Letter to Mr. Harrison, CSX - Repeated Concerns by Residents Throughout Ulster County About Nearby Rail-crossings Routinely Blocked by CSX Trains

Letter

I write to bring your swift attention to repeated concerns by residents ?throughout Ulster County about nearby rail-crossings routinely blocked by CSX trains, prohibiting residents' access to the nearest emergency service stations and schools. These residents cite how on numerous occasions they have called CSX to report a train blocking a crossings but have yet to see improvement over the last four years. It is incumbent that CSX work quickly and cooperatively to adjust train schedules that will ensure residents are safe and have open access to the closest emergency services and schools.

Homeowners report blockages pose a severe safety risk as the area is mountainous with few roads leading to the main highways and the nearest firehouse and schools require crossing the railroad tracks. When a train is more than a mile long, the train blocks multiple rail-crossings exacerbating the issue. The next nearest emergency services could be up to 7 miles away on narrow, local roads which could considerably lengthen response times.

I ask that you take steps to quickly address these residents concern and adjust schedules to ensure residents have open access to emergency services and school. Further, I ask that CSX take proactive measures in the future when determining train schedules impact on grade-crossings. Thank you for your attention to these issues that will help make a meaningful improvement in safety throughout New York. Should you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office.

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