A mix of politicians and industry professionals met in Southeast Michigan this week to address deteriorating conditions at railroad crossings in Wayne and Monroe Counties.
“Everyone understands there’s a problem,” U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI), one of the attendees, said. “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. 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 affected, 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.”
Dingell was joined by fellow U.S. Reps. Haley Stevens (D-MI) and Tim Walberg (R-MI). Also attending were Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Director Paul Ajegba, Wayne County Mayors, as well as public safety officials, railroad representatives, and local business leaders. Under the microscope were blocked roadways, events that can sometimes last for hours and raise the specter of serious inconveniences at the least and major public safety concerns at worst.
“The impact that train blockages have on local communities are real,” Kevin Krause, Director of Fire Services & Emergency Management for Romulus, Michigan, said. “First Responders are delayed on a regular basis, which means our community suffers not only in times of emergency, but also daily as it affects their quality of life. It is imperative that there is a bi-partisan effort between Federal and State Legislators along with Michigan Department of Transportation for collaborative solutions that provide immediate and long term relief.”
The multi-level meeting followed another meeting in July, where attendees agreed to create a working group to address concerns both short and long-term involving these railroads. That group is led by Ajegba, Dingell and Michigan Railroad Association President Jon Cool, among others.