Proposed Railway for the State of Minnesota Could Carry Negative Side-Effects

(KWNO)- Last year, the Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) and Kansas City Southern (KCS) proposed a $31 billion rail merger across the state of Minnesota.

Now, the Surface Transportation Board (STB) is examining how it may impact the state’s economy, safety, and communities.

This rail merger could impact the state greatly and not in a good way.

Most of Minnesota can expect to see a six-train-per-day increase in railroad traffic, causing concerns about traffic congestion, public safety, and the Mississippi River.

Neighborhoods along these railroads’ pass-through are considered some of the oldest and most fragile. Meaning an increase in traffic could upset the balance of these districts, reduce property values and further depress these communities.

With an increase in train traffic comes an increase in emissions and toxic pollutants. Vibration, noise, and lack of quiet zones will drive property values down across rural towns in the state and it is inevitable that train derailments and accidents will happen, leading to environmental catastrophes and fatalities.

“It’s important to protect the Mississippi River from hazardous chemicals and accidents, that’s why we need to ensure all Iowans are aware of opportunities to make their voice heard on the issue,” said Ann Geiger, a member of Iowa’s Mississippi River Parkway Commission.

The STB is hosting several virtual public hearings on this issue, beginning on Sept. 8th and again on Sept. 19th.