Norfolk Southern Corporation announced that it will now excavate the soil and replace the tracks in the derailment area as part of an enhanced remediation plan. The change comes in response to feedback from the citizens of East Palestine, Ohio. Work on the first rail line will begin immediately, with the second line to be replaced directly after.

All of Norfolk Southern’s work at the site has been performed in accordance with widely accepted environmental practices. To date, the company has excavated more than 4,800 cubic yards of soil, or approximately 400 truckloads. Additionally, 1.7 million gallons, or approximately 200 tanker loads, of liquid have been collected for disposal.

The work will begin immediately. Soil preparation will be followed by track removal along the first rail line, excavation of the soil, and then rebuilding the track. The same process will then follow with the second track. Trains will continue running at slower speeds on one track while the other is being excavated.

The site will be fully remediated in accordance with the company’s long-term plan that is being developed with the Ohio and U.S. Environmental Protection Agencies.

-via Press Release