Norfolk Southern has faced growing criticism from residents of East Palestine, Ohio, following a train derailment in February 2023 that caused a major environmental disaster. The incident involved five tank cars filled with vinyl chloride, which were intentionally burned, releasing a large plume of toxic smoke that affected homes, schools, and farmland in the area.
Since the derailment, Norfolk Southern has promised to "make it right" for the community. However, many locals feel that the railroad has not lived up to its commitments. A recent lawsuit filed by the local school district highlights these concerns, as plans for a wellness center and athletic complex for students have stalled. Residents like Krissy Ferguson have expressed deep dissatisfaction, with Ferguson even relocating her family to Poland, Ohio, due to safety fears.
The community remains divided. Some residents report ongoing health issues, such as respiratory problems and skin rashes, while others claim they feel fine and wish to move on from the disaster. A village spokeswoman stated that Norfolk Southern is meeting its obligations according to their agreements, but many residents disagree.
In January, East Palestine and Norfolk Southern reached a $22 million settlement, which included $13.5 million already paid to the town and a pledge of $25 million for park renovations. However, both sides agreed to abandon plans for a training center for first responders, which had been a key part of Norfolk Southern’s commitment to the community.
Norfolk Southern claims to have invested over $115 million in recovery efforts, including $1.1 million to the school district. The railroad insists it has paid all valid invoices from the schools. Yet, the school district’s lawsuit accuses Norfolk Southern of failing to reimburse costs related to using school buildings during the crisis and abandoning the construction of the wellness center, which was intended to provide health services and job training for students.
Superintendent James Rook expressed frustration over the railroad’s lack of communication and the abandonment of the wellness center project, which had an estimated cost of $30 million. The district is seeking reimbursement for additional expenses and lost revenue, emphasizing that Norfolk Southern has not adequately compensated the school system for the disaster’s impact.
Despite the criticism, Norfolk Southern maintains that it remains committed to the community. The new CEO, Mark George, has visited East Palestine and promised to fulfill the company’s commitments. However, residents like Misti Allison feel that the railroad’s focus has shifted to profits rather than community recovery.
The ongoing fallout from the derailment continues to affect East Palestine, with many residents feeling disappointed and frustrated. Some payments from the class-action settlement remain on hold due to legal appeals, further exacerbating tensions between the community and the railroad. Village leaders are trying to focus on positive developments, but the lingering sense of disappointment is palpable among many residents.