One year after a freight train operated by Norfolk Southern derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, the community is still grappling with the aftermath of the incident. The wounds run deep in this working-class town, where residents no longer feel safe in their own community due to the potential damage caused by the derailment. Despite efforts made by Norfolk Southern since the incident, local business owners and residents express concerns about the long-term effects on their health and livelihoods.
Progress Made, Yet More to Be Done
Norfolk Southern’s CEO, Alan Shaw, acknowledges the progress that has been achieved but recognizes that there is still much more work to be done. In an exclusive interview with “NBC Nightly News,” Shaw emphasized the company’s commitment to working with the community and investing in environmental remediation, safety measures, and the overall well-being of the town.
To date, Norfolk Southern has provided direct relief totaling $20.7 million to affected residents, allocated $25 million for a new safety training facility for first responders, and invested $4.3 million to ensure the safety of the town’s drinking water. These initiatives demonstrate the company’s dedication to addressing the concerns of the community.
Lingering Concerns for Local Business Owners
While Norfolk Southern’s efforts are appreciated, local business owners like Joy Mascher, owner of “Flowers Straight From the Heart,” express their dissatisfaction. For Mascher, the incident caused more than just a loss of business; it directly impacted the creek adjacent to her flower shop, contaminating the surrounding area. Despite claims of decontamination, Mascher remains worried about future rains and the potential flooding of her shop’s basement.
A Call for Accountability
The Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine not only led to evacuations and temporary closures of businesses but also resulted in legal action. The Justice Department, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the state of Ohio have filed lawsuits against Norfolk Southern, seeking financial accountability for the avoidable catastrophe. Additionally, residents like Anna Sevi-Doss and Joy Mascher are part of a class action lawsuit against the rail company, seeking compensation for lost wages, property damage, and potential health issues related to the chemical spill.
Mixed Reactions among Residents
Opinions about Norfolk Southern’s efforts vary among East Palestine residents. Kathy and Tom Rimbey, homeowners near the incident site, acknowledge the company’s commitment to rehabilitating the area. However, their skepticism arises from the fact that Norfolk Southern offered them an air purifier despite not being within the evacuation zone. The Rimbey’s cautious approach includes drinking only bottled water and regular health check-ups to ensure their well-being.
Norfolk Southern’s CEO, Alan Shaw, acknowledges the community’s concerns and emphasizes the company’s dedication to resolving the issues at hand. Recognizing the need for reassurance, Norfolk Southern is working with the community on the establishment of a long-term healthcare fund. Shaw wants residents to know that Norfolk Southern will remain in East Palestine for as long as it takes to ensure the town’s safety and well-being.
As the town of East Palestine continues to battle the aftermath of the train derailment, residents like Joy Mascher stress the importance of raising awareness about the ongoing struggles. Their hope is that by shedding light on their experiences, they can prevent similar incidents from happening elsewhere.
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