Norfolk Southern, the company linked to the massive derailment in Ohio, has begun repairs on a number of its railroad bridges in Binghamton. It comes following a private inspection funded by the city, which highlighted potentially dangerous conditions for both drivers and pedestrians.
That 900-page report confirmed what many city residents say they have known for years: Most of the bridges are in poor or severe condition, and even a few of them pose significant safety concerns.
Now, work has begun, with Norfolk Southern paying for the repairs. It's currently working on the pillars, with work taking place on seven bridges over the next several months and into the next year.
Residents driving by say this is something they've been asking for for years. A couple of people walking by simply said the word “finally.”
Mayor Jared Kraham credits the 900-page report for getting Norfolk Southern to Binghamton.
"I think that it spoke to the seriousness of the issue, that the city's report was exactly what I said. It was detailed, it was damning. And I think the railroad company is trying to do the right thing. And words are one thing, but action is a lot different. They're showing action today,” said Kraham.
Kraham said he had not heard of any other cities across the state that have been able to get Norfolk Southern to come to their communities.
He now plans to present the plan to the Conference of Mayors in the future.
Drivers in the Binghamton area can expect a number of detours as work continues. Norfolk Southern will also replace a bridge in the next year.