Righter, Mattoon Officials Meet to Discuss Rail Remedies

St. Sen. Dale Righter (R-Mattoon) spoke with state transportation and railroad officials this week in Springfield, looking to help fashion a remedy for rail and traffic congestion in Mattoon. Righter was also joined at the Capitol by officials from the City of Mattoon.

(ST. SEN. DALE RIGHTER)

“Mattoon was built around the railroad industry and so rail traffic through the city has always been an accepted part of living here,” Righter said. “But over the years, as rail traffic has increased, delays caused by longer and more frequent trains have become intolerable and a potential threat to public safety. Working with Mattoon city officials, I hope to engage both Canadian National and the Illinois Department of Transportation to provide some relief for the citizens of Mattoon.”

According to city officials, longer and more frequent delays have created significant traffic congestion and potential public safety concerns.

“This is a serious problem for the citizens of Mattoon, not just in terms of traffic delays, but public safety as well,” Mayor Tim Gover of Mattoon said. “Senator Righter and Mattoon city officials will make it a priority to achieve a long-term solution on behalf of our residents.”

“This is a serious and complex problem to solve, and it will be a long-term process,” Righter said. “It starts with getting everyone together, identifying the severity of the problem, and exploring potential solutions. We’ll be working hard on this until we find a real and viable solution for the citizens of Mattoon.”