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Community Railway Initiative

Join us in improving our community by learning about this important issue and completing our Railway Challenges Survey. Your input is crucial in helping us identify key concerns as we collaborate with city leaders on effective solutions. Click the button below to share your feedback!

Addressing Railway Challenges

On January 7, 2024, TSNA Board of Directors representatives (along with TSNA Member Lauren Gallet de St. Aurin) met at City Hall to discuss the challenges posed by railway operations in Savannah.

 

Key concerns included noise pollution, crossing hazards, chemical spraying, and traffic disruptions, along with their impact on residents and infrastructure. This summary highlights the issues discussed, proposed solutions, and ways for the community to get involved in driving meaningful change.

Concerns

Noise Pollution

  • Horn Issues:

    • ​Timeline for implementing a secondary Quiet Zone at Victory/Bull/GDOT crossing?

    • Can rural horns be replaced with urban, downward-facing horns until the Quiet Zone is implemented?

    • Can rural engineers receive urban protocol training?

  • Noise from Train Movement:

    • ​Loud “clanging” when super trains (90+ cars) stop and start.

    • Vibrational movement affecting surrounding buildings, plumbing, and other infrastructure. 

  • Impact on Residents:

    • ​Disturbances to sleep (especially babies), work, and daily routines.

    • Stress and financial burden from repairs to homes or businesses.

  • Train Speed:

    • ​Trains exceeding the 10 mph speed limit.

    • Why isn’t the city tracking train speeds? Who can residents contact to report speed violations?

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Proposed Solutions:​

  • Extend Quiet Zone to include Victory North Drive.

  • Replace super trains with shorter, more frequent trains.

  • Engage a geotechnical firm or individuals to monitor vibrations with seismic equipment.

2

Crossing Hazards

  • Current Issues:

    • Asphalt crossings degrade quickly, creating hazards for pedestrians, cyclists, scooters, strollers, cars, and wheelchairs.

    • Injuries or vehicle damage caused by poor crossing conditions.

  • Funding Questions:

    • Does Watco (railroad lessee) or CSX pay for crossing replacements?

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Proposed Solutions:​

  • Replace asphalt crossings with more durable concrete slab crossings.

3

Chemical Pollution

  • Current Issues:

    • Rail lines are sprayed with chemical weed control, creating fire hazards from flammable, chemically-treated weeds.

    • Possible use of glyphosate, a known carcinogen.

    • Are there state or federal regulations governing chemical use near residential areas?

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Proposed Solutions:​

  • Replace chemical sprays with eco-friendly alternatives like vinegar or salt.

4

Traffic Issues

  • Current Issues:

    • Train traffic disruptions during rush hours.

    • Early train schedules disturb residents with noise.

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Proposed Solutions:​

  • Designate train operating hours between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Additional Action Items & Research Needs

  • Explore industrial land consolidation and annexation challenges.

  • Investigate federal and state regulations on rail operations.

  • Research train car length rules and class-action lawsuit precedents against railroad companies.

  • Consider shareholder activism by purchasing stock in relevant companies.

  • Gather more information from the following individuals:

    • ​Terrance Snell

    • Elsa Vonbrook

    • Ann Persell

    • Caitlyn (regarding chemical plant operations)

Key Stakeholders & Organizations

Railway Operators and Affiliates:

  • CSX Railroad: Owner of the rail line.

  • Norfolk Southern: Co-owner of the rail line.

  • Watco: Lessee of the railroad.

  • Biomass Facility: Pine bark pellet holding unit.

  • Chemical Plant: Potential contributor to local rail activity.

Government and Regulatory Entities:

  • Elizabeth Hudd: Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Representative

  • Surface Transportation Board: Authority to fine Class 1 railroads

  • Jason Mobley: State Railroad Crossing Engineer

  • Buddy Carter’s Office: For potential advocacy or assistance.

Consultants and Organizations:

  • CDC: Health Impact Assessment

  • Carl Vinson Institute (UGA): Data tracking expertise

  • Terracon: Geotechnical firm

Railway Track

TAKE THE RAILWAY SURVEY TODAY

Help improve our community by taking our Railway Challenges Survey. Your feedback is vital for identifying key issues as we work with city leaders to address them. Click the button to share your insights!

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