Ottawa County targets blocked rail crossings

8/29/2006

PORT CLINTON - A committee of Ottawa County safety officials and representatives of Norfolk Southern railroad have begun working on ways to keep certain rail crossings unblocked for emergency vehicles, including improved communications between the railroad and the sheriff's office.

Sheriff Robert Bratton said he's optimistic a solution will be found to work with railroad officials to clear crossings blocked by trains.

The two sides met last week to discuss concerns. Sheriff Bratton said it may take 30 days to resolve the situation.

The committee consists of the sheriff's office, Rocky Ridge police, the Allen-Clay Joint Fire District, and the Rocky Ridge village council.