In the wake of the massive brush fires that cost residents and municipalities millions of dollars, Rockland officials are calling for transparency and action from CSX, accusing the company of dodging responsibility and withholding information. The fires stretched along the railroad tracks from Clarkstown to Stony Point, damaging houses and property, and required assistance from hundreds of firefighters from Rockland, Bergen County, New Jersey, Orange County, and Westchester.
Officials are increasingly certain that sparks from a CSX train ignited the fires, and they demand that CSX reimburse residents and municipalities for costs and property damage. U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kristen Gillibrand have also urged the Federal Railroad Administration to investigate CSX.
New York State Senator William Weber has introduced a bill that amends transportation law (S6435) to increase penalties for violations related to braking systems, steering components, coupling devices, and the transportation of hazardous materials. Under the proposed bill, fines for first-time offenders would range from $1,000 to $2,000, while repeat offenders could face up to 90 days in jail. Railroad corporations, companies, and associations found guilty of violating rules could face fines from $25,000 to $150,000.
Sheriff Louis Falco claims that investigators found no evidence of a cause other than the CSX train sparking the fires. Although CSX officials promised to provide information on the train, repair reports, and video and drone footage, they have not yet done so. Rockland’s state and federal officials, including Rep. Michael Lawler, agree with the sheriff’s assessment.
Assemblyman John McGowan, along with other officials, is calling for CSX to cooperate and respond to the sheriff’s requests without the need for a subpoena. Homeowners seeking compensation for damages should email damage estimates directly to CSX at rmfeedback@csx.com.
While there has been no official determination of the cause of the fires, CSX spokesperson Bryan Tucker said the company is willing to review any information provided and will continue to work closely with local officials.