Schumer Announces Date for Visit from Surface Transportation Board Chair;CSX Chairman Agrees to Establish Hotline in Meeting with Schumer

US Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced that Linda Morgan will come to visit Buffalo on October 18. In an additional development, Schumer met today with John Snow, the CEO and President of CSX Corporation, who promised the Senator that he will establish a hotline to address consumer complaints and work with Norfolk Southern on the CP Draw bridge issue and other operational issues affecting Western New York shippers and businesses.

"Two weeks ago, I asked Linda Morgan, the Chair of the Surface Transportation Board, to visit Buffalo within the next few months to examine the problems with delays in rail service in the Buffalo area," said Schumer. "Today, I am delighted to announce that Chairperson Morgan and I will be in Buffalo on October 18, 1999, to examine the delays in rail service and switching that have plagued Buffalo in recent months. Rail delays are devastating Buffalo's businesses and putting over 25,000 area jobs in jeopardy. I am glad that Chairperson Morgan recognizes the seriousness of the situation and is willing to work with me immediately to put an end to the problems."

Schumer was also encouraged by the results of his meeting with the President of CSX. "Mr. Snow today agreed to establish two telephone hotlines one for Western New York manufacturers and shippers who have been hobbled by delays in service, and another for constituents who have been forced to endure long waits at rail crossings in the area," said Schumer. "I appreciate this attempt to address consumers' concerns, and I think CSX will be better able to serve their customers because of it."
Snow also announced his intention to cooperate with Norfolk Southern on the issue of refurbishing or building a new bridge at the CP Draw. "I am pleased by CSX Corp.'s willingness to address these issues, and I look forward to working with CSX, Chairperson Morgan, and hopefully Norfolk Southern to end these extreme delays and bring better service to Western New York."

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