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Board removes CSX/tie-removal item from pending list after staff report; problem likely to persist beyond year end
Summary
City engineering and public works reported ongoing difficulty getting CSX to remove piles of creosote railroad ties at the Buffalo Street crossing; the board removed the matter from its pending list and directed continued calls and possible follow-up after the new year.
The Board of Public Works and Safety heard an update on longstanding concerns about piles of railroad ties at the Buffalo Street crossing and elsewhere along the Class I railroad lines passing through Michigan City. City engineer Tim Warner and Public Works Director Miss Vashet reported that CSX has not responded to multiple messages seeking repair of the Buffalo Street crossing or removal of ties, and noted that creosote-treated ties are treated as regulated material when removed and disposal requires railroad cooperation.
Staff advised that removal and disposal must be performed by the railroad or with railroad permission because the ties sit on railroad property. Miss Vashet said the city will continue to call CSX and suggested the issue may require higher-level engagement (for example, legislative outreach) because similar piles appear along rail lines regionally. Several public commenters urged more aggressive action; others asked for the matter to be escalated.
After discussion the board voted to remove the item from its pending list for monthly agenda review but asked staff to continue outreach for repair and to consider follow-up steps in the new year. The motion passed unanimously.
Staff noted that because the ties contain creosote, disposal is a hazardous-materials concern and the city lacks legal authority to remove ties from railroad-owned property without CSX agreement.
The board’s action was procedural (remove from pending list) rather than an attempt to secure immediate removal; staff will continue outreach and report if the railroad engages on a schedule for removal and crossing repairs.
