Action Update: October 16, 2008
Cameron Station Noise Complaint Update
A resident of Cameron Station sent an email complaint about “screeching railroad noise” to Norfolk Southern, the State Corporation Commission, state commissions and organizations. A State Corporation Commission representative conducted an observation of track operations. His reply indicated that in some cases there were excess noise levels and switching moves performed that were “not according to the rules.” The State Corporation Commission representative attributed the screeching noise to the failure of rail car drivers to release hand brakes when the cars were pulled.
Norfolk Southern indicated that although previous monitoring of railroad operations showed the railroad complied with applicable federal nose standards, they would schedule further noise monitoring. The company performed noise monitoring between September 29 and 30, and affirmed that the noise was a result of unreleased hand brakes. NS gave immediate instructions to the local switching crews to correct the problem. There have been no more complaints since then.
Cameron Station/Summers Grove Community Emergency Plan Workshop
The City held a community workshop on Saturday, October 4, from 9 a.m. to noon at Samuel Tucker Elementary School. Approximately 11 residents from Cameron Station attended the event, which included a preview of the emergency plans for Cameron Station, Summers Grove and Samuel Tucker Elementary School; an interactive emergency exercise featuring City staff and facilitated by emergency preparedness expert Jerome Hauer; and a display of the City’s firefighting capabilities.
Norfolk Southern Responds to Mayor Euille’s September 24 Letter Regarding Unresolved Issues
On October 10, Norfolk Southern responded to Mayor William D. Euille’s letter (sent September 24) regarding several outstanding issues, including complaints about railroad noise and the City’s offer to assist Norfolk Southern in relocating the ethanol transloading facility.
City Council Adopts Recommendations on Independent Reviewer
City Council adopted a recommendation from Vice Mayor Redella S. “Del” Pepper and Councilman Ludwig P. Gaines concerning qualifications and a scope of review for an independent reviewer to examine City staff actions related to the opening of the Norfolk Southern Ethanol Transloading Facility. These items will be included in the bid solicitation for the reviewer.
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