Wednesday was the first time Springfield aldermen were together since learning the federal government would not pay to finish the city’s rail consolidation project. And they wanted assurances that some of the projects in progress now would be finished up.

“Is that including the underpasses? The Jefferson and Madison underpasses will be completed?” Ald. Shawn Gregory asked.

“Yes, yes,” answered public works director Dave Fuchs. “Those are on track. The funds that were not made available are concerned with Usable Segment Six, which is the far northern element of it.”

“That is not going to delay any demolitions?” asked Ald. Larry Rockford.

“No, sir, “Fuchs answered. “The resources are available, the contract has been passed, we are at the point now where it is really a matter of scheduling with the contractor.”

Ald. Ralph Hanauer told the WTAX Morning Newswatch Thursday the city needs to consult with U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-Springfield) to determine what chance Springfield has of getting the money to finish the relocation.