Todd County Emergency Officials report major progress has been made in cleanup following the CSX train derailment last Tuesday, with US 41 to possibly reopen to traffic Monday.
According to the Todd County Emergency Manager Ash Groves CSX and supporting agencies report that the removal of remaining non-hazardous rail materials is progressing as planned, with completion anticipated by Sunday evening. Weather conditions are expected to remain favorable through Monday, with only a slight chance of precipitation on Tuesday, supporting continued recovery operations.
Groves says scrapped boxcars from the derailment will be transported off-site, with some movements potentially occurring on county roadways. These transports will involve oversized loads on stretched trailers and will require appropriate escorts ensure safety. CSX is coordinating permitting requirements with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, and additional coordination will occur prior to any movement. Transport operations could begin as early as Tuesday, pending final approvals.
Regarding U.S. Highway 41, Groves says agencies will meet Sunday afternoon to coordinate final roadway cleanup activities, including washing, scraping, sweeping, and inspection. If conditions allow, the current plan is for U.S. 41 to reopen on Monday, following completion of all required safety checks.
Public safety remains the top priority. Residents are encouraged to continue avoiding the area until the roadway is officially reopened and to remain alert for future traffic advisories related to oversized load movements.
Photos submitted by Todd County Emergency Management Director Ash Groves
