8 hours ago, Falstaff said:

Sox Machine article today, looks like updates on meetings with ISFA and Amtrak.

Amtrak plans to use federal exemptions in building maintenance facility next to Rate Field - Sox Machine

For some reason, the Sox Machine article didn't fully load for me this morning. I didn't see this part earlier:

Amtrak, Canal Edge, and the City of Chicago recently met to discuss the Canal Street Yard project. This letter, obtained by Sox Machine, outlines Amtrak’s position that it’s not subject to state or local zoning, nor needing development approval from Chicago. This would include building permits, site plans, and design review. 

That said, Amtrak has expressed a desire to be a “good partner” with the city and to include it in the feedback process. This includes regular meetings with Amtrak and city departments regarding design and construction, seeking additional input regarding emergency access, fire protection, utilities such as sewer and water, and potential impacts to public streets during construction. 

In the letter, Amtrak states, “Consistent with the federal environmental determination and applicable federal requirements, Amtrak anticipates obtaining any governmental authorization expressly identified in the federal environmental process.” These would be distinct from what the city and the state may have. The lack of an environmental study shared with 11th Ward Ald. Nicole Lee has been a major sticking point and a key reason residents have been rallying against the Amtrak project. 

Although it only need federal approval for their plans, Amtrak states in the letter that it plans to share final designs with the public to provide information. Again, Amtrak outlines its position that it does not need approval from the city to proceed with the maintenance facility.

4 minutes ago, 77 Hitmen said:

For some reason, the Sox Machine article didn't fully load for me this morning. I didn't see this part earlier:

Amtrak, Canal Edge, and the City of Chicago recently met to discuss the Canal Street Yard project. This letter, obtained by Sox Machine, outlines Amtrak’s position that it’s not subject to state or local zoning, nor needing development approval from Chicago. This would include building permits, site plans, and design review. 

That said, Amtrak has expressed a desire to be a “good partner” with the city and to include it in the feedback process. This includes regular meetings with Amtrak and city departments regarding design and construction, seeking additional input regarding emergency access, fire protection, utilities such as sewer and water, and potential impacts to public streets during construction. 

In the letter, Amtrak states, “Consistent with the federal environmental determination and applicable federal requirements, Amtrak anticipates obtaining any governmental authorization expressly identified in the federal environmental process.” These would be distinct from what the city and the state may have. The lack of an environmental study shared with 11th Ward Ald. Nicole Lee has been a major sticking point and a key reason residents have been rallying against the Amtrak project. 

Although it only need federal approval for their plans, Amtrak states in the letter that it plans to share final designs with the public to provide information. Again, Amtrak outlines its position that it does not need approval from the city to proceed with the maintenance facility.

Nothing surprising.