Business
Feds Announce Environmental Review of Proposed Amtrak Bridgeport Facility Amid Community Concerns
(WTTW News)
Plans to convert a Bridgeport railyard into an Amtrak maintenance facility will receive an environmental review as part of the permitting process, a reversal after the project originally qualified for a categorical exclusion.
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) announced the review process Monday, which will include public comment and last through the end of 2026.
The FRA conducts environmental assessments when the environmental impacts of a proposed action are unknown. The assessment could result in a finding of no significant impact, or it could require the administration to prepare a statement that will more thoroughly detail impacts and alternative approaches.
The FRA said plans to repair 17 viaducts supporting the Canal Street Yard expanded the scope of the project and triggered the review.
Amtrak and developer Canal Edge announced plans in August to move a 24/7 maintenance facility from its current location at the 14th Street railyard to a now-dormant yard between 33rd and 35th streets along South Canal Street.
Residents near the proposed facility in Bridgeport, Chinatown and Armour Square have voiced concerns over its impacts on residents, including pollution, noise and the potential double-whammy on economic development in the area if the White Sox also leave Rate Field for a new South Loop stadium.
The Chicago Federation of Labor has previously voiced support for the project, saying the project will create 3,000 jobs during 18 months of construction alongside 400 permanent jobs at the maintenance facility.
Ald. Nicole Lee (11th Ward) said in a statement “The FRA’s decision is a positive step—and one that only was made possible by our relentless organizing and advocacy in this community.”
Still, Lee’s statement added “No matter what this environmental study produces, our concerns about noise pollution, economic impact and other issues remain unaddressed. Canal Edge, LLC and Amtrak teaming up to stick a 24/7 rail maintenance operation smack dab in the middle of a residential neighborhood, with nearly 7,000 people living within 500 feet, should have been an immediate non-starter.”
In a joint statement, U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth said they were glad the review will proceed.
“This will provide a formal opportunity for the community to review environmental studies and provide direct input,” the statement reads. “While this is welcome progress, Amtrak and the developer must continue robust and transparent conversations with residents to ensure their concerns are addressed for this project to be a success.”
Meanwhile, Amtrak and Canal Edge representatives said in a joint statement they welcome the transparency provided by the review process.
“We believe a deeper public review process will help stakeholders better understand the need for the new facility and associated viaduct repair work as well as the environmental impact of the project,” the statement reads.
The Rail Passengers Association, a consumer advocacy organization, said in a statement they anticipate two public meetings during the environmental review process, although details are forthcoming.
Jessica Watts contributed reporting.
