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Synopsis of Upcoming Hearings: Purpose and Intent
PermalinkThe Town of Smithtown is holding public hearings to discuss proposed amendments to local zoning (Chapter 322) and solid waste management (Chapter 177) laws. These amendments are part of the initial steps in a long environmental review process for projects like the proposed rail freight terminal.
Key Clarifications
• This is NOT a local approval of the project.
• The hearings focus on regulatory updates that will guide the environmental review process.
• After the review is completed, the Town Board will decide whether to approve or deny the project.
Purpose of the Hearings
1. Zoning Amendments (Chapter 322):
• Establish rules for freight terminals, truck depots, and related infrastructure to ensure alignment with community needs.
2. Solid Waste Management Amendments (Chapter 177):
• Introduce licensing and operational requirements for facilities like rail transfer stations and non-municipal waste sites.
Intent of the Process
• Environmental Review: These hearings mark the start of a thorough review to assess the project’s potential environmental, traffic, and community impacts.
• Community Input: Ensure residents have a voice in shaping regulations that will govern such projects.
• Responsible Oversight: Balance federal approvals with local controls to protect public safety, quality of life, and environmental integrity.
This process is just beginning, and your participation helps ensure it reflects the priorities of Smithtown’s residents. Let’s work together to shape the future responsibly.
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Decision to Deny Townline Association’s Request
Read MoreThe Surface Transportation Board filed a decision denying the Townline Association’s request to reconsider the decision to grant authority for Townline Rail Terminal to construct and operate, as the association did not provide any new evidence or changed circumstances. Townline Rail is subject to environmental mitigation conditions and will follow the guidelines of American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association.
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Decision to Authorize Townline Rail Terminal
Read MoreThe Surface Transportation Board filed its decision approving Townline Rail Terminal to construct and operate a new rail line in Smithtown, Suffolk County, NY, subject to environmental mitigation conditions.
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Final Environmental Assessment
Read MoreThe Surface Transportation Board has provided a Final Environmental Assessment, including a response to comments on the Draft Environmental Assessment. These documents can be viewed via the STB.gov website under Docket No. FD 36575 or by clicking the “read more” link below.
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Decision on Petition for Declaratory Order re: Common Carrier Limitations
Read MoreThe STB responded to the Town of Smithtown’s request for a declaratory order regarding hazardous materials pertaining to Townline Rail and CarlsonCorp. Townline Rail would be considered a common carrier and thus required to handle hazardous materials under a reasonable request. The CarlsonCorp transloading facility – as a separate entity, not providing rail service but loading and unloading services – would not be a common carrier.
This should put to rest the fear being raised by some in the community about transport of any hazardous or toxic chemicals and materials to the Kings Park property: New York State DEC and Town of Smithtown regulations would prohibit those materials on CarlsonCorp property, and their decisions cannot be overridden by the Federal Surface Transportation Board.
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