Ongoing Rail Crossing Delays in Vergas Raise Safety Concerns

Frustrations continue in Vergas over extended train blockages at a key crossing in town. Local officials say delays at the Main Street/Frazee Avenue rail crossing are more than just an inconvenience—they’re becoming a public safety concern.
A meeting was held last week at Vergas City Hall, bringing together representatives from the City of Vergas, Otter Tail County, Hobart and Candor townships, and officials from Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railway (CPKC).
Mayor Dwight Lundgren said the issue affects emergency response times.
“We have an assisted living center on the east side of the tracks and fire and rescue on the other side,” he said. “If we have an emergency and can’t respond quickly, it could have serious consequences.”
CPKC representatives say they are aware of the issue and are exploring solutions. Andy Cummings, the railway’s Senior Manager of Community Affairs, said they’re taking a “comprehensive look at all options,” including possible track infrastructure upgrades. Cummings added that the company is willing to work with Otter Tail County to identify potential state and federal grant funding for improvements.
Joey Reyes, Minnesota District Superintendent for CPKC, said train crews have been directed to take steps to minimize crossing times, and that procedures are being implemented to respond more quickly when blockages occur.
Cummings also praised Vergas residents for being proactive, noting that all calls to CPKC’s reporting hotline are logged and reviewed. Residents are encouraged to report delays of 10 minutes or longer by calling 1-800-716-9132 or filing a report online at fra.dot.gov/blockedcrossings.
Please reference Crossing #695673G (Main Street) or #695671T (Town Line Road) when submitting a report.
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