Dingell, Stevens, Walberg Reconvene MDOT, Community & State Leaders on Urgent Need to Address Train Crossings in SE Michigan

Statement

Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Haley Stevens (D-MI), and Tim Walberg (R-MI) joined Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Director Paul Ajegba, Wayne County Mayors and public safety officials, railroad representatives, and local business leaders to discuss the urgent need to work together to face significant challenges at a number of railroad crossings in Western Wayne and Monroe Counties.

As a manufacturing hub of world, Michigan depends on a strong rail transportation system. There are numerous sites in Southeast Michigan that trains have blocked roadways, at times for hours, causing public safety concerns and serious inconveniences for motorists, especially when trains block intersections for hours which they have on numerous occasions.

"Everyone understands there's a problem. Once again we heard devastating stories of lives threatened by blocked train crossings on roads in our community. It's on all of us to work together to figure this out," said Dingell. "Last week in Washington, I met with Federal Railroad Administrator Ronald Batory -- who is from Michigan and lived in Dearborn for several years. Our group will continue to meet regularly, be inclusive of everyone effected, and ensure that everyone is on the same page, rowing in the same direction that helps address every community's issues. These problems impact us all, and we need a commitment from everyone on a plan that helps all of us."

"For too long, communities in southeast Michigan have dealt with railroad crossings that block roadways for long periods of time," said Stevens. "These blocked roadways aren't just an inconvenience, they put Michiganders in danger by delaying first responders. I look forward to working with state and local leaders to find solutions that prioritize public safety while acknowledging the importance of rail transportation to our manufacturing economy."

"Public safety is top of mind at railroad crossings in Monroe and Western Wayne Counties. Today's meeting with federal, state, local, and railroad officials is an important step to identify solutions that will enhance safety and efficiency for residents in these impacted communities," said Walberg.

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