The Association of American Railroads (AAR) awarded the 2009 Environmental Excellence Award to CSX Transportation (CSXT) employee Paul Kurzanski. The 30-year veteran of the railroad industry currently serves as manager of environmental remediation with CSXT in Jacksonville, FL.
"Railroads have a great environmental story to tell,” said Edward R. Hamberger, AAR president and CEO. “Efforts of employees like Paul that make it possible. "His pursuit of excellence and depth of experience has benefited not only his railroad, but also our entire industry through his active participation in our environmental activities over the years."
In his work with CSXT, Kurzanski manages approximately 125 environmental remediation projects annually in six states and two Canadian provinces. He was instrumental in developing and implementing CSX's Leased Property Review Program, Lab Management Program and Safety Observation Program. His work with environmental consultant teams has helped save CSX over $4 million through innovative remedial methods, skillful negotiations, and a focus on project closures.
Kurzanski was one of six railroad industry professionals nominated for the award, according to AAR. The award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated outstanding performance in environmental awareness and responsibility during the year. The five other nominees are: Tami Calderon, environmental coordinator in Amtrak's Mechanical Department in Los Angeles; Dillon Magers, manager of environmental operations for BNSF Railway in Springfield, MO; Devin Sprinkle, regional manager in the Environment Department for CN Railway in Homewood, IL; Pat Student, director-hazardous materials management with Union Pacific Railroad in Omaha; LeeAnn Thomas, manager, US environmental accrual, with Canadian Pacific Railway's US subsidiary, the Soo Line in Minneapolis.
