DENVER -- State officials have approved work to install warning signals at a southern Colorado railroad crossing where five people were killed after their minivan was struck by an Amtrak train.
The Colorado's Public Utilities Commission approved the work last week to add flashing lights, bells and gates at the crossing, according to the Denver Post. The crossing is marked with signs but doesn't have gates to stop vehicles.
The Colorado Department of Transportation says a $271,000 contract for the project has already been signed.
The commission's approval for the safety improvement project comes after five family members died in June when their van failed to yield right of way to a train near Trinidad. The train collided with the right side of the Chrysler and dragged the mini-van with it until the train came to a full stop.
Stephen Miller, 32, Christina Miller, 33, and their three young daughters died. A 4-year-old girl survived and was treated for serious injuries.
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