Sec 40-337.01. Installation of automatic warning devices; agreements for sharing cost; apportionment of cost

A. The commission may determine, after a public hearing, whether any particular crossing of a railroad and a public highway or street is sufficiently hazardous as to require the installation of automatic warning signals or devices at such crossing, provided, that a public hearing shall not be required if the parties in interest have entered into an agreement for the construction of such crossing and for the apportionment between them of the cost of acquiring and installing such automatic warning signals or devices and provided further such agreement assesses the cost at not to exceed the amounts prescribed in subsection B.

B. If the commission finds that any crossing requires the installation of automatic warning signals or devices, it shall order such installation, and if the parties in interest are unable to agree upon the apportionment of the cost of acquisition and installation, then the cost shall be borne as follows:

1. The railroad, fifty per cent.

2. Where a city street is involved: the city, fifty per cent.

3. Where a county highway is involved: the county, fifty per cent.

4. When a state highway is involved: the state highway fund, fifty per cent.

5. City, county or state highway funds may be used to finance the cost of installation of automatic warning signals or devices in amounts greater than those set forth in this subsection, provided that federal funds are available for and are actually reimbursed to the city, county or state highway to cover the cost of the installation.

C. When a railroad has installed automatic signals or warning devices pursuant to order of the commission, it shall secure reimbursement for that portion of the cost thereof which, in accordance with the agreement of the parties in interest or the provisions hereof, is to be borne by others, by filing verified claims with the appropriate fiscal officers, and such claims shall be approved and paid without reference to or limitation by the provisions of any other law. For the purpose of determining the amount of reimbursement to which the railroad is entitled, the commission shall retain jurisdiction of the matter and upon completion of the installation of the automatic signals and warning devices, shall make a determination as to the cost of installing same, including but not limited to, the cost of acquisition and expense of installation.