Comment EI-16345
Received or sent (printed as 1/30/2009)
I would like to submit public comment on the extension of the Railroad from Eielson AFB to Delta Junction. First crossing the river to the South side is in the best interest of all stakeholders especially the US Army. It opens viable opportunity for the Army to expand training opportunities for the future. Secondly, my main concern is that once the rail is on the South side of the Tanana, is to place it away from waterways especially the spring-fed systems and associated wetlands. There is a bench of slightly higher land that avoids most of the resource rich wetlands. These springs contain extensive fish habitat and should be left undisturbed. For the most part Salcha 1, Central Alternate 1, South Common Segment, and Delta 1 seem to take the higher ground (Bench land). There is one exception and that is within the South Common Segment. Part of this section goes into the upwelling springs of the upper Richardson Clearwater River. There is no need to put a rail into these wetlands when a straighter, more southerly route can be taken. The upwelling springs should not be disturbed for all the water here is potential Coho juvenile rearing habitat and over winter habitat for many animals. It appears this wetland area can be easily avoided, would make the rail straighter, save some mileage, and keep the rail on the bench. Thirdly, I definitively concur with the Delta 1 alternative. There is many reasons not to have the rail through Delta Junction. It would eliminate many conflicts with land and people. I could not think of a better crossing than what is proposed. This crossing is lined up well for future continuance of the line into Canada. It would also appear to have fewer conflicts being on the South Side of the Alaska Highway. In brief, avoiding any rail within wetlands of the Richardson Clearwater River would prevent future environmental issues. I appreciate your considerations of these comments, thank you. in reference to: STB Finance Docket No. 34658
Submitted by: James Parker · Delta Junction, AK
The Board publishes this comment in its environmental-comment table for this proceeding. It is quoted here as printed; nothing is inferred from it, and it states the commenter's own position in their own words, not this record's.
Permanent address docketyard.org/d/FD-34658/comment/EI-16345 · back to the docket sheet