At the November 1st Washington City Council meeting, the council discussed the renewed offer sent to them by Canadian Pacific Railroad, which is currently in the process of merging with Kansas City Southern. The merger would create a single rail system known as Canadian Pacific Kansas City, or CPKC, with a network extending from Canada into the U.S. and Mexico. This merger could also increase rail traffic that passes through Washington.

A potential quiet zone study has already been discussed to evaluate the possible effects it could have on Washington and the possible effects of closing several railroad crossings. Council members have raised concerns over the amount of traffic that could pass through due to the merger and if Canadian Pacific can safely move that much traffic through Washington.

Washington Mayor Jaron Rosien talked with KCII about how he feels the negotiations between Washington and the railroad company have gone so far. “I feel good about the tempo of the negotiation with the railroad company. Stopping the merger is not on the table, but advocating for the best deal for Washington is something that is on the table, and that has always been the goal. By being candid and not being slanderous, Washington is positioning itself to receive the best deal possible.”

Nothing has been finalized yet between the City of Washington and Canadian Pacific Railroad, and any further potential action has been tabled until the next Washington City Council meeting on Tuesday, November 15th.