Western Railroad Discussion > Coos Bay Line Breakfast Meeting

I attended a meeting this morning featuring our three local State legislators, and many of the members of the coalition of shippers. Some of the highlights were as follows. I didn’t take good notes, and this information is based on my personal recall of what was said.
The legislators told us about the $40 million dollar State grant to upgrade the Coos Bay line that was almost completed a couple of years ago when CORP turned it down as unnecessary. They also mentioned that at the recent meeting in Eugene CORP was uncooperative, and noncommittal about the future of the Siskiyou line. Of course they have since announced the impending closure of the line between Medford and Weed. There is a lot of angst at the State Government level about the situation, and a willingness to do something. Of course that doesn’t mean anything may be done anytime soon.
The coalition continues to grow, with most of the affected County governments, development agencies, and shippers involved.
The Port is suing Fortress America /CORP, and is proceeding with a “Feeder Acquisition Request” with the STB. That would force the possibility of a sale of the Coos Bay line.


Below is my latest letter to the editor of the local paper. Any corrections or clarifications would be welcome. Most, if not all, of the opposition to the new Port is from the political left and overtly “pro environmental” types. Which is why it is written/“spun” the way it is.


Trains are good for the environment and reduce traffic, and will help the South Coast prosper. The current shutdown of our rail line affects more than just our local mills and American Bridge. It also impacts all the companies that support those mills, and every business that those employees spend their money at, and the public in general.
Every railcar that served our mills carries the equivalent of two to three semi trailers. That means less wear and tear on our already stressed two lane highway system, and less traffic during our already crowded tourist season, if the trains are running. Because of the flatness of the tracks between here and Eugene, far fewer engines are needed to haul the same amount of product. Modern train engines have minimal impact on the environment, with new EPA tier II compliant diesels that produce less greenhouse gasses than trucks while burning less fuel, and “Green” battery powered versions for local work.
There is a growing market and need for modern port facilities on the West Coast. The existing ports are overcrowded and lack significant growth capability. Canada is spending Billions, with a B, on new port facilities and connected infrastructure, including rail lines. Mexico is also working on several proposals for new ports, with far weaker environmental regulations.
Of all the industries that have been proposed for our Bay Area in the last 20 years, this is the one that anyone not totally opposed to any growth should support.

Excellent.
More of us need to follow your lead.