Developers schedule public meeting to review Pennsylvania container facility project

DevelopErie and EIP Intermodal Rail Terminal L.L.C. plan to hold a public meeting April 3 in Erie, Pa., to discuss the proposed Erie Rail Terminal project.

The partners plan to construct an intermodal container transfer facility in Harborcreek Township, Pa., to enhance the region’s freight movement capabilities and prompt economic opportunities. To be located on a CSX Transportation mainline, the facility would feature five miles of track, and truck parking and loading areas. Construction is tentatively scheduled to start in fall, with the facility slated to open in early 2016.

At the meeting, DevelopErie and EIP officials will review the project's history, discuss site selection details, define the environmental clearance process, identify the scope of traffic studies, outline future public involvement opportunities and gather public comments.

"We recognize the level of public interest in this important project and we’re eager to share the latest information related to its development," said EIP President Steve Rubin in a press release.

The project's development process would include the completion of an environmental assessment and traffic impact study. A traffic study was initiated earlier this year by DevelopErie's consultant team of EMH&T and Urban Engineers. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation will review the study when it's completed.

"We still have more steps to take in order to obtain environmental clearance and complete the associated traffic studies, but we are committed to see these studies through to ensure impacts to the environment and the community are minimized," said Katrina Smith, DevelopErie's senior vice president.