By Roger Weeder
First Coast News
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Several First Coast Leaders and CSX Corporation officials announced this morning that CSX will build $40 million in railways on the Northside.
The North Main Street bypass project will change the rail path used to move goods in and out of JAXPORT. They say moving the cargo in and out on trains will be more effective because it will reduce traffic on the Northside.
Truck traffic is a big concern especially with two Asian shipping companies coming on board. JAXPORT says those companies could triple the current 800,000 containers presently moved annually out of the port.
Former City Counciman Warren Alvarez who lives on the Northside says the railroad option will help.
"The biggest thing I hear, not against the port," says Alvarez.
"They are concerned about the traffic when you talk about 8,500 trucks; not immediately, but within five years."
Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton was on hand for the announcement along with US Congressman Corrine Brown, several City Council members and officials from CSX and JAXPORT.
Peyton says the railroad will play a huge role in moving containers, plus improve the quality of life on the Northside.
"Rail is the most desireable solution we have," said Peyton.
CSX Railroad says it will take several years to implement the changes to support JAXPORT.
Created: 4/21/2008 11:12:00 AM
Updated: 4/21/2008 8:53:43 PM
Edited by Roger Weeder, Reporter |
