All of the train cars involved in a derailment in CN’s St. Clair Tunnel have been removed. In a press release Friday afternoon, the St. Clair County Office of Emergency Management states that all debris and chemicals from the derailment have been pulled from the international tunnel. “The next step will be to remove approximately 1600 feet of ballast from the tunnel, remove and replace the sump and tank system and damaged piping systems,” said St. Clair County Public Information Officer Kristine Morris. CN Railroad has since taken over full operations at the site and has begun track rebuilding efforts. Both 10th Street at the tunnel entrance and and 16th Street at the railroad tracks remain closed to through traffic. The railroad says they expect to re-open the tunnel this week.
ORIGINAL STORY:
Most of the sulphuric acid that spilled in a derailment in the St. Clair Tunnel last week has been removed. According to the St. Clair County Office of Emergency Management, a majority of the liquid that accumulated in the tunnel, including the acid, has been safely removed and pumping will continue as needed. The contained acid poses no threat to public health or the environment. Officials also say 35 rail cars have been pulled from the tunnel as of yesterday evening and nine rail cars remain in the tunnel. Last Friday, a westbound CN train derailed inside the international tunnel with over 40 cars jumping the tracks. Both 10th at the tunnel entrance and and 16th Street at the railroad tracks remain closed to through traffic due to the cleanup efforts.
