East Palestine, Ohio, has reached a $22 million settlement with Norfolk Southern following the 2023 train derailment, Mayor Trent Conaway announced Friday. The funds will be allocated based on the village’s priorities, separate from ongoing class action lawsuits against the railroad company.

Key Settlement Details:

  • Total Compensation: The new agreement brings Norfolk Southern’s total payments to $35.5 million, including prior contributions.
  • Infrastructure & Emergency Services: Previous funds were used for police and fire equipment upgrades, improvements to the water treatment plant, and a $25 million commitment to East Palestine City Park.
  • Land Transfer: Norfolk Southern will transfer 15 acres of land to the village, initially intended for a regional safety training center, which has now been deemed financially unfeasible.

Village officials have yet to determine plans for the newly acquired land, but the settlement marks another step in East Palestine’s recovery from the disaster.