Thursday, January 03, 2008 (Washington, DC)

"As a result of our system-wide focused inspection of CSX Transportation conducted a year ago, the railroad has paid $349,265 in civil penalties for violating numerous Federal rail safety regulations.

With FRA encouragement, CSX has made significant strides in the short term to lay new rail, increase its own inspections of track and equipment, and install trackside detection systems in more locations to identify potential problems early. But CSX cannot make this a one-time fix. The railroad must stay focused and not be distracted from making the necessary long-term investments in infrastructure, technology, and employees that will strengthen its safety culture and performance. FRA expects CSX to make a sustained commitment to continuously improve safety for the benefit of its customers, its staff, and the public."

Disposition of Recommended Civil Penalties for Violations Resulting from Focused Safety Oversight Inspections on CSX Transportation, Inc.-- Conducted January 19-22, 2007