BP has put an ungated railroad stretch in Whiting back into commission, though it’s supposed to be working on getting a gate reinstalled, the city announced Friday.
The city of Hammond, which first released the information on Thursday, said the refinery will start using the rail line again due to damage to a bridge it uses in East Chicago. On Friday, the city of Whiting confirmed Hammond’s announcement.
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“The affected tracks are Indianapolis (Boulevard) just south of Schrage (Avenue), and 129th Street, just east of Schrage (Avenue). BP trains will start south of 121st Street, travel southbound across Indianapolis Blvd, continue south to cross 129th Street, and then reach the southern city limits,” the release said. “The increased traffic is the result of a train track in East Chicago that has become inoperable and is awaiting repairs.
“BP is currently working with CSX to install railroad crossing gates on 129th Street.”
A person with knowledge of the situation confirmed to the Post-Tribune that the refinery is using “an alternative rail route to support its operations after a recent offsite incident at the 631 Canadian National Canal Street Bridge impacted rail access in East Chicago.” BP, however, doesn’t operate beyond its fence line, and CSX manages the trains.
“Our top focus will be on maintaining safe and compliant operations for employees and surrounding communities,” the person said.
The 129th Avenue crossing hasn’t been used for some time, so both Whiting and Hammond urge travelers to “use extra caution when approaching and crossing the tracks” by slowing down, looking both ways and remaining alert for train activity in the area.
Michelle L. Quinn is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.