SALT LAKE CITY — The FBI issued an urgent attack alert asking the nation to be on high alert for a possible terrorist attack on February 12. Meanwhile, Union Pacific Railroad continues to haul toxic and explosive chemicals through Salt Lake City during the Olympics despite an order by the Utah Olympic Public Safety Command to reroute its trains carrying hazardous materials through the area. The Utah Olympic Public Safety Command, comprised of federal and local agencies including the FBI, is responsible for the coordination and implementation of all safety measures at the Olympics, according to a coalition press release.
In a display of arrogance, Union Pacific said on Friday, one day before Olympic Opening ceremonies, that it would not curtail, halt or reroute any hazardous shipments around Salt Lake City or nearby Ogden, despite the real threat of an explosion or toxic spill either by accident or terrorist intent.
“Everyone is doing their part to make Salt Lake City safe for the Olympics except Union Pacific, the nation’s #1 hazmat transporter, which has snubbed its nose at the real threat posed by transporting toxic and explosive materials through Salt Lake City during the games,” said Ralph Taurone, Vice President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and Secretary- Treasurer of Teamsters Local 222 in Salt Lake City, which represents 3,000 Utah workers.
Union Pacific trains carrying hazardous materials run frequently through Salt Lake City. Union Pacific operates a rail yard bordering the Olympic Plaza and near the medals plaza, where tens of thousands of Olympic spectators are gathering each day. The trains routinely carry shipments of hazardous materials ranging from chlorine to gasoline to chemical acids.
According to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) in March 2001, train derailments were up over the previous four years by 18%. Last month, a train derailment in North Dakota resulted in a toxic leak killing one man and sending many more to the hospital.
In 2000, Union Pacific Railroad accounted for 40% of the FRA’s top ten fines involving hazardous waste inspections.
“If the Olympic Public Safety Command has the power to shut down the airport, they certainly have the power to shut down Union Pacific,” said Utah Senator Ed Mayne. “During this time of heightened national security, Union Pacific should comply with these necessary safety measures.”