Columbus, railroad officials, mark bridge opening

The city of Columbus, along with officials from the Louisville & Indiana Railroad and CSX Railroad celebrated the ribbon cutting on the new Noblitt Park railroad bridge this week. The new structure replaces a bridge that had spanned the Flat Rock River for over 100 years.

In remarks to the group, L&I President John Goldman thanked the Columbus officials for their cooperation during construction, citing the open communication with city officials as key to the project moving along smoothly. Railroad officials say the project completes over $12 million in improvements along the rails leading into and out of Columbus.

Mayor Jim Lienhoop has been a proponent of public-private partnerships when it benefits both parties. “We are pleased to continue a strong collaborative working relationship with Louisville & Indiana Railroad and CSX Railroad officials to minimize the impact of increased train traffic to our residents and visitors,” said Mayor Lienhoop. “We look forward to their continued help as we move forward with final plans and construction of the State Road 46/Indiana 11 overpass over the next several years.”