Garden City neighborhood blocked twice in one week as train problems persists years after initial complaints

GARDEN CITY, Ga. (WTOC) — Residents of Priscilla D. Thomas Way say they were blocked in their neighborhood twice last week by stopped trains, continuing a problem that has persisted for years despite railroad company promises to address the issue.

The blockages occurred on Monday and Friday of last week, with both lasting over an hour, according to neighbors in the small cul-de-sac community.

“It’s still the same story,” said Steven Lavant, who lives on Priscilla D Thomas Way.

Resident Robinson said the problem has been “going for months, for years.”

Long-running issue continues

WTOC has been reporting on the train blockages since 2022, documenting how the stopped trains have impacted residents’ daily lives.

The problem appeared to improve briefly after CSX said in August that their crews were aware of the issue and would try to avoid blockages. At that time, residents expressed hope that things would change.

“Here we are again, same train track, same train, still blocking the entrance here on PD Thomas Way,” said Natalyn Morris, a Garden City councilwoman.

Residents face job, school impacts

The blockages have forced some residents to make significant life changes. Lavant said he resigned from his job because management didn’t believe trains were causing his tardiness.

“This train made me step down from my job because I was going to get fired,” Lavant said. “I would be late, even if I left early, I couldn’t get to work on time on Hilton Head.”

Morris said residents have missed work days, been late for school and missed doctor appointments because of the blocked crossing.

“It’s happening more and more frequently, we have residents that are trying to get home, trying to get to school, trying to have a normal life,” Morris said.

CSX responds to concerns

CSX Transportation responded to questions about the recent blockages, saying the company “strives to be a good neighbor to communities where we operate and works to minimize the impact of railroad operations.”

The company said mechanical and operational issues can result in blocked crossings, as well as stops for mandatory safety inspections, federally-regulated crew changes or to allow another train to safely pass.

“Our goal is to, safely and efficiently, transport America’s freight and we appreciate the patience of motorists and pedestrians waiting for our trains to pass safely through the area,” CSX said in a statement.

The company said it maintains communication with local officials and is committed to reducing occurrences that affect residents and traffic flow.