[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) issued the following statement regarding the final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) of Canadian National’s proposed purchase of the EJ&E Railway which was released earlier today. He also announced that representatives from the Surface Transportation Board will brief members of the Illinois Delegation on the final EIS in Washington on Tuesday.

“I am disappointed that the Surface Transportation Board has rushed to issue the final EIS. Further, the mitigation requirements detailed in the EIS do not adequately address the concerns of communities along the EJ&E who did not ask for increased rail traffic in their communities, but will be forced to foot the bill.

“Throughout this process, I have asked Canadian National to work with communities on meaningful mitigation efforts; commit to the Grand Crossing, the long-term solution for Amtrak in Chicago; and ensure the future of the Metra STAR Line. Instead they attempted to strong-arm the Surface Transportation Board and bully the courts into expediting a decision on one of the most significant rail acquisitions in modern history.

“After having exhausted all other options, Canadian National has finally agreed to enter into negotiations with a few communities. But it is not enough.

“I hope the Surface Transportation Board will make a timely decision not just for Canadian National, but for Amtrak, Metra and communities along the EJ&E and I look forward to discussing the final EIS and the next steps with the Board and other members of the Illinois congressional delegation on Tuesday.”