Rail Crossing Delays in Vergas Spark Safety Concerns, Prompt CPKC to Explore Solutions

Residents and local officials in Vergas say ongoing delays at rail crossings are becoming a public safety issue, and they’re calling for action.
On Wednesday, Otter Tail County, the City of Vergas, township representatives, and officials from Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railway (CPKC) met at Vergas City Hall to discuss frequent blockages at the Main Street/Frazee Avenue crossing.
Mayor Dwight Lundgren said the delays raise concerns for emergency response.
“We have an assisted living center on one side of the tracks and fire and rescue on the other,” Lundgren said. “If we have an emergency and can’t respond in time, it could have serious consequences.”
CPKC officials, including Senior Manager of Community Affairs Andy Cummings and District Superintendent Joey Reyes, acknowledged the issue and said the company is “focused on” working with the city and county to find a solution. That includes a comprehensive review of track infrastructure and potential grant funding to help support any necessary improvements.
Reyes added that train crews have been instructed to minimize crossing times where possible, and CPKC praised residents for proactively reporting delays.
Community members are encouraged to report crossing delays lasting 10 minutes or more by calling CPKC at 1-800-716-9132 or submitting a report at the Federal Railroad Administration website: fra.dot.gov/blockedcrossings.
Be sure to reference Crossing #695673G (Main Street) or #695671T (Town Line Road).
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