Press Releases

Binghamton, NY – U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (NY-19), a member of the House Subcommittee on Rail, today announced the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has launched a federal investigation into the railroad bridges that cut through the City of Binghamton.

Mayor Jared Kraham recently completed an inspection of all 28 railroad bridges in the City. The ‘damning’ report found significant violations, structural deficiencies, and safety concerns. Rep. Molinaro supported the Mayor’s effort in Congress, joined him for bridge inspections, and put pressure on the FRA to take action. As a result, the FRA is now launching a federal investigation into the railroad bridges. The investigation is expected to take 60 to 90 days. The FRA has the power to issue fines and order railroads in violation of the law to take corrective action.

Rep. Molinaro said, "Mayor Kraham's inspection of Binghamton's railroad bridges has uncovered critical safety and structural issues that demand our immediate attention. Tragedy struck in East Palestine, Ohio because of neglect. We can’t let that happen here and must protect the families, workers, and students that live and work near these bridges. Together with Mayor Kraham, we pressed the Federal Railroad Administration to act swiftly. This federal investigation is a crucial step towards accountability and safeguarding our community. We cannot allow history to repeat itself in Binghamton."

Mayor Kraham said, “This is an important step in addressing the deplorable condition of Binghamton’s railroad bridges. I’m grateful for the support of federal lawmakers, including Rep. Molinaro, who helped amplify the concerns detailed in the City’s report and personally went into the field on a bridge inspection during this process. We’re putting railroad companies on notice for their unsightly, crumbling and dangerous bridges. I will continue to seek all avenues to make sure fixes are made.”