ENDERLIN, N.D. (AP) - Canadian Pacific Railway is asking a federal judge to block the city of Enderlin from enforcing an ordinance that bans trains from blocking railway crossings for more than 10 minutes.
The motion for preliminary injunction says the ordinance that was enacted on Oct. 1 is unconstitutional. It also says the railway would be forced to use shorter trains that would cause a significant reduction to the main line capacity, lost business opportunities, and substantial increase in costs.
Enderlin officials say they are within the law. They say the issue is about safety and keeping roads clear for emergency vehicles.
Railroad employees who violate the ordinance must serve a minimum sentence of two days in jail and pay a $500 fine.
A judge has not ruled on the motion.