Photo Courtesy of Washington County

The Union Pacific Railroad has agreed to pay Washington County $115,547 for road damage caused by a coal car derailment between Hanover and Hollenberg in mid-November. The derailment occurred on Wagon Train Road, the same site as a 2007 incident, and cleanup efforts severely damaged 17 miles of county roads due to wet conditions, heavy equipment, and the lack of an established haul route.

Road and Bridge Supervisor Jimmy Workman said most repairs are complete, though coal remains in a nearby field and additional work is expected. County records showed the road was well maintained prior to the derailment, countering the railroad’s initial hesitation to reimburse costs.

Workman estimated total repair costs could reach $150,000 once cleanup is finished and a short stretch of road is rebuilt. Railroad officials agreed to pay the current bill after reviewing documentation.