Fact checking The Smithtown News:

Fact-Checking The Smithtown News: A Closer Look at the Rail Freight Terminal Debate

By The Real Smithtown News

February 2025

The Smithtown News recently published an article titled “Carlson: Rail Freight Terminal Already Approved,” covering the Townline Rail Terminal project and the zoning concerns surrounding it. While the article presents key community perspectives, its framing and source selection indicate a bias toward opposition to the project. This post will fact-check the claims made in the article and provide a more balanced perspective on the situation.

1. The Key Claims in the Article (Fact-Check Scores Included)

Claim: The Carlson/Townline Rail Freight Terminal has already been approved.

Fact-Check Verdict: Mostly True

Explanation: The STB approved the project, but town-level zoning changes and legal processes could still influence implementation.

Claim: Smithtown’s zoning laws currently prohibit rail terminals, and the town is considering amendments.

Fact-Check Verdict: True

Explanation: The town is actively reviewing zoning changes to allow for freight rail operations.

Claim: Community members and civic groups strongly oppose the project.

Fact-Check Verdict: True, but One-Sided

Explanation: The opposition is real, but the article fails to mention any supporters or economic benefits of the project.

Claim: The STB found no significant environmental impact.

Fact-Check Verdict: True, but Disputed

Explanation: The STB’s environmental review concluded minimal impact, but opposition groups challenge this finding.

Claim: Federal preemption laws mean Smithtown has no control over the project.

Fact-Check Verdict: Partially True

Explanation: Federal law limits local control, but the town can still regulate through zoning and environmental enforcement.

2. A Closer Look at Each Claim

Claim 1: The Rail Terminal Is Fully Approved

Fact-Check: Mostly True

The STB approved the Townline Rail Terminal, granting federal exemption for its construction and operation. However, local zoning laws still need to be amended, and legal challenges could arise. The article frames this as a done deal, but town actions still matter.

Claim 2: Smithtown Needs to Change Its Zoning Laws

Fact-Check: True

The current zoning code does not allow freight terminals. The town board is reviewing changes to allow rail yards, transfer stations, and processing facilities.

Claim 3: Strong Community Opposition

Fact-Check: True, but One-Sided

Residents and civic groups oppose the project, citing pollution, noise, and property value concerns. However, the article does not include perspectives from businesses, transportation experts, or Townline Rail Terminal representatives. A balanced report would feature both opposition and potential benefits like reduced truck traffic and economic development.

Claim 4: STB Found No Significant Environmental Impact

Fact-Check: True, but Disputed

The STB’s environmental review determined that the project would not cause significant harm if mitigation measures were followed. However, residents and advocacy groups disagree and argue the review minimizes risks. The article focuses on opposition rather than explaining the STB’s environmental safeguards.

Claim 5: Federal Preemption Ties the Town’s Hands

Fact-Check: Partially True

Federal preemption limits Smithtown’s ability to block the project, but the town still has regulatory options. Zoning laws, environmental oversight, and local ordinances can still influence the project.

3. Is The Smithtown News Article Biased?

Yes, the article exhibits bias through:

• One-sided framing: It highlights only community opposition and excludes benefits of the project.

• Selective source selection: It features letters from opponents but does not include Townline Rail Terminal’s perspective.

• Omission of economic impact: No mention of job creation, reduced truck traffic, or tax revenue.

• Alarmist language: The article implies federal preemption is an unusual overreach, but this is standard for rail projects.

Final Verdict:

Factually accurate, but biased in presentation.

4. The Bigger Picture: What This Means for Smithtown

The Townline Rail Terminal is a major infrastructure project with both challenges and benefits. The zoning decision is crucial as it will set a precedent for future industrial projects. The public deserves balanced reporting that includes both risks and potential benefits.

5. How The Real Smithtown News Will Continue Reporting

At The Real Smithtown News, we are committed to fact-checking local media and providing balanced perspectives. We will:

• Continue fact-checking news reports, civic group claims, and government statements.

• Provide clear, sourced information to counter misinformation.

• Encourage public discussion that includes both opponents and supporters.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Do you support or oppose the rail terminal?

What concerns or benefits do you see for Smithtown?

Join the conversation in the comments below or submit your fact-check requests for future articles.