Cars stuck on Sugar City railroad crossing

Walter Deitz has lived in Sugar City for 20 years, and every year he faces the same issue, people getting stuck on the tracks.

He said he has reached out to the city to take care of the problem.

“Every winter the snow gets built up on these train tracks and cars are getting stuck,” said Deitz.

However, he said the city has made an effort.

“The city has come and plowed and taken the snow off so people can cross, but you have to call them and get that done,” Deitz said.

Public Works Director, Zane Baler said, he’s tried.

“A week ago I went out and tried to shave them down without hitting the tracks, and I was planning on watching them. I didn’t realize that as many people were getting stuck,” Baler said.

The questions arises: Who’s responsibility is it to maintain the tracks?

“The city says it’s not their responsibility, you call the railroad and they say its not their responsibility, but cars are getting stuck here often,” Dietz said.

“If we damage the tracks and they’re not aware of it, then it can be a real hazard as well. It’s a gray area for them and us,” Baler said.

“I would like to get this sorted out,” he added.

Tracy VanBecelaere, communications manager for Rail Services Watco Companies said, she is going to reach out to the general manager and further investigate.

Deitz said in one day he’s pulled out seven cars stuck on tracks.