By - Associated Press - Thursday, July 24, 2014

DEVILS LAKE, N.D. (AP) - The city of Devils Lake is opposing plans by BNSF Railway to allow increased train speeds on a section of upgraded track in the city.

BNSF is planning to double the current 30 mph limit on a nearly 1 ½-mile-long section of track in the northeastern North Dakota city of about 7,300 people, starting next month. That’s a safety risk, Mayor Dick Johnson told KZZY radio.

“We’ve got people … who cross those tracks frequently in the downtown” and other areas, he said. “A 60 mph speed limit is just not acceptable.”

BNSF spokeswoman Amy McBeth said the railroad is always looking for ways to improve the efficiency of its trains, and the section of track in question is rated for the higher speed.

“It’s important to note that doesn’t mean all trains will move at that higher speed,” she said.

The City Commission plans a special meeting on Monday with railroad officials to discuss the matter.

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Information from: KZZY-FM, http://lrradioworks.com