Drailment derails crossing project

Replacement of BNSF railroad’s Central Street crossing was derailed this week by a train derailment.

While the railroad was not explicit when reporting a change of plans, it is assumed section workers scheduled to come to Superior would be assigned to other trasks as a result of the derailment and perhaps trains might be rerouted through Superior until the wreckage is cleared.

The railroad had planned to start the Superior project yesterday (Wednes-day). The crossing was expected to be closed from March 27 through April 12. The work included replacing ties and laying heavier rail.

While the project’s costs will be paid by the railroad, repair of the crossing has long been at the top of the city’s street improvement plan,

Central Street was to have been closed from just south of Kenny’s Lumber to First Street. Traffic was to be rerouted to the Bloom Street crossing. Previous plans by the railroad to replace the crossing have been delayed for various reasons.