Contributed photo
Contributed photo
State Sen. Bill Cunningham (D-Dist. 18) joined other local government leaders in asking the Illinois congressional delegation to hold CSX fully accountable for several rail-related issues reported in Mount Greenwood and Evergreen Park.
“Too many residents in our communities are being negatively affected by blocked grade crossings, pedestrian safety problems and idling trains, which pose an environmental hazard to our communities,” Cunningham said.
One of the concerns involves a promise from CSX to move a scheduled train off the Elsdon line, which runs east of Kedzie Avenue.
Cunningham sees such unfulfilled promises as part of a pattern.
“This is not the first time we have had CSX make a promise,” Cunningham said.
“Repeatedly, we receive assurances that the problems will diminish, and we are continually facing the same issues," Cunningham said. "Moving one or two trains isn’t going to fix the problem.”
Additionally, the letter said CSX has not complied with at least 14 “mitigation measures.” Federal regulators imposed the measures two years ago when the Elsdon line was acquired. The lawmakers asked the federal government to impose fines on CSX or else pass tougher regulations.
Joining Cunningham in signing the letter were State Reps. Fran Hurley (D-Dist. 35) and Kelly Burke (D-Dist. 36), 19th Ward Alderman Matt O’Shea of Chicago and Evergreen Park Mayor Jim Sexton.
Alerts Sign-up