Big changes could be ahead for people living near Rate Field as Amtrak gets a step closer to moving its maintenance facility from South Loop to Bridgeport.
A report by the federal government on Saturday morning found the facility would not have a major impact.
Neighbors say the latest report comes as no surprise. The environmental assessment report was done by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Neighbors say it acknowledges contaminated soil and groundwater, as well as daily vibrations they'll be feeling from yard operations nearby.
The project will cost $900 million. Amtrak says it's looking at rebuilding the maintenance yard in its current location or moving elsewhere — they chose the proposed Canal Street site in Bridgeport because of its proximity to Union Station.
The project is also closely tied to plans for a potential new White Sox stadium in the South Loop. The team's minority owner is the private developer and delivery partner for the Amtrak project and is providing $ 125 million in private capital.
Neighbors say more than 6,500 people live within 500 feet of the proposed site. They say they deserve a meaningful examination of non-residential alternatives before their neighborhood commits to something like this.
Ald. Nicole Lee (11th) and Commissioner John P. Daley responded to the assessment, saying in a joint statement:
"As expected, the Federal Railroad Administration's 'environmental assessment,' rushed through in only 11 days, claims the proposed Amtrak Midwest Maintenance Facility would have an 'insignificant' impact on our community. On behalf of the nearly 7,000 residents who live within 500 feet of this site, who will have to breathe this air and hear this noise pollution, we beg to differ.
This assessment process, which Amtrak and the FRA only agreed to under intense pressure, is woefully insufficient. Amtrak and Canal Edge, LLC have an explicit financial interest in ensuring this project moves forward quickly. Our community deserves and demands better–including a full, independant environmental impact study, where we can trust that no financially interested party has had influence.
We have one month to make our voices heard through the public comment period on this assessment. We are asking all elected leaders, organizations and residents who have stood with us to offer written comments in opposition. Please make sure to comment, and spread the word by December 7."
While some aldermen have spoken out against the project, they can't stop it from going forward. A resolution opposing the facility is set to move forward for a vote by the full city council.
