Cuyahoga County Delegation Calls on Federal Government, Railroads to Address Cleveland's Deteriorating Railroad Bridges
COLUMBUS – Members of the Cuyahoga County Delegation in the Ohio General Assembly have formally requested immediate federal action to address dangerous conditions on railroad bridges throughout Cleveland. A joint letter sent this week to U.S. Senators Bernie Moreno and Jon Husted and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) detail 99 first-degree misdemeanor violations issued by the City of Cleveland against CSX Transportation, Inc. and Norfolk Southern Corporation for failing to maintain their railroad bridges.
The violations include falling concrete, overgrown vegetation, graffiti, and structural deterioration. Of particular concern is the Norfolk Southern bridge spanning Broadway Avenue near Harvard, where unsafe conditions pose risks to both motorists and pedestrians.
“Our constituents deserve safe infrastructure and accountable corporate partners,” said State Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan (D-Cleveland/Parma), who led the effort. “These violations are not just cosmetic—they are safety hazards that demand immediate attention.”
The delegation’s letter acknowledges FRA’s recent commitment to expand its bridge inspection team from six inspectors to more than 160 but stresses that urgent intervention is needed now. Lawmakers outlined four key requests:
- Prioritize inspections of all railroad bridges in Cleveland to ensure compliance with federal standards;
- Coordinate efforts between the FRA and the City of Cleveland to expedite necessary repairs;
- Increase transparency by maintaining open communication with city officials on progress; and
- Develop a long-term maintenance plan in collaboration with the city to prevent further neglect.
“The people of Cleveland should not have to wonder if the bridges they drive under or walk near are structurally sound,” said Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio (D-Lakewood). “Rail companies must take responsibility, and the federal government must hold them accountable.”
The delegation stressed that swift action is essential to protect public safety and restore community confidence in infrastructure maintenance.
The bipartisan letter was signed by ten members of the Ohio House of Representatives and three members of the Ohio Senate, representing communities across Cuyahoga County.
EDITOR’S NOTE: The letters sent to Sen. Moreno, Sen. Husted and the FRA Deputy Administrator Drew Feeley are attached to this release.