Schumer: ‘A jury-rigged bridge is hardly a long-term solution’

Written by RT&S Staff
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The CSX rail bridge on the Hudson River is responsible for carrying several freight trains a day.

The CSX rail bridge on the Hudson River that is being temporarily reinforced is receiving more attention ... and officials want it permanently fixed.

Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is the latest to chime in on the span that is relying on temporary supports to hold several freight trains a day. Schumer, like Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro, wants an immediate inspection and repair of the rail bridge. He wants the Federal Railroad Administration to lead the safety check.

Schumer said a jury-rigged bridge is hardly a long-term solution to securing the safety of the CSX freight rail at the Blue Point Railroad Bridge. He also said Ulster County and the surrounding communities want an independent safety review from the FRA.

At stake is the Hudson River’s role as a source for drinking water. Over 100,000 residents in Dutchess and Ulster counties depend on the river for water. A toxic spill from a bridge collapse would have a rippling effect.

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