Public Hearing Scheduled for Proposed Acquisition of Abandoned Rail Facility

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE; May 25, 2006

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, June 6, at the Waxahachie City Hall Council Chambers, located at 401 South Rogers in Waxahachie, to receive comments on the department’s proposed acquisition of a 4.57 mile segment of rail line known as the "Waxahachie Industrial Lead." The hearing is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m.

The rail line is located between cities of Waxahachie and Nena, in Ellis County.

Union Pacific Railroad Company filed a notice of exemption with the Surface Transportation Board on Dec. 7, 2005, to abandon the rail line. TxDOT, along with the city of Waxahachie, has determined that there is a need to preserve this rail corridor for future transportation uses.

All interested persons are invited to attend the public hearing and to provide input. Comments are specifically requested on the need to preserve the rail line and the impact of the rail line on area transportation, economic development, and employment.

Persons with disabilities who plan to attend the public hearing and who may need auxiliary aids or services such as interpreters for persons who are deaf or hearing impaired, readers, large print, or braille, are requested to contact Gilbert Wilson at (512) 486-5103 at least two business days prior to the hearing, so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

For More Information Contact: Dianah Ascencio Public Information Office at (214) 320-4484.