Real Estate & Property Law

Intermodal Facility Expansion in Massachusetts

By Alan Ackerman

Telegram

As a result, Maurice O'Connell, vice president of government affairs for CSX, said today the company wants to expand its current freight facility in Worcester by another 28 acres, boosting it to 51 acres.

To accomplish the expansion, Mr. O'Connell said CSX is looking to assemble 11 parcels of privately-owned commercial properties near the existing freight yard, as well as acquiring portions of public streets, he said.

He emphasized there will be no land takings through eminent domain and that the parcels will be acquired through privately negotiated sales.
    
The Telegram article leads one to believe that the intermodal can simply expand.  It represents eminent domain will not occur.  Is it right to be skeptical that the expansion can occur simply by voluntary purchases?  The eleven commercial businesses want to be in business and probably desire to remain where they are.  To simply say, 'we will not condemn', while recognizing that condemnation may be required is not a fair way for eminent domain to be handled.
    
When is there going to be a market in which to sell?

Full post as published by National Eminent Domain Blog on March 11, 2010 (boomark / email).