CN derailment in West Chicago, Ill., disrupts Metra, UP operations
A derailment on Canadian National near its diamond crossing of Union Pacific in West Chicago, Ill., is disrupting traffic on Metra’s UP West line, as well as Union Pacific trains. Metra has canceled some UP West trains earlier this morning, has been busing passengers between Geneva, Ill., and West Chicago, and is recommending that passengers board in Wheaton if possible. Additional alerts on Metra service are available at the commuter railroad’s website. CN says in a statement that “multiple railcars have derailed in various positions,” but the accident involves no injuries, no fires, no leaks, and no cars carrying hazardous materials. Grade crossings including Washington Street, Church Street, and Ann Street are blocked. The statement thanks first responders present and apologizes to local residents for the inconvenience caused by the incident. The cause is under investigation.
UP, BNSF caution customers of delays because of severe weather
Union Pacific has alerted customers that severe weather in the Pacific Northwest, upper Midwest, and south central portions of the country could lead to delivery delays of a minimum of 72 hours. Significant snow and ice accumulations are affecting the railroad’s ability to move crews. Downed trees and power outages are also an issue. BNSF Railway had informed customers late last week of intermodal processing delays in the Chicago area, as well as operational delays because of extreme cold.
NS halts work at site of Atlanta brick plant, will hold further discussions with city
Norfolk Southern has halted work on a transload facility after the city of Atlanta asked the Surface Transportation Board to halt work at the site. The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports the railroad stopped work at the site of the Chattahoochee Brick Co. the day after Friday’s announcement by the city that it had filed a petition with the STB [see “Digest: UP derailment in Normal, Ill. …,” Trains News Wire, Feb. 13, 2021]. The railroad said in a statement that it would stop work “while we engage in further discussions with the city” and has “committed to build a memorial to ensure the atrocities committed at the site are never forgotten.” The plant operated with inmate labor, and some graves of abused workers are believed to remain on the site.
