Work continues at Tempe derailment site
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has completed its investigation into the July 29 derailment of a Union Pacific freight in Tempe, Ariz., KJZZ-FM reports. The derailment and subsequent fire damaged a bridge over Town Lake and closed the railroad’s branch to Phoenix. A nearby light rail line was also disrupted for a time. The railroad has since dismantled a portion of the damaged bridge using an explosive charge.
Environmental groups sue state over Uinta rail project
Two environmental groups have sued the state of Utah over grants for the planned Uinta Basin rail project, the Salt Lake Tribune reports. The money, which was awarded in 2019, was to go for the planning and development of the railroad needed to move crude oil to market. The groups are demanding the return of the money to the Utah Permanent Community Impact Fund, which redistributes mineral rights money to rural communities.
Illinois investing in downstate port facility
The state of Illinois is investing $40 million in a new Mississippi River port in Cairo in far southern Illinois, the Daily Herald reports. According to the report, about 80 percent of all U.S. barge traffic passes the city. The state’s initial $4 million will fund design, engineering, and permitting. Canadian National serves the city of Cairo, which is located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers.
