Cedar Rapids Gazette: Cargill has started work on a contentious rail yard in Cedar Rapids, upsetting some residents who are holding out hope for a miracle to put a stop to the construction after court battles against the city have so far failed. The $6.5 million, 12-track, 200-car rail yard will go on 28 acres along Stewart Road Southeast to provide supply chain stability and protect jobs at Cargill’s corn-milling plant, company officials said. Residents have railed against the project for fear it would create noise and air pollution, erode property values and pose safety hazards. The rail yard is expected to be operational by November, though residents have appeals pending in the state Supreme Court.