Public Private Partnership Brings New GenSet Ultra-Low Emission Locomotives to CSX Transportation

CSX knows of air pollution problems in Michigan and is willing to limit these cancer causing emissions there. Why not in Winter Haven? Are we to presume that diesel emissions only cause cancer in another state? DEARBORN, Mich., May 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- CSX Transportation (CSXT), the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), and the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) today announced the introduction of two ultra-low emission GenSet locomotives at CSXT's Rougemere Yard in Dearborn, Michigan. GenSet locomotives reduce nitrous oxide and particulate matter emissions by 80 percent and can create carbon dioxide emissions savings of approximately 50 percent by monitoring engine idling and switching to a "sleep" mode after a period of inactivity. The technology for these locomotives was purchased through a public-private partnership with the state of Michigan. The locomotives are the first low-emission locomotives to be deployed in Michigan, as well as on CSXT's 23-state rail network. "Cleaner air benefits Michigan's environment, benefits our company and its workers, and benefits our nation," said Tony Ingram, executive vice president and chief operating officer, CSX Transportation. "Thanks to our partners, we are able to bring in these GenSet locomotives you see here today. They send out 80 percent fewer emissions than a typical yard locomotive and also use less fuel." The new GenSet locomotives were retrofitted through a partnership between CSXT, MDOT, and SEMCOG. In addition to the two GenSet locomotives currently operating, CSXT and state officials are negotiating the purchase of two additional locomotives. This partnership made it possible to accelerate deployment of this ultra-low emission locomotive technology in this nonattainment area, helping the region take steps to meet its air quality goals. "Michigan is committed to working with the private sector to bring environmentally-friendly transportation technology to the state," said MDOT Director Kirk Steudle at today's event in Dearborn. "We know that often what is good for transportation can be good for the environment and we look forward to continuing to work with the private sector on this important issue." The GenSet locomotives will be used to switch cars within CSXT's Rougemere yard in Dearborn. GenSet locomotives are significantly quieter than existing locomotives; they achieve the most stringent noise level requirements for off-road capital equipment. "The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments is pleased to sponsor this important initiative in partnership with CSX Transportation," said Carmine Palombo, transportation director, SEMCOG. "Working together, the pollution reductions from this project will help Southeast Michigan meet and maintain national air quality standards." CSXT has invested more than $1 billion to upgrade its fleet with technology that reduces fuel consumption and air pollutant emissions. Through these efforts, the company has improved its fuel efficiency by approximately 80 percent since 1980. CSXT is a member of the EPA's Climate Leaders program in which the company has committed to reducing its emissions and leveraging other means for environmental benefits. CSXT is also an award-winning and charter member of the EPA SmartWay Transport Partnership. This partnership was designed to promote voluntary reductions in fuel consumption and emissions. CSXT's fuel conservation measures and better management of its waste stream have already contributed to that goal. CSX Transportation Inc. is a principal operating company of CSX Corporation. CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans 21,000 miles with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia, and connects to more than 70 ocean, river, and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at the company's web site, www.csx.com. SOURCE CSX TransportationCONTACT: Bob Sullivan of CSX Transportation +1-877-835-5279Janet Foran of Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT)+1-517-335-7176Sue Stetler of Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG)+1-313-324-3428