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    Complaint

    134422
    WPC
    11/14/2024
    Email
    Stream Alteration
    06-DEC-2024 09:17AM

    Location based on SITE_ID

    Site ID
    183593
    Site
    CSXT ROW on the Blue Ridge Subdivision in Tennessee
    Location
    LOW GAP RD
    City
    Erwin
    Description
    reconstruction of rail bed and track destroyed by hurricane Helene
    County
    Unicoi
    EFO Name
    Johnson City
    Site Owner
    -

    Investigation Results

    NOV

    Complaint Description and Writeup

    It is a matter of public record that TDEC issued an ARAP #NR2406.088 to CSX on 10/16/2024. It states specifically in the document that "work shall not commence until the applicant has received the federal section 404 permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers, a section 26a permit from the Tennessee Valley Authority or authorization under a Tennessee NPDES Storm Water Construction Permit where necessary."

    In a meeting with local stakeholders yesterday 11/13, Casey Ehorn from the Nashville District of the ACOE communicated that CSX has applied for the 404 permit on 11/8, weeks after construction began, and they still have not been granted that permit in writing. Only verbal agreements have been made, which are not legally binding.

    Why is TDEC allowing construction to continue with zero environmental practices in place and with no oversight or proper documentation?

    Is TDEC an advocate for the environment or for private interests?

    When will TDEC take this matter seriously and perform a full inspection?

    Thank you for your time and consideration in this very impactful manner.
    If you have any questions or comments, call us at (615) 532-0287 or email the TDEC Help Desk at BG-Help_Desk@tn.gov.