph County. The listening sessions, led by consulting firm DLZ, will be held on June 9 and June 10, 2026, at Moran Elementary School (305 North Beech Road, Osceola, IN 46561) from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Identical sessions will be held on both dates to provide flexible attendance options.
The Rail Corridor Study is evaluating safety improvements and potential alternatives for the at-grade railroad crossings located on Ash Road, Apple Road, Beech Road, and Cottage Grove Avenue. The study aims to identify solutions that enhance safety, improve mobility, and address community concerns along this corridor.
A previous study, conducted from 2023-2024, focused on a single crossing and evaluated large-scale infrastructure solutions. This new study builds on that foundation by looking at all key crossings together, evaluating a wider range of options, and prioritizing solutions that balance safety, reliability, and community impact.
At this phase of the Rail Corridor Study, public input is a critical component of the process. The listening sessions are designed to provide community members, stakeholders, and corridor users an opportunity to share their lived experiences, concerns, and perspectives related to these crossings. Feedback gathered during these sessions will help inform future recommendations and potential improvements. The study is expected to conclude in the Summer of 2027 and will provide additional opportunities for public engagement as the study progresses.
"The Norfolk Southern Line through Osceola is one of the busiest rail corridors in our region, and its impacts are felt every day by residents, commuters, and businesses along this corridor," said James Turnwald, Executive Director of MACOG. "These listening sessions are an important opportunity for the community to have a direct voice in shaping the future of these crossings."
“Community input is essential to ensuring that the outcomes of this study reflect the needs and priorities of those who use these crossings every day,” said Anthony Glenn, DLZ Project Manager. “We encourage residents and business owners to attend and share their experiences.”
Attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with project team members, share their comments, and learn more about the study process and next steps.
For more information about the Rail Corridor Study, including future updates and opportunities for input, please visit engage.macog.com/rail-corridor-study.
