CSX commits to fixing hazardous Rose Hill rail crossings

ROSE HILL — The Duplin Journal reported in August that the railroad crossing at East Church Street and East Railroad Street in Rose Hill has long been a source of frustration and concern for town leaders and residents alike. The crossing’s severely rotted railroad ties, now well beyond repair, present a serious safety hazard for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Despite repeated complaints over the past several years, efforts by town leaders and residents to push for action from CSX have gone unanswered — until recently.

CSX spokesperson Austin Staton, director of media relations for the railroad, told Duplin Journal in August that he had contacted local teams to assess the situation and work toward a resolution. In a follow-up communication last week, Staton provided updated information regarding the plans for addressing the deteriorating conditions at the crossing.

“We noted two crossings that need work,” he wrote. “One will be torn out and repaved. The other just needs the timbers replaced as the asphalt is good. We are setting crossing closures up and plan to have this work completed in October.”

Staton also included an important caveat concerning the timeline: “This timeline assumes there are no delays due to weather or emergencies. I would probably be more accurate to say [fourth quarter].”

For now, town leaders and residents are cautiously optimistic, hoping the necessary repairs take place without further complications.