Judge Approves $1.75 Million CSX Settlement for Explosion

Judge Approves $1.75 Million CSX Settlement for Explosion

Introduction

Nearly three years after the explosion at the CSX coal terminal in Curtis Bay, some residents will soon receive compensation from a $1.75 million class action lawsuit settlement.

However, one local resident considers the settlement insufficient, calling it "a slap in the face" to the community. “It’s like living a nightmare,” he said, describing the aftermath of the explosion, which left the area covered in coal dust. Despite having the means to relocate, he emphasized that Curtis Bay is his home.

CSX previously stated that the Curtis Bay coal pier had operated for over 140 years without an incident like the 2021 explosion and expressed relief that no one was injured. However, the fallout from the event continues to affect the community.

In addition to the lawsuit settlement, CSX reached an agreement with the Maryland Department of Environment (MDE) in 2022. The terms included a $1,500 fine and required CSX to implement corrective measures. The company also contributed $100,000 to fund an environmental project benefiting the neighborhood.

The resident believes that until larger fines or settlements are imposed, lasting change will not occur. Recently, the MDE released a draft permit that would allow the coal terminal to continue operations for another five years, raising concerns among local residents about the future impact on their community.