The Train

For Memphians the train means one thing: delays and inconvenience. Okay, that's two things, but you get the idea. The train is just that, a train. It runs cargo from Memphis to points East and vice versa. The only problem is that it cuts through major parts of Memphis. From Collierville in the East to the University of Memphis area this train can potentially shut down large North-South avenues.

Usually when the train rumbles through you can expect delays of about 5-10 minutes. However, every so often the train stops and can remain motionless for several minutes. This is the bane of many U of M students as one of the larger parking lots is located south of "the tracks". Many professors allow the reason "caught by the train" as a legitimate excuse for being tardy to class.

Another annoyance caused by the train its horrible, high pitched horn. The engineer will often blast this infernal device several times while approaching busy intersections. Sometimes it feels that they are doing it out of spite for those who live near the tracks. You can even hear the horn on Poplar (sometimes further out) ,about a mile away.

I know of only three ways you can bypass the train. You can either 1) take the interstate or 2) use the bridge at Ridgeway or 3) the tunnel on Central Avenue west of Poplar. The best methods are 1 and 2. 3 is pretty dodgy as it's in a rougher neighborhood and is actually a perfect place for an ambush. I highly recommend against using the third method.

Since coming to Memphis 10 years ago I have become accustomed to the train. No longer do I scream and pound my fist into the steering wheel when I get caught by the train. Well actually yes I do. I still hate it, but it is a fact of living in Memphis.