Erie County Legislator Frank Todaro has written a letter to the Keystone Division of Norfolk Southern regarding numerous trains blocking Exchange Street and other railroad crossings in the Town of Alden. In his letter, Legislator Todaro has requested a meeting with Norfolk Southern Corp to discuss the community’s concerns and to work together to remedy the situation.

Recently, stopped trains have been blocking Town of Alden crossings on a daily basis for hours which has been disruptive to local residents and businesses. Motorists are forced to drive up to over seven miles, and more than 10 minutes, to get around the blocked road.

Legislator Todaro said, “The blockage of multiple railroad crossings is more than just a matter of inconvenience. It is a matter of public safety. During an emergency situation where police, fire or medical personnel need to respond and multiple roads are blocked then it can become a matter of life and death situation. Alden Central School is a half mile from the Exchange Street railroad crossing, when the road is blocked, it is creating a dangerous situation for school children. I will not stand around while this is happening. The time is now for change.”

Legislator Todaro has also been in contact with the offices of Congressman Chris Jacobs, Assemblyman Mike Norris and State Senator Pat Gallivan about the issue.