Breaking Down the Claims vs. Reality
The Townline Association has released a widely circulated document opposing the Townline Rail project, raising concerns about its environmental impact, truck traffic, and legal implications. While civic engagement is important, it’s equally critical to separate fact from speculation. Here’s a closer look at the claims made by the Townline Association compared to the actual details of the project.
Claim #1: The Townline Rail Yard is Too Close to Homes and Will Harm Residential Areas
Townline Association’s Position:
• The proposal includes a 9,400-foot train yard with 161 freight cars, located 150 feet from homes in Kings Park, Greenlawn, Commack, and surrounding areas.
• It will pass by homes, schools, playgrounds, and businesses, increasing noise, pollution, and risks to residents.
The Facts:
• The proposed rail infrastructure is over 500 feet away from the Long Island Railroad right-of-way, making the facility more than 500 feet away from any residential property.
• The rail corridor already exists—this project modernizes and optimizes its use.
• No hazardous materials will be handled by CarlsonCorp or Townline Rail. This is a false narrative based on speculation rather than fact.
• This project reduces overall truck traffic across Long Island by shifting freight transportation from congested roadways to a more sustainable rail system.
Claim #2: The Freight Yard is Unnecessary for Waste Management
Townline Association’s Position:
• Existing facilities, such as Gershow & Omni Brentwood Rail Transfer, can already handle construction & demolition (C&D) debris.
• The Brookhaven Landfill will remain open until 2027–2028 for incinerator ash.
• Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine supports a regional waste plan, not this project.
The Facts:
• Brookhaven’s extended closure date does not solve Long Island’s long-term waste crisis. The region must develop a sustainable, long-term waste management solution beyond 2028.
• The Townline Rail project is part of that solution, integrating into a Regional Asset Management System (R.A.M.S.) that creates a modernized, efficient waste management framework.
• This is not a “piecemeal” project, but rather a critical part of a regional strategy to address the impending waste crisis.
Claim #3: The Freight Yard Will Lead to More Trucks on Local Roads
Townline Association’s Position:
• The project increases truck traffic because goods unloaded at the yard will be trucked throughout Long Island.
• Local roads like Pulaski Road, Commack Road, Indian Head Road, and Jericho Turnpike will be overburdened with diesel trucks.
The Facts:
• Without this project, trucks will continue to clog roads at an even higher rate.
• Rail reduces truck traffic region-wide, cutting down on fuel emissions, wear and tear on roads, and congestion.
• By consolidating shipments at a single logistics hub, overall truck miles decrease, benefiting the environment and reducing diesel emissions in residential neighborhoods.
Claim #4: The Project Will Bring Hazardous Materials to the Area
Townline Association’s Position:
• If designated a common carrier, Townline Rail cannot refuse hazardous materials, such as crude oil, chlorine, and ammonia.
• The rail yard is above a major aquifer recharge zone, risking water contamination.
The Facts:
• CarlsonCorp and Townline Rail will not handle hazardous materials.
• This is a misrepresentation of federal law—while railroads must accept shipments if offered, they are not required to actively transport hazardous materials.
• The business plan for this project explicitly excludes hazardous materials—a commitment that remains unchanged.
Claim #5: The Project Will Harm Public Health and the Environment
Townline Association’s Position:
• Rail yards contribute to air pollution, causing asthma and respiratory illnesses in children and the elderly.
• The community already bears a high environmental burden from the Huntington Resource Recovery Facility, Northport Power Plant, and multiple landfills.
The Facts:
• Rail transportation produces fewer emissions per ton-mile than trucks—a fact widely acknowledged by environmental experts.
• The alternative is worse—more trucks burning diesel, creating higher emissions and increased road congestion.
• This project improves environmental efficiency, aligning with regional and state sustainability goals.
Claim #6: The Community is United Against the Project
Townline Association’s Position:
• Two community meetings showed unanimous opposition to the project.
• 5,000+ signatures have been collected in opposition.
The Facts:
• While community concerns should be heard, these numbers do not reflect the entire community’s stance.
• Many business leaders, sustainability advocates, and municipal officials recognize the long-term benefits of the project.
• Misinformation has fueled opposition, making it crucial to educate the public on the real facts.
The Bottom Line: A Smarter Future for Long Island
The Townline Rail project is a forward-thinking infrastructure improvement designed to enhance Long Island’s freight logistics, reduce truck traffic, and integrate waste management solutions. The opposition campaign relies on fear-mongering, selective facts, and misinformation rather than constructive dialogue and planning for the region’s future.
We welcome open, fact-based discussions and encourage residents to ask questions, engage with the project details, and consider the broader implications of doing nothing.
📢 Stay Informed & Take Action
For more details on the Regional Asset Management System (R.A.M.S.) and its role in modernizing waste solutions, stay tuned to The Real Smithtown News.
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