When it is necessary, in the elimination of existing grade crossings, to change the location of any highway on the state highway system or any extension of the system, the director of transportation may relocate the highway or any part thereof, or the extension or any part thereof, and may vacate the whole or any portion of such highway or extension no longer needed by reason of such relocation, and cause the improvement contemplated to be placed in the relocated highway or extension. In the relocation of any such highway, the portion of the highway within the limits of the right-of-way of railroad companies participating in the cost of the improvement shall be vacated and closed to the public upon the opening of the relocated portion of the highway or extension to the public. The director at such time shall declare the relocated highway, or portion or extension thereof, open to travel, and the portion of such highway no longer needed, including grade crossings over any steam, electric, or other railroad proposed to be eliminated, the director shall declare vacated and closed to the public. The director shall transmit a certified copy of the declaration to the companies affected, and upon receipt thereof, such companies may erect fences or other barriers barring the public from use of the crossings. The director shall file a certified copy of the declaration with the board of county commissioners of any county in which any part of the project is located.

Effective Date: 09-17-1996 .