Plainfield, IL – U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL-13) today joined local officials for a tour of locations in Plainfield and Crest Hill that would be severely impacted by Canadian National Railway’s (CN) proposed acquisition of the Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railway (EJ&E) line. If approved by the Surface Transportation Board (STB), CN’s purchase of the EJ&E would increase train traffic on the line through Will and DuPage Counties by as much as 150%, raising concerns about safety, noise, congestion, and pollution. Joining Biggert to discuss the impact and tour the line were Mayor James Waldorf of Plainfield, Mayor Nick Churnovic of Crest Hill, Plainfield Village Administrator Alex Harris, Plainfield Police Chief Donald Bennett, Plainfield Fire Chief John Eichelberger, Will County Board Member Lee Ann Goodson, and Plainfield School District 202 Superintendent Dr. John Harper.
“It’s clear that this merger would have a serious impact on life in our community – from slowing emergency responders to halting traffic on major roadways,” said Biggert. “To make the most effective case against the merger, we need to be prepared with strong data and a solid understanding of exactly how this deal would affect our neighborhoods. Today’s tour is part of that process.”
The STB is currently preparing a draft environmental impact statement, which could favor blocking the merger, approving it, or approving it on the condition that CN takes certain steps to mitigate the impact on surrounding communities. These steps could include building grade crossings, adopting noise abatement measures, establishing new safety policies, and more. Once the STB releases its draft, the public will have the opportunity to comment on the plan, and the STB will take those comments into account before making a final ruling.
"The Village of Plainfield formally submitted our significant mitigation concerns to the Surface Transportation Board and continue to inform every organization about how important this issue is to our area. We feel seventeen rail crossings within the Village of Plainfield speak for themselves but encourage everyone to help make sure our area's voice is heard,” said Mayor Waldorf. “I am pleased U.S. Representative Biggert is not only listening but is touring the Plainfield area to see first hand the impact of this transaction. As our Village Board continues to invest in better transportation solutions, we also expect Canadian National to be a good corporate citizen and invest in our area's transportation as well."
Traffic congestion at major rail crossings remains a top concern for local residents. During their tour, Biggert and area officials stopped at the Route 126 and West 143rd Street crossings, where heavy automobile traffic is expected to be seriously impacted by CN’s plans to increase freight activity. Long delays also could impact the ability of police and fire department officials to respond effectively during an emergency.
“Suburban communities along the EJ&E have good reason for being wary of this merger,” said Biggert. “That’s why I will continue to coordinate with area officials like Mayors Churnovic and Waldorf and others to ensure that our concerns are addressed.”
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