Louisiana Senate Bill SCR81

Louisiana 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/6/15
• Refer: 5/7/15

Caption

Directs the DOTD to require the Canadian National Railway Company to open all railroad crossings in Tangipahoa Parish between Kentwood and Ponchatoula.

Impact

SCR81 reflects a significant focus on improving transportation infrastructure within Tangipahoa Parish. By directing DOTD to work with CN, the resolution emphasizes the importance of maintaining and restoring public access to critical infrastructure that supports both safety and commerce. The requirement for CN to open these crossings not only benefits daily commuters but is also crucial for emergency response teams that rely on quick access to various parts of the community. If implemented, the resolution will have a direct positive impact on local traffic flow and emergency services access.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 81 (SCR81) calls upon the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) to mandate the Canadian National Railway Company (CN) to reopen all railroad crossings along its tracks between Kentwood and Ponchatoula in Tangipahoa Parish. This resolution is grounded in the community's need for accessible and safe passage across the railroad, especially in light of several crossings that have been shut down in recent years. The reopening of these crossings is intended to enhance mobility, provide safer routes for emergency services, and improve overall connectivity for residents and businesses in the area.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR81 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, particularly among local residents and their representatives who see the resolution as a necessary step toward increased public safety and community cohesion. There is a strong advocacy for the resolution, reflecting a local consensus on the importance of proper access to transportation routes. Stakeholders are hopeful that engaging with CN will yield a favorable outcome, and the proactive measures outlined in SCR81 resonate positively with the community's needs.

Contention

While the resolution has garnered support, potential points of contention may arise regarding the timeline for reopening these crossings and CN's resources to fulfill such requests. If objections arise from CN about logistical or financial constraints, it could delay implementation. Thus, the effectiveness of SCR81 will heavily rely on the collaboration between state authorities and the railway company. Furthermore, discussions may need to address any safety standards or conditions that could come into effect with the reopening of these crossings, highlighting the delicate balance between operational feasibility for CN and the safety needs of the residents.