The City of Richardson has received neighborhood concerns regarding vegetation growth along railroad rights-of-way in the community, particularly along rail corridors now operated by Canadian Pacific Kansas City, also known as CPKC.
Before the 2023 merger of Kansas City Southern and Canadian Pacific, residents may have observed more frequent mowing and right-of-way maintenance along certain rail corridors. Since the merger, residents have raised concerns about the appearance of vegetation along the rail line and its impact on nearby neighborhoods.
While the City understands the impact these conditions can have on nearby neighborhoods, railroad operations and railroad right-of-way maintenance are subject to federal and state oversight. As a result, the City is limited in its ability to require railroad companies to mow or maintain railroad property for general aesthetic purposes.
Residents with general concerns about vegetation on CPKC property should report those concerns directly to CPKC’s Community Connect team, which handles public inquiries and non-emergency neighborhood issues. Residents should include the nearest crossing, address or track location when submitting a report.
If vegetation creates a railroad safety concern, residents may report the issue to the Federal Railroad Administration. Residents may also contact the Texas Department of Transportation for concerns involving railroad crossings, driver sight distance or rail-highway safety.
Website: www.cor.net/RailroadMaintenance
