Several of you wrote wanting to know more information about the McMullen Booth Railroad Construction.  Thanks Mahshid Arasteh, Director of the Pinellas County Public Works, for the additional information. 

Most of the work occurring in the first phase of construction (which will shut down McMullen Booth Road) is operated by CSXT.  Over the initial three weeks of the project, the old railbeds and rails will be removed and replaced.  Two temporary lanes will be constructed by the County contractor, who will be working around the clock to “fast-track” this phase as much as possible.

CSXT has informed Pinellas County officials that the rail has to be replaced in one piece so partial closure of the roadway was not an option.  Also, the rail bed has to be compacted by rail cars passing over the rails.  Pinellas County has hired a “work train” so that crews do not have to wait for the normal train activity which would have added more time to the closure.

This repair was scheduled for 2002 but was delayed to allow time for the construction work on the US-19 overpasses.  Officials further note that at this time, the rails are loose from wear and tear and the work can not be postponed any longer.

Safe travels.
Alicia