Monticello, IN — Indiana Congressman Steve Buyer (IN-04) announced today that he has been working with Frankfort Mayor Chris Pippenger, State Senator Brandt Hershman and Norfolk Southern to try to reach a resolution for the railroad crossing problems in Frankfort.  Mayor Pippenger contacted Congressman Buyer to express ongoing problems with railroad crossings being blocked for extended periods of time at peak times of the day causing issues for commuters, businesses and school buses as well as police, fire and emergency responders.  Norfolk Southern has been working with Congressman Buyer and State Senator Hershman in proposing several different ideas to rectify this situation. 

“I would like to thank Norfolk Southern for their cooperation and willingness to rectify this situation in a timely manner.” Buyer commented.  “I am grateful to Mayor Pippenger for bringing this problem to my attention and am hopeful that both the short and long-term solutions prove to be beneficial to the City of Frankfort.  I would also like to commend State Senator Hershman for his efforts and assistance.  It is encouraging when federal, state and local officials work together to resolve a situation and get results.” 

Frankfort Mayor Chris Pippenger remarked that efforts to rectify this situation come at a perfect time due to the fact there is a new business coming to Frankfort that will consist of approximately 60 trucks transporting goods daily.  “I have taken a great deal of time making inquiries to try to resolve this problem. Now, with the assistance of Congressman Buyer, State Senator Hershman, the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department and the local railroad, we are hopeful we can finally get this problem resolved for the City of Frankfort.” 

State Senator Hershman commented, “I am pleased to be working with Congressman Buyer in finding a solution to this problem.  Norfolk Southern has been very willing to listen and work with everyone involved.  Working together with Congressman Buyer, Mayor Pippenger and Norfolk Southern, I am convinced a reasonable solution can be made to help benefit the City of Frankfort without hindering Norfolk Southern in any way.”

Norfolk Southern will now begin dealing directly with Mayor Pippenger to find the best course of action.  They are expected to begin talks within the week to discuss the options the railroad has proposed to rectify this situation.

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