For the past three years, the Elmira Heights Village Board and the Elmira Heights DPW Supervisor have been in talks with Norfolk Southern Rail Road, who own the tracks that span from lower Lynwood Avenue across McCann’s Blvd and into Anchor Glass, about the concerns raised by the deteriorated and dangerous conditions of the tracks and road. These conversations consist of many phone calls, in-person meets, emails, and letters sent to local and regional personnel. Pictures have also been sent.
On May 21, 2025, Norfolk Southern began work on the tracks with a contractor which led to the closing of lower Lynwood Avenue and McCann’s Blvd with no discussions with the DPW Supervisor or the Village. Discussions have since been had with the contractor and Norfolk Southern concerning the work that was being performed and that the Village was not satisfied with the results. It is the recommendation of the DPW Supervisor that concrete is preferred to the blacktop that was put in as the trucks that back into Anchor Glass turn their wheels on the blacktop which will cause damage to the blacktop over time. Norfolk Southern expects to turn this section over to the Village to maintain when completed and the Village is not willing to accept this as concrete is the better option for long-term stability. Norfolk Southern will not agree. However, they have agreed to fixing Lynwood Avenue to the DPW’s satisfaction with handicap accessible ramps, curbing, and proper drainage but with no timeframe given.
The Village hopes to resolve this issue as soon as possible and for Norfolk Southern to comply with the NYS Highway Standards and Specifications. If a resolution does not come soon, the Village will be looking to pursue legal action. If you would like to voice your concerns to Norfolk Southern, please call 1-877-201-4265 and refer to RR Crossing 874251H McCann’s Blvd.