The director of transportation, in a grade crossing elimination, shall proceed by issuing a finding and order, setting out a full written description of the existing grade crossing that is proposed to be abolished, showing its location, the reasons that tend to make its elimination necessary, the names of the companies owning, operating, controlling, or managing such railroads or interurban railways, the manner in which it is contemplated the proposed improvement should be accomplished, and the proposed relocation of the highway or extension if any relocation is to be made. In this finding and order the director shall fix a time and place for the holding of a hearing as to the necessity and expediency of the proposed improvement, and shall serve a copy of the finding and order on such companies at least thirty days prior to the time fixed for hearing. The director may adjourn the hearing as the director sees fit. Service shall be made by the sheriff of the county within which the crossing involved is located, in the same manner as is provided for the service of summons in civil actions, or by registered mail as determined by the director.

If, when the hearing is held, the director is of the opinion that the proposed improvement is or is not reasonably necessary and expedient, the director shall so find and order and issue such a finding and order.

A finding and order that the proposed improvement is not reasonably necessary and expedient shall not prevent a future hearing for the same purpose, involving the same crossing.

Effective Date: 09-17-1996 .