Q: Who is responsible for repairing railroad crossings in Madison? There is a dreadful hole with metal pieces sticking through on the crossing on the Packers Avenue southbound lane.

A. The crossing at Packers Avenue has been repaired, city officials say.

"The operating railroad is responsible for maintaining and repairing the crossing including four feet on each side of the rail," said Steve Sonntag, an engineer with the Madison Department of Public Works.

"The Packers Avenue crossing was replaced using state funds, since it is a state highway (Highway 113) which is scheduled for reconstruction in 2013. Packers Avenue was closed from Nov. 8-10 to completely replace the crossing and approaches."

Sonntag said the railroad typically repairs crossings on an as-needed basis.

"The city does inform the railroad of crossings in need of repair," he said. "If the operating railroad does not repair the crossing in a timely manner, the city can then petition the commissioner of railroads, who then would order the repairs be done."

Sonntag said anyone with concerns about railroad crossings in Madison may call him at 608-267-1997.

"I would take a look at the crossing, then contact the operating railroad and ask them to repair the crossing, if needed."

Look for Just Ask Us on Tuesdays in the Local section. Send questions to: justaskus@madison.com; 608-252-6192; Just Ask Us, P.O. Box 8058, Madison, WI 53708.