September 6th, 2018 by WCBC Radio
The Cumberland Mayor and City Council issued a press release late Thursday afternoon providing an update on negotiations with CSX Transportation regarding the West Side bridges. The statement emphasizes that the city remains committed to negotiating for a solution which involves the replacement of the Cumberland, Fayette and Washington Street bridges. This will be addressed further in negotiations- with the next round of talks scheduled for next Tuesday, September 11th. Despite those assurances, sources have told WCBC’s “Dave Norman Show” that the primary componants of a deal between the city and CSX Transportation have been agreed upon. The highlights include new structures for Fayette and Cumberland streets and raising the clearance and strengthening the Greene Street rail bridge/overpass. The Washington Street bridge, according to a source close to the negotiations, will not be replaced as part of this plan. Indications are that CSX has agreed to cover the cost of replacing the Fayette Street bridge and will foot the cost of improvements at Greene Street. The Cumberland Street bridge will be replaced with a funding package of 80% federal dollars; and 20% via CSX. When contacted by WCBC News, Mayor Brian Grim said he could not confirm the report as no deal has been finalized and talks with CSX are fluid
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