An agreement between Norfolk Southern and the borough of Midland to provide an easement of land for the repair of stormwater pipes was reached on Tuesday. Congressman Chris DeLuzio’s office collaborated with municipal government leaders from Midland in order to have the agreement secured.

The stormwater pipes that have been used for over a century suffered major leaks in May of 2022, and the leaks have caused erosion that has led to the stability of the nearby riverbank to begin coming into question. The borough needed approval from Norfolk Southern in order to secure the land easement due to federal right-of-way railroad transportation laws.

“I am proud to have worked with the good people of Midland Borough government to secure this land easement from the railroad to protect the Ohio River, stop concerning hillside erosion, and allow Midland to repair their stormwater management system,” said Rep. Deluzio. “After causing our community so much pain in the wake of their devastating derailment, I will continue to push Norfolk Southern to operate as a strong partner in Western Pennsylvania communities like Midland.”