Streets Reopened in Westford After Train Derailment

UPDATE, 2:46 p.m.

The Westford Police Department is reporting that Bridge Street has reopened to traffic after a train derailment was reported earlier today. The police are reporting that the area is currently safe even though there are liquified petroleum gas tankers at the scene. 

Press reports stated that the derailment occurred at around 11 p.m. on Wednesday. 

Pan Am Railways did not respond to Patch for a request for comment or an update about the cleanup. Officials told other media outlets that they expect to have the rails cleared by 5 p.m. 

UPDATE, 11:56 a.m.

The derailment was reported at a little before 11 a.m. on Feb. 20, according to emergency alerts. WCVB-TV reported at around 11:30 a.m. that the train was carrying liquefied petroleum gas.

Six months ago, videographer Daniel Alain created a two-minute film highlighting the state of the track along the Westford stretch of the line, noting that trains are restricted to 10 mph. He stated that the line often hauls oil and other hazardous material.

Here is the previous story posted at 11:05 a.m. on Feb. 20

A freight train has derailed on the trestle that runs across Bridge Street in Westford, according to police.

Westford Police and emergency alerts are warning residents and commuters that Bridge Street is closed between North Main Street and Pine Ridge Road, until further notice.

It is unknown at post time what contents were in the freight cars. Drivers should seek alternative routes. Police say that they will advise when the road is opened back up.

Westford Patch will update as soon as more information becomes available.