In the past couple of weeks, you may have noticed more trains in the city stopping along the tracks and blocking traffic. If that's the case - you're not alone.
Officials say they have had a number of complaints in the past few weeks concerning stopped trains. When issues like this come up, Lima officials say they forward complaints to the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to try to alleviate the problem. When the trains are stopped too long, the Lima Police Department cites the train operator and they pay a fine levied by Lima Municipal Court.
"We have noticed a higher number of train blockages in the recent weeks and are making inquiries to the rail lines to see if they can provide us any information as to how long this will persist or can operations be modified to provide relief to the community," Lima Public Works Director Howard Elstro said.
Although it can be frustrating at times, Elstro says busy rail activity is the sign of a healthy economy.
