Before any work is done that may be required in the making of the proposed grade crossing elimination improvement, the director of transportation shall file plans covering the proposed improvement in the office of the district deputy director of transportation of the state highway district within which such improvement or any part thereof is located, for the examination of all persons interested. The plans shall show all changes of grade and location of any highway or portion thereof, all private property to be taken, and any highway or portion thereof to be vacated, including the crossing to be eliminated, and the general specifications under which the work is to be carried out.

Upon the filing of plans as provided in this section, the director shall issue a finding and determination of the director's intention to make the proposed improvement in accordance with such plans. The director then shall cause to be published, in a newspaper published and of general circulation in each county, or if there is no such newspaper, then in one of general circulation in such county in which any portion of such improvement is to be constructed, once each week for two consecutive weeks, notice of the entry of said findings and determination, and a statement that a copy of the plans of such improvement is on file with the district deputy director for the inspection of all interested persons.

The director, by contract, may agree with any railroad company involved that the director will not settle any claim for compensation, or damages, or both, except with the approval of such company.

Effective Date: 09-17-1996 .