DUNNELLON, Fla. – City officials in Dunnellon released a detailed Q&A on Thursday, offering new information about the massive railroad tie fire and addressing residents’ concerns.
The fire started in the early hours of Sunday on property owned by CSX Transportation near East McKinney Avenue and North Williams Street. The cause remains under investigation by the Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement. Officials said the fire was fully contained and extinguished by Tuesday morning.
Later that day, Marion County declared a state of emergency, reporting that an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 ties caught fire.
Railroad ties, also known as railroad sleepers, are rectangular supports made of wood or concrete that hold railroad tracks in place. The ties involved in the fire were chemically treated, which raised concerns about potential environmental and health impacts due to smoke and air quality issues.
However, according to the Q&A, officials said no evacuations were necessary. Air quality monitoring conducted by an independent consultant contracted by CSX and local first responders showed no readings above action levels.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) was on site during the fire and continues to monitor the situation. City officials said they will determine necessary sampling and remediation plans, which will be communicated to the public.
Regarding water safety, there is no public wellhead near the fire site. The Florida Governmental Utility Authority, which supplies potable water to Dunnellon and surrounding areas, is testing water samples from public wells. Private well owners are advised to consult the Florida Department of Health for testing information.
Removal of the remaining railroad ties is underway. Approximately 16,500 ties have been transported out of the city by rail, with more shipments scheduled through mid-February. CSX is working with Florida Northern Railroad and Track Line Rail to secure the site until all ties are removed.
Residents with questions about environmental conditions can call the CSX community hotline at 1-888-479-6583. For claims or property damage inquiries, Track Line Rail can be reached at 312-848-1812.
The full Q&A document can be read in the media player below.