Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL-13th) today issued the following statement after the Surface Transportation Board (STB) released its final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on Canadian National’s (CN) proposed acquisition of the Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railway (EJ&E) line:
 
            “The STB continues to underestimate the destructive consequences this merger could have on suburban communities.  While slightly improved over the STB’s preliminary analysis, the mitigation recommendations laid out in this report would still leave local residents facing substantial traffic delays, impaired safety, and an exorbitant financial burden.
 
            “Out of 112 highway grade crossings – including those near 13 emergency providers that would be substantially affected – only two are identified by the STB as warranting a grade separation.  And even in those instances, area residents are expected to foot the bill for 85 percent of the mitigation costs while CN’s proposal will increase vehicle delays at those crossings by 74 and 87 percent, respectively.  The numbers simply do not add up.
 
            “Te STB did respond to a few of the concerns that we raised during the public comment period.  Video monitoring of the tracks to help coordinate emergency responders, added signage, quiet zone requirements, and additional fencing to protect children near schools are all positive steps.  But much more is needed to ensure that local residents do not have to sacrifice their quality of life for CN’s benefit.
 
            “This report is by no means the final step.  The STB still has to issue a decision, and I plan to continue working with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that Board members take our concerns very seriously.  If they are unwilling to require fair mitigation for our communities, we will continue to pursue all available options to protect the interests of local residents.”
 
Editor’s note: To review the STB’s final EIS, visit http://www.stbfinancedocket35087.com.  Following the anticipated December 12, 2008 publication of notice in the Federal Register, the three-member STB may issue a final decision on the EJ&E-CN merger at any time, and is expected to do so before January 31, 2009.  Once a decision is issued, parties of record are expected to have 20 to 30 days in which to file an administrative appeal with the STB.  Further appeals also may be filed in federal circuit court.

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