Dunkirk Raises Concerns Over Deteriorating Railroad Tracks

From the Dunkirk City Council meeting on August 10, 2026

The mayor raised concerns about deteriorating railroad tracks heading into Blackford County, describing weeds "four or five foot tall" growing through the tracks and the infrastructure "completely falling apart." The rail line is closed, and the railroad company is not maintaining it.

City Attorney Wes said the city can send the railroad a formal letter. The mayor will contact the city's district representative to determine whether the railroad has any maintenance plans.

A council member stressed the importance of creating a paper trail for liability purposes: "If we start the paperwork each year with us asking, if something does happen and it falls on something, we're not starting over."

While the city is not liable for the railroad's property, council members expressed concern about potential injuries from the deteriorating infrastructure. The mayor acknowledged this is "happening all over" as railroad companies close underused tracks.

Source: Meeting transcript — City of Dunkirk - City Council Meeting - August 10 2026

Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.