From Chicago Sun-Times · · 2m
Bridgeport and Chinatown Residents Push Amtrak to Stop Rail Yard Plan
Residents demand Amtrak halt rail yard project near Chinatown and Bridgeport amid safety and environmental concerns
In brief
Residents demand Amtrak halt rail yard project near Chinatown and Bridgeport amid safety and environmental concerns Residents oppose Amtrak's rail yard expansion in Chinatown and Bridgeport due to safety risks and environmental impacts Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Residents protest rail yard plan
Hundreds of residents in Chinatown and Bridgeport confronted Amtrak officials demanding answers about safety and environmental impacts of the proposed rail yard.
“Nos estamos tratando como si fuéramos idiotas. No somos idiotas”
Amtrak's rail yard proposal
Amtrak plans to build a maintenance facility in Chinatown, Bridgeport, and Armour Square, displacing current operations from 14th Street.
Project funding and approvals
The project has received $600 million and a federal exemption to skip environmental reviews, aiming to accelerate construction.
Community safety concerns
Over 6,000 residents live within 500 feet of the proposed site, compared to 29 people near the current Amtrak facility.
Amtrak's response
Amtrak claims the new facility will modernize maintenance practices, reduce delays, and improve cleanliness and storage.
Local officials oppose project
Cook County Commissioner John Daley and Councilwoman Nicole Lee criticized Amtrak for not consulting community leaders before addressing residents.
Employment promises
Amtrak claims the project will create 3,000 construction jobs and 400 permanent jobs at the facility.
Community distrust
Residents accuse Amtrak of disrespecting the community and providing information too late, with concerns about children and elderly living nearby.
Environmental impact debate
Residents question Amtrak's environmental studies, citing noise, safety, and health risks from the proposed rail yard.
Amtrak's leadership
Steven Segerlin, Amtrak's commercial development director, leads the project and claims the facility will address current maintenance challenges.
Project timeline
Amtrak plans to move the facility to Chinatown, Bridgeport, and Armour Square by late 2026, with construction starting soon.
Community-led opposition
Residents organized with signs like 'Protect our community, stop Amtrak's rail yard' to oppose the project.
White Sox connection
Canal Edge LLC, owned by Justin Ishbia, a minority owner of the Chicago White Sox, is behind the project.
The takeaway
Residents oppose Amtrak's rail yard expansion in Chinatown and Bridgeport due to safety risks and environmental impacts
