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Bridgeport Residents Challenge Amtrak Environmental Assessment as 'Predetermined'
Bridgeport neighbors are pushing back against a 59-page environmental assessment from Amtrak and the Federal Railroad Administration that calls the impact of a proposed maintenance facility 'insignificant,' citing concerns about PFAS contamination, diesel emissions, and a rushed process.
Bridgeport residents are intensifying their opposition to a proposed Amtrak maintenance facility after Amtrak and the Federal Railroad Administration released a 59-page environmental assessment over the weekend that concluded the project's impact would be "insignificant."
The facility, currently located at 12th and Canal, is in the final phase of being relocated to Bridgeport, where roughly 6,500 people live within 500 feet of the proposed site. Since late August, neighbors have raised concerns about environmental and health impacts and demanded a study be conducted.
"This is a ridiculous thing they're trying to offer and push through here," said Peter Caruso, a Bridgeport resident.
"We're looking to save our families. We've been here, we've built new homes here," added Tom Bruno.
Residents say the assessment, which they argue was produced too quickly, fails to adequately address the site's contamination and the facility's potential emissions. Michael Mancine said the study was "done for predetermined results" and "pushed through in seven to 11 days."
Ann Caruso questioned the process, asking, "Did they bring one member of the Bridgeport community? Are we supposed to trust them?"
Matt Malec, a member of Bridgeport Environmentalists who reviewed the assessment, said it largely repurposes existing documents and does not fully account for impacts across the 54-acre site. He noted that 40 acres will require remediation and that the soil contains PFAS, often called "forever chemicals."
"It doesn't release the chemicals most commonly released from diesel fumes," Malec said, arguing the study omits key air-quality concerns.
Residents also say the facility would affect nearby schools and parks, impacts they contend the assessment does not address.
The project is closely tied to plans for a potential new White Sox stadium in the South Loop. Justin Ishbia, the team's minority owner, is the private developer and delivery partner for the Amtrak project and is providing $125 million in private capital.
"I think we ought to get Jerry Reinsdorf involved because, for now, he's getting a free pass," Mancine said, referring to the White Sox owner.
Alderwoman Nicole Lee (11th Ward) said the community deserves "a full, independent environmental impact study."
A final meeting on the project is scheduled for December.