Requests DOTD and DEQ to collaborate with the Union Pacific Railroad and designated federal agencies to conduct a thorough environmental review on quantifiable public health, safety, and welfare impacts associated with any new railroad alignment in the city of Gretna.
Impact
The impact of SCR101 would be significant in ensuring that any new railroad alignments take into account the broader implications for public safety and health before implementation. By requiring thorough environmental assessments, the resolution seeks to mitigate risks associated with the transport of hazardous materials and improve the overall safety of the community. The resolution also addresses the importance of considering local community quality of life and welfare when planning transportation developments.
Summary
SCR101 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) to work in collaboration with the Union Pacific Railroad and various federal agencies. The primary focus of the resolution is to conduct a comprehensive environmental review concerning the potential public health, safety, and welfare impacts associated with the introduction of any new railroad alignment in the city of Gretna, Louisiana. The bill arises from concerns over existing rail safety conditions, particularly in light of the high number of unprotected rail crossings in the area.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR101 appears to be positive, especially from local advocacy groups and residents concerned about rail safety. Supporters view this resolution as a proactive measure that could lead to safer transportation practices and enhance public health protections. The emphasis on collaboration between state and federal agencies is seen as crucial in addressing and rectifying potential safety hazards posed by new railroad configurations.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the feasibility and implementation of the required environmental reviews. There could be discussions about the balance between economic development driven by railroad projects and the need for stringent safety standards. While the resolution is aimed at safeguarding public interests, the stakeholders involved, including rail companies and local governments, might have differing views on how regulations could affect operational efficiency and future growth.
Requests DOTD and DEQ to collaborate with designated entities to conduct an environmental review on quantifiable public health, safety, and welfare impacts associated with any new railroad alignment in the city of Gretna.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality to collaborate with Rio Grande Pacific Railroad and certain federal agencies to conduct an environmental review on the quantifiable public health, safety, and welfare impact of new railroad alignment in the city of Gretna
Expresses support for the relocation of the existing railroad lines in Plaquemines and Jefferson Parishes of the New Orleans and Gulf Coast Railway Company and the Union Pacific Railroad in order to improve the public safety of citizens, reduce vehicular and rail interfaces, improve air quality and mitigate congestion, and enhance economic development in those parishes.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality to collaborate with Rio Grande Pacific Railroad and certain federal agencies to conduct an environmental review on the quantifiable public health, safety, and welfare impact of new railroad alignment in the city of Gretna
Requests DOTD and DEQ to collaborate with designated entities to conduct an environmental review on quantifiable public health, safety, and welfare impacts associated with any new railroad alignment in the city of Gretna.
Urges and requests the Department of Transportation and Development to create a task force to study the use of repurposed railroad tank cars as bridge culverts as a cost-saving measure
Directs the DOTD to require the Canadian National Railway Company to open all railroad crossings in Tangipahoa Parish between Kentwood and Ponchatoula.
Urges and requests the House Committee on Commerce and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and International Affairs to study the effects that the railroads have on broadband deployment
Prohibits railroads from closing private crossings if the crossing does not unreasonably burden or substantially interfere with rail transportation. (gov sig)