Work on CSX 'National Gateway' Through Kent Progresses

Work is progressing steadily on CSX Transporation Co.'s $850 million National Gateway project, which includes a few changes to the tracks in Kent.

The project is part of the railroad's effort to create double-stack clearance ob its tracks beneath bridges and other structures and to create several new intermodal terminals on the East Coast, according to the project website.

CSX is changing track height in spots around Kent so cargo containers can be stacked on top of each other on trains and still clear several of the city's bridges.

Of the 20 Ohio projects, three fall within Kent:

• At Crain Avenue, CSX worked with the city to ensure the new Fairchild Avenue Bridge would have enough clearance for the double-stack trains.
• At Main Street, CSX is lowering the railroad tracks up to 2 feet to ensure clearance beneath the Main Street Bridge. The work includes erosion and sediment controls to protect the adjacent Cuyahoga River.
• At River Bend, CSX will raise the old railroad bridge that now serves The Portage Hike and Bike Trail to provide clearance for the tracks below. The work also includes raising an existing Akron Barberton Cluster Railroad bridge that still serves train traffic.