Train blockages in Calera fuel frustration as city leaders push for $32 million bridge project
By Lisa Crane
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CALERA, Alabama (WVTM) — Frustration is growing among drivers and emergency responders in Calera, where stopped trains regularly block major roads and create lengthy delays. A train blocked Highway 25 for nearly four hours last Thursday. According to the Calera Police Department, that blockage created significant traffic backups.
Police Chief David Hyche said it also affected the department’s ability to respond to emergency calls. “I don’t like it when we can’t respond,” Hyche said. “We were very, very lucky” that no serious medical emergency or major police incident occurred during the delay.
Train blockages have affected Calera for decades. City leaders are now working with the railroad, state officials and federal leaders on a proposed bridge over the tracks that would allow traffic to continue moving even when a train is stopped. The project is estimated to cost $32 million.
Calera Mayor Kenny Cost said progress has been repeatedly delayed. “It just keeps getting pushed and pushed and pushed,” Cost said. “We can’t keep pushing this. This has got to happen for our citizens.”
The Alabama Department of Transportation released this statement about its commitment to the project saying, “This is a worthwhile project, and we hope it can be completed. However, the project remains in the developmental phase. With a new administration taking office in a matter of months, we do not have the authority to bind that administration to a $10 million funding commitment for a project that is not yet ready to move forward.”
City leaders say joint infrastructure projects can take years to complete. Even if funding were secured immediately, they say construction of the bridge would still likely take several years. Hyche said the impact extends beyond Calera, affecting central Alabama drivers and traffic along Interstate 65. “I want our political leaders to understand how serious this is,” Hyche said. “This is a huge effect on all of central Alabama and Interstate 65 traffic as well.”
City officials said they are continuing to work with their partners to move the bridge project forward, warning that a future train blockage could create consequences far more serious than traffic delays.
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