Press Release - Wicker Urges Expedited Action On Tupelo Rail Relocation

WICKER URGES EXPEDITED ACTION ON TUPELO RAIL RELOCATION
Congressman says derailment at Crosstown could be 'catastrophic'

TUPELO, MS-U. S. Rep. Roger Wicker says he hopes Tuesday's train derailment in Sherman will spur expedited action on rail relocation efforts in Tupelo.

"We are thankful and very fortunate that no one was injured in Sherman," Rep. Wicker said. "If a similar event occurred at Crosstown in Tupelo, the potential is there for catastrophic damage, a disruption in commerce, and loss of life. This unfortunate incident renews concerns about safety and reinforces the point that we should continue to press for a resolution of the relocation issue."

Congress appropriated $2 million in 2004 for a study to determine new routes for railroad service through Tupelo. The Mississippi Department of Transportation and Federal Railroad Administration are working with a consulting firm on the initiative. The project is in the environmental impact phase which could take up to 18 months. Eight possible routes are being examined, including overpasses in the Crosstown area and options to bypass the downtown area completely. A recommendation on a preferred route may not come until 2008.

"Delays and disruptions at railroad crossings in Tupelo have been a frustration for area residents for decades, and the problem has become worse with the increase in train traffic," he said. "The possibility of a large-scale derailment in Tupelo heightens the concerns. I look forward to working with local, state, and federal officials to determine how we might expedite the relocation process."

http://www.house.gov/wicker/tupelorail.htm