A Missouri Department of Transportation inspector gave Chillicothe's newly-acquired railroad a poor critique, stating that there were "113 track deviations" that are not in compliance for Class I railroad operation.

"Some of these were serious in nature and require immediate remedial action to ensure safety of employees and safe operation of trains," according to a letter sent to Mayor Todd Rodenberg by Don Schwartze, railroad safety inspector for MoDOT. "Numerous locations were identified that need cross ties installed, ballast (rock) unloaded to maintain cross-level and alignment and defective rail removed from track."

Additionally, investigation of bridges revealed that most are in severe need of crossties installed on decking to maintain gaged and rail support.

Schwartze also recommended that each bridge structure be inspected by a qualified bridge inspector and record of inspection provided to ensure safe operation of trains over waterways.

He added that defective whistle board and mile marker signs need to be replaced and vegetation removed that is in non-compliance to safety statutes.