Bridgeport Yard: FRA Report Clears Amtrak Project
The Federal Railroad Administration declared environmental impacts insignificant, prompting immediate pushback from local officials and residents who question the study's speed and scope.
By Carlos Rousseau ·
The Federal Railroad Administration released a study on Friday determining that a proposed Amtrak maintenance yard in Bridgeport would not harm local residents.
The report assessed air pollution, noise, and vibration levels, concluding that the project's effects would be insignificant. This finding contradicts the views of many neighbors and elected officials who have opposed the move since the proposal was introduced.
Ald. Nicole Lee of the 11th Ward questioned the timeline of the review. She noted that the project was announced on October 26 and the final report was released only 11 days later. Lee stated that the community does not trust the process because the agency moved too quickly to find no significant impact.
The relocation plan involves moving the facility from its current site at 14th and Canal in the South Loop to Bridgeport. Future White Sox owner Justin Ishbia supports the move to make space for a new stadium near the Chicago River. Federal officials initially sought approval without a detailed study but reversed course after pressure from lawmakers including Sens. Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin.
Residents expressed frustration with the preliminary results. Ann Caruso, a Bridgeport resident, said she is tired of being treated as if she lacks intelligence. Maria Lagiglio, also from the neighborhood, pointed out a technical omission in the report. She argued that the study failed to include PM 2.5, a type of small particulate matter that poses a danger to human health.
Lee argued that the move shifts a major industrial complex from an industrial site with 30 residents within 500 feet to a residential area. She cited the new neighborhood density, which includes 6,700 people, 1,100 children, and nearly 1,400 seniors. The study also identified 17 viaducts that require repair, a project that would add construction noise and dust to the area.
Amtrak and Ishbia issued a joint statement on Friday commending the deeper review process. The statement said the additional information would help the public understand the need for the facility and the associated viaduct repairs. A public hearing is scheduled for next month where Amtrak and FRA officials will be present to answer questions.
