Hazelwood Riverfront Rezoning (Bill 2025-1993)

Representing Allegheny Valley Railroad, urged council to vote no, citing active rail operations, federal preemption, and an unnecessary rezoning of a thriving industrial area.

Shared perspective from Highland Park regarding riverfront zoning processes and praised the railroad as a responsive and good neighbor during local construction.

Representing CSX, stated that the rail yard property should not be rezoned, highlighted federal preemption, and noted a lack of initial consultation with major property stakeholders.

Chief Marketing Officer for Allegheny Valley Railroad highlighted the 150-year history of rail in Hazelwood, increased rail traffic, and substantial infrastructure investments.

President of Allegheny Valley Railroad stated the yard is a modern, efficient facility removing thousands of trucks from roads and urged council to vote no.

Representing Go Rail, spoke on the national economic importance of freight rail and the difficulty of restoring rail connections once lost.

Executive VP of Parload Express spoke against the rezoning, arguing it is inconsistent with surrounding industrial uses and fails to resolve neighborhood concerns constructively.

General manager for steel galvanizing operations highlighted high-paying local jobs and reliance on railroad services to keep trucks off local streets.

Representing Republic Services, warned that the bill would turn recycling and industrial operations into non-conforming uses, limiting future expansion and improvements.

Executive Director of Hazelwood Initiative supported the rezoning as an environmental justice measure to protect residents from heavy industrial impacts while fostering constructive dialogue.

General Manager of BFI Waste Services (Republic Services) asked council to vote down the bill or carve out recycling processing to protect city recycling operations and facility upgrades.