JOPPA, MD—Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly this week denied a request from the Maryland Transportation Authority on behalf of CSX rail service to close Joppa Road on both sides of its railroad crossing in Joppa.

The request was denied after investigations by Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly’s administration found that a closure of the crossing would slow emergency vehicle response times and impede general traffic circulation in the area.

“Department of Emergency Services reported that this closure will increase emergency response times in the vicinity and negatively affect public service,” said County Executive Cassilly in a letter to the MDTA. “Our Department of Public Works reported that the proposed closure will also adversely impact traffic circulation in the area. Due to the significant negative impacts on public safety, Harford County is denying this road closure request.”

“We are canceling the public hearing, as it is no longer necessary, and our process is hereby concluded,” Cassilly added.

Earlier this month, the Joppa-Magnolia Volunteer Fire Company spoke out again the proposed closure, reiterating the severe repercussions on the safety of the community.

“Thank you to Bob Cassilly for hearing our concerns and denying the closure of Joppa Road at the CSX rail crossing,” JMVFC officials said on Saturday. “Thank you to all who have supported this effort!: