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County, Blackshirt Feeders and BNSF discuss Sandborne railroad crossing safety, liability and grant work
Summary
Dundy County commissioners held public meetings and a special session with Blackshirt Feeders and BNSF representatives about safety, liability and construction timelines at the Sandborne railroad crossing; county and private partner options include an NDOT grant application contingent on private match and clarifying maintenance/insurance responsibilities.
The Dundy County Board of Commissioners discussed safety and construction options for the Sandborne railroad crossing (near Highway 34) in multiple meetings and a July 22 special session focused on the crossing and a proposed NDOT Economic Opportunity grant linked to new private construction.
Dean Settje, representing Blackshirt Feeders, explained that the project requires BNSF review and permitting; BNSF had required a $10 million insurance-liability threshold in prior discussions, causing delay. Settje said some crossing components (lights, cross-arms) have limited national supply and that BNSF review and approval would be needed before construction could start. A county/BNSF meeting was planned to coordinate final approvals and permitting.
County and BNSF representatives clarified responsibilities: the county would be responsible for the approaches and maintenance up to the crossing deck; private parties and the railroad would have distinct maintenance and permitting obligations. Settje told the board Blackshirt Feeders would be willing to provide the county’s 25% match toward an NDOT grant by delivering a legal letter of commitment; the county subsequently motioned to submit a grant application contingent on receipt of that letter.
Commissioners and the public discussed interim safety measures such as additional signage, illuminated stop signs and monitoring. BNSF indicated it would consider a speed review. The board also noted that county crews had completed approach improvements and would continue monitoring conditions.
Outcome: The board authorized submission of an NDOT Economic Opportunity Grant application contingent on Blackshirt Feeders providing a legal commitment for the required 25% match. That application authorization was unanimous. The board asked county staff and counsel to continue coordination with NDOT, BNSF and private partners before any county-funded obligations were assumed.
Sources: July 22 special meeting and earlier public sessions; motion to apply for NDOT grant and public safety exchanges recorded in meeting minutes.
