Published: November 19, 2008 12:55 pm      

Scriven Avenue RR crossing set to close in Live Oak

Live Oak motorists will lose access to another rail crossing this weekend. The city council on Nov. 13 approved the closing of the crossing at Scriven Avenue.

The city will receive $15,000 from CSX railroads and $7,500 from the Florida Department of Transportation for complying with the closure.

City Administrator Bob Farley said Wednesday the measure will also save the city about $1,500 annually in maintenance costs.

DOT officials announced their intention to close the crossing earlier this year. Officials have said DOT has been mandated by the state to reduce crossings by 24 percent statewide. A DOT report cited liability concerns and maintenance costs among reasons for the closures.

The crossing at Irvin Avenue was closed last year. The city council initially fought DOT's request to close the crossing, citing safety concerns – emergency vehicles could be delayed – and inconvenience to motorists. However, the council gave in after learning the matter would be too costly to fight in court.

Farley said he does not anticipate any more closings in the city of Live Oak.

City officials have reported that 263 vehicles cross Scriven Avenue daily.