Because the Flood Protection Authority in New Orleans closed flood gates, Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are rerouting New Orleans traffic and UP officials say they have suspended interchange with eastern carriers. Kansas City Southern officials say the railroad “will continue to work diligently to continue shipments during this time through detours if available or other means.”
The New Orleans Public Belt Railway plans to close this evening, July 11, according to Chris Bonura, director of business development. Gradual closing of flood gates has limited operations, he says, and the railroad, which is owned by the Port of New Orleans, was making final preparations for shutdown with plans to reopen July 15.
NS says it is taking precautionary action to protect infrastructure and is repositioning equipment from low-lying areas.
UPDATE: Comment from New Orleans Public Belt Railway. July 11, 2019, 4:45 p.m. Central time.
