Nassau Electric Railroad v. Riegelmann

123 Misc. 3 | N.Y. Sup. Ct. | 1924

Lewis, J.

This is an action for an injunction enjoining the defendants, their agents and servants, from entering upon a bridge constructed by the plaintiff across Coney Island creek within the lines of Stillwell avenue and from laying a pavement upon such bridge or making any alterations thereon.

The case is presented upon an agreed statement of facts.

It is conceded that the bridge was constructed pursuant to permission and authority from the war department of the government of the United States, and that it was built across Coney Island creek, which is a navigable stream.

Neither counsel has called the court’s attention to the federal statutes which seem decisive of the proposition.

Section 9437 (Barnes’ Fed. Code) provides: “ It shall not be lawful to construct or commence the construction of any bridge, * * * over or in. any * * * navigable river * * * until the consent of Congress to the building of such structures shall have been obtained and until the plans for the same shall have been submitted to and approved by the Chief of Engineers and by the Secretary of War.’’

The answer of the defendants does not allege, nor do the conceded facts show, that the proposed changes have been approved by the chief of engineers and by the secretary of war as provided for by section 9439 of Barnes’ Federal Code. Deviation from such plans after completion of the structure is a violation of the federal act. § 9443. The demand of the defendants and the proposed change is in violation of the statute and is illegal.

It has also been stipulated that prior to the condemnal ion proceedings mentioned in the complaint, the plaintiff acquired from the then owners of the land upon and over which the railroad and bridge abutments were built, grants of rights to construct, maintain and operate said railroad and bridge. Such grants constitute an easement in the land, included in which are the lands upon which the bridge abutments are placed. “ Lands already taken by condemnation or acquired by purchase for public use should not be taken for another public use unless the reasons therefor are special, unusual and peculiar.” N. Y. C. & H. R. R. R. Co. v. City of Buffalo, 200 N. Y. 113, 117. The nominal award, therefore, could not include plaintiff’s easement or right to maintain the road.

Submit findings and judgment in accordance with this opinion.

Judgment accordingly.