Roads Blocked in Kalamazoo Due to Train Derailment

There are several roads in Kalamazoo that are blocked due to a freight train having 15 cars go off the rails.

According to WOOD TV, the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety announced that 15 train cars came off the track shortly before 7 a.m. Tuesday near the intersection of Porter and Willard streets.

Several intersections are blocked near downtown. Road crews say to avoid the area downtown and find an alternative route.

Here are the following streets to avoid:

• E. Kalamazoo Avenues west of Walbridge Street
• Harrison Street south of Ransom Street
• Porter Street south of E. Ransom Street
• Walbridge Street south of E. Ransom Street

E. Michigan Avenue has since been reopened but had been closed for more than an hour.

There is no word on just how long it will take to clean up the scene but drivers should expect the derailment will affect the afternoon commute.

Businesses have lost power in the area due to the derailment. The power company says it is unclear when power will be restored since so many power lines were knocked down.

No one was injured in the derailment and so far there is no indication that any hazardous materials have spilled.

No word at this time on what caused the derailment.

If you or anyone you know that has information regarding the derailment, please contact the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety at 269-337-8139.