Residents Reject Amtrak Yard Study After 11-Day Federal Review
A rapid federal assessment deemed the Bridgeport project's environmental impact insignificant, sparking criticism from locals and alders who question the speed and scope of the analysis.
By Noor Graham ·
The Federal Railroad Administration released a report on Friday concluding that a proposed Amtrak maintenance yard in Bridgeport would have an insignificant impact on the local community. The document evaluated factors including air pollution, noise, and vibration. The release follows a brief review process that drew sharp criticism from residents and city officials who felt the timeline was rushed.
Ald. Nicole Lee of the 11th Ward questioned the speed of the assessment. She noted that the project was announced on October 26 and the final report arrived just 11 days later. Lee stated that the community does not trust the process because of how quickly the agency reached a conclusion of no significant impact.
Federal officials initially attempted to approve the project without a detailed environmental study. They reversed that decision after pressure from lawmakers and neighborhood groups. Sens. Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin joined local leaders in demanding a more thorough look at the plan before moving forward.
The proposal involves relocating the maintenance facility from the South Loop to Bridgeport. Justin Ishbia, the future owner of the White Sox, supports the move. His goal is to clear the current site at 14th and Canal streets to make room for a new stadium near the Chicago River. Amtrak and Ishbia issued a joint statement on Friday praising the review process as a way to provide more public information.
The report indicates that 17 viaducts require repair as part of the project. Neighbors argue that the construction phase will bring increased noise and dust. They contend that the study failed to account for PM 2.5, a type of fine particulate matter that poses health risks to humans.
Maria Lagiglio and Ann Caruso, both Bridgeport residents, voiced frustration with the agency's findings. Caruso said she felt her intelligence was being insulted by the quick dismissal of local concerns. Lee pointed out that the yard is moving from an industrial area with 30 residents within 500 feet to a dense neighborhood home to 6,700 people, 1,100 children, and nearly 1,400 seniors.
A public hearing is scheduled for next month where residents can present their views. Officials from Amtrak and the Federal Railroad Administration are expected to attend the session to address questions from the community.
