Buechel Railroad Crossing Gates To Be Operational Before Christmas

Norfolk Southern in the process of finishing installation

Councilman Pat Mulvihill (D-10) today announced that railroad-crossing gates at a dangerous intersection in Buechel are set to be operational by Christmas.

          “Norfolk Southern Railroad has indicated a tentative completion date of December 18, barring any unforeseen problems such as weather,” says Mulvihill.

          The railroad crossing gates are being installed because of fatalities and injuries at Crawford Avenue and Buechel Avenue, which have occurred over the years.  Norfolk Southern began installation in November after signing an agreement of understanding with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

          “I want to thank Norfolk Southern for getting this work done before the end of the year,” says Mulvihill.  “It’s a matter of life and death.”

           It is critical that motorists abide by the new warning signals and gates.  Unfortunately, that does not always happen.  In fact, within the past week, a 15-year-old and 12 year-old in the Atlanta area were killed when the driver ignored the warning signals and attempted to go around the crossing gates.

          “The warnings signals and crossing gates are designed to stop traffic from coming in contact with a moving train.  It is as simple as that.  I know there will be drivers, who despite these additional safety measures, will ignore them,” says Mulvihill.  “Please, Stop, Think, and Be Safe.”

          For more information, contact Councilman Mulvihill’s office at 574-1110.