Controversial Railroad Merger Approved Despite Concerns and Antitrust Push.

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board has approved the merger of Canadian Pacific Railway and Kansas City Southern, creating the largest freight company running from Canada to Mexico through the United States. The $31 billion merger will impact 54 crossings on 20 miles of Metra’s Milwaukee District West Line, tripling the number of freight trains each day on the line and causing delays for drivers and first responders. While proponents say it will be good for the economy and decrease greenhouse gas emissions, opponents have long expressed concerns about declining property values, public safety, and the quality of life in affected communities.