A group of bipartisan Ohio legislators has reached out to CSX Transportation’s leadership for clarification regarding proposed changes at the Collinwood rail yard in Cleveland. The lawmakers sent a letter to Steve Angel, President and CEO of CSX, expressing concerns about potential impacts on workers throughout Ohio due to adjustments in freight pool operations.
In their correspondence, the legislators asked CSX to temporarily halt any planned operational shifts and called for a joint meeting between management and labor representatives. “We ask that CSX consider a temporary stay on the proposed operational shifts and engage in a joint meeting between management and labor representatives to explore a collaborative path forward, one that protects both operational efficiency and the livelihoods of dedicated CSX employees,” stated the lawmakers in the letter.
The inquiry from lawmakers centers on whether CSX intends to close or significantly reduce activities at the Collinwood facility. According to union leaders and employees, there is continued uncertainty despite previous assurances that yard operations would not be affected.
In late 2024, similar concerns were raised with former US Senator Sherrod Brown. At that time, discussions led to an agreement establishing three Cleveland-based freight pools, which helped preserve jobs at the facility.
Clyde A. Whitaker, State Safety and Legislative Director of SMART Transportation Division, highlighted worker anxieties: “These aren’t just numbers on a balance sheet — these are families, neighbors, and taxpayers whose livelihoods sustain entire communities. This is the second time in two years the Collinwood terminal has faced uncertainty, and our members are growing increasingly concerned about what this means for their future,” said Whitaker. “CSX owes its success to the men and women who built its reputation for safety and reliability. It’s time for the company to show that same commitment to Ohio’s workers and economy.”
More than 36 members of the Ohio House of Representatives signed the letter addressed to Steve Angel.
The full text of the letter was made available as an attachment by the lawmakers.
