SALEM Norfolk Southern to make temporary fixes to crossings

SALEM -- Work is expected to begin this spring to repair railroad crossings whose poor condition has prompted complaints from motorists.
Norfolk Southern, which owns the railroad tracks that pass through the city, will make some temporary fixes in the next few weeks, Joe Julian, city service director, said Monday.
The company has told him it will follow up this summer with long-term repairs to the crossings, Julian added.
There are seven railroad crossings within city limits, all of which feature potholes and uneven pavement, Julian said.
Complaints: The conditions have sparked complaints from motorists, who say they must slow down to a crawl to traverse the crossings without risking damage to their vehicles.
Councilman Steve Andres, D-2nd, has called the crossings' condition terrible.
Noting recently that most of the crossings are in his ward, Andres asked the city administration to look into the problem and remedy it.
Julian said he has received assurances from Norfolk Southern that the repairs will be undertaken.
"We'll keep after them" to ensure the company follows through on its commitment, Julian said.
The crossings to be repaired are at South Lincoln, South Ellsworth and Newgarden avenues, West Wilson, West Pershing and Mullins streets, and Allen Road.
There will be no cost to the city for the fixes, because the crossings are on railroad property, Julian said.
Traffic may have to be detoured for some or all the crossing repairs, he added.