FD 35952
Docket Yard · docketyard.org/d/FD-35952 · entries shown: all, newest first
GREAT LAKES BASIN TRANSPORTATION, INC.-RAIL CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION-IN ROCK COUNTY, WISC., WINNEBAGO, OGLE, LEE, LASALLE, GRUNDY, AND KANKAKEE COUNTIES, ILL., AND LAKE AND PORTER COUNTIES, IND.
Caption from the Board’s record.
669 filings, 6 decisions and 4,245 environmental comments observed here; last checked 10 Oct 2026, 21:36 UTC; last new entry 31 Aug 2026, 20:38 UTC.
Entries
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(printed as 9/14/2017)Section244327Section 5 SummaryS.T.B. (Section 5 Summary)
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served (printed as 8/31/2017)Decision45837Entire BoardDECISION REJECTED AN APPLICATION FILED BY GREAT LAKES BASIN TRANSPORTATION, INC., FOR AUTHORITY TO CONSTRUCT AND OPERATE A RAIL LINE IN THE STATES OF WISCONSIN, ILLINOIS, AND INDIANA.
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(printed as 8/25/2017)Motion244180Motion/Petition/RequestEnvironmental Law & Policy Center
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(printed as 8/10/2017)CommentEI-26159Rockton School District #140Rockton Board of Education · Rockton, IL
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(printed as 8/8/2017)CommentEI-26158Hononegah Community High SchoolLynn Gibson Ed.D. · Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 8/2/2017)Comments244034CommentAbe Scheppler
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(printed as 8/2/2017)Comments244033CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 8/2/2017)Comments244032CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 8/2/2017)Comments244031CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 8/2/2017)Comments244030CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 8/2/2017)Comments244028CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 8/2/2017)Comments244027CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 8/2/2017)Comments244026CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 8/1/2017)Comments244021CommentTorin Manley
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(printed as 8/1/2017)Comments244020CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 8/1/2017)Comments244019CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 7/31/2017)Reply244012ReplyGreat Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc.
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(printed as 7/31/2017)CommentEI-26161Carla VassmerI am resubmitting what I submitted 19Jul2017 as I do not see it listed in the Public Incoming by Date Received". I apologize for the duplication, I just want to make sure this is published on your site."Winnebago, Illinois
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(printed as 7/27/2017)Comments244008CommentCarla Vassmer
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(printed as 7/24/2017)Comments243992CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 7/24/2017)Comments243991CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 7/20/2017)Letter243983LetterHonorable Ryan Spain
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(printed as 7/18/2017)CommentEI-26149Julie NewhouseCapron, IL
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(printed as 7/17/2017)Comments243960CommentRoger Hickey
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(printed as 7/14/2017)Comments243954CommentSave Our Farmland, Llc
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(printed as 7/14/2017)Comments243953CommentPatricia Mussman
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(printed as 7/14/2017)Comments243952CommentJeanette Carothers
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(printed as 7/12/2017)Errata243940Errata SheetBlock Glb Railroad, Kankakee County, Il Block Glb, Citizens Against The Glb Railroad, Boone County, Il, Rock Against The Rail, Llc (Rock County, Wi), Railed, Laporte, Porter & Lake Counties, In, Winnebago County Against The Glb Railroad
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(printed as 7/11/2017)Comments243935CommentJennifer Hedrick
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(printed as 7/10/2017)Comments243933CommentRonald Hagenow
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(printed as 7/10/2017)Motion243932Motion/Petition/RequestBlock Glb Railroad, Kankakee County, Il Block Glb, Citizens Against The Glb Railroad, Boone County, Il, Rock Against The Rail, Llc (Rock County, Wi), Railed, Laporte, Porter & Lake Counties, In, Winnebago County Against The Glb Railroad
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(printed as 7/6/2017)Comments243915CommentKaren Gill
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(printed as 6/29/2017)Comments243876CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 6/27/2017)Comments243862CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 6/27/2017)Comments243861CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 6/27/2017)Comments243860CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 6/27/2017)Comments243859CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 6/27/2017)Comments243858CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 6/27/2017)CommentEI-26160R.A.I.L.E.DPlease read the attached comment concerning GLBT and their completed applicationPatricia Mussman · Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 6/22/2017)Comments243842CommentBernadette Richter
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(printed as 6/22/2017)Comments243841CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 6/22/2017)Comments243840CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 6/22/2017)Comments243839CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 6/22/2017)Comments243838CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 6/22/2017)Comments243837CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 6/22/2017)SupplementGreat Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc.
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(printed as 6/22/2017)Comments243831CommentRachel Wright
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(printed as 6/22/2017)Letter243829LetterSurface Transportation Board
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(printed as 6/22/2017)Letter243828LetterSurface Transportation Board
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(printed as 6/19/2017)Comments243784CommentValinda King
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(printed as 6/19/2017)Comments243783CommentJames B Durand
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(printed as 6/19/2017)Comments243782CommentMaureen Defiore
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(printed as 6/19/2017)Comments243781CommentTorin Manley
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(printed as 6/19/2017)Comments243780CommentHenry Auchstetter
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(printed as 6/19/2017)Comments243779CommentSharon Danielson
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(printed as 6/19/2017)Comments243778CommentPatricia Mussman
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(printed as 6/16/2017)Comments243804CommentSharl Crandall
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(printed as 6/16/2017)Comments243773CommentAndrew Corbus
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(printed as 6/14/2017)Comments243762CommentRobert Brockman
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(printed as 6/14/2017)Comments243752CommentRichard E Gibson
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(printed as 6/14/2017)CommentEI-26107Indiana State SenateDear Members of the STB, I am totally opposed to the proposed GLBT rail line for numerous reasons including the economic impact on our state by taking high quality agricultural farm land out of production. I am attaching a press release yesterday to the Northwest Indiana Times. Senator Rick Niemeyer District 6, IndianaSenator Rick Niemeyer · Indianapolis, Indiana
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(printed as 6/13/2017)Comments243749CommentMichael Anthony Lambert
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(printed as 6/12/2017)Comments243738CommentAmy Nystrom
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(printed as 6/9/2017)SupplementGreat Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc.
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(printed as 6/9/2017)Comments243736CommentMike Aylesworth, Rick Niemeyer
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(printed as 6/9/2017)Comments243733CommentShannon Leslie
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(printed as 6/8/2017)Comments243732CommentJason Kokos
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(printed as 6/8/2017)Comments243728CommentHonorable Richard J Durbin
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(printed as 6/8/2017)Comments243726CommentHonorable Lindsay Parkhurst
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(printed as 6/7/2017)Comments243614CommentDiocese Of Rockford
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(printed as 6/6/2017)Comments243717CommentMary Julene Auchstetter
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(printed as 6/6/2017)Comments243699CommentDarrell F Clint
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(printed as 6/6/2017)CommentEI-26094John and Jane SohnerSee attached letter
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(printed as 6/6/2017)CommentEI-26091Jim SohnerSee attached letter
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(printed as 6/6/2017)CommentEI-26090Larry OhlingerSee attached letter
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243814CommentBarbara Frampton
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243812CommentPatricia Robisky
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243809CommentHonorable Don Vruwink
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243803CommentEdwin J. Kravitz
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243716CommentJohn Carbaugh
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243714CommentKelsey Wenzelman
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243713CommentRaymond J Nemeth
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243712CommentJesse Pirrello
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243711CommentRobert Charter
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243710CommentRoy Schultz
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243709CommentRichard Wenzelman
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243708CommentMatt Persicketti
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243707CommentJessica M Falkenhan
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243706CommentJulie Kokos
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243705CommentLaura Wenzelman
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243704CommentLance Blumeyer
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243703CommentWisconsin Department Of Agriculture, Trade And Consumer Protection
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243702CommentElizabeth Cecelia Carlson
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243701CommentFrederick Mark Scheppler
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243700CommentKaren Jean Williams
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243698CommentGreg Lee Schultz
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243696CommentKathleen Hendee
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243695CommentScott Hendee
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243692CommentSeaton Estate
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243691CommentJessica M Falkenhan
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243688CommentVerna Mary Auchstetter
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243685CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243684CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243683CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243680CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243679CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243678CommentCarol Lynn Hart
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243677CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243674CommentJulie Newhouse
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243673CommentCheryl Helopoulos
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243671CommentCharles Kuecker
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243667CommentLorna J. Blumeyer
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243666CommentTodd Stockburger
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243665CommentRobert L Schultz
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243664CommentLance Blumeyer
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243663CommentSteve Jensen
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243662CommentJoann Jensen
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243661CommentGreg Lee Schultz
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243660CommentLance Blumeyer
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243659CommentClarruth Seaton
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243658CommentRay Lovell
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243657CommentDawn M Lovell
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243656CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243655CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243654CommentSusan Marie Petersen
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243653CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243652CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 6/5/2017)Comments243651CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 6/5/2017)CommentEI-26106FDTo Whom It May Concern: We are at the same place; NOTHING HAS CHANGED!!! We don't know the investors or how all of the sudden we are going to have a express way and a airport! When before it was just a measly railroad! WHY!! WHY!!! YOU DO NOT CARE ABOUT THE WELL BEING OF FARMERS ONLY LINING YOUR POCKETS WITH MONEY!! I AM GLAD MY GRANDPA IS NOT ALIVE TO SEE THIS HAPPENING TO HIS FARM AND ALL HIS NEIGHBORS THAT ARE FARMERS ALSO!! HE WOULD BE ROLLING IN HIS GRAVE!! Chicago is the big city equip to handle this with railroad and everything being purposed. If it is a little congested oh well that's life. WE CHOSE NOT TO LIVE IN A BIG CITY: SO THAT MEANS DO NOT TURN US INTO ONE!!!!! Sincerely, Trisha VolleTrisha Volle · LaPorte, Indiana
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(printed as 6/5/2017)CommentEI-26092Nancy DrakeSee attached letter
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served (printed as 6/2/2017)Decision45856Entire BoardDECISION: (1) DIRECTED GREAT LAKES BASIN TRANSPORTATION, INC. (GLBT) TO SUPPLEMENT ITS APPLICATION; (2) SUSPENDED THE DEADLINE IN THE BOARD'S RULES FOR COMMENTS AND REPLIES ON THE TRANSPORTATION MERITS OF THE APPLICATION; (3) GRANTED WITH MODIFICATIONS A PROTECTIVE ORDER FILED BY GLBT; (4) REJECTED GLBT'S DESIGNATION OF THE LIST OF ITS 10 PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE HOLDINGS AS HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL; (5) ADDRESSED A REQUEST FOR EXTENSION OF TIME AND; (6)CLARIFIED THE SERVICE REQUIREMENTS IN THIS PROCEEDING.
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243867CommentInternational Brotherhood Of Electrical Workers
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243721CommentDeborah K. Harrold
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243720CommentPeter Mentele
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243719CommentSharon L. Mentele
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243693CommentLois C. Whalen
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243690CommentDawn M. Powers
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243689CommentDebra Bell
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243687CommentDebby Bell
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243686CommentLori Gilmore
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243682CommentKenneth Pytlewski
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243681CommentLarry Kirchner
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243672CommentJeffrey O'connor
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243670CommentRalph Paarlberg
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243669CommentKaren Robertson
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243646CommentRalph Heldt, Marla Heldt
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243645CommentEric Conway
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243642CommentCarol J. Richardson
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243641CommentJerry Lorenz, Kim Lorenz
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243639CommentMark Hannon
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243638CommentTrevor Stiles
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243637CommentNorman Orfall
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(printed as 6/2/2017)Comments243623CommentErin Conway
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243806CommentPenny Hansen
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243629CommentJames Sim
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243628CommentJeanette Carothers
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243626CommentKristin Andrysiak
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243625CommentLaurie S. Fleishman
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243622CommentLinda Shafer
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243621CommentChristine Schroeder
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243616CommentDawn Greco
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243615CommentRochelle Morris Fry
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243612CommentMark Shedd
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243608CommentGeorgeanne Daly
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243606CommentJulie Kokos
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243588CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243587CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243586CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243585CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 6/1/2017)Comments243584CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 6/1/2017)CommentEI-26088Raymond and Dolores Rudersee attached letter
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(printed as 5/31/2017)Comments243908CommentElizabeth Stopka-Rios
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(printed as 5/31/2017)Comments243813CommentKaren Kosinski
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(printed as 5/31/2017)NoticeWisconsin Power And Light Company
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(printed as 5/31/2017)Comments243604CommentDiana Lynn Gibson
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(printed as 5/31/2017)Comments243595CommentLinda Cosgrove
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(printed as 5/31/2017)Comments243592CommentYvonne Peterson
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(printed as 5/31/2017)Comments243591CommentAngela Daniels
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(printed as 5/31/2017)Comments243590CommentSharon Williams
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(printed as 5/31/2017)Comments243589CommentMark Olmstead
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(printed as 5/31/2017)Comments243572CommentKenneth Carothers
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(printed as 5/31/2017)CommentEI-26089Jerry TomeckoSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/31/2017)CommentEI-26087Susan A. & Stephen T. ShadeSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/31/2017)CommentEI-26081Mrs. Charles D. DowSee attachment
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(printed as 5/31/2017)CommentEI-26078Amy WanchoSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243607CommentManteno Community Fire Protection District
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243605CommentPatriot Rail Company Llc
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243603CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243602CommentCharles Grotevant
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243601CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243600CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243599CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243598CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243597CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243596CommentLois Kinsella
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243594CommentJames Robert Fleishman
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243583CommentLaurie Suzanne Fleishman
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243582CommentLance Blumeyer
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243581CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243580CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243578CommentAbraham Scheppler, The Athens Line, Llc
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243577CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243576CommentVirginia Gaw
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243575CommentVirginia Gaw
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243574CommentBruno Rudolf
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243565CommentJason Kokos
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243560CommentLance Blumeyer
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243559CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243558CommentLaurie S. Fleishman
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243557CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243556CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243555CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243552CommentLance Blumeyer
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243551CommentLance Blumeyer
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243545CommentJames Robert Fleishman
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comments243544CommentRobert Brockman
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comment
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(printed as 5/30/2017)CommentEI-26077Oscar BeckI am strongly in favor of the GLBR - Great Lakes Basin Railroad being completed and running through Winnebago County, IL and along the route near downtown Rockford, IL. FYI, the bus company shuttling to O'Hare and Chicago from Rockford usually has a jammed parking lot.Machesney Park, IL
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(printed as 5/30/2017)CommentEI-26076Mr. Stuart GlannySee attached letter
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(printed as 5/30/2017)Comment
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(printed as 5/30/2017)CommentEI-26074Robert A. and Joyce F. KoselkeSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/30/2017)CommentEI-26073Alan E. CharterSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/30/2017)CommentEI-25362Larry H. BlumeyerSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243880CommentMichael, Lynn, Brian, Kristin, & Kari Edwards
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243570CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243569CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243568CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243567CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243566CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243564CommentLaurie S. Fleishman
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243561CommentJames Robert Fleishman
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243553CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243550CommentRobert Michael Forrestal
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243549CommentJulie Kokos
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243539CommentTerri Dahl
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(printed as 5/26/2017)Comments243538CommentKaren Leick
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(printed as 5/26/2017)CommentEI-26072Donald G. WardSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/26/2017)CommentEI-26071Harold PfeifferSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/26/2017)CommentEI-26070Mary A. CrossSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/25/2017)Comments243537CommentDawn Miller
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(printed as 5/25/2017)Comments243535CommentLaurie Suzanne Fleishman
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(printed as 5/25/2017)Comments243534CommentMarion Menning
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(printed as 5/25/2017)Comments243533CommentJames Robert Fleishman
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(printed as 5/25/2017)Comments243517CommentDawn Miller
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(printed as 5/25/2017)CommentEI-26105Paula KehoeDo not approve application from great lakes railroad on this 260 mile project. It will result in devastating Loss of farmland and wetlands! Loss of our way of living to s 70mph trainRoscoe, Illinois
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243532CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243531CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243530CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243529CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243528CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243527CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243525CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243524CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243521CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243519CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243515CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243513CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243512CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243508CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243506CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243505CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243504CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243503CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243502CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243501CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243500CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243499CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243498CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243497CommentBrad A Brown
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243495CommentBrad A Brown
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243494CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243493CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243492CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243491CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243490CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243489CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243488CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243487CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243486CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243485CommentKaren Gladden
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243484CommentDebbie Olmstead
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243483CommentMargaret Sue Johnson
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243482CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243481CommentMargaret Sue Johnson
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243480CommentLaurie Suzanne Fleishman
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243479CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243478CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243477CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243476CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243475CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243474CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243473CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243470CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243468CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243466CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243465CommentCarolyn C Moehring
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243463CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243462CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243461CommentScot Lee Krebs
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243459CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243451CommentCynthia Campbell
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243450CommentKathi Depoister
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243448CommentIsabella Dunklau
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243446CommentJanis Dunklau
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243433CommentJohn Siebel
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243425CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/24/2017)Comments243402CommentDeborah A. Mitchell
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(printed as 5/24/2017)CommentEI-2610435952Please deny this application and process immediately before wasting any more tax payer dollars. There is more than enough opposition to this, and there is truly no public need. Please see the very well stated opposition from our Illinois Congresswoman Robin Kelly attached:Jason kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/24/2017)CommentEI-26069Ms. Joylene WestphalSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/24/2017)CommentEI-26067Senator Janis Ringhand[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243443CommentThomas Bazant
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243441CommentJames Robert Fleishman
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243439CommentJudith Eileen Connolly
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243437CommentAbe Scheppler
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243436CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243434CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243431CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243416CommentSue E. Bergan
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243392CommentKathleen A. Crandall
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243387CommentDan Steinhilber
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243386CommentMoe Patterson
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(printed as 5/23/2017)Comments243376CommentMichael Fleishman
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243472CommentBen Shipper
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243471CommentDebra Morgan
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243469CommentCharles And Mindy Curttright
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243467CommentKim Smith
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243464CommentEthan Sack
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243460CommentKevin Dale Snook
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243458CommentSusan Sack
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243457CommentSheila Kay Snook
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243456CommentDonald R. Kahler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243455CommentLowell Hayes
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243454CommentPolly Kahler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243453CommentGerrod G. Walker
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243452CommentLaura L. Veldhuizen
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243449CommentLeonard Mclevige
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243447CommentLeonard Mclevige
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243445CommentRoss Kahler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243444CommentElaine Bohl
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243442CommentDon Hall, Terry Hall
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243440CommentJacob Kahler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243438CommentJeanne Hayes
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243435CommentLarry A Brady
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243432CommentRobert L Schultz
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243430CommentThomas P Peterson
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243429CommentCatherine Joanne Saladino
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243428CommentNancy Pirrello
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243427CommentMiranda Serletic
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243426CommentPaula Schoonover
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243424CommentDouglas Ruffatti, Karen Ruffatti
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243423CommentChristine Hannon
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243422CommentDebbie S.Isham
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243421CommentDebra Lynn Brady
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243420CommentKathy L. Isham
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243419CommentPaula & Jamie Schoonover
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243418CommentShane A. Isham
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243414CommentJeff Wishop
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243413CommentMary Pfeifer
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243412CommentLarry H. Blumeyer
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243411CommentMelissa Saathoff
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243410CommentRonald Edwin Warnke
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243409CommentShanasy Bratt
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243407CommentRonda M Poliska
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243405CommentJames R Carmean
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243404CommentDustin Kaap
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243403CommentRyan Stephens
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243401CommentDave Brockman
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243400CommentMark Hayes
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243396CommentBrenda L Faulkner
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243395CommentMark Hannon
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243393CommentSherry Grkinich
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243391CommentArthur Cruz
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243390CommentDanette Hayes
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243389CommentGary W Faulkner
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243388CommentJan Boogaard
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243385CommentMichelle Presser
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243384CommentShirley R. Lemar
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243383CommentMidwest Environmental Advocates
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243380CommentGreg Schultz
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243379CommentRose Shedd
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243378CommentRonna M Ballmer
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243377CommentJoann Gricius
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243375CommentLisa M. Riegel
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243373CommentKyle P. Fleishman
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243372CommentRichard Eugene Gibson, Monadnock Paper Mills
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243371CommentJames A. Fleishman
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243369CommentMatthew Robert Fleishman
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243368CommentMona Siebel
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243366CommentThomas Renchen
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243365CommentAnn Marie Baskerville
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243363CommentDiane Wishop
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243362CommentRon Kimball
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243360CommentLana L Daly
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243359CommentStephanie J Thompson
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243358CommentThomas A Daly
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243356CommentKen Daggett
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243355CommentKevin D Garling
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243353CommentJayne Frahm
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243351CommentAndrea Gantz
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243350CommentAndrea Gantz
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243349CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243347CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243346CommentAbe Scheppler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243345CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243344CommentAbe Scheppler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243343CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243342CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243341CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Motion243339Petition For WaiverOpenlands; Sierra Club, Illinois Chapter
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(printed as 5/22/2017)No243337No Match New TableBridget Fraser
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243336CommentRobin Appel
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243335CommentToni Rene Brown
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243332CommentJulie Kokos
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243331CommentPhyllis Fick
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Reply243328ReplyEnvironmental Law & Policy Center
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243327CommentDonna Howard
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243325CommentJulie Larsen
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243323CommentJulia D. Mcdonald
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243322CommentMichael Riegel
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243320CommentPaul J Gaspar
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243319CommentEric Conway
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243318CommentJennifer A. Whiteman
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243317CommentMichael Riegel
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243316CommentGeorge Richter
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243315CommentRoger A Schultz
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243314CommentApril Sue Gerstung
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243312CommentDonald Fraser
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243310CommentRonda Oakey
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243307CommentPrudence Tokarz
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243306CommentRandal Klackle
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243304CommentTim J Errek
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243303CommentGordon Lee Nygren
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243300CommentSusan Marie Taylor
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243299CommentCatherine Joanne Saladino
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243298CommentSusan Marie Taylor
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243297CommentTerry L. Franklin
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243295CommentAudrey Lehnert
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243290CommentLori Peterson
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243287CommentBrad W Kreft
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243286CommentDebra Davis
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243284CommentDaniel Dummer
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243282CommentAmanda Dummer
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243281CommentTerry L Franklin
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(printed as 5/22/2017)Comments243280CommentJoyce Renchen
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(printed as 5/22/2017)CommentEI-26086Eugene & Jonene JohnsonSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243619CommentCatholic Cemeteries Of The Diocese Of Rockford
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243415CommentDoug Connell
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243408CommentKaren Jean Williams
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243406Comment, Nesher G Asner
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243367CommentMichael Isham
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243364CommentPaul Davis
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243361CommentMelissa Isham
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243357CommentScott Dummer
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243354CommentScott Isham
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243352CommentCaryn Conway
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243348CommentPhyllis Fick
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243340CommentEric Conway
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243330CommentDonald W. Williams
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243329CommentSandra Moran
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243326CommentJohn Slagel
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243324CommentRichard Moran
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243321CommentNancy Lee Drake
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243311CommentSusan Marie Petersen
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243309CommentSharon Irene Pierce
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243308CommentErin Conway
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243305CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243302CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243301CommentDelbert Dummer
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243296CommentJason Emsing
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243294CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243293CommentDaniel R. Misener
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243292CommentAaron J. Gracyalny
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243291CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243289CommentRalph Heldt, Marla Heldt
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243288CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243285CommentHonorable Mark Spreitzer
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243279CommentMarilyn Mohring
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243278CommentBridget Fraser
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243277CommentMary T. Mauch
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Letter243276LetterHonorable Amy Loudenbeck
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243275CommentViolet Sereno
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243273CommentTorin Manley
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243270CommentKyle Patrick Fleishman
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(printed as 5/19/2017)NoticeNorfolk Southern Railway Company
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243268CommentArlene Marie Soucie
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243267CommentMatthew Robert Fleishman
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243266CommentCasandra Pearl Mitchell
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243264CommentMichael Clay Fleishman
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243263CommentJames Andrew Fleishman
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243262CommentSteve & Diane Jorstad
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243260CommentDiana Lynn Gibson
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243259CommentRichard Eugene Gibson
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243258CommentArthur T. Ledoux
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243257CommentPam Jaworowski
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243256CommentJulie Kokos
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243254CommentBob Carothers
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comments243242CommentThomas L. Holmes
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(printed as 5/19/2017)CommentEI-26103Sarah WilliamsMr. Blodgett, I am writing in regards to the GLB Railroad. I work in Rockton and enjoy seeing a vast array of wildlife on a daily basis. I am opposed to having a railroad that would ultimately cause destruction of our wetlands with high speed trains and run the wildlife from their respective homes. I feel preserving our land, tree farms and orchards for future generations should be priority. Please support the wishes of the community and oppose GLB. Bringing railways carrying oil and other hazardous chemicals; among other things, could be disastrous. There are very few places left for our wildlife to live and roam freely and safely. It would be an irreversible mistake forcing these animals from their homes and destroying the land for personal gain. I appreciate you taking the time to read my position on this matter. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. Thank you, Sarah WilliamsLoves Park, IL
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(printed as 5/19/2017)CommentEI-26102Julie EvansI am writing in regards to the GLB Railroad, which I adamantly oppose. I do not believe that eminent domain should ever be forced for personal or private gain. Eminent domain should go back to the supreme court. I live very close to the Rock, Sugar and Pecatonica River. All of which I utilize on a weekly basis doing activities such as hiking, kayaking and camping. If any of these areas were jeopardized by dangerous goods contamination it would be a huge asset to lose for this area. I hope you will support the wishes of the local communities and support us in the opposition of a big business installing tracking that will haul oil and other hazardous chemical into an area that has been preserved for years. Thank you in advance for accepting my letter. Please feel free to contact me with any questions regarding my position.Roscoe, IL
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(printed as 5/19/2017)Comment
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(printed as 5/19/2017)CommentEI-26100FDplease block the GLB Railroad. Please block their petition for an order of protection. This railroad is not needed and will destroy families and precious farmland!Maureen DeFiore · South Chicago Heights, IL
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243620CommentDiocese Of Rockford
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243255CommentMarshall Newhouse, Julie Newhouse
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243253CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243252CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243251CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243250CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243249CommentGene H Isham
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243248CommentLance Harold Blumeyer
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243247CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243246CommentPam Loria
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243245CommentMichael Thompson
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243244CommentLaurie Suzanne Fleishman
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243243CommentDana M Atkinson
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243241CommentCynthia Campbell
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243240CommentMelanie A Waite
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243238CommentKristin Andrysiak
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(printed as 5/18/2017)NoticeEnvironmental Law & Policy Center
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243232CommentKen A. Wojcieszak
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243231CommentLavawn K Souther, Dana M Atkinson
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243230CommentAbe Scheppler
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243227CommentBarbara Andrew
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243222CommentJoan And Steve Johnson
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243221CommentJulie Kokos
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243220CommentAndrew Corbus
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243219CommentJustin Durdan
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243218CommentJames R. Fleishman
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243217CommentDawn Greco
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243215CommentLinda Cosgrove
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243214CommentDavid Walters
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243213CommentSherry Walters
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243212CommentEileen Nelson
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(printed as 5/18/2017)Comments243211CommentAndrea Peter Rackmyer
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(printed as 5/18/2017)CommentEI-26054Donald Smith
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243811CommentDonna Simpson
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243216CommentBurton Dennis Taylor
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243210CommentJennifer Williams
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243209CommentMary Dekker
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243208CommentBrian Cramer
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243207CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243206CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243205CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243204CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243203CommentEmily Hawker
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243202CommentRosemary Bunton
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243201CommentCarla Rae Taylor
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243200CommentRoger Milholland
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243199CommentJoanne Connell
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Motion243198Motion/Petition/RequestBlock Glb Railroad, Kankakee County, Il Block Glb, Citizens Against The Glb Railroad, Boone County, Il, Rock Against The Rail, Llc (Rock County, Wi), Railed, Laporte, Porter & Lake Counties, In, Winnebago County Against The Glb Railroad
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243196CommentDoug Connell
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243195CommentJames Cizmar
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243194CommentFrances Goetz
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243193CommentLarry Roop, Nancy Roop
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243191CommentBurton Dennis Taylor
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243190CommentCarla Rae Taylor
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243189CommentEric Goetz
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243187CommentJenny Curtis
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(printed as 5/17/2017)Comments243181CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/17/2017)CommentEI-26063Raymond L. Harding
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(printed as 5/17/2017)CommentEI-26059Jeff and Adella Knight
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243399CommentMadelyn Isham
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243239CommentMonica Ruder
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243186CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243184CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243183CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243182CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243180CommentMarion Lawson
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243179CommentKellie Pozil
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243178CommentJason Kokos
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243177CommentGeorgeanne Daly
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243176CommentGary Tagtmeier, Mary Ann Tagtmeier
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243175CommentRick Cashen
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243174CommentJohn Arthur Siebel
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243173CommentCassie Vandermeulen
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243170CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243154CommentBernadette Richter
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243150CommentNicole L. Opie
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(printed as 5/16/2017)Comments243146CommentDavid Steven Nelson
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(printed as 5/16/2017)CommentEI-26058Anonymous
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243172CommentSara Mccambridge
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243169CommentSarah Bridget Valerio
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243168CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243167CommentScott Hendee
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243166CommentJulie Kokos
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243165CommentMaureen Defiore
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243164CommentKathleen Hendee
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243162CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243161CommentDoris Jeske
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243160CommentJeffrey Alan Souligne
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243159CommentJared L. Williams
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243157CommentNancy June Lewke
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243156CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243153CommentNancy Evans
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243152CommentRock County Board Of Supervisors
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243151CommentJason Kokos
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243149CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243145CommentMichael Replin
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243144CommentJennifer Collette
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243143CommentJason Kokos
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243142CommentGreg Vassmer
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243140CommentSusan Joyce Truetner
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243134CommentJustin F Kokos
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243132CommentGarry Junker
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243129CommentLawrence George Vilt
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243128CommentBeverly Junker
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243127CommentJeanette Carothers
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243126CommentJames Baird
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243125CommentTimothy W. Ryan
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243124CommentTimothy W. Ryan
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243123CommentMark Gordon
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243122CommentCindy Kohler
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243121CommentSandy Lippert
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243120CommentPat Kirchner
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243119CommentLarry Kirchner
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243118CommentJames Beam
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243117CommentScott A Thorsen
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243116CommentScott A Thorsen
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243115CommentPaul J Gaspar
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243114CommentKatherine Zawacki
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243113CommentApril Sue Gerstung
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243112CommentMike Garwood
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243111CommentDavid Mrowiec
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(printed as 5/15/2017)Comments243110CommentMarsha Tesdal
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(printed as 5/15/2017)CommentEI-26062Jill Beyer
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(printed as 5/15/2017)CommentEI-26060Mary Barth
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(printed as 5/15/2017)CommentEI-26057Benjamin Beyer
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(printed as 5/15/2017)CommentEI-26056James Matherson Sr.See attached letter
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(printed as 5/15/2017)CommentEI-26055Matthew and Rebekah Grocholl
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(printed as 5/15/2017)CommentEI-26053Mr. Ronald Betker
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(printed as 5/15/2017)CommentEI-26052Mr. Steven Zander
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(printed as 5/15/2017)CommentEI-26051Mary Auchstetter
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(printed as 5/15/2017)CommentEI-26050William R. Beyer
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(printed as 5/13/2017)CommentEI-25365Joanne SONNESONHas anyone from the board been out to see where this railroad route is going? It is tearing up acres of farm land besides going by homes: why should we have to put up with trains going by our homes at 70mph? all so an already rich guy can make more money? What is going to happen to the roads they are going to close? You need to count the cars that use Rockton Rd just before where they are proposing the road will close the road! Now are those people going to get West of here?! PLEASE DO Not let. This unnecessary Train Be Built!!Rockton, Il
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243147CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243141CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243139CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243138CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243137CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243136CommentVirginia Gaw
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243135CommentDavid F. Scheppler
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243109CommentJames Plasky
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243108CommentWilliam Zidel
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243107CommentChristopher Campbell
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243106CommentJason Erickson
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243105CommentEileen Nelson
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243104CommentJeff Justice
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243088CommentChris Beaman
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(printed as 5/12/2017)Comments243087CommentScott A Thorsen
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(printed as 5/12/2017)CommentEI-25364Jim RoweI would once again like to voice my objection to the pending application filed by Great Lake Basin (GLB) Transportation, and my opposition to the newly filed plan" that appears to be worse than the first proposal. The plan submitted by GLB on the eve of its deadline substantially differs from the plans that were presented to the local communities in Kankakee County; this last minute change is unfair and in my opinion, violates the public's right to be fully informed and offer informed and researched input to this Board. That matter aside, I again voice my opposition to the GLB plan for the environmental concerns listed in my prior correspondence. Additionally, I voice my opposition to the GLB plan because the residents in and along its footprint are opposed to the railroad; it would decimate local farmlands and a large swath of our state park; it would destroy entire communities such as Sumner Township; and would do all these things while adding zero permanent liveable wage jobs to the areas it most negatively impacts. This project is unacceptable and the matter should have been closed when the GLB missed its prior deadline. The extension granted by the STB permitted GLB the opportunity to now submit a plan that far exceeds and worsens the fears of the communities that it will touch. I strongly, for a second time, urge the STB to reject the proposal. Jim Rowe Kankakee County State's Attorney"
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Reply243101ReplyJanis E. Von Qualen
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243098CommentLinda Barlass Viney
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243097CommentLaura Jean Carlson
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243096CommentLinda Barlass Viney
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243095CommentJames Viney
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243094CommentJeanne M Vanhorn
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243093CommentWarren G. Mandel
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243092CommentJeanne M Vanhorn
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243091CommentChris Beaman
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243089CommentScott A Thorsen
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243081CommentSharon Kay Mckay
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243078CommentMartha A. Mcmahon
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243071CommentPatricia Mussman
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243067CommentRex Gilman
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243065CommentTom Forburger
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243064CommentDawn Powers
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243063CommentDawn Powers
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243050CommentNancy June Lewke
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(printed as 5/11/2017)Comments243049CommentLee R. Smith
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(printed as 5/11/2017)CommentEI-26064River
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(printed as 5/11/2017)CommentEI-26061Richard Comstock
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243080CommentLisa Russakoff
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243077CommentMark Dvorscak
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243076CommentJulie Mink
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243075CommentBonny Garcea
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243069CommentDebra Ekhoff
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243068CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243066CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243062CommentMichele Mockus
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243061CommentPaul Gaspar
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243060CommentTyler Voorhees
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243059CommentRegina J Chancellor
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243058CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243057CommentSusan Vorgias
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243056CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243055CommentMichele Mockus
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243054CommentVirginia Gaw
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243053CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243052CommentMark Hayes
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243051CommentAllyson Casbon
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Reply243047ReplyBlock Glb Railroad, Kankakee County, Il Block Glb, Citizens Against The Glb Railroad, Boone County, Il, Rock Against The Rail, Llc (Rock County, Wi), Railed, Laporte, Porter & Lake Counties, In, Winnebago County Against The Glb Railroad
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243046CommentJeffrey Garcea
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243045CommentCharles Dean Passwaters
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243044CommentKaren Spangler
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243043CommentUps
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243042CommentLorrie Olszewski
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(printed as 5/10/2017)NoticeIllinois Agricultural Association A/K/A The Illinois Farm Bureau And Grundy County Farm Bureau, Lasalle County Farm Bureau, Ogle County Farm Bureau, Kankakee County Farm Bureau, Lee County Farm Bureau, And Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243040CommentMaureen Defiore
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243039CommentTorin Manley
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243038CommentJulie Kokos
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243037CommentCarole Smith
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243036CommentEmily Christensen
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(printed as 5/10/2017)Comments243035CommentScott Thorsen
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(printed as 5/10/2017)CommentEI-25363mary auchstetterPlease refuse GLBT request its stockholder and investors names not be open. This is an undemocratic action to those in the 260 mile path. We are public with pride, if you can not say name you are hiding . Just end this whole mess right now!peru, ill
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served (printed as 5/9/2017)DecisionDECISION WAIVED SERVICE REQUIREMENTS UNDER 49 C.F.R. §§ 1104.12(a) and 1150.10(g) FOR INDIVIDUAL PRIVATE CITIZENS FILING COMMENTS ON THE TRANSPORTATION MERITS OF THE APPLICATION FILED IN THIS PROCEEDING.
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(printed as 5/9/2017)Comments243034CommentMary Scheppler
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(printed as 5/9/2017)Comments243033CommentFred Scheppler
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(printed as 5/9/2017)Comments243032CommentVirginia Gaw
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(printed as 5/9/2017)Comments243031CommentLaura Scheppler
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(printed as 5/9/2017)Comments243030CommentDennis Scheppler
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(printed as 5/9/2017)Comments243029CommentAbraham Scheppler
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(printed as 5/8/2017)Comments243808CommentCarl Dahlberg
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(printed as 5/8/2017)CommentEI-26035Nacy L. DrakeSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/8/2017)CommentEI-26034Patricia J. MurraySee attached letter
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(printed as 5/8/2017)CommentEI-26033Mr. Ricky CutrightSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/8/2017)CommentEI-26032Wanda DobbsSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/8/2017)CommentEI-26031Karen KosinskiSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/8/2017)CommentEI-26030Nancy L. DrakeSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/8/2017)CommentEI-26026Sharon SanelliIn consideration of the proposed GLBTI would like to offer my opposition to this plan. From what I have read you need to consider when reviewing the plan...almost all aspects of this plan are negative. As a resident in northwest Indiana the major points I oppose are: 1. The environment - I can see many negative impacts and very few positives 2. The maintenance of the community characteristics -mostly rural with some suburban areas- quiet communities forever adversely effected 3. Safety - multiple rail crossings over county roads, dangerous cargo, limited ability of local emergency responders 4. Necessity - with none of the major rail carriers in support this simply doesn’t make sense 5. Geological - this area is frequently flooded and doesn’t support heavy use, i.e. we have frost laws that forbid loads over a certain weight to travel county roads in the spring, fields routinely flood in spring and drainage is a constant issue. Thank you for your consideration of these and others comments.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/5/2017)Comments243805CommentMichael W. Hertz
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(printed as 5/5/2017)NoticeSave Our Farmland, Llc
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(printed as 5/5/2017)Comment
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(printed as 5/5/2017)CommentEI-26029Amanda Hudson
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(printed as 5/5/2017)CommentEI-26028Mr. Ronald TootSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/5/2017)CommentEI-26025Michael W. HertzPlease see the concerns I list on the attached document.Buckingham, Illinois
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(printed as 5/4/2017)Comment
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(printed as 5/4/2017)Comment
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(printed as 5/3/2017)RequestBlock Glb Railroad, Kankakee County, Il Block Glb, Citizens Against The Glb Railroad, Boone County, Il, Rock Against The Rail, Llc (Rock County, Wi), Railed, Laporte, Porter & Lake Counties, In, Winnebago County Against The Glb Railroad
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(printed as 5/3/2017)CommentEI-26049Mrs. Rosemarie Shedd
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(printed as 5/3/2017)CommentEI-26048Mr. Michael J. Chiodini
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(printed as 5/3/2017)CommentEI-26047Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Beebe
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(printed as 5/3/2017)CommentEI-26046Rose Shedd
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(printed as 5/3/2017)CommentEI-26023Kay Faulkneryour consideration and the Great Lakes Basin Railway scheduled to go through Winnebago County will be a heartbreaking situation for the residents native plants animals even indigenous Indian mounds located In Shirland the Family Farms that have been there the way of life and the businesses will be devastated please consider it carefully. as if it affected your or your familyWaianae, Hi
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(printed as 5/3/2017)CommentEI-26022Torin ManleyMy American Dream: Every hard working American has dreams and goals and inspirations. My father's was to move out of Rockford, IL and buy a small farm in Roscoe IL, back in 1964. My Grandpa and Grandma moved to (at that time) rural Rockford in the 1920's establishing our family's original homestead. Dad wanted to get out of the city and have a nice homestead in the country, to re-establish the family homestead. Somewhere to raise his son (me). Move forward to 1995. Everybody is selling their farms to developers, and in one year, we ended up with over 20 next door neighbors. So we moved again into rural Shirland. Bought a farm there. After Mom and Dad passed, my wife, son, and I took over the farm. We have small acreage, 1/2 mile off the road, down a narrow lane, into our utopia in the woods. Now Mr. Patton decides he wants to STEAL our land, displace hundreds of families, to build a pie-in-the-sky railroad and tollway through our lives. A railway with no committed customers! Stealing land by eminent domain for private investor gain! If STB allows the railroad to be built where GLB proposes, the crossing will be at the end of our driveway. This is our only access point to ingress / egress our farm. I have a disabled wife of 18 years, and a 16 year old son that has hopes of being able to continue the farm. Now GLB decides taking land by eminent domain, displacing families, or in our case, putting the train at the end of our lane, blocking our only route of evacuation in the event of a derailment, all for private investor gain is somehow a good idea. No committed customers! No evidence of necessity for the project! So many unanswered questions! What about response times of emergency services? I have had an attempted break in, a home invasion, and a medical emergency. EMS response times were 13 minutes, 16 minutes, and 14 minutes respectively. That is without roads being closed in our area. Without waiting for trains to cross. Ask yourselves, would you want this for your family? Neighbors? Do you want to be displaced so somebody with wild dreams and more money than they will ever need can make more money? Please consider a No Build" response to GLB's proposal! Save our farms! "Shriland, IL
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(printed as 5/3/2017)CommentEI-26020Kay Faulkneryour consideration and the Great Lakes Basin Railway scheduled to go through Winnebago County will be a heartbreaking situation for the residents native plants animals even indigenous Indian mounds located In Shirland the Family Farms that have been there the way of life and the businesses will be devastated please consider it carefully. as if it affected your or your familyWaianae, Hi
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(printed as 5/2/2017)Letter243005LetterHonorable Adam Kinzinger
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(printed as 5/2/2017)CommentEI-26045Richard & Linda Dalton
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(printed as 5/2/2017)CommentEI-26038Ms. Sherre FaulknerSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/2/2017)CommentEI-26018Rick QuamTo Whom It May Concern I bought this property 30 years ago to live the american dream, and then all of sudden the GLBRR has decide to kill my american dream. What about our water system and the two ponds and the wetlands on my property and the property's next to mine that have the same wetlands on them. I have box turtles in my pond's which are on the extinction list, what are you going to do about that, kill them. I also have fresh water clams in my ponds and waterways or wetlands , endangered list, also. And what about the 100's of Indian mounds in the county of Winnebago are you going to let them be destroyed. The road crossing to and from school or the emergency Fire and Police department going to and from any emergency out here in the county were the GLBRR will be at.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 5/2/2017)Comment
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(printed as 5/1/2017)MotionGreat Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc.
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(printed as 5/1/2017)Application243001ApplicationGreat Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc.
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26043Deborah McDonaldSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26042Maurer
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26041John E. Schafman
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26040Jennifer Van Ness
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26039Mrs. Pat PowlessSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26037Ray E. FaulknerSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26036Leona FaulknerSee attached letter
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(printed as 5/1/2017)Comment
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26016David & Lois ProudfootPLEASE vote no to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. The railroad benefits Frank Patton at great expense to all the residents of Illinois. The railroad will disrupt the quality of lives for anyone unfortunate to live near it. It will effect the environment, water supply, lower crop values, and pose severe social and economical risks to residents. As property values plummet, tax money to counties, townships, and villages will be reduced. Any jobs gained by the railroad will will not be local and be short term jobs at best. Lives of countless individuals should not be de-valued to benefit the owners of Great Lakes Basin Railroad! If this company is truly concerned with moving products efficiently, then tracks should be build parallel to interstate 90/39 since land next to the interstate has already been impacted by transportation and the interstate is the most direct route to and around Chicago which supposedly is the purpose of this project. We sincerely hope that our concerns will be considered and this railroad path through our county will be denied. Fire and medical services will be slowed due to trains and possible longer routes. Respectfully submitted, Dave and Lois ProudfootRockton, IL
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26014Abe HenkerThe great Lakes Basin Railroad's plan are inconsistent with the public need and use. The proposed rail line and attached toll-road would disrupt millions of lives needlessly. We have plenty of alternative transportation methods available and there is no public need for this proposal, please issue an immediate denial of the recently submitted application.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26013Tim AmbroseIn my opinion, this railroad is unnecessary. Using eminent domain to take part of family farms for corporate profit is absolutely the wrong thing to do. Thank you for your timeWinnebago, IL
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(printed as 5/1/2017)Comment
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26011robert rueferI WILL DO EVERYTHING IT TAKES TOO STOP THIS RAILROAD,PLEASE HELP OUR COMMUNITY.rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26010Susan MorrisWe are not in favor of the RAILWAY, its' too intrusive on our rural lives.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26009julie yatesWE are just not wanting a rail system to be put near our property ..who would? Please help to not let this happen.. our property is all we have.. This would ruin our property ..PLEASE STOP THE GLBT Trainsrockton, Illinois
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26008Frank C CiprysDear Mr. Blodgett, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project will greatly disrupt my life. The proposed project runs less than 1 tenth of a mile from my house, that I and my family have lived in for 43 years. The majority of my life savings is invested in this house. If the GLB rail project is approved my house would be worthless and the noise, inconvenience, and pollution would make living here untenable. I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on Docket # FD 35952 Thank you for your consideration, Frank C CiprysRockford, Illinois
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-26007Kay Faulknerplease your considerationfor the environment the people that have live there for years and the destruction it will cause in their lives,destruction of Indian mounds ,native plants and Wildlife that the Great Lakes Basin railroad will cause thank youwaianae, Hi
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-25977Mary MacKenzieI am writing in opposition of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad and its stakeholders' proposal to run a stretch of railway from Milton, Wisconsin through northern Illinois and into northern Indiana. The negative impacts of this railway proposal far outweigh the few benefits, and the few benefits mostly benefit private investors not the masses affected by the railway. My concerns are great and lengthy, and I believe Dave Willis identified a lot of the negative impacts in his article in the Rockford Register Star (http://www.rrstar.com/opinion/20170407/my-view-rail-project-would-be-destructiv e-disruptive). Some of my concerns not identified in Dave's article are as follows: The railway will pass through a lot of rural areas in turn resulting in road closures, road blocks and ultimately delays in receiving medical attention to thousands of people. These rural communities are primarily farming communities, and farming is a hazardous job with many yearly accidents for which emergency medical attention is needed. The last railway proposal route I seen was locating the railway between Rockford, Illinois and Winnebago, Illinois, which would isolate the rural area to the west of Rockford and delaying our access to the nearest three major hospitals located in Rockford. How could this be considered a feasible option and proposal, when it is clearly not for the greater good of all or even the majority? There are many small, family owned and operated farms in the rural communities, who will be affected should the proposal get approved. Families will lose land, lose access to land, lose the ability to use the land for the purpose in which it was intended; ultimately resulting in loss of income, loss of homes, loss of family farms, and added financial liability for the States and Federal Government. Is the State and Federal Governments ok with the privatized gain resulting in extensive financial burdens for them? When rain water and snow melt does not drain or recede corrrectly due to the railway obstruction of the natural drainage, who is going to pay for the damaged homes, crops, etc.? There is a good chance insurance companies will not pay for the flooded homes and destroyed personal items, when the owners do not have flood insurance. Who is going to pay for the homeowners' flood insurance or relocation? I am also concerned with the impacts this railway will have on our environment, plants, wildlife, waterways, etc. There are a lot of endangered and threatened plants and wildlife that live and migrate through the areas that will be affected by this railway. No matter how hard one tries no one can ever recreate existing habitats, so once destroyed they will be lost and there is a good chance there will also be species of animals and plants also lost. If you have not taken the time to research the areas for which the railway is proposed to destroy, please do so as soon as possible (e.g. Sand Bluff Bird Observatory, Nygren Wetland Preserve, Sugar River Forest Preserve, Winnebago County Forest Preserves). I am asking you to please reject and vote against the Great Lakes Basin Railway proposal to run a railway for Milton, Wisconsin through northern Illinois and into northern Indiana. Thank you, Mary MacKenzieWinnebago, Illinois
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(printed as 5/1/2017)CommentEI-25976Kathryn BrownI am opposed to Great Lakes Basin Railroad as it goes through an agricultural and residential area that will be economically damaged. Home values will dramatically go down,and crop values will drop due to proximity to the railroad and its emissions. Jobs that it would generate would be very short term. The water table in this area is very high, and if the surface water is contaminated, the water supply for both crop irrigation and human consumption will be irreversibly polluted. Loss of property values would be an economic blow that middle income and working people here would not recover from. And many of us would end up with homes and farms that we cannot sell. Please do not allow this railroad to be built.Beloit, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-26006Glenn WallaceSir, I am writing to voice my concerns with Great Lakes Basin purposed rail line through Winnebago County, Il. My first concern is my home which was a 1 room limestone school house built in 1856 and what kind of effect the vibrations from 70 mph trains will have on the limestone. The property value will drop with the tracks only a few hundred feet from my back door. The track will cut through a natural wetland area South of my home. The number of animals displaced could be in the Thousands counting migrating birds (loons,cranes,geese,ducks,and song birds) which have been using this area for who knows how long. When they are displaced it will place additional strain on other wetlands. The permanent wetland residents ( deer,turtles,birds,snakes) will disappear. My last concern is the aquifer This area has the largest aquifer in Winnebago County and the area has a high water table. The whole area sits on a limestone base and if the water table drops will train vibrations destroy the soft limestone base? A train derailment could permanently displace hundreds of people. Some of these people are living on farms which have been in their families for generations. Since Great Lakes Basin cannot guarantee there will not be any accidents its only a matter of time before it will happen and this area will be uninhabitable for a very long time.Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-26005Melody WrightHello Mr. Blodgett. My name is Melody and I live in an area that will be deeply and adversely affected by the GLB rail line. I moved to this town to raise my two young children in this quiet farm community so they could receive excellent educations and enjoy the great outdoors. This plan to build a railway would be just a mile from out home, and would cut off access to major roads, as the township and county would no longer maintain these due to the tracks that could cut through. This really concerns me. This train, which I am really having trouble understanding why it's needed in the first place, would immediately drop the value on my home and all of the homes around me. The schools, which were one of our man reasons for moving here, would no longer get the funding they need and not be able to serve my children or any of the other children in the way I had hoped. This project will not create jobs for my community. We are surrounded by farmland, and those farmers will not be able to sell crop tainted from the runoff from this railway. Temporary jobs would not help these farmers with a sustainable lifestyle. I've also heard that my insurance will go up just because I'm close to these tracks. I genuinely do not understand why this plan should go through our community when we already have infrastructure in the greater Rockford area which meets the demands for rail cargo. Our community does not need this railway. This is not the answer. Please, sir, I implore you to re-evaluate this plan. This plan does not serve the people, it serves none of us. Please, consider our needs, and our children's needs.Winnebago, IL
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-26004Andrew WrightI respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on the proposed GLB rail project. The project would interfere with local wildlife, farming activities, and would be a safety hazard to my family. Not only is there a potential impact to our water supply, but my family could be cut off from emergency services due to lengthy trains. I further understand that the GLB railway will not have a positive economic impact on the area. The jobs they claim to provide will be temporary and likely will be filled by others outside our area, commuting in to work and leaving when the job is done. The resulting railway will lower my property value, lowering my village's tax base which will further financial issues caused by the lack of state funding. I fail to see the benefit of this project and fear moving forward with it would be a terrible mistake.Winnebago, IL
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-26003Roger WheelerI feel that eminent domain for private gain is unjust. The tactics of delays and a red herring used by GLB Railroad should not be tolerated. Best Regards, Roger WheelerRockton, Illinois
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-26002GoettschProtect the environment and water supply! Jobs are only temp jobs. There are already tracks in rockford to use!Laurie · Rockford, Il
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-26001Benjamin BeyerAttn: Docket #FD-35952 Dear Mr. Blodgett, Having reviewed all available information about the proposed GLB project, it is my opinion that the proposed project has failed to provide the documentation need to convince me that this is necessary to support public convenience. For the following reasons, I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action to continue this project. Our neighborhood, although not a town, will be broken apart by the rail line. The farmland drainage in this neighborhood will have to be funneled into a small creek in our front yard which could not possibly handle further runoff. Water can never be stopped, just redirected and this would put our homes and property in danger of flooding. Will the project cover flood insurance for all? Our wells, many not deep, have good water and could readily be contaminated with a chemical or oil spill. Protected Indian mounds and artifacts are in the area. The wetlands in Winnebago County are fragile, but healthy, and need to be maintained, not compromised and broken up. Many acres of wetlands would be destroyed with each mile of railroad. The super soft understructure would hardly support the weight of heavily loaded tank cars. My family's organic vegetable CSA farm would lose it’s credibility with the continued pollutants emitted from continual railroad emissions, not to say the risk of any spills or leakage. If evacuation became necessary, our nearest hospital would also be in the evacuation zone. Where would the injured be taken? Our local elementary school(shirland grade school) which my 3 1/2 yr old son will be going to soon is in the immediate evacuation zone. Again, where would any injured students be taken with the hospital also in the evacuation zone. The above points is what has led me to the conclusion that the GLB project is inconsistent with public safety, convenience and necessity. Please take “no action” on this project. Thank you, Benjamin BeyerRockton, Illinois
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-26000Julie PalsAttn: Docket #FD-35952 Dear Mr. Blodgett, Having reviewed all available information about the proposed GLB project, it is my opinion that the proposed project has failed to provide the documentation need to convince me that this is necessary to support public convenience. For the following reasons, I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action to continue this project. Our neighborhood, although not a town, will be broken apart by the rail line. The farmland drainage in this neighborhood will have to be funneled into a small creek in our front yard which could not possibly handle further runoff. Water can never be stopped, just redirected and this would put our homes and property in danger of flooding. Will the project cover flood insurance for all? Our wells, many not deep, have good water and could readily be contaminated with a chemical or oil spill. Protected Indian mounds and artifacts are in the area. The wetlands in Winnebago County are fragile, but healthy, and need to be maintained, not compromised and broken up. Many acres of wetlands would be destroyed with each mile of railroad. The super soft understructure would hardly support the weight of heavily loaded tank cars. My family's organic vegetable CSA farm would lose it’s credibility with the continued pollutants emitted from continual railroad emissions, not to say the risk of any spills or leakage. If evacuation became necessary, our nearest hospital would also be in the evacuation zone. Where would the injured be taken? Our local elementary school(shirland grade school) which my 3 1/2 yr old son will be going to soon is in the immediate evacuation zone. Again, where would any injured students be taken with the hospital also in the evacuation zone. The above points is what has led me to the conclusion that the GLB project is inconsistent with public safety, convenience and necessity. Please take “no action” on this project. Thank you, Julie PalsRockton, Illinois
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-25999John FitzsimmonsI am OPPOSED to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad's proposal to be built in Illinois' Winnebago County. My wife and I built our home(ten years ago)in a semi-rural area of Winnebago County and have enjoyed the quiet / off-the-beat area of our home. The proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad would effect our rural environment's water supply as well as add noise pollution to our life-style to which we have become accustomed. I urge you and the Surface Transportation Board to consider the needs of the residents in this proposed area as well as the rural / agrarian industry which has existed in this area for nearly 150 years. Please DENY the Great Lakes Basin Railroad's request to build a railroad line(s) in Illinois' Winnebago County.South Beloit, IL
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-25998Patricia MeissenI respectfully request that the STB take no action on the Great Lakes Basin rail project. I live within a mile of the project and am concerned for my water supply. I also spend a great deal of time at nearby forest preserves and am worried about the effect the project will have on our birds and other creatures in nearby wetlands. It will negatively impact our environment.Durand, Illinois
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-25997Paul and Fran YankeeWe are OPPOSED to the Great Lakes Basin RR being imposed upon our area! Beyond noise pollution, we are afraid of local air and water pollution. We will be evacuated from our home if they have a hazmat accident. Property value will decrease and insurance rates will rise on our property. Banks won't loan us money to improve our property. Area transportation will be dramatically affected by closing local roads, for school buses and emergency vehicles as well as for residents. Please do not allow this railroad to proceed with their shady plans in our area! Thank you, Paul and Fran YankeeRockford, Illinois
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(printed as 4/30/2017)Comment
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(printed as 4/30/2017)Comment
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-25994Jeff LathropRegarding the proposed railroad: I live just to the west of Rockford, IL, and have reviewed the website of Great Lakes Basin Railroad, and their proposal of a two track, minimum crossing rail route through Illinois. From that review of their information, I can find no public good large enough to warrant relinquishing any type of imminent domain to an unproven private enterprise. This ultimate power should remain with the elected officials responsible to the people of Illinois. I also live within less than one-quarter mile from a buried pressurized gasoline pipeline that feeds a gasoline storage and distribution center, alongside a propane distribution center on the SW side of Rockford. The proposed rail route goes very close to these two facilities, and crosses this pressurized pipeline very near my home. The pipeline belongs to West Shore Pipe Line. Any derailment of the proposed 60 mph trains - operating every 15 min, according to their website, jeopardizes the whole west side of Rockford, and nearby community of Winnebago, IL., should it puncture this pipeline or interact with the propane distribution center. This center has already had an incident causing local environmental damage. We do not need any more. There are also very serious concerns regarding the minimum crossing theory, as cutting off the many roads being crossed into Rockford denies quality emergency response times to our local hospitals, let alone some major inconveniences to services, already very low on the west side. I also live across the street from an open quarry, which serves as access to fresh water, and a stop-over for many migrating birds. The water table here is very shallow, and any incident on the surface has quick detrimental effects on our water supply, as we are rural, and all have wells. All of these are very real concerns, and since there is, in my opinion, certainly no overwhelming public good for this rail - just the opposite - there should be no action on this proposed rail line to move it forward. I sincerely hope the STB will listen to the people and organizations trying to make you aware of the severe repercussions of adding this rail line. Thank you for my opportunity to voice my concerns. Jeff LathropRockford, IL - Illinois
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-25993Susan ReikThe stateline area west of Beloit is filled with not only working farms, but folks living peacefully in the country. Not wealthy people, but people concerned about wildlife, our waters and environment. For decades, we have been involved in protecting our wetlands, prairie lands, oak savannas, and wildlife. Just in our immediate area along the stateline of Illinois and Wisconsin, the proposed location of this rail line would impact the Sugar River and its Forest Preserve, Colored Sands Bird Sanctuary, and Nygren Wetlands - a refuge to many migrating birds whose numbers have already declined in this area due to habitat depletion. It would impact the restoration of prairie lands underway at Beckman Mill Park and Mill Pond. Toxins from this railway would impact the cleanliness and safety of the Rock River, and leach into cropland soil that is so vital for the livelihoods of farmers in this area. The proposed plan for this rail line is extremely poorly thought out. Quite frankly, it only benefits its private owners. The rail line will directly harm the people and wildlife in this region, and will destroy the way of life for many.South Beloit, IL
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-25992Kathryn InskoAfter reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. In fact, property values would plummet, resulting in less tax money for the state, counties, and villages. All people near the proposed sites, not just along the route, would see their investment value decrease. Farmers would lose valuable cropland while seeing the harvest value decrease as well. The environment would be very negatively impacted, both animals, plants and water supply harmed by the trains. Closing smaller crossroads as well as frequent trains across major roads, would result in longer times for valuable services (police, ambulance, etc) to reach their destination. Any job creation in the communities would be short lived, while the long term negative impact would be felt for years - longer commute times to work, etc. I respecfully request that the STB takes no action" on this project. Sincerely, Kathryn I. Insko"
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-25974Joyce KennedyI am opposed to the great lakes basin railroad.this idea of a railroad is unwanted,unnecessary and a hazardous to the crops, animals, and our local water supply. This railroad will lower property values raise insurance which banks won't loan money for property repairs or improvements. This will also cause roads to be shut and traffic disruption.Pecatonica, Illinois
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(printed as 4/30/2017)CommentEI-25972Jean A LannafeldMr. Blodgett, After reviewing available information about the proposed Great lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is in my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. For the following reasons I respecfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project; 1. Chicago is in the process at this very moment alleviating congestion. 2. GLB has little to no potential clients. 3. It has been stated there is job potential...Many of us here in Winnebago County IL. believe that is not true for most of the counties you are contemplating on displacing. 4.I am possitive during the STB review of pros and cons of this GLB rail...you have found more then enough cons to cease action. Thank You, Jean A. LannefeldRockton, IL
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25991Beth BrohaughI am concerned that this railroad will cause more harm than good. We are new to this area and love it here, it is quiet and beautiful. Bringing this railroad here would de value my home and make this wonderful area look like an industrial area. I have a small dog and this would terrify her and never give us a sense of home and security. Please do not let this come here,Rockton, IL
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25990Andy BrohaughDear Mr. Blodgett, Please be aware of the damage the GLBRR will cause to our county and homes in Winnebago county. If the RR come through we will loose vital and precious wetlands that sustain wildlife and plants our rangers of Forest Preserves of Winnebago County work to so hard to protect. As an employee of FPWC I know how hard these good folks work in these areas. Also I am concerned for my own property that is only yards from the proposed railway. I just purchased my home in July to get away from the noise of the city, I hate to think about what that train traffic will do to the foundation my house sits on The vibrations from the trains can cause the concrete in the foundation to crack and break, not to mention lowering the property values of the homes near the rail line. What about the farmlands that will be affected if this railway comes through. Im sure you know all the other problems that are associated with Railway coming through our communities. I thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts and concerns I hope you will help us stop GLBRR from ruining our lives here in Winnebago county. Sincerely, Andy BrohaughRockton, ILL
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25989Doris HolecekAs a senior citizen residing in Shirland, Illinois and a retired teacher from Shirland School #134, I have two great concerns about the GLB project. 1)When emergency aid is needed (police, fire department, medical, etc), how much extra time will be wasted when having to get around or wait for trains that are projected to come through every 15 minutes? Even with a bypass over Hwy 75, that will not help the families in Shirland. There must also be another bypass over Yale Bridge Road or Forest Preserve Road. 2)The Shirland area is a huge wildlife preserve habitat because of the open wet lands and forest areas. What is the environmental cost to our area if the GLB project is allowed to develop? What about derailments and chemical spills as the one that caused much environmental damage in Rockford a few years ago.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 4/29/2017)Comment
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25987Francine SchiroWe need save our community - the value of my home will depreciate. our community will suffer. jobs will stay away. Our farms will no longer exist. please re think this atrocity.Winnebago, Illinois
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25986Kevin ChatfieldYES, I am OPPOSED to the great lakes basin! Protect our environment, livestock, water supply, etc. Think safety!!!!!Rockton, IL
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25985Carolyn CiaccioYes, I am opposed to Great Lakes Basin!!!!!! Protect our environment, jobs will be short term only. Decreased property values=less tax money.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25984Birdhaven airbnbKensru@charter.net. We and our community live just 1-2 miles east of proposed GLR route and we breath the clean air, eat the local veggitation in our forests & gardens, drink & use well water, creeks, and rivers thus we are opposed to the railroad and transportation of oil near farms, hospitals, schools or nature preserves !Ken & Mari Weikel thomson · Rockton, IL
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25983Linda KingI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I live on Cemetery Rd. two miles from the apple orchard (Edward's)that will be directly impacted by the railroad. Children from Rockford and surrounding smaller cities come to that orchard to get an exposure to farm life and to learn how things grow. This is God's country. I can walk into my back yard and am overwhelmed by the beauty of nature, from Eagles and Bluebirds, to wild deer and turkeys not to mention the sounds of neighbors horses and cows. Our garden and yard that has been 20 years in the making with walnut trees, fruit trees, blueberry bushes and the like will certainly lose its property value. We are doing our best to decrease our carbon footprint. Why can't Great Lakes make improvement to existing rail lines? I can't see how this will improve jobs in Winnebago County. We have already seen what happened to Winnebago County when Chicago closed Cabrini Green and those people moved to Rockford. The west side of Rockford is a war zone. My girlfriend was evacuated from her home in Rockford when there was a rail derailment of hazardous material in her neighborhood. You can't say it doesn't happen. What if the water supply in this area was contaminated? Fix the roads and the bridges and transport via trucks and if the destination is Milwaukee why not ship on barges using Lake Michigan? Thank you for your consideration in this matter.Winnebago, Illinois
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25982Leslee DimkeI am greatly opposed to letting GLBR use Eminent Domain to acquire the land they want to be able to run their railway. Protecting our water supply is one of the greatest concerns I have, along with all the economical concerns. Any jobs created would be short term, and it would lower property values and make it nearly impossible to secure a loan for any upkeep or improvements people might need for their residences. It would also lower property values witch would mean less tax money to counties, villages and townships, but higher insurance rates for landowners within a 10-mile radius of the rail. Crop values would also be affected, and many farmers would also lose their land. Enough if enough! Eminent Domain has to stop! People have rights, too! Would you want it in your neighborhood, because if it is not right for you, it's not right for us!Winnebago, IL
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25981Jonathan MelinI am opposed to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad that is routed through Winnebago County and the other parts of northern Illinois. The damage to the environment, the trampling of private property rights, and the disregard to the rights of private citizens who oppose this over reach of eminent domain continue to be ignored. How many times does this group need to be told NO by those affected until they get the message. This needs to be shut down immediately. We do not want it. This proposal will divide and destroy family farms and family farmers. This will needs to be shut down and not be brought back up again.Winnebago, IL
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25980BARBARA KRAUSESAVE OUR COMMUNITIES. I AM OPPOSED TO THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAILROAD!! STOP GLBT TRAINS!! THEY TOOK ALL THE TRACKS OUT BECAUSE NO ONE WAS USING THEM!!. NO ONE IS PAYING TO HELP WITH THE RAILS. GLB PROJECT HAS FAILED TO SUFFICIENTLY PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION THAT SUPPORTS PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY. REALLY NECESSITY, WHEN EVEERYONE OWNS CARS. ALL THEY WANT IS TO DESTROY WHAT PEOPLE AND FARMERS HAVE SLAVED OVER FOR YEARS. WE LIKE OUR COUNTRYSIDES. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. THEY KNEW OF THE DISAPPROVAL OF ALL CITIZENS BEFOREHAND.WINNEBAGO, IL
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(printed as 4/29/2017)Comment
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25973Kevin ChatfieldYes, I am OPPOSED to Great Lakes Basin Railroad.!!!!!!! MY reason: SAFETY! SAFETY! SAFETY! Protect our water supply, farms and livestock. You will cause us higher insurance rates, lower property values and less tax money. Please, use your existing rails!!!!!!Michelle Chatfield · Rockton, IL
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25971Doug ConnellI grew up on our family farm located near Rockton, Illinois and I will always treasure the “Lessons of Life” I learned and continue to learn. I went to a country school but we had Public television and my reach to knowledge and understanding of how the world works was not hindered in any way. Living on the farm I developed my sense of fairness, kindness and equality for everything in life. I am now husband, business owner, concerned member of my community and forever and always a part of our family farm. I come to the farm on a regular basis and help when I can to keep the farm running smoothly. My 84 year old mother and brother still live on the farm and operate a successful Christmas Tree business, Keiths Trees. I have photographed and recorded the sound of the beautiful nature of our farm for the professional work that I do and we often have family and friends who come to the farm to reconnect with the elements of life that they cherish. I cannot, in any stretch of my imagination imagine how destroying our farm and the hundreds of other farms and families along this proposed route will benefit anyone now or in the future. I believe the disturbance this proposed railroad will cause will be a crushing blow to 3 states and thousands of lives and livelihoods. Destruction of prime farmland, creating unsafe travel zones, toxic waste, polluting of water sources, destruction of animal habitats, noise levels increasing, and the list goes on. My father and mother purchased this land years ago with the plan that a new heritage was being born and our family would be directly connected to this land and all it had to offer. In exchange we would cherish, protect, and share the land with our family and friends and provide an everlasting example of doing what is right, respecting the land. Please keep these thoughts, and the thoughts others have shared about their families in your mind when you consider this proposal of destruction in creating this railroad. I have faith in our country and the systems that have been put in place to make decisions based on the good of our people and not for big business. Thank You, Doug Connell – Sundown FarmRockford, Illinois
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(printed as 4/29/2017)CommentEI-25970Delvin InskoThis railroad would endanger many square miles of wetlands. There are many spring fed creeks and artesian wells with yards of the proposed route. There is abundant wildlife that depend on these wetlands for their survival. Any jobs created by this project will not be permanent. The risk to all of us as residents will be permanent. We had planned on selling our property as part of retirement funding. Now, our property has become next to worthless so retirement will be impossible unless these plans are cancelled.Winnebago, Illinois
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentSee attached letter
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentEI-25978Adella KnightPlease NO GLB Railroad. Almost all the houses that will be by the railroad have lime stone foundations and almost all of these houses are 100 years old or older. The railroad will cause a claps of these houses. We DO NOT need this railroad. It will be impossible to get to schools, jobs and emergency personal. It will ruin the wet lands, Indian burials, wild life and the beautiful environment we love and respect around here.Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentEI-25975PENNY HANSENI AM AGAINST THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAILROAD BECAUSE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT IT WILL HAVE ON FARMLAND, WETLANDS, AND HOME AND LAND VALUES IMPACTED BY SUCH AN UNNECESSARY RAILROAD ALL FOR THE PROFIT OF ONE MAN. MY PROPERTY VALUE WILL DECREASE, INSURANCE RATES WILL INCREASE AND CROP VALUES WILL BE LOWER BECAUSE OF THE RAIL RESIDUE EMITTED. NOT ONLY THAT IT WILL COST ALL THE HOME AND LAND OWNERS MORE MONEY BECAUSE THEY CANNOT DRIVE ON THE ROADS TO THEIR HOMES THAT THEY HAVE FOR YEARS AND WILL BE FORCED TO TAKE OUT OF THE WAY ROUTES WHICH ALSO MEANS FIRE PROTECTION RATES WILL INCREASE BECAUSE OF THE BLOCKED ROADS. LESS TAX MONEY TO COUNTIES, TOWNSHIPS AND VILLAGES BECAUSE OF LOWER PROPERTY VALUES. THIS GLBT IS NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS AND WILL DO NOTHING TO ADD QUALITY TO OUR AREAS. DO NOT ALLOW THIS MAN TO EXTEND AGAIN. HE IS CAUSING NOTHING BUT HEART ACHE AND HEAD ACHES FOR ALL OF US THAT CHOSE TO LIVE IN THE COUNTRY WHERE WE WERE AWAY FROM POLLUTANTS THAT THIS RAILROAD WILL BRING.BELOIT, WI
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentEI-25969Michael C KennedyI am opposed to the great lakes basin railroad. This will cause environmental damage and potentially damage our water supply.This will disrupt small businesses & farms.This railroad will lower property values and cause inability to secure loans for property repairs.Higher insurance rates for landowners in 10 mile radius of the rail.This will have drastic effects in crops and their values.Pectonica, IL
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentEI-25966Margaret BainApril 28, 2017 To: The Surface Transportation Board Docket # FD35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, D.C. 20423-0001 From: Mrs. Margaret Bain 11853 Bethel Road, Kings IL 61068 Dear Mr. Ken Blodgett, I am writing to you to convey my concerns and opposition to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC Railroad (GLBT) project. My husband, John, and I live and farm approximately 1 mile west of the currently proposed route, in rural Ogle County, Kings IL. We are the 3rd generation of this family farm, with plans to pass this on to grandchildren making it the 5th, and so on. Upon studying information concerning GLBT I feel this railroad would certainly devastate the farmland involved and rural life in many ways. We have a series of waterways that were professionally installed in a partnership program with the government over 40 years ago. Our farm takes on a great deal of water from surrounding farms that are on a higher elevation than ours. Management and maintenance of the drainage system is very costly. (nearly $1,000 an hour in some cases.) There is no doubt drainage systems downstream of ours will be damaged, most are interconnected. Some of this damage may never be corrected. This would cause complete loss of ability to farm substantial portions of land from backwater buildup on our land as well as others. I understand one mile of rail with a 200 feet right of way is aprox. 24 acres per mile and the proposed GLBT project will be taking aprox. 6,305 acres total. This includes of some of the best farmland in the world, it will be permanently destroyed. I have read it is possible the GLBT project will include other “utilities” along the same line. The noise of 110 trains running day and night at 70 miles per hour will destroy every bit of solitude that is cherished by those all who live nearby. The value of surrounding homes and land will plummet. The potential hazards of the proposed GLBT project are staggering! I am deeply concerned about the closing of many rural roads to allow the trains to travel without stopping. Also, the delays created by the additional railroad crossings. Two years ago, April 9th, 2015, a tornado tore through this area from the southwest. It traveled directly across Bethel Road (exactly over some of the path of the proposed GLBT railroad) and moved north, with much devastation. We were declared a disaster area for some time. Many rural roads in this area were closed from the tornado damage, some for days. Had that train system been in place and the roads closed, many people very well could have been trapped, with no access to emergency assistance! ******* I read a letter submitted to you on 3/30/2017 by Douglas E. Wood, Kings Consolidated School District 144 Transportation/Maintenance/Safety Director. It helped me understand the hazards associated with building the rail within 1/4 mile of the School District, as well as other factors: “If the GBLT is allowed to build their track according to their current plan it would pass within a quarter of a mile of the School District and at 60-100 trains (approx. 1 train every 20 minutes) a day using this track would become a 24/7 issue in the safety and well being of our students and staff in the event of a chemical or other toxin that could be released by an accident or a derailment. If such an accident would happen it would also affect the response time to the emergency, it would affect the school and the Ogle County’s Emergency Command Center. It will affect the response of the Fire Station which is 6 miles away but instead of taking 15 minutes to respond it could 15 minutes to 30 minutes or longer. The same would hold true of the Ogle County Sheriff Office and its response time. But these 3 government bodies would also find it hard to respond to any emergency here at the school with the projected route and road closures that the GBLT has chosen. The safety of the students at this school or any other District should be paramount to any decision made to allow the GBLT to build its Toll Railroad.” “The staff and the little over 100 residents who live in Kings of which I am one of these residents also have to consider the effects the GBLT would have on us and quality of life. We feel that this is a Private firm trying to make money off the residents of Kings and the surrounding areas. The GBLT would not bring a great influx of money for the Kings area but it would just add to the burden by taking high quality farm land out of production as well as burden these same farmers to pay their bills with the loss of acreage and access to farm land that the GBLT would pass through leaving access limited or nonexistent.” (end of Mr. Wood’s statement) ******* Derailment of toxic chemicals could cause evacuations and possible contamination of the water supply to thousands. Many people believe the trains will be carrying a great deal of crude oil, and each rail car contains 30,000 gallons. A derailment usually involves many more than one ruptured car. “Cleanup” is done by letting the oil burn, creating highly toxic fumes. Also ground and ground water contamination that will last for many years. If chlorine gas is transported and is involved in a derailment, evacuations of 5 to six miles are required. *************** Mr. Frank Patton, the founder of GLBT has said the railroad would provide economic benefits across the region, and says landowners will be fairly compensated. Farmers and landowners will be paid $20,000 per acre. (and free electricity to some houses near the railroad) But the effects of the GLBT railroad will go far beyond each farmer or landowner who is paid. How can you fairly compensate people for completely destroying all that is sacred to them? Most who will be drastically affected will not be compensated at all. I can not even fathom hearing trains go by at 70 mph every 15 or 20 minutes, and we certainly will hear it! The chemicals used to kill vegetation along the tracks will seep into the ground water. NO amount of money is worth the loss of peoples lives or permanent destruction of the land. Rail congestion in Chicago has prompted the plan by the PRIVATE FIRM, GLBT, while stating the average time to send a freight train through the city sat at over 30 hours. The claim has been disputed, and community groups pointed to the implementation of the Chicago Integrated Rail Operations Center (CIROC) in 2015. The plan includes direct connections to each carrier and track to assist rail employees in resolving operational issues and identifying congestion points. Recent data showed the time required for a unit train to pass through the Chicago Rail Terminal has declined from 20 hours to less than 15 hours. Also, the CREATE program has provided and continues to provide many of the transportation benefits claimed by the GLBT proposal. I believe funding for these programs should be focused on. Mr. Patton has stated he would like to leave a legacy to his descendants by creating this monstrosity. Apparently he has done this with no thought or consideration to the hundreds and perhaps thousands of people whose legacy is destroyed by this Private Firm building a Toll Railroad for profit. I urge you to please take a stand now and oppose the GLBT Railroad Project with NO BUILD! Respectfully Submitted: Mrs. Margaret BainKings, Illinois
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentEI-25965Homer E BaileyWe are very concerned about the negative affects the proposed Great Lakes Basin RR will have in our community. See attached letter.Kings, IL
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentEI-25964Becky BaileyWe are very concerned about the impact of the Great Lakes Basin RR in our community. Please see letter attached.Kings, IL
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentEI-25963brock mcwilliamsRail development threatens the Endagered species of the Eastern Massasauga Snake and Agricultural lands that are one of the richest soil deposits in the Midwest. Rail Development threatens the communities, school accommodations and medical availability from rural areas. Though a short amount of time, I have heard from over 10,000 people in the path of GLB transportation; and all individuals are sick over the stress and continued threat to their land and surrounding community. Any effort to stop this development should result in a NO-BUILD result from the STB and to stop the rural discrimination from GREAT LAKES BASIN rail development on the people and lands of the midwest.rockton, il
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentEI-25962John KocikAfter buying my house, making a yard that is eco friendly, bird friendly, etc. after my whole domain is set to retire in--now this. This is not to be accepted--..Beloit, WI
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentEI-25943Marya NelsonAfter reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin rail project, it is our opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. There will very little to no positive impact on our community. The only jobs that may be created would be closing the small rural roads that the taxpayers have paid for . These are the same roads the my family and neighbors use to get home everyday, the same roads that our school district's’ buses use to take our kids to and from and school and that emergency personnel use to save lives. The cost that to our communities of rerouting these entities far outweighs any benefit that would justify this rail road. The environmental impact this railroad would have our communities would be catastrophic. In many area aquifers are at risk and contamination would affect the drinking wells of thousands. The proposed rail will negatively affect drainage, irrigation systems and livestock productivity. Even though the proposed rail would not cross our property, it is so close that any derailment would like not only total contamination of our water but probably total devastation of our entire home. Even the idea of this disaster makes us think that we should sell our 7 acres and home and leave now, but just this proposal has lowered our property rates as NO ONE wants to live right next to a bomb train. Please take a careful look at this proposal as this rail would change our communities forever.Rockton, Illinois, US
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentEI-25939Richard & Mary Jane Koch[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/28/2017)CommentEI-25936Mr. Gary Hill/Kenadie Carlson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/27/2017)Comment
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(printed as 4/27/2017)CommentEI-25961richard sickelsThere will be no jobs created unless they are short lived.Banks won't loan money on our properties anymore for repairs etc because its a Dead Horse in their eyes.This creates lower crop values because of all the RR Residues created.Less taxes to counties, townships,villages as well because of lower property values.Higher insurance for all land owners living within a 10 mile radius of the railroad.This whole mess has no advantage to us the people and the property owners.There is No Way any of us Benefit from this.The only ones this benefits is GLB Railroad and it totally destroys our lives our families lives and everything we have worked for all our lives!! This RR does not benefit us the people in any way, shape or form.Eminent Domain is Bullshit and the only one profiting from this is the GLB Railroadwinnebago, Il
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(printed as 4/27/2017)CommentEI-25960Eve WicksAfter reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. - The proposed high speed rail will run within 1k yards of my property - My property is located on the largest underground aquifer in our county - Roads to the east, west and south of our property will be closed during rail traffic. Concerns of emergency evacuation - No proven need for the rail system - Farmers in our community will lose large sections of farm land - There are three nature preserves/bird sanctuaries within 2 miles east and west of the proposed railway located near my homeRockton, IL
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(printed as 4/27/2017)Comment
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(printed as 4/27/2017)CommentEI-25958Kay Faulknerthis correspondence is in regard to the Great Lake Basin Railway'.I am totally against it to do the environmental Indian mounds native plants and animals and just the people for Generations it's going to affect their Farmsand quality of life. it seems to be one of those projects thatsomeone let never looked into the future outcomewaianae, Hi
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(printed as 4/27/2017)CommentEI-25919Wayne Gale
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(printed as 4/26/2017)CommentEI-25957William R. BeyerAttn: Docket #FD-35952 Ken Blodgett Surface Transportation Board Docket # FD 35952 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Dear Mr. Blodgett Having reviewed all available information about the proposed GLB project, it is my opinion that the proposed project has failed to provide the documentation need to convince me that this is necessary to support public convenience. For the following reasons, I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action to continue this project. Our neighborhood, although not a town, will be broken apart by the rail line. The farmland drainage in this neighborhood will have to be funneled into a small creek in our front yard which could not possibly handle further runoff. Water can never be stopped, just redirected and this would put our homes and property in danger of flooding. Will the project cover flood insurance for all? Our wells, many not deep, have good water and could readily be contaminated with a chemical or oil spill. Protected Indian mounds and artifacts are in the area. The wetlands in Winnebago County are fragile, but healthy, and need to be maintained, not compromised and broken up. Many acres of wetlands would be destroyed with each mile of railroad. The super soft understructure would hardly support the weight of heavily loaded tank cars. Our organic vegetable farm would lose it’s credibility with the continued pollutants emitted from continual railroad emissions, not to say the risk of any spills or leakage. If evacuation became necessary, our nearest hospital would also be in the evacuation zone. Where would the injured be taken? Our local elementary school is in the immediate evacuation zone. Again, where would any injured students be taken with the hospital also in the evacuation zone. The above points is what has led me to the conclusion that the GLB project is inconsistent with public safety, convenience and necessity. Please take “no action” on this project. William Beyer 9024 Harrison Road Winnebago, IL 61088 815-629-2126 billjillbeyer@yahoo.comWinnebago, IL
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(printed as 4/26/2017)CommentEI-25956Jill BeyerAttn: Docket #FD-35952 Ken Blodgett Surface Transportation Board Docket # FD 35952 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Dear Mr. Blodgett Having reviewed all available information about the proposed GLB project, it is my opinion that the proposed project has failed to provide the documentation need to convince me that this is necessary to support public convenience. For the following reasons, I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action to continue this project. Our neighborhood, although not a town, will be broken apart by the rail line. The farmland drainage in this neighborhood will have to be funneled into a small creek in our front yard which could not possibly handle further runoff. Water can never be stopped, just redirected and this would put our homes and property in danger of flooding. Will the project cover flood insurance for all? Our wells, many not deep, have good water and could readily be contaminated with a chemical or oil spill. Protected Indian mounds and artifacts are in the area. The wetlands in Winnebago County are fragile, but healthy, and need to be maintained, not compromised and broken up. Many acres of wetlands would be destroyed with each mile of railroad. The super soft understructure would hardly support the weight of heavily loaded tank cars. Our organic vegetable farm would lose it’s credibility with the continued pollutants emitted from continual railroad emissions, not to say the risk of any spills or leakage. If evacuation became necessary, our nearest hospital would also be in the evacuation zone. Where would the injured be taken? Our local elementary school is in the immediate evacuation zone. Again, where would any injured students be taken with the hospital also in the evacuation zone. The above points is what has led me to the conclusion that the GLB project is inconsistent with public safety, convenience and necessity. Please take “no action” on this project. Jill Beyer 9024 Harrison Road Winnebago, IL 61088 815-980-0589 billjillbeyer@gmail.comWinnebago, IL
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(printed as 4/26/2017)CommentEI-25955Christina DunnThis will change the landscape for years, and for what? Some extra dollars in someone's bank account? There is no viable way to put this in and not destroy the land, the roads, the rivers. I am against this, it is wrong and I hope you decide not to go through with this horrible thing. This is unnecessary.Byron, IL
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(printed as 4/26/2017)CommentEI-25954Leon SchuetzPlease vote no for the railroad . I have 50 acres of farm land and buildings including my house. The railroad will run through the middle of my farm. Moody Rd (the frontage road that runs in front of my house) will be closed . The fire department will not be able to get turned around at my house. I will not be able to get to the back half of my farm because of railroad tracks. I will not be able to go deer hunting because of the railroad. It be hard to go to town with all the road closings due to the construction of your railroad tracts. My name is Leon A Schuetz My e-mail is schuetzleon@yahoo.com 6622 Moody Rd Rockton IL 61072Rockton, IL
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(printed as 4/26/2017)CommentEI-25953DaveAttention Mr. Blodgett, I am writing to you regarding my concerns to the GLB Railroad. I use to live next to an active railroad and I can tell you something from experience... Railroads are Noisy, Dirty and Dangerous. They also decrease your property value. the railroad I use to live by had a train derail twice causing a huge mess. matter of fact there are still pieces of the train and the wreckage mess laying on the ground to this day. The trains are extremely noisy. People say you get use to the noise" that's B.S. you never get use to the noise.... the railroads are very dangerous especially for families with young curious children not to mention vehicles and tractors and live stock because this is a farming community. we do not want this railroad in our back yard. this rail is just another way for a rich man to make another buck. The rail company doesn't care about our property value nor do they care about our health and well be3ing. let them build this thing in their backyard!!!!! this rail WILL effect our water supply especially if there is ever a derailment. I know its a lot of what ifs, but "What Ifs" happen all the time!!!! As you can tell I am DEFINITLY OPPOSED to the construction of this rail!!!!!! thank you for taking time to here my concerns, Dave."
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(printed as 4/26/2017)Comment
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(printed as 4/26/2017)CommentEI-25940Bruce TuckerI am opposed to great lakes railroad, We have water wells to drink from, e use it to grow our gardens and water our livestock, We moved out here to get away from the noise of traffic. There is nothing but risk and no benefit for this rail wayRockton, IL
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(printed as 4/26/2017)CommentEI-25937Katie WicklundI oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad for many reasons. My family's health and safety is my first concern, especially for my six year old. Cancer? Contaminated and poisoned drinking water? Unsafe air quality? Danger of explosions?! Even more toxins to be placed within our soil? We've worked so hard to finally have a piece of nature's beauty, peace, and tranquility only to have be ripped from under us. What about the children who attend Shirland School, the school our child attends? Can they possibly concentrate with the insane amounts of noise pollution a train will create? The children in our small community don't deserve the best? How safe are they to attend a school that is merely a mile from a hazardous train, let alone live near one that we never wanted in the first place? What about the the environment, particularly the endangered species, that depend on our rivers, forests, and prairies? Speaking of rivers, we have three important rivers in Rockton and Shirland that will be put at great risk, and WILL be polluted. These rivers eventually flow into other main rivers that affect well beyond our region. The Rock River is already a pollution threat and has a severe need to be cleaned as is. Adding more to it's dirty waters will make it even more dangerous, not only to us, but to those affected along the Mississippi River, as The Rock is a tributary. Remember, the Mississippi drains into the Gulf of Mexico, which will spread through it's waters. The pollution that fills the air will eventually rain back down into our soils and crops throughout Earth. This isn't just a regional problem, it's a global problem. Many more species, thousands of acres of land and farms, and billions of other people beyond our counties will be affected and at risk by the railroad and the dangers it possesses to our waters and skies. What jobs does this railroad track bring that don't already exist? Jobs that are needed when ours are destroyed? We have a very well built farming community that provides jobs to the young, and teaches them how to become farmers themselves, to provide food for people and animals. We have land for hunting and fishing, as well as homesteads and gardens, to be self sufficient. Williams Tree Farm, Hoo Haven, youth camps, campgrounds, forest and prairie preserves, etc. are all well established, provide jobs, and will continue to grow as long as we continue to fight against GLBRR. It's okay to take away jobs to claim to bring jobs? That makes no sense! We have jobs! They are jobs that are very important to our food structure, social and economic structures, and they affect beyond our communities. I am against the Great Lakes Basin Railroad, not just here, but everywhere! They are a danger no matter where they decide to lay their dangerous tracks.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 4/26/2017)CommentEI-25933Donna MeyerHarmful to our water supply. Jobs created will be short term. Less tax money to counties, townships and villages because of lower property values. Lack of consideration to property owners, wet lands, parks and businesses.Beloit, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/26/2017)CommentEI-25931Mark BaulingThis email is to express my concern over the great lakes basin railroad being developed right next to my property.There are many environmemtal issues with this,not to mention the affect on my property value and insurance.Please say no to this going thru Winnebago county.Thank youRockton, Illinois
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(printed as 4/25/2017)CommentEI-25952Cassi PaslickPlease do not approve the Great Lakes Basin Railroad to take local land (farmland, wetlands, private property) in order to build a railroad that is not needed. This project will not create long-term jobs in the area, but it will mean less tax money to local entities as property values drop. The number of trains and proposed cargo are both damaging to the environment, and could lead to incredible disasters in this area. This railrad is not needed. Please do not approve it.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 4/25/2017)CommentEI-25951Clayton DammenDear Sir: I'm opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. The reason for this is there already is a railroad less than 1/4 mile from where I live and I do not feel the need to have another so close. The impact this would have on my property would affect generations to come. I'm a 4th generation resident here and 2cd on this property. It will be going to my grandkids. I would greatly appreciate it if you would cease this project for myself and generations to come. The river on our property has gone from when I was a kid to people saying don't eat the fish to now having game fish in it. Though few it still has a long way to go to be cleaned up but I've lived and played on our river for 47 years now and I'd like future generations to see and feel the benefits of a cleaner river. As well as the public land that access it for our hunting privileges. A desire I'm instilling in my children and there children, as well as there children to come. I would appreciate your reconsidering this project and it's cost to our lively hood. Thank You; Mr. Clayton Dammen.South Beloit, IL.
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(printed as 4/25/2017)CommentEI-25950R.A.I.L.E.DSee Attached news story about CSX that proves that GLBR is not necessary. Existing rail lines and rail companies are working efficiently to transport goods and will not lease the GLBT toll rail line. The 15,000 acre rail yard is a huge land grab attempt to enrich Frank Patton and is not necessary nor is it in the best interest of the public. Deny GLBT going forward! Patricia Mussman Unincorporated West Creek Township, Lake County, IndianaPatricia Mussman · Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/25/2017)CommentEI-25935deborah & roger ericksonthis railroad will contaminate our water and will have a negitive effect on the hundreds of sand hill cranes that come here during migration about 200 to 500 yards around this address,ROCKTON, Illinois
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(printed as 4/25/2017)CommentEI-25927Judith E. Connolly[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2017)CommentEI-25926Shirley Kersten[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/24/2017)CommentEI-26108Ms. Barbara BudzynskiSee attached letter
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(printed as 4/24/2017)Comment[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/24/2017)CommentEI-25932Patricia A. Hoople
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(printed as 4/24/2017)CommentEI-25930Rose Shedd[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/24/2017)CommentEI-25929Hillary Fleming[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/24/2017)CommentEI-25923Shirley & Lawrence Carter[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/24/2017)CommentEI-25922Peter J. Luhrs, III[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/24/2017)CommentEI-25921N. Price[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/22/2017)CommentEI-25949Judy BatesIn regards to, my concern Docket # 35952 4/19/17 My name is Judy Bates and I'm speaking on behalf of my family farm, Bates Farms of Rockton, Illinois, a sesquicentennial farm located in Northern Winnebago County. As you may know there has been a lot of controversy in regards to the GLB railroad route passing through many private farms. I ask that you please take a moment out of your day to review this document I have written as well as please enjoy this short video on our farm and the history behind it that is so important to the area as a whole. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qN3DSFFfsLE Thank you for your time, Sincerely, -Judy BatesRockton, Il.
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(printed as 4/22/2017)CommentEI-25918Michael W. BatesIn regards to, my concern Docket # 35952 4/19/17 I'm speaking on behalf of my family farm, Bates Farms of Rockton, Illinois, a sesquicentennial farm located in Northern Winnebago County. As you may know there has been a lot of controversy in regards to the GLB railroad route passing through many private farms. I ask that you please take a moment out of your day to review this document I have written as well as please enjoy this short video on our farm and the history behind it that is so important to the area as a whole. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qN3DSFFfsLE Thank you for your time,Rockton, Il
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(printed as 4/20/2017)CommentEI-25917Nancy RauchI have a number of concerns regarding the plans of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad to run a track from Milton, Wisconsin to northern Indiana. This track would run through my county, Winnebago. It would take approximately 6,300 acres of land from local farmers. Farm fields would be divided, making some fields too small for modern equipment to farm. Some homes and buildings would have to be moved. Not only this, the local farmers would have to foot a $2,500-$5,000 bill per year to insure the rail crossings over their land. Farms are not the only thing slated to suffer should this plan proceed to reality. Important wetlands would have to be filled in leaving the potential for local lands to flood. Should there be derailment, or leaking of pipe lines in the 50 foot wide area designated in the rail corridor, a huge disaster could take place as the earmarked cargo is believed to be crude oil. It is preposterous to think eminent domain could even be thought of for this project. Profit for private enterprise is the motive, not public use. Thank you.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 4/19/2017)CommentEI-26082William H. HoopleSee attached letter
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(printed as 4/19/2017)CommentEI-25948Cathy MeivesI am writing in OPPOSITION of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposition. As you are probably aware, this new railroad will negatively impact thousands of families, farmers, and communities throughout Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana. For example, the proposed railroad would run in between my parents' house and my brother's house. Their houses are only 200 yards apart from each other. In addition, their houses are on a dead-end road. Therefore, if a train was on the tracks, then my parents would literally be trapped between the train and the end of their road. My parent are elderly, so any medical emergency vehicles would not be able to reach them. This could mean life and death for them. This is just one family that will be significantly impacted by this railroad. There are countless others who will be impacted in other ways. Please, please do not allow this railroad to happen. Thank you, Cathy MeivesGeneva, IL
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(printed as 4/18/2017)CommentEI-25946michael griffithI am opposed to granting approval to the Great Lakes basin Railroad. My reasons include: 1-The application includes a vague, undefined need for a 50 foot wide utility area fir future profit-generating right of way. This is beyond the scope of the railroad request. 2-Numerous wetlands will have to be filled. Water will have to be impounded. This is not acceptable a time when surface and groundwater needs more natural filtration, not less. 3-Farm owners may be burdened with added costs to insure rail crossings on their own land. This is not acceptable and unjust to farmers. 4-Certain products in future tank car derailments could endanger not only rural but urban areas. If chlorine gas is spilled, Rockford Memorial Hospital would have to be evacuated. 5-Eminent domain should be restricted to those projects that benefit the public. In this case the benefit would be for private investors. Please reject the Great Lakes Railroad.rockford, il
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(printed as 4/18/2017)CommentEI-25944Sheryl HutchinsonI oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad construction project. This railway would destroy wetlands which would affect the normal watershed of rivers. In addition, farm land would be purchased at the loss of production and hardship for the farmers including additional expense of insuring rail crossings each year. Potential with this railway would be derailment which could allow toxic chemicals to contaminate the water supply of 1,000's of citizens. If toxic chemicals were involved, this could cause evacuations of 5 - 6 miles surrounding the rail line. This could potentially affect large portions of Rockford, Loves Park and Machesney Park. Also affected, would be the evacuation of major hospitals. This rail line would be privately owned and for profit...NOT for the good of the citizens of the this area. To seize private land for a private corporation is a violation of eminent domain which was created to acquire land for public thoroughfares, not to promote the interest of private enterprise.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 4/18/2017)Comment
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(printed as 4/17/2017)CommentEI-25947Roderick and Wendy Bennett
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(printed as 4/17/2017)CommentEI-25945Martha Harris[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/17/2017)CommentEI-25942KyleCarlson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/17/2017)CommentEI-25924Mr. Ronald Toot[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/17/2017)Comment
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(printed as 4/17/2017)Comment
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(printed as 4/16/2017)CommentEI-25925Judith Smeling
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(printed as 4/16/2017)CommentEI-25903Carmen AugelliI totally oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad!!!The jobs this will create are short lived and the environmental impact it will create could be devastating to both residents and nature. All for the benefit of the investors.Please don't do this to us!Rockford, IL
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(printed as 4/16/2017)Comment
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(printed as 4/13/2017)Letter242927LetterHonorable Robin L Kelly
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(printed as 4/13/2017)Letter242926LetterSurface Transportation Board
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(printed as 4/12/2017)CommentEI-25908Andrew Fleming[See attached letter]
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(printed as 4/11/2017)CommentEI-26084Gary SheddSee attached letter
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(printed as 4/10/2017)CommentEI-25914Leigh Geddes
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(printed as 4/10/2017)CommentEI-25912Kathleen Jurkowski[See attached Petition]
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(printed as 4/10/2017)CommentEI-25911Jerry Geddes[See attached letter]
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(printed as 4/10/2017)CommentEI-25910Susan A. and Stephen T. Shade
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(printed as 4/10/2017)CommentEI-25909Vicki Geddes
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(printed as 4/10/2017)CommentEI-25907James B. Durand[See attached letter]
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(printed as 4/10/2017)CommentEI-25887Griselda Durand[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/8/2017)CommentEI-25901Erin FisherI am writing to request that the Great Lakes Basin Railroad that is being considered for my area (Northern Illinois) be rejected. This project will destroy locally owned farmland that has been in families for generations. We have valuable and important and ecologically necessary wetlands that will be filled in--this is a very wet area and the long-term consequences of that are unknown. We are a path for many migratory birds. A beloved apple orchard that many of us have gone to for generation after generation will be destroyed. We in Northern Illinois value our farmland, our farmers, and the food they produce for this great nation. We are not a rich community, and I would argue that one of the reasons we have been targeted, when other richer areas have been excused from consideration, is because we are really just plain old rural Americans that others think can be easily taken advantage of. Should a derailment occur, the oil that the railway will carry will need to be burned off and it will make tens of thousands, if not more, of us sick. Please, consider that this will destroy more than land. There has to be less populated areas with less farmland that could be considered rather than putting it smack dab in the middle of the small towns here. We deserve to have a voice too, and our voice is loud and clear: NOT HERE.Roscoe, Il
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(printed as 4/8/2017)CommentEI-25900Brandon CampbellI'm writing in opposition to the proposed GLB railroad. Too much of our natural lands have been developed already, for the sole purpose of cash to people who already have more than most. I don't have in depth knowledge of the total scope of this proposed line, but lands I am familiar with, that would be devastated, are beautiful. This project would destroy that forever. For what? There would be very little economic benefit, if any. The profit generated would end up being stockpiled into billionaire bank accounts - never to circulate in our economy again. The farm revenue this rail will take away gets spent and circulated several times within each affected community, to the benefit of all. There are CLEAR environmental and economic reasons to reject this project. Eminent domain was never intended to make billionaires more money. Eminent domain was never intended to force people to hand their homes and property over to the already wealthy, in an effort to further line their pockets. There is not one product that I've wanted over the last decade that I've struggled to get because our current rail system was inadequate. Thank you for your time and consideration.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 4/7/2017)CommentEI-25899Paul NolleyAs a citizen of Winnebago County, Illinois, I would like to voice my opposition to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project under consideration. The areas where the proposed railway would go are some of the most valuable assets in our county, and should not be threatened or negatively impacted as they will be through the construction of this railway. Please reject this proposal when you have the chance to. Respectfully Submitted, Paul NolleyRockton, IL
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(printed as 4/7/2017)CommentEI-25888JoanHello I am sending this urging you to please not allow GLB railroad to disrupt my way of life .I do not want a railyard in my back yard spewing toxic fumes, would you? Eminent domain is supposed to be used for public projects, not private . This would destroy our way of life .Please do not allow this insanity to proceed any further.Manteno, Il
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(printed as 4/5/2017)CommentEI-25882Apostolos SarantopoulosAs a citizen of Winnebago County, Illinois I am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad,Loves Park, 61130
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(printed as 4/4/2017)CommentEI-25968Cathy Schafman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/4/2017)CommentEI-25896Jane BairdMs. Rutson -- I am writing you to urge you to NOT give Mr. Patton and the GLB RR any more extensions past the current May 1 deadline. If his project gets approved it would be devastating to our LaSalle County IL community. A RR would divide family farms into small parcels, disrupt water flow by breaking field tiles, and contaminate our soil and water supply in the event of a derailment or spill of hazardous material. The Earlville Ambulance and Fire Depts. are very concerned with closing of rural roads and being held up by as many as 120 trains per day. The local school has concerns about their buses being delayed or having accidents on the many unmarked crossings. I attended several public meetings last year, and was moved by the many concerns farmers and non-farmers have regarding this RR project. I attended the Morris meeting attended by Mr. Patton. His arrogance and lack of compassion for rural communities was shocking and infuriating! This for profit" enterprise is totally unnecessary. A "No Build" decision by the STB is the only acceptable outcome. I appreciate your consideration in this life-changing matter. Sincerely, Jane and James Baird, 500 S. East St, Earlville IL 60518 (815)246-7136"
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(printed as 4/4/2017)CommentEI-25886Jimmie Nantz[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/4/2017)CommentEI-25884Roger and Judy Bates[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/3/2017)CommentEI-25890Rose Shedd[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/3/2017)CommentEI-25889Edwin Armstrong[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/3/2017)CommentEI-25885Linda Zirzow[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/3/2017)CommentEI-25883Roland Hagemeyer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/2/2017)CommentEI-25895Ann CreekPlease DO NOT DO THIS! My property values were horribly affected in the bust. It still hasn't recovered. I'll never be able to sell.
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(printed as 4/1/2017)CommentEI-25898Lanette childersDear Kenneth, I am writing you today in regards to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. If this proposal is approved and GLB is allowed to build a Railroad across the proposed route this will make the community in witch we live in a dangerous and a undesirable place to live. I have enjoyed living out in the country in the quiet ,peaceful area of Shirland all my life and I hope to be able to keep my family right here. But the fact is 100 high speed trains a day carrying Hazardous material, and closing many vital roads this community is dependent on for their livelihoods will force many people to leave this area and leave Winnebago county. I can understand the reasoning behind the law that gave Railroads the right to build railways to improve transportation to benefit communities over 75 years ago. But I don't understand how one person or one company should be allowed to in danger so many communities Using the same law for only 1 persons personal gain. When we now have much safer ways of transporting such materials today. GLB Railroad would be in no way a good thing for this community. I hope you will do what you can to help us block GLB from potently damaging many of our god given natural resources, our rivers, drinking water and our farm land. Thank you for your time and god bless.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 4/1/2017)CommentEI-25897Joe childersDear Kenneth, I am writing you today in regards to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. If this proposal is approved and GLB is allowed to build a Railroad across the proposed route this will make the community in witch we live in a dangerous and a undesirable place to live. I have enjoyed living out in the country in the quiet ,peaceful area of Shirland all my life and I hope to be able to keep my family right here. But the fact is 100 high speed trains a day carrying Hazardous material, and closing many vital roads this community is dependent on for their livelihoods will force many people to leave this area and leave Winnebago county. I can understand the reasoning behind the law that gave Railroads the right to build railways to improve transportation to benefit communities over 75 years ago. But I don't understand how one person or one company should be allowed to in danger so many communities Using the same law for only 1 persons personal gain. When we now have much safer ways of transporting such materials today. GLB Railroad would be in no way a good thing for this community. I hope you will do what you can to help us block GLB from potently damaging many of our god given natural resources, our rivers, drinking water and our farm land. Thank you for your time and god bless.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 4/1/2017)CommentEI-25873Dave WillisHave you ever heard the aphorism, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is? We have a situation in northern Illinois that fits that description to a tee. The Great Lakes Basin Railroad wants to run a track from Milton, Wisconsin to northern Indiana. The proponents of this program are selling it as if it were going to be a great boon to everyone in the area through which it travels. That part of the program isn’t news to most of you. What may be news is the underlying and insidiously destructive and disruptive nature of that track. The rail corridor will be 200 feet wide, and includes a 50 foot wide area for future use for pipe lines, utility company use, or other profit generating means for the rail line investors. The length of the corridor has been quoted as being 244 miles, 278 miles and 260 miles. Every mile represents 24 ¼ acres of land taken from current owners, or approximately 6,305 acres in total. That is land from which farm production will be obliterated. The planned speed of these trains is 70 miles per hour on a one percent grade and 1 to 3 degree turns. This means filling in wetlands near rivers and impounding water. To achieve the 70 mile per hour speed, many roads will have to be terminated at the rail line. Some of our farmland floods frequently, and this will slow receding water and delay field work. Farm fields will be bisected, homes and buildings will have to be moved, and some fields will be too small for present day equipment to farm. One such farm is located less than a mile from the proposed route. There would be 3 road crossings: Meridian road, Moody Road and Rockton Road, all within one mile or less from the house. Who knows how many similar situations exist? The likely closure of the west end of Moody road will be an inconvenience for trucking crops to market and fertilizers to farms. In addition, school busses and emergency vehicles will have to take longer routes. I understand that farm rail crossings will have to be insured yearly by the farm owner at rates of $2,500 to $5,000 per year, which is unjust and burdensome to the farm owners. The western route does not appear to be well researched as it goes through so many wetlands. So far I have addressed the rural problems as they apply to farmers. This is also important to those living in cities and villages. Any derailment of toxic chemicals has the propensity to cause evacuations and/or contamination of the water supply to thousands of citizens. Many people believe the preponderance of product in these trains will be crude oil, and each car contains 30,000 gallons. A derailment usually involves many more than one ruptured tank car and the remedy is to let the oil burn. Not only are there toxic fumes from this, but also a ground and/or a ground water contamination that lasts for many years. If chlorine gas is being transported and is involved in a derailment, evacuations of 5 to six miles are required. Even Rockford Memorial Hospital could potentially have to be evacuated. Large portions of Rockford and towns to the north would also be affected. By what logic can billionaire investors be granted approval by our Federal Government for this privately owned rail line that takes land owned for generations of families, and creates financial and emotional hardship for them? As I understand emanate domain, it is to be used solely for creating public thoroughfares like roads, etc. It is not designed for, nor is it to be used, to promote the interests of private enterprise operations. As unfettered private property ownership is one of the bedrocks of a free republic, I strongly urge you to deny this travesty to the people who live in the area of this proposed rail path, and who will suffer the most, and reap the least from its existence.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 4/1/2017)Comment
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(printed as 3/31/2017)CommentEI-25871Thomas SchuepbachI think this whole rail system is wrong. Make the rail company follow all environmental policies.Roscoe, Illinois
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(printed as 3/31/2017)CommentEI-25869Carol SahlstromWe are opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Docket FD35952 This will negatively impact a huge number of Winnebago County residents. It should not be possible for a business to take away people's land, destroy natural areas, and greatly affect our safety by closing roads and causing the possibility of damage to the area including drinking water contamination. Would a better alternative be to use existing RR lines by updating them and connecting where necessary? Please do not let this RR be built by a small group of greedy investors. Thankyou for your time.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 3/30/2017)CommentMarch 30, 2017 To The Surface Transportation Board; This letter is in reference to STB (Finance Docket) FD #35952. I am the Transportation/Maintenance/Safety Director for Kings Consolidated School District 144. This is a small district and the staff here wears many different hats. We had an information meeting concerning the Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC Railroad (GLBT). I’m writing in hopes that you will not allow this PRIVATE FIRM to build this Toll Railroad through Kings, Ogle County, Illinois. As the Transportation Director granting the GLBT to build this Railroad will put a deeper hardship on this School District. It will add an additional 45-60 minutes a day to current 45 minute bus routes, with the closing of the rural roads (the GLBT has projected) that our buses have traveled and used for over 60 years. It will add approx. 4000-5000 extra miles a year to our buses with no compensation. This does not reflect any time the Railroad would need to stop and could potentially block 2 or 3 State Highways. As the Safety Director for the School District by Illinois State Law and by the direction of the Illinois Superintendent we are required to have a Safety Plan in place in the event of an emergency. Our current plans have some coverage in the event of any issue with the Illinois Rail Net which is within 500 feet of the school property, but the current use of this track has little to no impact on the school due to its limited use. If the GBLT is allowed to build their track according to their current plan it would pass within a quarter of a mile of the School District and at 60-100 trains (approx. 1 train every 20 minutes) a day using this track would become a 24/7 issue in the safety and well being of our students and staff in the event of a chemical or other toxin that could be released by an accident or a derailment. If such an accident would happen it would also affect the response time to the emergency, it would affect the school and the Ogle County’s Emergency Command Center. It will affect the response of the Fire Station which is 6 miles away but instead of taking 15 minutes to respond it could 15 minutes to 30 minutes or longer. The same would hold true of the Ogle County Sheriff Office and its response time. But these 3 government bodies would also find it hard to respond to any emergency here at the school with the projected route and road closures that the GBLT has chosen. The safety of the students at this school or any other District should be paramount to any decision made to allow the GBLT to build its Toll Railroad. The staff and the little over 100 residents who live in Kings of which I am one of these residents also have to consider the effects the GBLT would have on us and quality of life. We feel that this is a Private firm trying to make money off the residents of Kings and the surrounding areas. The GBLT would not bring a great influx of money for the Kings area but it would just add to the burden by taking high quality farm land out of production as well as burden these same farmers to pay their bills with the loss of acreage and access to farm land that the GBLT would pass through leaving access limited or nonexistent. Many of us feel the GBLT has not thought out or considered what they are trying to do or the impact it will have in the 3 states they plan to come through. The GBLT is only looking at making a profit on their part and not it would cost the States, Counties, or School Districts they would be affecting. Please do not allow the GBLT to build this railroad on its current planned route. Respectfully Submitted, Douglas E. Wood Kings Consolidated School District 144 Transportation/Maintenance/Safety DirectorDoug Wood
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(printed as 3/30/2017)CommentEI-25868Amber DeYoungKen, I have several concerns about the upcoming GLB Railroad decision. The rail yard has several negative impacts on our environment that greatly concern me. I highly value the protection of land and water because water = life. The soil as well as wetlands, creeks, woodlands, and rivers that this rail yard would interrupt concerns my well being as well as the life that surrounds the rail yard. Not only does this decision have a negative impact on health and environment, the practicality of it is also not feasible. This company has had no track record of building railroads or anything else for that matter. How can I trust this decision to positively impact my life if these men and women have no record in this area of business? If this company is not profitable, are the taxpayers going to bail them out? How have you proven this decision to be a good one? What research-based evidence do you have that will prove this to be a moral and appropriate decision? Also, one of my biggest conerns includes the harsh interruptions with our governing body and business. How can a private sector take over homes, land, and farming that is privately owned by citizens? Please contact me with any answers to the above questions. Thank you.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 3/28/2017)CommentEI-25893Florence WenckusDEAR MR. BLODGETT, I HAVE RECEIVED FRIGHTENING INFORMATING ON A THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAILROAD LAYING ITS TRACKS IN DAVIS JUNCTION, ILLINOIS THIS IS A SMALL COMMUNITY FILLED WITH CHILDREN AND HOMES VERY CLOSE TO THE PROPOSED LAYING OF THE TRACKS. THE INPACT ON THIS COMMUNITY FROM NOISE, HOME VALUES, POSSIBLE CARS WITH HAZARDOUS MATEIAL WELL YOU GET THE IDEA. YOU WOULD NOT WANT A RAILROAD IN YOUR BACK YARD. WE MOVED TO THE COUNTRY TO GET AWAY FROM THE CITY TRAFFIC AND NOISE. I WOULD APPRECIATE THAT YOU CONSIDER THE PEOPLE INSTEAD OF THE PROFITS, WE ALL KNOW WHAT THIS IS ALL ABOUT, DON’T WE???? SINCERELY, FLORENCE WENCKUS 1013 NORTHWESTERN AVE. DAVIS JUNCTION, ILL. 61020 (847)239-2438
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(printed as 3/28/2017)CommentEI-25867Sarah valerioI am against the GLB railroad. It will not help any community it passes through and it will harm the environment.Grant park, Il
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(printed as 3/28/2017)CommentEI-25866Catherine SaladinoI had read that Mr. Frank Patton has a dream to build a railroad through Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin to leave a legacy for his children and grandchildren. I think that's very admirable of him to want to express his love of his family in such a grand way. The problem with his dream is that it would destroy the dreams and legacies of all those who own property, businesses and farms along the route of his railroad. This proposed railroad would be within one half mile of my home, and according to Bonnie Moore with Gambino Realty, the value of my house has already declined with the possibility of this railroad being built. If the railroad is built, the value of my home will decline even more, so my dream of leaving a legacy for my children and grandchildren would be destroyed by the utmost act of greed. NO BUILD!!!!ROCKTON, Il
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(printed as 3/28/2017)CommentEI-258651930Many people need to sell their homes, but can not due to the prolonged delays on this proposal.How is this railroad going to affect the electric transmission lines and gas lines that are in the way of railroad crossing Meridian Road. Potential time bomb. The productive farmland that can not be replaced. Dairy operations that will be displaced. Lower property values. Less tax money to counties, townships, villages. Thousands will be affected adversely by the railroad while a few benefit from it. Water quality in jeopardy. I urge you to reject any more delays on this proposal and let us get on with our lives. Pull the Plug!!!Marion Lawson · Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 3/28/2017)CommentEI-25864State Sen. Sue RezinDear Ms. Rutson, I am writing to you in opposition to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railway project. This project, which cuts through most of my Senate District in Illinois, has far too many more questions than answers, and more problems than solutions. The biggest reason this project should not move forward is pretty simple: landowners I represent don’t want the project, don’t want to give up their land, and don’t want the trains. I want to stress that it’s not just a handful of landowners who feel this way, everyone I speak with who would be in the potential line of this railway is adamantly opposed. These residents don’t want the noise of dozens of trains a day nor the negative impact the railway would bring to their agricultural activities such as land-locked fields, decreased production of crops and livestock, and possible damage of irrigation systems. In addition, there are safety issues with this project. An increase in train traffic, especially in rural areas where there are fewer crossings, means longer response times for emergency responders. Private crossings in fields with slow-moving agriculture equipment and fast-moving trains could prove fatal. The project offers no permanent jobs or increased income to each community it passes through. Home and farm values will decrease. Even more striking to me is that Great Lakes Basin hasn’t offered any real solutions to issues presented to them, the construction timeline and financing aren’t certain, and they are a for-profit company, not a railroad. I urge you to reject this project on behalf of my constituents. Thank you, State Sen. Sue RezinPeru, IL
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(printed as 3/28/2017)CommentEI-25863Debra DavisI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad being built. This is both a farming & residential community that would be in jeopardy if this project is allowed to continue. My concerns are the possible/probable contamination of our water supply that we drink, bathe & clean with; the air that we breath; the noise; and our safety in the event of tanker spills & explosions from dangerous chemicals. My further concerns are as follows: (1)that our property values will drop (no one wants to live next to a high speed train that runs continually throughout the day/night hauling dangerous freight); (2) our schools' ability to provide bus transportation to our children will be greatly impacted by the road closures needed of our already existing country roads to accommodate this railroad (it will take a much longer time to transport students to & from school with some not receiving transportation at all) (3) farming operations will be suspended and/or reduced due to being forced to give up land through eminent domain & road closures (for some of us, this is our source of income to provide for our families--thus the GLB Railroad is taking away jobs rather than providing them). This is a private gain venture at our expense. In making your decision, please consider the content of my comments as well as others who have contacted you in regard to opposing the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Thanks for your time & efforts in making this a better world for all of us.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 3/28/2017)CommentEI-25862Matt ZilmDear Mr. Blodgett, I strongly oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project and urge that this proposed rail line not move forward. I believe that this railway would have devastating effects on the environment, farmland and property value in our small community of Davis Junction. I urge all those involved in the decision making process of this project to reconsider and terminate the project in its entirety.Davis Junction, Illinois
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(printed as 3/27/2017)CommentEI-26044Summer TownshipSee attached letter
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(printed as 3/27/2017)CommentEI-258611978We DO NOT want the GLB railroad to be built in or around Davis Junction, IL. It will close our roads and increase travel time, not only for our daily drives, but for emergency vehicles. It is NOT right for a private company to be able to come in and take land that doesn't belong to them, to use for their own personal gain. This will affect a lot of communities and people. Please DO NOT allow this!!!! ThanksKara Menken · Davis Junction, IL
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(printed as 3/26/2017)CommentEI-25850Bonny GarceaMy family lives near the planned location for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Please do everything you can to STOP the construction of this railroad! This railroad, if built, will send trains at high speeds every 10-15 minutes every day of the week right by my and many other neighborhoods. Roads that we and other residents currently use and need will be permanently closed. Emergency vehicles will no longer have direct access to our area, and it will take an extra 20 minutes for them to respond to emergencies. These trains will also be carrying hazardous materials, in addition to regular freight. An accident would be a disaster for our neighborhood. My family has two small children. We moved here specifically to have peace and quiet and a safe, healthy environment for our children to grow up in. Please protect our home. Sincerely, Jeff, Bonny, Noah, and Ben GarceaDavis Junction, Illinois
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(printed as 3/18/2017)CommentEI-25892Ken BlodgettWe are very much against this railroad any construction. There is no need for it!! It is endangering wildlife but also human life !! What it would do to the life of everything & everybody it effects is unbelievable. It will endanger the lives of our children where the school buses will have to cross the tracks of a 70 mile an hour train. Please think about the people this is going to effect & not just the big money people it's going to make richer. Joanne Sonneson 4180 W. ROCKTON RD ROCKTON, IL 61072Jo Sonneson
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(printed as 3/13/2017)CommentEI-25891Jeff HeilizerDear Ms. Rutson, I wanted to share with you my objections to the planned construction of Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc.'s railway system through Rock County, Wisconsin (FD #35952). I live on a small 40 acre farm just a few miles from the proposed route of the railway. The railway system as it is designed will create a barrier between my farm (and the farms of my neighbors), and the nearest dedicated emergency services departments in the area. I have been informed that the risk of those emergency response times potentially being delayed or even denied due to railway traffic will factor into risk assessment estimates by our insurance carriers, resulting in an inevitable (possibly substantial) increase in our insurance rates. Rock County is one of the poorest counties in Wisconsin. An increase in property insurance rates here would be an undue burden on area farm families, and would cause many of my neighbors and friends to have to liquidate their farms, some of which have been in their families for generations. By way of example, since I lost my job in 2011, I have had 73 interviews, with only a couple of part time positions to show for it. My ability to stay in my home is tenuous at best. My situation is not unique. I am asking you to deny GLBT's application to construct their rail system through this poor county, which is still laboring under the loss of Janesville's GM assembly plant. Surely, there are other routes that would serve GLBT's purposes and not further penalize the people of this area. Thank you very much. Jeff Heilizer
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(printed as 3/9/2017)Comment
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(printed as 3/7/2017)CommentEI-25804Mary SchepplerPlease deny the Great Lakes Basin Railroad's request for an extension of the suspension of the environmental review process. They have already submitted to your office their plans, they have revised those plans once and said the revised route is perfect, they then asked for a suspension of the process so they may decide if they want to file an application, they responded to a status update request with a letter indicating they need customers before they can file an application, when will this process end? Their founder and CEO Frank Patton indicates publically this process has been in the works for years before they contacted your office, for a man who has been working on this for years his inability to produce a solid plan or to identify even one customer is appalling to me. I am asking for your to issue an immediate no build ruling and be done with this process. At the very least please issue a firm date by which Great Lakes Basin Railroad must submit a application by or the project will be considered terminated. Sincerely, Mary SchepplerSerena, IL
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(printed as 3/6/2017)CommentEI-25829Georgeanne DalySubject: FD-35952 Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc Please see attached letter. GEORGEANNE Daly 7851 Cemetery Rd Winnebago, IL 61088
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(printed as 3/6/2017)CommentEI-25828Stephanie ThompsonDear Vicki, I am emailing you on the no-build option for Great Lakes Basin Transportation. This proposed route of Frank Patton's travels LITERALLY through my family's back yard. We moved to the country for the quiet acreage. My parents built this home over 20 years ago. We have three young children and the thought of fast traveling trains, derailment, hazardous spills, and eminent domain of our property makes us all ill. We have worked our while life to be able to have our dream house and this man's greed could jeopardize that. There are wetlands and state landmarks in our area. My family, neighbors, basically everyone in the community are ill over this nightmare. I have been following Frank Patton's submissions, which the deadlines have been open-ended. My family, nor others feel we can move forward and rest assured until this application by Great Lake Basin Transportation is withdrawn. We are all hoping that you will see the many negatives of this proposed railway and that there is no need for it other than Mr Patton's greed. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Stephanie Thompson
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(printed as 3/6/2017)CommentEI-25821Virginia GawThank you for demanding Great Lakes Basin Railroad produce an application to construct their un-needed rail line. Having lived 92 years I have seen a lot of con men and snake oil salesmen, do not allow this company any more time to muddy the process with an incomplete application. Please reject an incomplete application and end this project. This company has yet to show one railroad willing to use their line and 2 of the 6 have already said they will not work with Great Lakes Basin Railroad, this is not a viable project and it needs to be rejected. Please issue a no build ruling once you have received their application and end this project as soon as possible. Sincerely, Virginia GawArlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 3/6/2017)CommentEI-25820Mary SchepplerDear Ms. Rutson, Your issuing a deadline for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad to submit their application to your office is greatly appreciated. Please be equally insistent that any application be complete and allow them no extra time to correct an incomplete application. If they are unable to submit it correctly the first time, given their claims of being experts in their field, you need to reject it and deny their project. This process has gone on long enough. Sincerely yours, Mary SchepplerSerena, IL
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(printed as 3/6/2017)CommentEI-25818Laura SchepplerDear Ms. Rutson. I am pleased you issued a firm date by which the un-needed Great Lakes Basin Railroad must submit a formal application to your office. Please insist when they submit their application that it is complete and allow them little to no time to revise an incomplete application. They have had over a year to produce this document and should not need any more time to work on it. Failure to submit a complete and accurate application should result in a complete denial of this project. An application should be quite simple and if such a task as that can not be completed accurately, how will they operate a rail line?Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 3/6/2017)CommentEI-25817Fred SchepplerI am writing to thank you for issuing a date by which Great Lakes Basin Railroad must commit fully to this project. Please be equally firm in insisting any application be submitted accurately and completely. Please do not allow them to stall and seek application extensions by submitting an incomplete application to your office. Sincerely, Fred SchepplerSerena, IL
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(printed as 3/6/2017)CommentEI-25816Dennis SchepplerThank you for issuing a firm date by which Great Lakes Basin Railroad must submit a formal application to your office. Please hold them to equally high standards when they produce their application. Their previous submittals of information to your office and the public are lacking in specifics and details and I fear they will seek to drag out this process even longer by providing you a less than complete application. Please allow them a very limited amount of time to correct any application omissions.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 3/6/2017)CommentEI-25815Abe HenkerThank you for issuing a date by which Great Lakes Basin Railroad must submit an application to your office. Please insist they produce a complete application and grant little to no exceptions or additional time to them when they submit an incomplete application on May 1, 2017. great Lakes Basin Railroad has shown in the past their inability to comply with details and they must be held to the highest of standards given the seriousness of this proposal. Please do not allow them to draw out this project with incomplete applications and bogus requests for additional time because they overlooked portions of the application. Additionally I am ask for a no build ruling as this company has shown they are incapable of complying with detail response to information requests from your office and have shown a complete disregard for providing a viable route or business plan.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 3/6/2017)CommentEI-25814R.A.I.L.E.DSee attached Comments to Victoria Rutson and Dave NaveckyPatricia Mussman · Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 3/6/2017)Comment
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(printed as 3/5/2017)CommentEI-25827Larry BradyPlease see attached letter in regards to the opposition of the GLBT project. Thank you for your consideration!
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(printed as 3/5/2017)CommentEI-25826Margaret JohnsonSubject: FD-35952 GLB Proposed Railway Ms. Rutson: I own a home and farm land in Winnebago County. The current proposal runs through two of our fields and next to our home. It is very frustrating that GLB did not meet their commitment to submit a response by February 28th. I am asking that you set a definite time limit for the enviromental review process. Dragging this out and keeping home and farm land owners in suspense is not a healthy situation. I read so many statements saying no railroads want to use this railway. Why would you even consider chopping up farms and changing communities in Illinois when this railway is not needed and NOT WANTED. Please set a specified deadline to end this crazy idea. Thank you. Margaret Johnson 6454 Montague Road Rockford, IL 61102
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(printed as 3/5/2017)CommentEI-25825Dawn PowersSubject: Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project FD 35952 Dear Ms. Rutson, I'm writing to you concerning the new extension requested by Frank Patton regarding the GLBT railroad project. FD 35952. In my reading the letter sent to you by Mr. Patton, there has been no actual update stated. All he's done is ask for more time, to get money men, try to find rail lines that would actually use this project, find someone who will support this project. I believe CREATE has made great strides in cutting down the time to transport goods through Chicago and Mr. Patton's project is not needed. GLBT is not sure that April 30 will even be sufficient time to submit their application. Please set an end date to this man and if April 30 is not enough time, you will consider the application, withdrawn. I feel NO BUILD should be the final answer. Many people are holding off on making improvements to their homes, I'm one of them, growing their farms, buying existing homes that are for sale because of this possible train going 70 miles an hour next to their home. Please set a final deadline. Thank you. Dawn Powers Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 3/5/2017)CommentEI-25812Larry ad Debbie BradySee attached letter in opposition to GLBT project. Thank you for your consideration!Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 3/5/2017)CommentEI-25811State's AttorneyVicki Rutson: I strongly oppose any extension for Frank Patton to submit his application regarding the Great Lakes Basin Transportation railroad that would destroy our state park and local environment, displacing farmers and schools. If the STB is inclined to grant the requested extension thru 4/30/17, I would strongly encourage the STB to make this a FINAL extension and grant no further extensions. This ongoing process has left many homeowners in limbo as they deliberate whether to sell their homes, withdraw their students from local schools and move before the beginning of next school year. etc. The ongoing delay is detrimental and I ask that STB put an end to this process by denying Patton's request for yet ANOTHER extension.Jim Rowe · Kankakee, IL
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(printed as 3/5/2017)CommentEI-25810Frank and Susan PollardPlease do not issue any further extensions for Docket FD35952. You are treating all of those impacted like puppets. We are human beings with real lives that you are impacting!Eau Claire, WI
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(printed as 3/5/2017)CommentEI-25809R.A.I.L.E.DThe attached comments are regarding the request for an additional extension from GLBT.Patricia Mussman · Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 3/5/2017)CommentEI-25808Lori PepperTo the Surface Transportation Board, Please deny any further extension dates for the Great Lakes Basin plan. Landowners throughout the three planned lines are sitting in limbo. Our lives are on hold in respect to our land and homes. It is completely unfair that we can continue to be held hostage to GLBR which is unneeded considering the CREATE plan. Please make April 30th the final extension date so we can get on with the environmental study.Sleepy Hollow, IL
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(printed as 3/4/2017)CommentEI-25807Dennis SchepplerDear Ms. Rutson, My family has farmed in Serena Township, Illinois, for over 100 years. Thanks to their hard work they were able to double the size of our farm. My mom is 80 and my dad is 84. They have spent their life carrying on the farming legacy. While doing so they have also continued to give back to their community. This last Thursday my mom had her knee replaced, a very dangerous operation given her age and her history of blood clots. She has spent weeks worrying about how the surgery would go. When I arrived to see her that day she was just coming out of her anesthesia and they were trying to get her to stand for the first time. You could see her pain, fear and confusion, yet the first thing she asked me was what is happening with that Damm train?" You need to fully understand the stress and pain this proposal is having on the land owners in the path of destruction. I am urging you to deny Great Lakes Basin Railroad's request to extend the suspension of the environmental review process. They need to be given a firm final date to submit their paperwork, including contacted customers to your office. I am also respectfully asking you to issue a no build ruling once said paperwork is submitted, their is no justification for a project of this magnitude. Sincerely, Dennis Scheppler"
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(printed as 3/4/2017)CommentEI-25806Laura SchepplerPlease deny Great Lakes Basin Railroad's request to extend the suspension of the environmental review process. This company has had ample time to contract with customers and acquire financing. Their inability to produce one company willing to use their route should be enough for you to terminate this process. Added to this 2 of the 6 Class One Railroads have publically stated they will not use the route. I am asking you to please issue a final date by which Great Lakes Basin Railroad must submit a finalize proposal, or simply issue a no build ruling based on the information previously submitted. Sincerely, Laura SchepplerMount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 3/4/2017)CommentEI-25805Virginia GawI am writing to ask you to deny the Great Lakes Basin Railroad's request for an extension of the suspension of the environmental review process for their in-needed rail line. I am asking you to issue a date by which this company must submit all documentation, including financial, contracted customers, and a final route, to your office. This company's one paragraph status update is unacceptable. Please issue a final date by which this company must have final plans submitted or your office will consider the project ended. I further urge you to issue a no build ruling as this line will destroy the peace and serenity of the rural areas it would run through. Respectfully, Virginia GawArlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 3/4/2017)CommentEI-25803Fred SchepplerDear Ms. Rutson, I am writing to ask you to deny the Great Lakes Basin Railroad's request for an extension of the suspension of the environmental review process. This company has taken up enough of your time and the public's time on this project. You formally asked them for a status report, what they came back with was a one paragraph letter stating we need more time to acquire financing and customers. This all should have been lined up before they even contacted your office to begin this entire process. Great Lakes basin Railroads suggestion that the suspension be extend should be denied and they should be given a set deadline to submit an application to your office or your office will consider the project terminated. I am urging you to deny their request for a time extension and issue a tentative no build recommendation. Sincerely, Fred SchepplerSerena, IL
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(printed as 3/4/2017)CommentEI-25802Abe HenkerI am writing to urge you to deny Great Lakes basin Railroads request for a continuation of the suspension of the environmental review process. Great Lakes Basin has had ample time to complete the tasks involved in this process. At the very least I am asking that no further extensions be granted to this company. As a college student I find it appalling that Frank Patton can not even properly identify his company's name in his letter. I also find them to be like all college students, waiting until the last minute to complete what should have been done before they applied for permission to seek the ability to construct this line. Mr. Patton has had years to formulate and finalize a proper plan, yet here he is asking for even more time. Mr. Patton also did not provide you with a proper update or status report. This is not acceptable. This companies inability to complete a simple task, an update, their inability to ensure simple details in a letter, such as the name of his company, are correct are huge red flags indicating they are not serious about their task. operating a rail line is not a task that can be left to individuals who ignore the details. Too many lives are at risk as well as the environment to allow this company to operate a rail line. I am urging you to deny their extension request, deny any application to build a rail line, and immediately issue a no build ruling against them. Great lake's basin has wasted enough of your time and the public's time on this in-needed rail proposal. Sincerely, Abe HenkerMount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 3/4/2017)CommentEI-25801block glbPaul and Sharon Gaspar · Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 3/4/2017)CommentEI-25800corinne zagorskiDear Ms. Ruston, I respectfully request that the glbt be required to file an application by 4/30/2017. They have had ample time to do so, no further extensions or updates should be allowed. Thank you, Corinne Zagorskimanteno, IL - Illinois
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(printed as 3/4/2017)CommentEI-25799Jason KokosHello Ms. Rutson, I'm writing to ask you to please further consider the 5,000 plus comments regarding environmental concerns/socioeconomic concerns/unfair and unjust use of eminent domain for private profit/degradation of farmland/etc. that have ALREADY been submitted to date. This ongoing threat over peoples homes and livelihood has gone on far too long, especially at the tax payers expense. I cannot begin to express my hundreds of concerns so I'll be attaching 4 letters already written to the STB and previously submitted. These are written far better than any words I will be able to cobber together, and come from more than just an individual self. These letters are from governmental agencies (Illinois Dept. Natural Resources, Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning) among other groups who provide value to communities and people (Kankakee county soil and water Conservation & National Cattlemans & beef association). Please consider these well written letters and facts about this project.Sumner Township, IL
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(printed as 3/4/2017)CommentEI-25798Jason KokosHello again, Ms. Rutson, Jason Kokos here. Writing you again because I'm very disappointed the GLB is being offered yet ANOTHER extension to their deadline. Kind of defeats the purpose of a deadline, doesn't it? Anyways, not to be flip, but you could understand mine and others frustration at this point. I'm a 30 year old with a wife, 2 kids, and another on the way. I work 50-60 hours a week and I can ill afford to spend more of my precious free time opposing this travesty of a project. I stand to lose my home, land, town, and everything my wife and I worked to achieve since college. You may not think this is an environmental concern, but it surely effects my environment, and the entire environment of hardworking people, especially farmers who go about their business to put food on yours and this country's table. Perhaps the STB should further consider the concerns of the Kankakee County farm bureau. They've certainly explained the detriment of this project in their previous letter to the STB. Beyond that, one step further would the Illinois Farm Bureau. They have as well. Are these agencies concerns not being taken into account? I'd think at this point with all the negative feedback to date that this would be an easy decision for the STB? Maybe we are not understanding this weird and atypical process this far? Could you please provide the public with responses to all of the questions and comments submitted? That would help. So many comments to date, yet no responses? Thanks for your time, feel free to contact me at any time. Jason Kokos 7082595250 p.s. (attaching another well written letter by the Indiana State Representatives for your consideration)Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 3/4/2017)CommentEI-25797Sumner Township ResidentDear Ms. Rutson, In response to the deadline of February 28th to the GLB for an update and their letter asking, again for an extension to the suspension of the EIS, I insist the STB set a definite time limit for the suspension and give the GLB a firm deadline. This open-ended extension further allows the threat of the GLB hanging over our heads, we who stand to lose our homes and everything we have and worked for, insist that a deadline be set. The suspensions and extensions that you have already granted to the GLB are completely unfair to us. I want to know if you realize that this proposal threatens to wipe out a whole township? a 15,000 acre rail port, where there are people already living and working and thriving? GLB would like you to think it is barren wasteland just waiting for them to come in and develop it. We are far from barren wasteland! We are established homes, farms, churches, business, schools, cemeteries, greenhouses, and we do not deserve to live with the threat of eminent domain hanging over our heads for an undetermined amount of time. And that goes for the rest of the proposed rail line. No landowner or resident of these communities should have to be faced with this threat from this undeveloped company for an unproven benefit. We request that the extension of the pause will be the last extension and that the application will be considered withdrawn if not provided at the specified deadline. Thank you, Julie Kokos Sumner Township Kankakee County ILjulie kokos · grant park, IL
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(printed as 3/3/2017)CommentEI-25796susan sackWhen the STB okayed a suspension of the DEA environmental review for docket # FD 35952, it was clearly advised Great Lakes Basin Transportation was to submit an update regarding progress in filing their proposed project’s application. I am appalled that GLBT submitted a broad generalized statement on Feb. 28 and did not address what progress they have made toward completing an application. Was this what the STB was requesting? Had GLBT actually put effort into completing the application or are they sitting back to see how politics shake out? The statement, “We are holding discussions with potential customers, shippers, and other parties who may file statements in support of the application.” is insulting. GLBT filed with the STB a year ago and began discussions prior to filing yet they are still seeking potential customers who may file statements of support. They are wasting the time and resources of a federal agency with tasks that should have been the basics when forming a business plan. “Build it and they will come” places all the burden of risk on the tax payers. It is clear they have not even done the basics of a business plan and continue to make sweeping generalized mentions with no real evidence of need or necessity. While GLBT is putting together the basic first level of a business plan the landowners and concerned community members are paying federal taxes and living with the stress of an unknown future. Families are losing sleep over the potential project taking their property and endangering their income and quality of life. GLBT has requested additional time to get their business plan in order while we thousands of potentially impacted people must live with the uncertainty hanging over our heads indefinitely. I urge the STB to set a time limit for GLBT to submit their application. If the April 30 extension date is granted, I respectfully submit that the STB put a deadline ultimatum in place requiring GLBT to submit their completed application at that April 30th date or the STB will dismiss their request with a “no build” response. Please consider the record of GLBT. They obviously brought their proposal to the STB before they did their basic homework and now are expecting the board and citizens to wait while they try to figure out how to justify their scheme or get around the basic questions.Mendota, IL
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(printed as 3/3/2017)CommentEI-25795Michele MockusDear Ms. Rutson, Regarding the continued delay tatics by Great Lakes Basin Transportation and Frank Patton - please insist that they provide status update in a timely matter. They should have had this information ready before forming a company - no one who intends to actually run a company starts with no knowledge on who will be their customer. STP needs to set a time limit around the suspension of the environmental review process. Our properties are held hostage while this drags out. If I wanted to sell my home- I could not with this potential environmental hazard and noise pollution so close not to mention potential of nearby road closures. The GLBT needs to complete this process now and stop trying to wear down opposition with delay after delay in providing the information which will show they are not valid.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 3/3/2017)CommentFrank Patton
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(printed as 3/2/2017)CommentEI-25824Kathi JurkowskiKenneth, I am sorry to bother you but if you care enough to look at my slide presentation, I think you will know what we are up against with the railroad coming this way. So, disappointed to hear that once again Mr. Frank Patton has asked thousands of us to put our lives on hold for him. I am not a computer person but I am so passionate about stopping this train, I forced myself to do up this powerpoint presentation. I do hope you can take 5 minutes to look at it. Please? You can see many, many environmental issues being pointed out. If you watch this, you will feel our pain and be aware of our feelings and could happen to us. We do hope you care. Please share this with anyone who needs to see what is happening on the other side of the tracks. We are just hard working folks and not part of the billionaire boys club, but yet, they are going through us and over us to get rich. We do not need this railroad, please help us stop it. Thanks You. Kathi Jurkowski against GLBRR FD 35952 https://youtu.be/kJGX64qIJCE watch on You-tube
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(printed as 3/1/2017)Comment
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(printed as 3/1/2017)CommentEI-25778Essex Township supervisorIt the railroad goes through it will greatly reduce our tax base income. It will also cause extreme damage to out roads and ditches in which we do not have the manpower or funds to repair.Don Babjak · Essex, Il
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(printed as 2/28/2017)CommentEI-25790Kathi JurkowskiI have done up a slide presentation and it is now on You-tube I invite you to look at it and see what we all have to loose. Block the GLBRR. Please watch my presentation at: https://youtu.be/kJGX64ql.JCE. Block the railroad.Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 2/28/2017)CommentFrank Patton
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(printed as 2/24/2017)CommentEI-25771Rick CashenBy closing or frequently blocking small county roads the GLB rail would effectively cut off families and friends, disrupt local travel and make it much more difficult for farmers to get to their fields. If profits from this rail are so good have them elevate over all of the small roads. This would eliminate the burden on the rural communities and be much safer. Have the people making the profits serve the community!Lindenwood, IL
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(printed as 2/21/2017)Comment
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(printed as 2/17/2017)Comment[see attached letters]
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(printed as 2/17/2017)CommentEI-25762Kathi JurkowskiThis attached letter is from Judy Bates, her computer is down but this is her email address. spirit76jb@aol.comRockton, Illinois
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(printed as 2/15/2017)CommentEI-25765Susan SackI would like to express my frustration with the Temporary Suspension of the EIS scoping for GLBT's proposed project. To have my life on hold while GLBT is granted time to complete an application is concerning. A business should have a plan in place before wasting tax payer money on involvement of a Federal Agency and the time of thousands of land and homeowners who could be impacted directly. Home and land values are at stake. Many live in angst trying to deal with the unknown. Wondering will the proposed rail line move? Should I sell now to some unsuspecting person and invest in land somewhere else? Is my child's school going to close? Concerned citizens such as myself live in fear GLBT will be granted a permit then not have goods to move or the fund to even complete a build. If they are relying on contracts to move oil will the economics of energy pull the rug out from under them. The pipelines have started building to transport the oil underground, would rail transport be feasible? What would this proposed project do to existing short line railroads that serve Chicago? There are many, many more questions that keep me awake at night and there is no deadline for GLBT. Please keep the lives of the thousands that live within the 60 mile corridor of consideration by the EIS. We don't deserve to have this speculative business venture hanging over our lives indefinitely. Set a time limit for the application to be filed. Certainly GLBT knew they would have to have a comprehensive business plan before starting the STB permitting process.Mendota, IL
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(printed as 2/13/2017)CommentEI-25781Cindi Frees and Robert Lowestal[see attached letter]
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(printed as 2/13/2017)CommentEI-25764Rock Against the RailThe proposed GLB rail route will cross numerous conservation areas adjoining my property. I have 20 acres currently in federal CRP programs; my neighbor to the north has over 50 acres in CRP. The GLB route will bisect the 50-acre prairie, and come within 100 feet of my north property line. The railroad will also cross several local roads and cause great delays for emergency response if the projected traffic of 13 trains per hour is reached. There are several wetlands within the current projected route, as well.Chuck Kuecker · Beloit, Wisconsin
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(printed as 1/26/2017)CommentEI-25763Andrew D. AndersonPlease do whatever you are able to BLOCK the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. My family is slowly renovating a farm that has been in our family for generations. It's a simply hobby farm, but where the chickens and ducks wandered around, they intend to build a railroad. Our well is a shallow well that's worked for decades, one spill and then what's in my family's water? What then becomes of the creek running through the property? Rural living isn't just about the people - its about the animals and the land those people care for, too. The railroad has no interest in respecting and tending to nature the way those who chose it as a way of life do. PLEASE STOP THEM from taking away our way of life, our own family legacies, and the peace and quite that the healthy rural landscape embodies.Earlville, IL
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(printed as 1/23/2017)CommentEI-25782Peter and Susan Hanewall[see attached letter]
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(printed as 1/19/2017)CommentEI-25788John and Lori Vihnanek[see attached letter]
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(printed as 1/19/2017)Comment
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(printed as 1/18/2017)Comment
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(printed as 1/18/2017)CommentEI-25750Darin CoyerPlease do not approve the GLB RR request to build a railroad anywhere in the United States. The investors are just that…investors who want to make money at the expense of citizens. There is no good reason this company should ask or demand that anyone give up their land, home, etc. so they can make money. This could set a dangerous precedent for future companies to request Eminent Domain. Would you want to give up your home for a private investment group so they could make money and then request federal railroad loans? Where does the money for the federal railroad loans originate? Thank you. Darin CoyerEARLVILLE, Illinois
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(printed as 1/17/2017)CommentEI-25774M. Crandall[see attached letter]
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(printed as 1/17/2017)Comment
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(printed as 1/9/2017)CommentEI-25792Sharon Schwalbe[see attached letter]
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(printed as 1/9/2017)Comment
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(printed as 1/9/2017)CommentEI-25787Scot Krebs[see attached letter]
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(printed as 1/9/2017)CommentEI-25734Midway snobusterskevin kerchner · Orangeville, IL
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(printed as 1/3/2017)CommentEI-25793John E. Phillips[see attached letter]
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(printed as 1/3/2017)CommentEI-25733Town of BeloitKarry DeVault · Beloit, WI
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(printed as 12/31/2016)CommentEI-25730Ogle CountyThe proposed railroad will take up tens of thousand of acres of farmland and ruin tens of thousands more due to water shed. This land cannot be replaced or repaired. This is a disaster for the midwestern farmer, not to mention the destruction of hundred of family farms and thus family legacies. Please do everything in your power to stop the abomination.Terry Glendenning · Davis Junction, IL
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(printed as 12/30/2016)CommentEI-25729Roger P. AhlensdorfMr. Blodgett:As a citizen of a very small rural community, unincorporated, I don't feel it is of any advantage to run this railroad through our community and to cut through the farms surrounding the comunity. With several rural roads being closed, it will affect the travel for farmers to get to their land. There is also a cattle farmer in the rural area and it will cut through his land and make it difficult to feed the cattle. There should be another way to run this railroad and not affect the rural community's with the amount of rail traffic GLB is proposing. Thank you for your time in this matter. Roger & Susie Ahlensdorf--Kings, IllinoisKings, Illinois
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(printed as 12/29/2016)CommentEI-25791Mark Shedd[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/29/2016)CommentEI-25783Richard and Barbara Johnson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/29/2016)CommentEI-25775Shawn and Stephanie Daly[see attached letters]
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(printed as 12/29/2016)CommentEI-25728Ogle CountyThis railroad is preposterous! It is unnecessary, and unwanted. It is slated to go wishing 100 ft. of my kitchen window, yet not on my property, so that I will receive no compensation, but be cut off from route 251 and all access to emergency medical services, be landlocked in the case of emergency from the Byron Nuclear plant and lose all of my property value. This crossing so close to our home will force us to relocate our business, our home and family - for what? Please do everything possible to deny approval of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad - not only the present proposed route, but say no to the entire proposal. Sincerely, Tammy GlendenningTamara Glendenning · Davis Junction, IL
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(printed as 12/27/2016)CommentEI-25823Timothy William RyanI wish to register my opposition to any new railway being built named the Great Lakes Railway or any other as it is unneeded and appears to me to be an attempt to land grab. The Ill Farm bureau as well as all county Boards and farm bureaus and several grass roots groups have come into opposition to this so called railway. It doesnot need to be built and even it's market railways have said thy will not use it. In addition another public private partnership called CREATE is reducing congestion in rail transport further reducing the need for the GLB from being built. In short a bad idea with no market and many many people living and working along it's route oppose it. Tim RyanRockford, IL
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(printed as 12/23/2016)CommentEI-25784Raymond Jurkowski[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/23/2016)Comment
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(printed as 12/23/2016)CommentEI-25704John and Debra Turner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 12/22/2016)CommentEI-25724Jeanne VanhornPlease deny GLBR access to my property. My deceased husband and I worked hard all of our lives farming this land. We want our legacy to go to our children, not Frank Pattons children. Farmers are important. Thank you for allowing comments on this very disturbing proposal by the GLBR.Earlville, Illinois
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(printed as 12/20/2016)CommentEI-26083Dawn PowersSee attached letter
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(printed as 12/19/2016)CommentEI-25776Nancy Drake[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/19/2016)CommentEI-25767Charles and Flo Monk[see attached letters]
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(printed as 12/19/2016)CommentEI-25722Stephanie BallardThank you for listening to our concerns surrounding the possible intrusion of a railroad proposed by the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. To be clear, we do not want the tracks to be laid in Winnebago County because there is no need for such a business across the land. In the open, peaceful farmlands and homelands, it seems unreasonable to invite railroad traffic and noise pollution, especially when only 60+ miles east, highways such as Interstate 90 and Interstate 94 offer well-established pathways for moving goods. Alongside these thoroughfares, there are opportunities for laying tracks where neighboring businesses and metropolitan residences would welcome more commerce. The proposed map from GLBR cuts a swath of irreplaceable farmland and homeland, lands potentially disappearing in the name of progress. I think it's time to consider the individual owner who plants and loves the land over the right to practice eminent domain for those who would only profit. Thank you for your time and consideration.Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 12/19/2016)Comment[see attached comment]Mark Spreitzer, Wisconsin State Representative
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(printed as 12/19/2016)CommentEI-25709Lori PepperMr. Navecky, My farm is on the Boone County route and will be split in two by the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line should it be built. No matter what is offered for compensation it will not be sufficient to cover the damage done to the farm which is vital to my income. It will never be desired by farm renters as it is whole. New farm configurations will have to be made for rows that will not be straight. Farmers will not want to cross a field with machinery where trains cross one hundred times a day. They will not want to take a chance of a derailment of shale oil or other chemicals. Transporting equipment to the fields will be incredibly difficult during construction at road crossings. The value of the field will plummet from where it is now yet taxes will continue to rise. Kingsbury Creek and conservation easements along the waterway exist on this property. The railroad will put these environmentally sensitive assets in danger. The farm is also tiled. Building the railroad would require expense of relocating tile. Water will run differently once the easement and grading has been installed. Please do not allow the damage to Boone County from this private project. I ask that you deny the Great Lakes Basin Project as it will forever alter the agricultural face of the community.Sleepy Hollow, IL
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(printed as 12/19/2016)CommentEI-25708Ben VowlesThe proposed route runs right through my family farm on the Boone and Dekalb county line. This is very disturbing as our farm is both our livelihood and how we make a living. It's neither fair nor right for someone to just plan something through people's private property to benefit them. Being a privately funded railroad is exactly what this is, a way for someone to make a lot of money off of someone else by bullying them.Kirkland, IL
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(printed as 12/19/2016)CommentEI-25707Karen GillAs I understand, the GLB would exist mainly to haul oil. With all of it's resulting damage: spills,leaks, explosions, water and air pollution, climate change, etc., oil needs to become a thing of the past--the energy of the 20th century. Instead of inflicting his dirty legacy" on us, Frank Patton could invest in clean, renewable energy which has to be our FUTURE, the energy of the 21st century, and a much more noble "legacy". This area already has many abandoned railroad tracks, with the damage already done to the land."
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(printed as 12/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 12/18/2016)CommentEI-25717Melanie FetterlyHaving grown up in the West Rockford area, and a current land owner affected by the proposed rail route, I am greatly opposed to this project. This is hardly rural" Winnebago and is barely outside city limits, not to mention the amount of wetland and water resource areas this route covers in Winnebago county. The statements made how this will increase our property values is utterly false. Any property adjacent to a rail line is always reduced to almost the lowest values. I urge reconsideration on this proposed rail line. Thank you for your time, Melanie Fetterly"
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(printed as 12/17/2016)CommentEI-25719Paul and Sharon GasparManteno, Illinois
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(printed as 12/17/2016)CommentEI-25718RAILED3-page Chicago Tribune/Post Tribune Editorial Board article attached.Linda Cosgrove · Hebron, IN
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(printed as 12/16/2016)NoticeBlock Glb Railroad, Kankakee County, Citizens Against The Glb Railroad, Rock Against The Rail, Llc, Railed, Laporte, Winnebago County Against The Glb Railroad
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(printed as 12/16/2016)CommentEI-25706Walter WillsteadI do not want this railroad passing by my town because it will adversely effect that environment hereRochelle, IL
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(printed as 12/16/2016)CommentEI-25705Jane KetchamDear Mr. Blodgett, I see that GLBT has been granted a temporary suspension" of the environmental review process due to their lack of preparedness. GLBT's inability to adequately answer the STB's questions with thorough and accurate information should make it clear that this company is not competent to build and operate a railroad. In the meantime, the lives of thousands of people along the proposed route will continue to be disrupted by the anxiety and uncertainty about our future. When will a new public comment period be opened for the latest proposed route?"
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(printed as 12/15/2016)CommentEI-25702Joe Hutter[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/15/2016)CommentEI-25701Sumner Township ResidentDear Ms. Ruston, Regarding your letter granting the glb a temporary suspension" of the EIS, please tell me why this company is allowed every consideration, extension, favor, etc. when it should not be. Why? Why does your letter read "Once glb files its application with the Board, OEA will resume work on determining a range of reasonable and feasible alternatives to be addressed.....etc..." Please tell me who is determining these "reasonable alternatives"? to me it sounds as if the STB believes there are reasonable alternatives! What happened to the ''NO BUILD ALTERNATIVE"?? Why is glb allowed a suspension if an application had not even been filed up to this point??? How does the glb get all these favors?? And "....they MAY have additional public scoping meetings, if warranted." REALLY?? Is the STB going to base their decision to allow this to happen on what the glb tells you?? Are you allowing the glb to threaten us to be pushed off our property by the abuse of eminent domain?? I believe the STB Board needs to come out and view every inch of this proposed rail line and rail port to see that there are people living and thriving here! ALL of YOU need to come out and see our homes and farms and land and jobs and churches and cemeteries and orchards and greenhouses and schools and environment that would be destroyed by this scheme!! The request for suspension should have been denied not approved!! Why do you ignore 5000+ comments and oppositions? This is a flawed and unfair process and it needs to be rejected now! thank you, Julie Kokos"Julie Kokos
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(printed as 12/15/2016)CommentEI-25698Rock Against the RailDate on letter send earlier this morning was incorrect. This copy corrects the dateMark and Mirjam Melin · Clinton, WI
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(printed as 12/15/2016)CommentEI-25697Paul and Sharon GasparManteno, Illinois
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(printed as 12/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 12/14/2016)CommentEI-25703Gloria Mathews[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/14/2016)CommentEI-25700Frank and Susan PollardMy husband and his siblings own farmland in the town of Rock, Rock County, Wisconsin. The proposed railroad will be crossing Gooseneck Creek which flows through our property. This creek feeds into the Rock River. Building this railroad will have a negative impact on this creek and ultimately Rock River. Will the railroad go over the creek? How wide will the crossing be? Will the railroad constrict the flow of water in the creek used to feed livestock? God forbid there is a derailment in the future, the negative impact of chemicals, toxic waste, or oil on the water would be devastating. This railroad route will devalue our property, negatively impact wildlife, and disrupt our way of life and the future use of this property. We pray for a NO BUILD OPTION!Eau Claire, Wisconsin
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(printed as 12/14/2016)CommentEI-25699Frank and Susan PollardMy husband and his siblings own farmland in the town of Rock, Rock County, Wisconsin. The proposed railroad will be crossing Gooseneck Creek which flows through our property. This creek feeds into the Rock River. Building this railroad will have a negative impact on this creek and ultimately Rock River. Will the railroad go over the creek? How wide will the crossing be? Will the railroad constrict the flow of water in the creek used to feed livestock? God forbid there is a derailment in the future, the negative impact of chemicals, toxic waste, or oil on the water would be devastating. This railroad route will devalue our property, negatively impact wildlife, and disrupt our way of life and the future use of this property. We pray for a NO BUILD OPTION!Eau Claire, Wisconsin
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(printed as 12/14/2016)CommentEI-25695Dennis CzerwinskiRural access to east west is limited as is, without rail north and south interruption. Noise is a concern as well as EPA impact. Wildlife free migration is also a concern. property division causes financial impact. We don't need or want the rail in our community.Rockton, Il.
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(printed as 12/14/2016)CommentEI-25694Dennis CzerwinskiRural access to east west is limited as is, without rail north and south interruption. Noise is a concern as well as EPA impact. Wildlife free migration is also a concern. property division causes financial impact. We don't need or want the rail in our community.Rockton, Il.
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(printed as 12/14/2016)CommentEI-25693Rachel CatesMr. Kenneth Blodgett, Good Morning. We recently moved into our home, having only lived on Cleophas for almost 2 years We love it. The tranquility and the wild life - this is the reason we moved out of the city. With the proposed GLB Rail line all of that will be taken from us. We will have lost everything we saved for. It took us nearly 20 years to squirrel away enough money to have our dream of country living. We view the GLB railroad to be a threat to our home both in value and physically. Vibrations with every train that passes will cause damage to our foundation, walls, pictures, dishes windows, etc. The noise will destroy the beauty of the frogs croaking, cows mooing, coyotes yipping and the sweet caress of the wind on a summer day–after all who wants to relax in a hammock to the sound of horns and clickity-clack? People move to the country for peace and quiet, just like we did. Our home will lose value–our equity will mean less than it would if the peace and quiet were maintained. Loss of sleep will occur as the noise is not welcomed, like the gentle chirp of crickets singing a chorus with the tiger frogs. We will not be able leave our windows open during the wonderful spring, summer and fall months. This will increase our reliance on A/C to keep our home cool. So not only do we lose value in our home, but it will cost more to run the home. As a community we will be exposed to any potential spills than could damage the ground water, soils, and the beautiful wetlands the Audubon Society (http://www.greenrockaudubon.org/graslands.html) maintains next door to our home. A small but important trout stream is located in the GRASlands and it must remain pure as possible. My husband and I will have to cross the line at least once to get to work which will add time to our individual commutes – which equals more money to pay for gas waiting at the crossings. This rail line offers no value to me or my community. Please put a stop to this railroad. Please do not allow big money to win. Thank you for your time, Rachel Cates 6717w Cleophas Road Beloit, WI. 53511Beloit, WISCONSIN
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(printed as 12/13/2016)CommentPlease see attached commentsJudy Barnard · Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 12/13/2016)CommentFrank Patton
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(printed as 12/12/2016)CommentEI-25780Larry and Tracey Farr[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 12/11/2016)Comment
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(printed as 12/10/2016)CommentEI-25684Karen GillAs a landowner on one of the possible GLB routes, who could have half of my land destroyed, I know the anguish that hundreds of others are feeling. This devastating railroad should not be forced upon us. The impacts and dangers will far outweigh any possible gains. Farm land should be preserved to grow food and natural areas should be left to keep the environment and wildlife healthy. PLEASE SAY NO TO GLB.Kirkland, IL
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(printed as 12/8/2016)CommentEI-25690mike bloomWe oppose the building of this railroad. impact on environment and farming.Also allowing private company to take private land through eminent domain.Potential road closings are all part of railroading the county.durand, il
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(printed as 12/8/2016)CommentEI-25683JonI believe that the GLB project is a complete abuse of the eminent domain system. This project will effect many people lives in a negative manner. It will also effect emergency response time of police and fire due to the proposed closing of several roads where the line would cross. This could cost peoples lives when seconds count. Think about that, if it were you or your loved one.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 12/7/2016)CommentEI-25689Rock against the rRailMirjam Melin · Clinton, WI
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(printed as 12/7/2016)CommentEI-25682Holmes ThomasThis proposed project is one that is totally unneeded. It will displace many people from their livelihoods as well as steal away many thousands of acres of highly productive farmland. Also the environmental impact could be disastrous to many sensitive areas, including drinking water for thousands. I urge you to deny the approval of this proposal. The rail companies have also shown no support also, so all that leaves i a bunch of bureaucrats trying to pocket a lot of money into their pockets at the expense of other people. Thank you, Thomas HolmesThomas Holmes · Bourbonnais, IL
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(printed as 12/7/2016)CommentEI-25681Steven SeiterPlease re-open comment period regarding the Great Lakes Basin transportation railroad. I oppose the building of the railroad on a number of environmental and logistic points. Among them impact on land and soil and conservation programs in the area. Logistically the crossings at multiple roads. CREATE is already involved in relieving Chicago area congestion.ROCKFORD, IL
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(printed as 12/6/2016)CommentEI-25667Sharon Schwalbe[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/6/2016)CommentEI-25654C. Gabriel[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/5/2016)CommentEI-25768Andy CorbusSubject: GLBT Process Dear Ms. Rutson, In light of Mr. Patton’s request, could you please advise how the public will be served through the EIS process when an actual application is filed? It is clear that Mr. Patton sees this process as premature. The only way this can be interpreted, is that significant changes to the proposal are coming or worse, being created. How will these changes be incorporated into the EIS process? Clearly the public has expressed resounding concern for what has been shared by GLBT thus far. If what has been submitted is not what is intended, then the public has been denied due process to express concern. While I understand the interest on behalf of the STB to begin the lenghty EIS process, this request shows that indeed this has been premature, particularly for a project of this size. As a taxpayer, I request that the board take “no action” on the current proposal, and in the event Mr. Patton ask to reinstate the process, the STB must require an application be submitted, and fees be paid prior to anymore taxpayers dollars being used to collect information. Sincerely, Andrew Corbus acorbus@gmail.com (815) 953-9700
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(printed as 12/5/2016)CommentEI-25688Alan R. SmithI have a safety concern with the proposed GLB Railroad. There will be many road that are dead ended into the track that will cause EMS to have to increase response time. This is unacceptable for a project that gives no benefit to the community it effects.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 12/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 12/5/2016)CommentEI-25670Dinah Swanson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/5/2016)CommentEI-25663Dennis G. Scheppler[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 12/5/2016)CommentEI-25655Loreen Crowley[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/5/2016)CommentEI-25651Barb Smith[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/3/2016)CommentEI-25686Barbara BeelerMr. Blodgett My husband Dan and I own a 54 acre farm on the west side of Beloit Wisconsin. We've raised 5 children on our farm. We also raise beef, sheep, goats, pigs, and many poultry. I do all the farm work and my husband worked at a local factory Warner Brake and Clutch. He worked there for 37 years and came home in 2009 and said they're closing the factory. 2010 my husband was diagnosed with Rhumtoid arthritis and could no longer worker as a machinist at age 56. So we came up with an idea to put a restaurant in part of our barn, no bank would help and I was called crazy by every financial institution around here. But be persistent we got it built and it has been going for 5 years now. We serve Breakfast and lunch and we raise most everything here on our farm. Now we have a new challenge the GLB train wants to go through our pasture and crop field and will cut our 54 acres in half. Our grazing pasture and crop field will be on the other side of the tracks. The rail will come about 150 ft from our barn and restaurant. If this train goes through our property it will put us out of business. I don't know how they would ever be able to make a way for the animals to get to the pasture there will be no water for them on the other side of the tracks. Our animals are primarily grass fed and would not adapt well to trains buzzing by daily. There is also a wetlands and bird sanctuary across the road. The deer and turkeys cross our land, I wonder how many will be killed by these trains. I understand progress but this train makes no sense. Tearing up farmland and destroying lives is not the answer. We have worked hard for everything we have and now we facing 2 to 3 years not knowing if a train is going to ruin our lives. We had hoped to retire in a few years and our son and his wife and 2 boys would take over the farm but if the train goes through, that dream is over. Family farms are an endangered species. I thank you for your time to read and listen to all of us who are effected by the GLB railroad. Sincerely Barb BeelerBeloit, Wisconsin
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(printed as 12/3/2016)CommentEI-25680Sheena ShonesI will loose my part-time job if this train is put in. I use such extra funds to help those in need in Winnebago County as we all know Rockford is the highest crime rate city in the country. I speak with Old Timers whom are not used to change and could very well become very sick with this amount of change to their home lands. We need to focus more on helping those with addictions, schooling, love, health and so on. This train will not help those in need in the area and in fact puts those already struggling in harms way even deeper. This seems to be more of a ploy for depopulation then to fix the problems that are already here. This is a temporary profit plan that has proven over and over again to fail in the long term by destroying ecosystems around the world. Surrounding the city with a hazardous train system is asking for a major disaster. This is a profit plan and not in any way a plan to better society. Eminent domain can not be forced for a profit plan. Ecosystems, water, historic sights, jobs, safety, property values, commutes (ambulances/police/workers); these things will all suffer. Good profits for the investors, must be nice for the few to profit off the backs of the many. There are many people in Rockford whom are blind to what is really going on. They are being told lies and only what the media wants to show. They have no clue that they will never get a job from this train. There will be no jobs for those in Winnebago County and if there are it will not be for those whom really need a job, of whom there are thousands. Water. Can we live with out water?Rockton, IL
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(printed as 12/3/2016)CommentEI-25679Bruce TuckerI am opposed to building the rail road for several reason, All of the houses in my area have wells for water a derailment could contaminate the water source for humans and animals. Road closing is the main access to the town not only inconvenience and cost to travel farther to the stores but also longer response for safety crews to have access to the area.I am sure my home insurance will be increased because of availability. What effect will it have on property value, I moved out into the country to get away from noise,Rockton, IL
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(printed as 12/3/2016)CommentEI-25643John and Tammie HilgartJOHN/TAMMIE HILGART 8939 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD H BELOIT WI. 53511 815-742-1066 I LIVE IN RURAL ROCK COUNTY WISCONSIN THIS GLB PROPSAL WILL BLOCK OUR ROADS AND PUT US IN GRAVE DANGER IF AN EMERGENCY WOULD ARISE.BELOIT, WI
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(printed as 12/2/2016)Comment
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(printed as 12/1/2016)CommentEI-25662Joseph Schauer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/1/2016)CommentEI-25660Roger A. Peters[see attached letter]
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(printed as 12/1/2016)CommentEI-25641Sumner Township ResidentDear Victoria Ruston & Staff, since the request for more information from the GLB was filed yesterday Nov 30th, I have something to point out. While the GLB would have you think that there is nothing in the way of their proposed railport in SUMNER TOWNSHIP not Manteno like they want to disguise it.....15,000 acres of it, no less....I want the STB officials to come out to view this 15,000 acre area! No, I want the STB to come out and view every inch of the proposed track and the proposed rail port! Every inch!!! so that you can see we are developed! We have homes and farms and our land is not for sale! How dare ANY individual request for you to allow them to take away property owners land and farms??? Why is our human environment not important?? This has gone on far too long. This has been an illegal process from the beginning and you seem to be allowing it to continue. Stop wasting tax payer money on a study and REJECT this proposal now! I would like a response to this submission. Thank you, Julie Kokos SUMNER TOWNSHIP KANKAKEE COUNTYJulie Kokos · Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 12/1/2016)CommentEI-25640Jeff BlascoeI am asking that the comment period be reopened concerning the railroad. I oppose the building of the GLB railroad for environmental reasons as it will run through too much farmland. Land that has been in families for generations and has always been used to produce corn, beans, hay, straw to maintain their cattle and to produce food for the country. Also I oppose allowing a private company to take private land through eminent domain. Also travel will become more dangerous especially for large slow moving farm equipment crossing the tracks.Pecatonica, IL
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(printed as 12/1/2016)CommentEI-25639Margaret JohnsonI continue to have many concerns about GLB toll" railroad running thru my farm property and next to my home. The latest info I received is that GLB only plans to have two overpasses in Winnebago County...Rte 20 and Rte 75. 29 roads would be crossed causing a huge financial burden on the county for any crossings or overpasses. To date I don't believe any railroads have indicated an interest in using this "toll" railroad. Please don't allow this to happen."
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(printed as 11/30/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/30/2016)CommentEI-25636Venable LLP (Counsel for GLBT)[see attached email and letter. Mr. Johnson also submitted a .KMZ file with geospatial data, which can be seen on the project web site at http://www.greatlakesbasinraileis.com/links_docs.html]Jay C. Johnson, Esq
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(printed as 11/29/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/29/2016)CommentEI-25668Lori Smith[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/29/2016)CommentEI-25656Corporal C. Juno[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/29/2016)CommentEI-25638Elaine BohlAs the late Paul Harvey commented: Paving over farmland is an UNERASEABLE MISTAKE". When the land & livelihood is taken from Farmers, an entire culture is killed. Not only do farmers work where they live, but they live where they work. No amount of payment for farmland can compensate for future loss of employment & food production. There is no "Fair Trade" agreement possible in replacing farming with a railyard & transportation project proposed. 15,000 acres of prime farmland, with many waterways flowing into the Kankakee River (ultimately the Illinois & Mississippi Rivers) supply not only local needs, but provide benefits far beyond rural communities of Kankakee County. Remove the viability of this area & you'll contribute to the degradation of the entire state & nation. Farmers do not "clock in" (or out) on a time clock, or get paid by the hour; neither are they salaried according to their education or experience. Farming is more than having a job; it is a way of life based upon hands-on learning experience from childhood through the ultimate "retirement" age: death. Often the legacy of a Farmer is continued for generations on the same land as their ancestors. This heritage is priceless. The proposed 15,000 acre railyard placement would spell the demise of one entire township (Sumner) and as a result the school district & village of Grant Park (recently named a "Train Town USA" by Union Pacific -- one of the Railroads not on board with the GLB project: sadly ironic as trivial as this may seem to an outsider. Besides all the new homes built & trees planted in this area (rural subdivision extensions of Grant Park) by many who have moved out here as a refuge from city & suburban existence, there is at least one church & 2 cemeteries centrally located within the proposed railyard. With at least 3 generations of relatives on both sides of my family buried in the 3 acre Heusing cemetery resting virtually "dead center" of the proposed railyard, I strongly object to the GLB project being planned for this area. I lived on 2 farms growing up & attending schools in Manteno & Grant Park; my mother's nephew lives on the farm which has been our "homeplace" for at least 4 generations; my parents built 2 brick houses (& farm machinery buildings" & planted many trees) all of which stand along opposite sides of the width of the "railyard". This is not an "undeveloped" area; it continues to be viably productive & conducive to healthy lifestyles as it is. A GLB railroad project can not reasonably substitute for the quality of life here. My concerns reach out much further than this immediate vicinity, & are shared by the many other people in all 7 counties in IL, 3 in IN & the WI county affected by this project. I join with the voices of all the residents in pleading for the denial of Great Lakes Basin Rail Transportation project. Thank you for your attention to these concerns. -- Elaine M. Bohl, 63 Maple Lane, Manteno 60950"
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(printed as 11/28/2016)CommentEI-25622Allen HolecekWe are very opposed to the GLB RR proposal. The number of trains would make commuting difficult not to mention getting fire trucks, ambulances, and police cars to areas needing assistance. There is also the danger of derailments and chemical spills. Please do not approve this bad idea.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 11/28/2016)CommentEI-25621Scott MillerI am asking that the comment period be reopened and I oppose that this railroad be built.I can not imagine what it would be like if this railroad is allowed to be built.As a home owner you decide were to live taking into consideration many things. Now after 20 years and thinking about retirement my house value will plummet as well as the peace and quite of our subdivision. Please reconsider what this railroad would do to this community! Thank you Scott millerRockford, IL
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(printed as 11/28/2016)CommentEI-25620Laura MohoiI am writing AGAINST the proposed GLBR preferred route! We just moved here about 6 months ago and LOVE the area!!! What I love about it is how it's full of wildlife, farming, trees, not a lot of traffic, it is peaceful here. I don't want my new home to be invaded with the noise of train whistles, noises, and chaos. I love this town the way it is LEAVE IT ALONE!!! I currently have deer that come into my yard and all sorts of other wildlife (Fox, skunk, raccoon, opossum, coyote, etc), if you put your railroad here were is all that wildlife going to go? You will destroy their homes, their way of life. Not to mention the fact that you will be cutting down a lot of trees and environmentally changing the climate around me.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 11/27/2016)CommentEI-25649kathi JurkowskiI am very concerned that with the GLBRR coming just 70 feet from my house, that my husband who is now on oxygen full time will have more problems breathing. The fumes from these diesel engines will surely make his life to live more difficult. IT IS THE DIE IN DIESEL THAT WORRIES US............does anyone care?Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/27/2016)CommentEI-25619Lori VihnanekMr Ken Bodgett, We are sending you a plea to re-open the comment period regarding the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project. (FD 35952). We also ask that the Surface Transportation Board reject the building of the GLB Railroad. I initially heard about the Great Lakes Basin Railroad reroute through Winnebago County in October 2016, the day of the public forum in Rockton, IL. We are shocked that a private company is planning to build a toll railroad bisecting our county and may obtain our land through imminent domain. We honestly thought it was too ridiculous of a notion to be a reality. Our county would be cut in half, the rail line cutting us off from virtually everywhere we go and everything we do. My husband and I live in rural Winnebago County. In 2015 our property taxes ranked 25th highest out of the 3,143 counties in the United States. Our schools are very good . We do not have city water or sewer. Our fire department is made up of volunteers. We pay for our garbage pickup. We CHOOSE to live here because we LIKE the peace and quiet; it is one of the few benefits we have. We are not looking for growth, noise or air pollution, increased commute time or threats to personal safety presented by graded rail crossings. The proximity of the proposed railroad would only further decrease our withering property values. I have a 23 mile (45 minute) commute to work in Rockford every day. If this private railroad goes through, it will close the road I drive to and from work every day, requiring me to backtrack west to Boswell Road to find a east/west thoroughfare. I estimate my commute time to increase to 1-1.5 hours each way to and from work. EVERYTHING WE DO requires travel eastward; work, grocery shopping, restaurants, visiting friends, schools. Our Emergency Medical services, school bus service all comes from the east. Disruptions in travel time is one more burden WE would have to bear. The excess travel time needed for Emergency personnel traveling to assist us in a life threatening event would limit a positive medical outcome for any of us to the west of the rail line. We have the delicate Nygren wetlands and the Sugar River nearby. We are surrounded by wildlife whose safety would be threatened by trains cutting through their territory. We fear the pollution caused by train travel near these areas would be detrimental and in the event of a derailment or spill- catastrophic!! Many people are excited about the rail line because they think it will tie in with our airport freight service, when in fact air freight is usually more expensive lighter goods like electronic and medical goods as compared to heavier goods transported by rail including petroleum, volatile liquids and other hazardous materials Tolls charged to rail companies to use this rail line will only be passed on to consumers; AGAIN- no benefit to the public. According to GOTO 2040 study published by Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning in 2010, percentage of freight movement is as follows: 67% truck, 30% rail, 3% other (water and air freight). The study also reports “Many heavy freight rail lines have fallen into disuse or are currently underutilized.” It suggests this is due to insufficient funding. A study conducted by U of I Champaign in 2012 lists the number 1 cause of train derailments is broken rails or welds. Why would any entity build a new rail route if there is insufficient funding to maintain existing rail lines? Better alternatives: Improve and maintain current and under-utilized rail routes - will not require more land acquisition. Increase use of Panama Canal to reroute goods to opposite coasts. On June 26, 2016, Panama completed the widening of the Panama Canal to accommodate the new container ships. The efficiency of shipping by water is 50 to 1 vs shipping by rail. This suggests that a new rail line really is not necessary. Improve and expand highways for more efficient truck freight transportation. (67% freight transport is via trucking, which supports the argument for improved trucking routes.) GOTO2040 acknowledges that truck routes need to be updated and improved for better efficiency . Statistics also show improved safety in truck freight transport; freight truck crashes decreased 11% from 2006 to 2008. Even in the event of a truck crash, the environmental impact is not as devastating as a train derailment. In summary, we see no evidence of any local benefit to be realized by the GLB railroad. We hear about economic benefits and jobs, but no one has actually outlined what those benefits might be. Goods transported by rail would not stop here; it is by definition a ‘through route’. Thousands of acres of productive farmland would be taken. If the railroad is built it will be of significant detriment to my way of life and to all of us living near or west of the proposed route. The impact of a derailment in our area would take years and many taxpayer dollars to recover and rebuild. There are better alternatives. Any economic gain would line the pockets of people far removed from the people residing here. Sincerely, John and Lori Vihnanek 15586 Sharp Road Rockton, IL 61072 815-629-2701 References : GOTO2040; Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning; 2010 Analysis of Causes of Major Train Derailment and Their Effect on Accident Rates; Xiang Lui, Rapik Saat, and Christopher P.L. Barkan; U of I Champaign; 2012 Quantitative Analysis of Factors Affecting Accident Probability and Severity; R.T Anderson; U of I Champaign; 2005Rockton, IL
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(printed as 11/27/2016)CommentEI-25618Rose Mary TurnerI am asking that the comment period be reopened,I oppose the building of this railroad.My property will loose its value, and my property is my retirement.No eminent domain for private gain!!We are rural farm land, and this railroad will affect the farms.Potential contamination.Impact of the environment .Please stop Great Lake Basin RailroadThank youRockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/27/2016)CommentEI-25617Jackie FloydNO NO NO ! We fear that this new railway will cause property values to drop. Seems like a losing proposition all the way around.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 11/26/2016)CommentEI-25616Petra MainsPlease observe all the damage that GLB Railroad would cause with the current route planned. So many homes and properties would be totally ruined . As well as the contents planned on this railroad would be such a huge problem were any spills to occur not to mention the disruption caused by this planned route and the land it would be crossingRockton, Il
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(printed as 11/25/2016)CommentEI-25661Susan Shade[see attached letters from Nov 8 and Nov 18]
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(printed as 11/25/2016)CommentEI-25652Dr. Lynell Brown[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/25/2016)CommentEI-25650Dana Atkinson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/25/2016)CommentEI-25601Dave KlingenmeyerDear Mr. Blodgett, My rural country house is located within less than a mile of the current Proposal route in Winnebago IL. I am very concerned of having a train run thru our county let alone my backyard. 23 years ago purchased 9.1 acres of land to be away from typical city noise and transportation, as my family and I enjoy peace and quiet and the serenity of the outdoors. My woodland is currently enrolled in the IL Department of Natural Resources Forestry division, with a goal of enhancing structure for wildlife, reforestation of quality trees and the preservation of nature in its natural setting. A railroad in this location will destroy all of the improvements and goals that have been in process for the last 23years. In addition a railroad anywhere in our county and especially my backyard will drop my property value significantly. I have also learned of potential railroad crossing and the possibility of a dead end county roads which may be necessary to control safe passage of traffic. This would be a great inconvenience to traffic flow, my time and my neighbor’s time frame to and from work. Please, please consider how this rail system will impact me and my neighbors personally. Put yourself in my shoes, with the extensive monetary investment I have made in the purchase of my property, land and the value of my home which my wife and I have worked our whole life to achieve and then to allow GLBT to take a large portion of our lifelong dream away from us for their own profit and gain!! This train is absolutely not in the best interest of our community, county or even our state. It simply will serve the greedy billionaires at all of the impacted citizens expense. Please do not allow their request to be granted. Thank you for your thoughtful consideration to this matter.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 11/22/2016)CommentEI-25648Arthur Thomas LeDouxHere in Winnebago County there has been much confusion as to roads that will be closed, have crossings or an overpass. The former route had these on the map as well as a schedule showing them (well with a few errors). I feel this confusion is adding even more discontent to those affected by this proposal. I request that this information be provided to the public. We need clarification! Thank You, Art LeDouxStillman Valley, Il
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(printed as 11/22/2016)CommentEI-25615Emily LopataThe Great Lakes Basin Railroad shouldn't lay tracks, for it will have a huge negative effect on the people and environment. For example if a rail car carrying certain chemicals got in a wreck, countless people would have to evacuate schools, business and even their homes. Why would we place our community in a potentially dangerous and deadly situation? Additionally wildlife such as the already endangered Massasauga Rattlesnake would be effected since the tracks invade Its - and many other animals - habitat. Also , even just one derailment could cause permanate damage to our aquifer. The risks of the railroad outway any positives. We cannot risk our lives and health and the well being of our land and animals. Once damage is done there is no way to take back the environmental pollution of this traveling bomb.Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/22/2016)CommentEI-25614Jerri NollerRockton, IL
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(printed as 11/22/2016)CommentEI-25613Rockton TownshipThomas Jencius, Supervisor · Rockton, IL
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(printed as 11/22/2016)CommentEI-25612Diane FeuilleratThis planned railroad is directly adjacent to my property here on Forest Preserve Road in Rockton IL. this will have a very adverse affect on my safety, my farm land. The impact on my environment is very negative with both the sound and the potential for contamination of our ground water. This is VERY illegal to take our private land for private gain!! the potential road closures, potential derailments, the noise, our plummeting property values, and the adverse effect on our area schools is very frightening and alarming. it is wrong to allow this private company to take away our peace and quiet here in the rural Rockton area. Please consider all of these things in your decision.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 11/22/2016)CommentEI-25611Jerri NollerMy name is Jerri Noller. My husband Gary and I live on Shirland Rd., Rockton, Il. Our farm will take a direct hit from the September 2016 proposed route of the Great Lakes Basin railroad project. We will not only loose our ability to raise Black Angus Cattle on our farm, we will also lose our farm buildings and our home. I am sure it is of no concern to the builders of this project, but we have been married 50 years and we have worked hard all of these years to build this our retirement nest. This is not a Centennial farm, we did not inherit the land, we have worked harder than you can probably imagine. Just think of this farm as an IRA account. The land, buildings and livestock all had value and now it is virtually worth nothing. In addition, the following environmental issues are of the utmost importance to this area in northern Illinois: impact on the local water quality and aquafer, air pollution from high speed trains, the noise produced by trains in the quiet rural area, the impact on wildlife; birds, bees, waterfowl and four legged critters. Equally important are these issues: for those who will still have a home there is the issue of insurance: rural insurance rates are based on the fire departments ability to reach property quickly and with a quick source to water (no fire hydrants here), school buses ability to serve school children, farmers ability to reach their fields safely to work the land, road closures causing a disruption of area traffic flow for fire departments, rescue personnel, school buses and working people and of course the major issue is the decrease in property values. Be thorough in your research of this project and you will quickly come to the conclusion that this rail line is not a good fit for any property in the 3 states and 11 counties targeted. Sincerely, Jerri NollerRockton, IL
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(printed as 11/22/2016)CommentEI-25610Bruce McDonaldI oppose the building of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad in my region because of the negative effects that it will have on the farming community in the Shirland, Illinois area.Durand, Illinois
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(printed as 11/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/21/2016)CommentEI-25669W. Sonneson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/21/2016)CommentEI-25659Marilyn Mohring[see attached file]
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(printed as 11/21/2016)CommentEI-25657Margaret Johnson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/21/2016)CommentEI-25608Pamela PasswatersGreat Lakes Basin Railroad would take the away the value of all our homes. In some cases it will make them completely worthless. It is going through some of our pasture where our animals graze and cutting our fields in half. Great Lakes Basin Railroad is a private company for individuals to get wealthy at the expense of American farmers and small individuals.Durand, IL
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(printed as 11/21/2016)CommentEI-25607Rock Against the Rail et alThomas F McFarland · Chicago, IL
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(printed as 11/21/2016)CommentEI-25606US citizenThere has been no reasonable efforts to tell the public why this new railroad is so critical for the USA national security or local economic interests which require that the Federal government needs to invoke eminent domain. Eminent domain if used incorrectly is not fair, and it would appear that in this case the local public does not know what business or government agendas are being pursued. We can only guess this is being done so that some unknown group of rich people or corporations who have more influence than ordinary people will make money and that people losing bicentennial family farms and houses are only collateral damage"."Wayne Bates · roscoe, il
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(printed as 11/21/2016)CommentEI-25600Aaron T HallTo whom it may concern, I strongly urge you to reject the alternate route proposed by Great Lakes Basin Transportation Inc. The GLBRR will traverse Winnebago county residences, farms, businesses, watersheds, and protected natural areas, permanently altering and damaging them. Additionally, the GLBRR will increase risk of derailments as well as other events that may prove catastrophic to the community. The community and surrounding natural area will bare the economic and environmental burden while the private Great Lakes Basin Transportation Inc benefits financially. I have attached a photograph taken today(11/21/2016) of over a hundred federally protected Sandhill Cranes grazing in a field which the proposed GLBRR would destroy. This threatened species was once on the verge of extinction due to the destruction of their natural habitat, the same habitat this rail road would destroy. Sincerely, Aaron T HallRockton, il
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(printed as 11/21/2016)CommentEI-25599Charles Dean PasswatersStop the GLB railroad. Building this railroad through Winnebago County has no redeeming value to the citizens of Winnebago for the following reasons: 1. Property values within a 10 mile radius will drop. 2. Access to properties in both directions will be extremely restricted that will cause huge delays for citizens who live near by, for emergency vehicles having to wait for a train, for school buses trying to deliver students to and from school in Shirland and elsewhere, for farmers trying to reach their land on either side. There have been numerous meetings & rallies in opposition of GLB and, to my knowledge, not one meeting for the railroad. I think that says volumes.Durand, IL
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(printed as 11/21/2016)CommentEI-25598Peggy L.LewisMy life savings are in my house. NO TRAINS. I live withing 1 mile where trains will pass. My property value will go down. This is a private company. No eminent domain for big business! is not for good of the people! PLEASE! If something needs to get to its destination faster, use trucking. This is only for their convience to make more money for themselves with no benifit to people in this area. What happens if there is a spill? who pays for clean up? What about our two main rivers. Please give this your top consideration. Thank you. Peggy L. LewisRockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/21/2016)CommentEI-25583Jim Jost and Alexandria Mercer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/20/2016)CommentEI-25605Wm B. RaehlPlease STOP the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad from building a railroad in Rock County, Winnebago County and Ogle County. Thanking you in advance for your time and consideration into this matter. Respectfully, Wm B. RaehlRockton, Il
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(printed as 11/20/2016)CommentEI-25604Sally RaehlPlease help STOP the proposal of the Great Lakes Basin Pail Railroad running through Rock County, Winnebago County and Ogle County. Thanking you in advance for your time and consideration into this matter. Sally RaehlRockton, Il
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(printed as 11/20/2016)CommentEI-25597Michelle PresslerTo: Surface Transportation Board From: iMpress Alpacas/Dr. Michelle Pressler/Mr. William Ward Date: November 18, 2016 Re: Docket # FD 35952 Dear Surface Transportation Board, We are writing to inform the board how the proposed railline will affect us, express concerns and question several aspects of the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad Proposal-Docket # FD 35952. We don’t believe that the full aspect of the installation of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad (GLBR) has been examined. Moreover, should a derailment occur, we will be directly affected by this event; our livestock will be decimated and our water supply (household and livestock) will be contaminated; along with several areas near our property. It will be a devastating event both for the installation of the railroad and in the event of a derailment. We comment here only on about a radius of 5 miles of our property. Although we are extremely concerned as to how the railroad will affect us and our livelihood, we have also detailed some other aspects per our observations as they may not get communicated in all the submissions to this inbox. Please see our description/concerns described in detail below. 1. How the Railroad Effects Our Property We have included a pdf for your review as to how it affects our property, business and environmental aspects should the project (GLBR) move forward. My husband and I work full-time. We also own and operate a growing suri alpaca farm. The proposed railroad will be 570 yards from our female and cria (baby alpaca) barn. The property we own was once part of a centennial farm which was divided up to the 3 offspring at the time of the owner’s death. We purchased one parcel that includes the original farmhouse and buildings. The other 2 parcels are farmed with corn or soybeans and are adjacent to our parcel. The proposed rail-line goes through the adjacent farmland (other 2 parcels). (Please see enclosed first slide in the attached file.) It is our understanding that the rail line can move in either direction from the proposed route. The rail could come even closer (or farther) to our barn/property than the current proposal. When researching property for our farm 5 years ago, we chose this parcel due to several factors: i. Water: The water would not be contaminated by any possible future subdivision development (laws according to Winnebago county property management) and property accessibility. (No subdivisions or new houses can be built around our property due to zoning laws.) ii. Population density: we are the only house on the west side of Clover Road. The property allows for expansion of the alpaca farm both from pasture expansion and extension of hay fields. We know the owner of the 150 acres farmed around us and they are willing to sell us small additional parcels when we were ready to expand our farm. iii. Weather: alpacas need colder weather for luxurious fiber growth (main product from this animal); appropriate weather conditions for alpaca livelihood are here in northern IL. iv. Farming conditions: Alpacas are very sensitive animals and are used to remote areas such as the Andes Mountains for their fiber growth. Due to the lack of population (animal and human) our parcel is ideal for alpaca husbandry and we are already reaping the benefits of our well thought out farm. We are already reaping the benefits of our farm situation; we currently have the highest rated alpaca in the US for fiber in 2016. We are concerned how the noise, pollution and vibration will effect the well being of our alpaca herd should the railroad be installed. Should the railroad project move forward, what effect will it have on: i. Water: a. What effect will the railroad have on our water supply? b. Will the installation change the aquifer? c. Will the installation cut off our water supply? d. Will the vibration from the rail line change the path and affect the amount of our water and quality? e. No one has given us any information as to the repercussions of this project. ii. Farming Conditions: a. What will be the effect on the on our hay due to pollution? b. What effect will the noise, vibration and pollution have on our growing alpaca herd? c. Mortality rates due to new stress and uncertain noise levels on the alpacas? d. Air Pollution? iii. Local Economy: We have and will continue to hire farmhands as part of our farm expansion, maintenance and day to day operations. Should the rail move in, we will be forced to move our farm, not hire workers and lose our property value (which affects property tax revenue). It will dramatically affect every aspect of our life. iv. We haven’t even begun to discuss what would happen in the event of a derailment 570 yards from our property (Slide 2). 2. What kind of bird? Finally, on the 3rd slide, I have included a picture of a pair of birds that frequented our pasture last spring. I tried on various websites on-line and in several books to determine what kind of bird these two are. They were obviously a mating pair based on their coloring (not identical in pattern) and in their behavior. I can’t seem to identify them in any capacity. They returned this year but I didn’t take any pictures of them. We have many other thoughts that we are working on to communicate to you such as: local environmental effects, the resulting lowering of property values and financial effects on property taxes but will end here. We look forward to an accurate and updated communication regarding our concerns and those of others around us. Thank you for your service, Dr. Michelle Pressler William Ward iMpress Alpacas 14036 Clover Road Rockton, IL 61072 Michellepressler@hotmail.comRockton, IL
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(printed as 11/20/2016)CommentEI-25586Julia Marie WaldsmithFair compensation to those affected I no longer live in the area that is to be affected by the proposed railroad route, nor am I indiscriminately opposed to development, however I used to live on Yale Bridge Road less than a mile from the proposed route and I understand the effect that a rail line would have to the property values in that area. Even if a fair market price were to be offered to the property owners whose land is in the path of the proposed route, the effect that a rail line would have to the property values in that area would be disastrous. The route isn’t through an area that is just corn and soybean fields without perception of the sound, vibration and divisive effects of rail but through and adjacent to the properties that people have worked their lives to afford and retire to. Their livelihoods are invested in the land and they live there. Certainly a railroad development will bring economic prosperity to the developers and the few people who are employed by its construction and maintenance. For that reason its development has even arrived to this point. Unfortunately, for those without the money to launch their voices to a point where they are heard and acknowledged, the development of such a project will take from them their small fortunes that they have worked their lives to amass. Undeniably, those next to the rail line will suffer their property values diminishing while the developers of this project see their fortunes grow. Why should those with the most money have the loudest voice and influence to affect the well-being of others for their own profit?Houston, Texas
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(printed as 11/19/2016)CommentEI-25603Raymond Smithallowing a private company to take private land through eminent domain potential road closures noise 7 loss of property valuesRockton, IL
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(printed as 11/19/2016)CommentEI-25602Joshua JohnsonI Joshua Johnson am opposed to this railroad being built; I find it deplorable that this railroad would want to hurt the local residents: lowering property value, causing unnecessary noise pollution, and removing trees that have been less impacted by secondary removal, also this will not bring in local jobs. Secondly I am offended that a private company would try and use the governments eminent domain policy; even though this is not an emergency needed item. Acts like this is how one ends up with wood pulp substances in cheese; without it being clearly notated. I would like to point out that I am not against the railroad its self; just the location that has been picked, having it closer to a highway, not in the middle of farmers fields.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 11/18/2016)CommentEI-25596Michael BourgerieMr. Navecky Due to the extensive nature of the proposed preferred route change. I would request a Re-Opening of a comment period for all residents now impacted by this route change. Many residents were not located anywhere in the vicinity of the previous proposed route and may have not made any comment on this project then. Now that the route is impacting new citizens I feel it necessary to allow these citizens to be able to voice there individual concerns. The newly impacted citizens should not bear the brunt of Great lakes basin Railroad submitting a flawed proposal in past submissions by forcing a new route on others that will have no ability to have a formal comment.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 11/18/2016)CommentEI-25593Beverly Brown[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/18/2016)CommentEI-25592Edward and Mary Jo Schultz[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/18/2016)CommentEI-25584Lawrance Glenn
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(printed as 11/17/2016)CommentEI-25585Virginia JohanssonPlease stop Great Lakes Basin Railroad from laying its tracksRockford, IL
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(printed as 11/17/2016)CommentEI-25579Stephen Shade[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/17/2016)CommentEI-25577Kathleen Hendee[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/17/2016)CommentEI-25571Janet E Galbreath[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/16/2016)CommentEI-25572Eric and Frances Goetz[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/16/2016)CommentEI-25568Linda WyattI am asking to reopen the comment period for public comments. I oppose the project for some of the following reasons: Safety-increased possibility of spills Impact on Land Use-rural property would be stripped of its intended use Impact on agricultural-farmland lost Impact on water and soil-possible contamination Impact on environmentRockford, Illinois
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(printed as 11/15/2016)CommentEI-25588Kathi JurkowskiI am wondering, am I suppose to be the one to pay for and build all my fences after the train comes through? It is in a cattle field,,,,,,,who if responsible to keep my animals in?Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/15/2016)CommentEI-25587Hinshaw & Culbertson LLPThe Seaton Estate Please see the attached letter with exhibits regarding the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Railway Path - September 2016. Docket No. FD35942Richard S. Porter representing the Seaton Estate · Rockford, IL
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(printed as 11/15/2016)CommentEI-25575Joan and Steve Johnson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/15/2016)CommentEI-25567Anthony PipitoneGood Morning Ken, Hope all is well. I will try not to consume too much of your time, as I am sure you are very busy. I am writing to express my concerns with the new GLB RR route through Winnebago County. The proposed route will be approximately 60 yards form my residence. Please see the attached screen shots. Pipelines and utilities will be 30 yards from my house. My house is on the left side of the screen shot. We have already marked the route out on the road for easy viewing. The GLB was also very nice to put an outside turn directly at my house. My residential concerns are many. How will up to 85 trains a day affect my cinder block foundation, interior walls, underground septic system, noise levels. As you can see by the maps, it is literally right next to my house. What data or studies are available on the constant vibration of the this many trains affecting the structure of a residence with this close of a proximity. I am also very concerned about the outside turn that is pointed directly at my residence. Any unforeseen train derailment would most certainly destroy my home and family. Of course this would also ruin any well water we are currently pulling from the ground. I have heard the all East/West roads will quite possibly have a dead end. I wonder how that will affect the 1000 vehicles a day that travel down Montague Rd. A dead end would almost certainly increase crime in the area, as the access to our law enforcement times would be increased. Please the attached maps. All police & fire times would triple. If an overpass were to be built, the entire front end of my property would be wiped out. My other concern is that this GLB RR has no financial value to our community. This will be a GLB RR Toll road and nothing more. We are very concerned about our quality of life if this RR were to be built in such close proximity to our residence. Please feel free to call with any questions or to send anyone out to our location to physically see just how close this is to our residence. The maps give you an idea, however you cannot fully grasp the reality of it all, until you see it marked in person. Thank You, Anthony PipitoneRockford, Iliinois
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(printed as 11/15/2016)CommentEI-25560Cherry Valley Township TrusteeI respectfully request an extension and or reopening of the commenting period of the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. The proposed map/route has changed significantly since the original commenting period was opened and people and businesses that may now be affected want to have an opportunity to speak out on the issue. Sincerely, Paul Gorski Cherry Valley Township TrusteePaul Gorski · Rockford, IL
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(printed as 11/15/2016)CommentEI-25558Winnebago Animal ClinicI am sending this message in regards to the recently released preferred route" by GLB inc. transportation company. I am a practicing veterinarian in a small community outside Rockford, Illinois. A large portion of my clientele come from the west side of the Rockford area. This rail line cuts directly through the heart of my business and would have devastating consequences for my company if it goes through. My understanding is that GLB prefers to close as many roads as they can. Any roads remaining open would be crossed by miles and miles of trains daily making what are now easy trips to the veterinary office extremely difficult at best. I am greatly concerned about this impact and the possibility it could create serious problems for my business, my family, my employees, and ultimately my beloved community! This rail line stands a great chance of sending people the other direction to avoid dangerous rail line crossings and easier drives in general. I know I am not the only business in Winnebago concerned and frightened by this potential corporate land grab and the huge impact it will have on our local economy! I am not asking for this route to be moved somewhere else.....I am asking for this terrible project to be stopped in general!"Jared Williams
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(printed as 11/14/2016)CommentEI-25677Stephen Shade[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/14/2016)CommentEI-25580Joanne Sunnason[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/14/2016)CommentEI-25578S. Crandall[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/14/2016)CommentEI-25576Steve and Robin Johnson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/14/2016)CommentEI-25574M Jessup[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/14/2016)CommentEI-25573Pat Henry[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/14/2016)CommentEI-25563Dan PoliLet's not tear up the local wetlands and farm lands. A derailment would be catastrophic.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 11/14/2016)CommentGet your tracks out of here. We don't need more of your broken fossil fuel driven trains or more of the tracks running across our free land. Focus on issues more important, like getting trains that run on hydrogen or something like other countries are doing.Joshua Seal · madisonville, la
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(printed as 11/14/2016)CommentEI-25556Terry FranklinI am very concerned on the safety of all of the railroad crossings we would have to cross on getting to and from the western towns and businesses from our location. We live in a quiet rual area and own and operate a Recreational Vehicle Sales and Service Dealership. We bank in Winnebago IL. and would have to cross dangerous crossings several times of the day in order to transact our business. We also would have to put up with the noise of many trains a day if this railroad would be built . Our children would also have to be transported in school busses along these same roads and having to cross these dangerous crossings twice a day. I hope all these things will be considered when deciding on this project.Rockford,, IL.
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(printed as 11/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/12/2016)CommentEI-25554Esther RumageI have lived on this farm for over 50 years, next to my daughter and son in law, and with the tracks I will have to drive miles around to get to their house just next door. The tracks will separate our families. Our ground is very wet and the water table is very how. the air pollution, the noise and vibration will drive us crazy. We do not need this train. I do not have a computer so my neighbor is filling out this form for me.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 11/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/12/2016)CommentEI-25552Steve SmithWe need more time for a new comment period to address the changes in the route. Thank you - SteveLowell, IN
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(printed as 11/11/2016)CommentEI-25591Walter Galbreath[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/11/2016)CommentEI-25544Polly KahlerOpposed to Great Lakes Basin Railway for a number of reasons. Current route presents substantial risk to a variety of natural habitats for wildlife - including but not limited to Natural Land Institute, Colored Sands Bird Habitat. Both of my sons are Eagle Scouts and contributed a number of hours preserving these habitats that are frequented by a number of migratory birds. The proposed railway presents substantial dangers to these areas.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 11/11/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/10/2016)CommentVicki and Ken, Please see the attached correspondence, sent on behalf of our client, Great Lakes Basin Transportation, in response to your second information request. Best regards, Jay Jay C. Johnson, Esq | Venable LLP t 202.344.4698 | f 202.344.8300 575 7th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20004 JCJohnson@Venable.com | www.Venable.com ************************************************************************ This electronic mail transmission may contain confidential or privileged information. If you believe you have received this message in error, please notify the sender by reply transmission and delete the message without copying or disclosing it. ************************************************************************James T. Wilson
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(printed as 11/10/2016)CommentEI-25531Sally Kiser[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/10/2016)CommentEI-25525Lynn and Mel Eichman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/10/2016)CommentEI-25524Randolph E Daly[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/9/2016)CommentEI-25535Melinda Thomas[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/9/2016)CommentEI-25534Patricia Stroup[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/9/2016)CommentEI-25532Charles and Mary Rudd[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/9/2016)CommentEI-25529Nancy Drake[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/9/2016)CommentEI-25527Scott Hendee[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/9/2016)CommentEI-25361Cynthia CampbellSee attached letter
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(printed as 11/8/2016)CommentEI-25566Amy NelsonI am opposed to the GLB railroad coming through Rockford, IL. As a resident, I am very concerned about the loss of tax revenue for the city of Rockford. Not to mention the closing of some of the streets which would delay any emergency services from reaching my elderly parents who live next to the proposed route through Winnebago, IL. The I'mRockford, Illinois
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(printed as 11/8/2016)CommentEI-25533Susan and Stephen Shade[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/8/2016)CommentEI-25526Linda K. Geishert[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/7/2016)CommentEI-25551Cynthia HallI am writing to express my sincere concern regarding the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railrood which would travel through Winnebago County, Illinois. GLB is proposing 200 foot easements with 50 feet allowed for utilities. This proposal includes up to 100 trains per day of unknown length traveling at speeds of up to 70 miles per hour. This proposed route would cut through prime farmland and negatively impact property values, drainage, irrigation and soil. It will also close off many streets, creating slower response times for our police, fire and emergency medical teams. In addition, I fear the freight could endanger our water supply and contaminate our aquifers should a spill occur. Of course, in the event of a detrailment, lives would be at risk as well as our food and water supply and the environment. These risks come without benefit to the residents of Winnebago County. According to the GLB website, this proposed private toll railroad is designed to expedite freight movements across the nation and to provide additional capacity for growing railroad traffic". However, it is not supported by the Chicago Regional Environmental and Transportation Efficiency Program, a partnership between the US Department of Transportation, the State of Illinois, City of Chicago, Metra, Amtrak and the nations freight railroads. How is it then that a private company can use eminent domain for their personal gain? The opposition amongst impacted counties and concerned citizens is clear. Please protect the environment and the impacted land owners but rejecting this proposal FD 35952. Sincerely, Cynthia Hall"
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(printed as 11/7/2016)CommentEI-25543Chris StambaughSir, I have written before and am still very concerned about this train. The impact on not just our property but all the farm land and roads that will be impacted.People will be moving out from the area because of it. Land owners will not be able to sell, who wants a train going thru your property. The county will be loosing tax money. My son got rezoned to build on our farm, hes not going to if this goes thru. My other son lives on the farm, we will tear the house down, loss tax money if the train comes thru.The road closings, the school bus re routing, emergency vehicles not being able to get to people and places in a timely manner. The wildlife that will be affected. There are so many reasons. Please keep all this in mind. We are a farm community, a wildlife preservation community, a serene community. Thank you for your time. Chris StambaughRockford, il
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(printed as 11/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/7/2016)CommentEI-25522Dale S. Thomas[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/6/2016)CommentEI-25564Jennifer ColletteWalkerton, Indiana
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(printed as 11/6/2016)CommentEI-25550Nancy DrakeSee attached letter sent to Mr. Ken Blodgett on November 3, 2016.Beloit, Wisconsin
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(printed as 11/6/2016)CommentEI-25506Virgene McVayFrom: Virgene McVay [mailto:virgene45@outlook.com] Sent: Sunday, November 06, 2016 1:03 PM To: Navecky, David <David.Navecky@stb.gov> Subject: ATTN Docket No, FD 35952 Hello Mr. Navecky, I am Virgene McVay living at 12621 N. Meridian Rd. In Rockton, IL. Which is one mile from Shirland, IL. Across the road from me are huge high-lines with the Buckeye gas line, northern Illinois gas line and some kind of underground cable line running along with the high-lines. The glb railroad is planning to run rail lines over these gas lines at some point, and over or under rivers heading to Wisconsin. I have heard that hundreds of trains will be running over these lines a day and I don’t believe you should allow this due to the breakdown of the underground lines. The Buckeye gas line was placed in the ground in 1954 and therefor is very old. This alone could cause lines to break because of so much shaking of the ground and the weight of so many trains. A gas leak with so much static electricity from the high-lines could be a deadly disaster for many. It seems that a gas or oil line breaks somewhere in this country every day and we don’t seem to hear much, if at all, how the breaks are being stopped and cleaned up. Please don’t let money and oil make your decision. Stop the GLB railroad from going across America today. Our lives and businesses are at stake here. Please help the people and stop oil companies from taking land they really have no right to. Thank you for your time. Virgene L. McVau
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(printed as 11/5/2016)CommentEI-25549R.A.I.L.E.DTo the members of the Surface Transportation BFD 35952 To the STB Board Since the comment period is open again and we have had a chance to review the new preferred route by GLBT we are in strong opposition for the same reasons stated earlier. This route continues to endanger the lives, livelihoods and the environment of the entire area. Since Frank Patton and the GLBT LLC. have refused to provide all the pertinent information required by the STB we feel as though the ruling from the STB should be to deny the project going forward and end the stress and anxiety it is causing the residents in all three states. Two different Federal judges in two separate hearings concerning the proposed Illiana Toll Road have denied the project going forward for environmental reasons as well as economically unsound reasoning. We feel the same should be true for this project. The emotional stress that has been placed upon the states’ residents, EMS, schools and businesses, including farmers, isn't being addressed at this point and it should be. If Frank Patton and GLBT aren't going to be forthcoming with the necessary information it prolongs this problem. Therefore; we are calling upon the STB to end this now and deny the GLBT project in its entirety. Patricia Mussman Unincorporated West Creek Township Lowell, Indiana 46356 oard, please read my comments in the attachment.Pat Mussman · Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 11/5/2016)CommentEI-25542Robin JohnsonAs a resident in beautiful rural Winnebago County for 30 years, I'm opposed to the GLB Rail project. This unnecessary PRIVATE rail system with no experience should not be able to blindly come through & destroy & obtain private property, homes, businesses & farms for private gain! Especially when communities were not made aware of routes & able to participate in the Public Comment period. This rail could be hauling potential harmful substances, traveling at 70 mph with over 100 trains a day in our & other communities! We sit in a wetland area with the beginning of a very essential aquifer! The grade of this rail project will increase flooding & God forbid a derailment or spill could forever damage the water supply to thousands of acres of land. This area is responsible for countless crops that the country depends on & the crossing of farm equipment when there would be a train every 13 minutes would be catastrophic. The road closures along should bring pause to anyone who cares about safety & emergency services. People would be land locked in our own community. Ambulance & fire rescue would no longer be able to reach anyone west of the rail in the 15 minute time frame we now have. We would be cut off from all three major hospitals in Rockford & have to go 45-60 minutes away due to road closures! Lives are more important than a bunch of businessman making more money! A 20 min drive to work could could now double or triple in time. OUR local Shirland school would probably close & have to consolidate with a district to the West vs Rockton School District due to road closures. As a teacher I realize a school is the heart of a small community. Many businesses in our area will be destroyed besides the family farms. Apples orchards, organic farm, several outdoor wedding venues, campgrounds & more would lose their livelihood, because mysterious businessmen want to make money on a faster rail to avoid Chicago. Promises of imaginary jobs created DO NOT OUT WAY THE LIVELIHOOD of the existing families that will experience economic ruin because of this rail & the role of the STB! The environmental impact on our water, land, rare wildlife, river systems & nature in general will be forever impacted by the noise & pollution submitted throughout the region. THE negative impact of this Rail Proposal are endless, whereas the positive are zero! CAreful, thoughtful, & FAIR consideration of THE REAL people & businesses need to be considered by the STB, before the greed of a very Suspicious group of inveters! Our community & myself hope this appointed Board will do the right thing & give people back some hope about Government!Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/5/2016)CommentEI-25541Steve JohnsonI'm opposed to the GLB railroad because of devastion that it will bring to are community. Road closures, pollution, environmental impact, farms being torn in half,water shed issues, potential for derailment of hazardous waste to affect ground water in our area for generations and lost standard of living. This needs to be opened back up for public comment again.New preferred routes need new public comment periods. Thank you Steve JohnsonRockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/4/2016)CommentEI-25540kathi JurkowskiThis is the picture of the spring at the Hoople's farm that the GLBRR will lays it's tracks across their farm and across this spring. We have more of the Univ Studies if you need to see them.Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/4/2016)CommentEI-25539kathi JurkowskiI am sending this because my friend, Pat Hoople doesn't have a computer but she does have a very, very special spring on her farm, that has been document by the U of IL. I will try to attach the university's letter and photo, too.Rokcton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/3/2016)CommentEI-25594Kathi Jurkowski[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/3/2016)CommentEI-25590Congress of the United States[see attached letter]Ron Johnson, U.S. Senator, and Paul D. Ryan, Speaker, US House of Representatives
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(printed as 11/3/2016)CommentEI-25582Kathi Jurkowski[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/3/2016)CommentEI-25548Regina ChancellorI do understand there has been an alternative route suggested north of Lowell IN. I would like to state that any route in or near Lowell would continue to effect the traffic routes of our children attending school since our school district is very large and our children would still need to cross the proposed rail line. This route continues to cross through farmers fields and would continue to be problematic when there may be a derailment since it would still be problematic for first responders to reach a derailment. It would continue to effect our water shed as was stated when it was in Lowell as well. The problems for our town do not decrease because the rail line is proposed to be moved north of town. It continues to effect our community negatively.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 11/3/2016)CommentEI-25538Kathi JurkowskiAb endangered species has been spotted around in our area. I have talked with the DNR and plan to try to catch one but they have probably gone into hibernation now. We know that they have been sighted several different places and times. It is the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. How can these tracks be laid across their habitat?Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/3/2016)CommentEI-25537RAILEDI feel that if the proposed route changes, those that were not originally affected should have their views heard. Please consider new comment periods.Larry Randall · Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 11/3/2016)CommentEI-25521Elizabeth Strey[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/3/2016)CommentEI-25520Raymond and Sandra Harding[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/3/2016)CommentEI-25505Julie Kokos[see attached email]
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(printed as 11/3/2016)CommentEI-25492Linda CosgroveMr. Navecky, I am writing to request an additional comment period. The counties of Lake & LaPorte in Indiana have significant changes to the preferred route, particularly Lake County. It is of utmost importance that the citizenry in the newly affected areas have the opportunity to comment to allow for transparency of this process and to allow the STB to be fully informed of the environmental impact of the proposed routes. Respectfully, Linda CosgroveHebron, IN
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(printed as 11/2/2016)CommentEI-25589Karen Kosinski and Brad Kosinski[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/2/2016)CommentEI-25509Mark and Danette Hayes[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/2/2016)CommentEI-25508Jeff Wishop[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/2/2016)CommentEI-25507Monica Girardin[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/2/2016)CommentEI-25491Kim D KruseDAVIS JUNCTION, IL
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(printed as 11/2/2016)CommentEI-25483kathi JurkowskiI can not believe that the GLBRR will cut my farm into pieces. I raise cattle that were on the endangered species list. The Belted Galloway are making a come back only to find out that some railroad is taking away their peaceful pastures. Does anyone in Washington Care? Our water table is only 6 ft here don't they have geologist that look at the rock formation. We don't hit bedrock till over 200 feet, how can they put tracks across out wet land?Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/2/2016)CommentEI-25482Jerry JurkwoskiDear STB, I am so sadden to know that the GLBRR is planning on coming across my farm. At 79 years old, I have pretty much given my farm land over to be my own private wetlands for birds and wildlife. I have dug man made ponds for ducks to nest in. The GLBRR will run across my wet land nature preserve and cut me off from going back to my beautiful ponds. My whole life I have worked to have a little piece of heaven and it will be hell with these tracks coming across my farm, through my lakes and only 70 ft from my bedroom. How will we be able to live in our house. WE have been paying highest life insurance premiums to have care in our home and not have to go to a nursing home. We will have no peace with these tracks so close. I have enclosed pictures.Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/2/2016)CommentEI-25481Jerry JurkwoskiDear STB, I am so sadden to know that the GLBRR is planning on coming across my farm. At 79 years old, I have pretty much given my farm land over to be my own private wetlands for birds and wildlife. I have dug man made ponds for ducks to nest in. The GLBRR will run across my wet land nature preserve and cut me off from going back to my beautiful ponds. My whole life I have worked to have a little piece of heaven and it will be hell with these tracks coming across my farm, through my lakes and only 70 ft from my bedroom. How will we be able to live in our house. WE have been paying highest life insurance premiums to have care in our home and not have to go to a nursing home. We will have no peace with these tracks so close. I have enclosed pictures.Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 11/2/2016)Comment
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(printed as 11/1/2016)CommentEI-25515Scott Brener[see attached letter]
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(printed as 11/1/2016)CommentEI-25504Virgene McVayFrom: Virgene [mailto:virgene45@frontier.com] Sent: Tuesday, November 01, 2016 10:13 AM To: David Navecky <David.Navecky@stb.gov> Subject: Docket No. FD 35952 I am Virgene McVay living at 12621 N. Meridian Rd. Rockton, IL. 61072. I will be part of the GLB railroad being proposed by private business men wanting to take private land for their profit which never should happen in this country. I live across the road from huge electric high-lines which have underground gas lines that appear to run alongside of these towers. Buckeye gas line placed lines here in 1954 and Northern Illinois gas has lines here too. There is also some form of fiber cables along with these gas lines. The GLB railroad will have to cross all of this at some point and possibly more than once. My fear of having a railroad running over all of this is the fact that the age of the Buckeye gas and oil line could possibility cause breaks and huge fires with the shaking of the land from the train movement. The many trains which, I understand, could be 100 or more a day will vibrate the ground and may be like small earth quakes which we all know can break the lines and shift the earth around the lines. If you allow a private company to start digging around these lines, who will be responsible for any gas, oil or fires caused by this? How will they move the huge electric towers? Please consider this before granting a private corporation the right to take private land and destroy the many businesses along with it. Thank you for your time. Virgene McVay
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(printed as 11/1/2016)CommentEI-25490Brenda FaulknerTo Whom It May Concern: I own property were this GLB Railroad plans to go through, right through my property. I own and operate Rivers Edge Campground and Coffee Shop, A Quarry(Faulkner's Qaurry), and Farm with the rest of the old homestead. I will not be able to have a camper here at the campground for who will want to camp next to a campground? You, or anyone else, I really don't think so. The coffee shop, will be close because no one will be able to get here after the roads are closed for the railroad to go through. What about the Quarry the railroad plans on going through also, is that so they don't have to pay for the rock that they will need on the rail line some where? The rest of the farm is affected by this railroad, how do I get to the other side of the farm to do hay for the animal I have? And other crops that I grow and take to the grocery store and sell direct? Specialy when the roads are closed for the railroad to come through? I will have to drive about 5 miles to the other side to feed animals and pick crops, this is time I don't have to spare. Then we come to how close the railroad is to my house that I live in and that my kids and grandkids come to, it will be about 50 to 75 feet from north side of my house, who was planning this railroad, down the middle of someone property and splitting the 100 acres in half? And final what about the Indian Mounds that are here on the property, are you going to let this GLB Railroad just destory them I have about 20. I have contacted the Ho-Chunk Indian Nations about this Matter because you at the STB seem to be doing nothing about this or are not giving anyone in the county a meeting to voice our concerns about any of these matters. When I talked with Jim Webster about this, who is our township board member, he told me I had no business doing this, and who is he to tell me that? Makes me wonder how long the Winnebago County Board in Illinois has been consorting with the GLB about a route through the county. The earliest I can find document is 2010. So are you going to stop this GLB Railroad or Not? Thank you for your time, BrendaRockton, IL
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(printed as 11/1/2016)CommentEI-25489Stephanie ThompsonDear Director Rutson, On Saturday, September 24, 2016, I learned of a proposed plan by Great Lake Basin Transportation to add a railway through Rock County. This railway is unnecessary and is an environmental hazard. Not only does this proposed railway cross more rivers and wetlands than the original proposed route, it disrupts and goes through a wildlife area that is part of the Audubon Society. I live at 4980 W. Cleophas Rd. in the Town of Beloit. My parents built this home 21 years ago to be away from a subdivision and enjoy the quiet country atmosphere and wildlife. My father passed and we purchased this home from my mother a little over a year ago. It holds great meaning to me and my family. I have three young children, my youngest being 6 years old. We bought the home because it was big enough for my family and has a spacious two acres for our children to play and be safe. We enjoy the quiet country. Our intent was not to have a train traveling at 70 MPH 100 feet from our home. This is not safe for our children. Our peaceful country would be interrupted by a speeding train passing approximately every 15 minutes which would also have to increase speed to travel up a bridge to cross HWY 213 IN OUR BACK YARD! The chemicals or waste that it could possibly transport and the chance to spill so close to homes with young children or even those without children for that matter! We have well water so the possibility of contamination to our water and land. Being that it curves there is a chance for derailment. It goes against every reason my parents built the home and why we moved here. This is our dream home that we have worked hard for and the value will drop considerably if this passes. We would lose drastically if we went to sell because of a railway. We have a beautiful home with lovely land. This proposed railway runs right through our neighborhood in between houses and GLBT states that it starts with one railway with room for growth up to two or three more lines in the future. Ludacris!!! Our town is furious and opposed to the railway. We want a no build at all in the Town of Beloit or Rock County. There is no need. My family asks of you to stand up for the Town of Beloit and say no to GLBT on building a railway. We need your support. Our community is counting on you. Thank you for time. Sincerely, Stephanie J. Thompson 4980 W. Cleophas Rd. Beloit, WI 53511Beloit, Wi
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(printed as 11/1/2016)CommentEI-25480Rebecca MagallanesMy comment is NO WAY! This doesn't apply to a fair or reasonable explanation of the use of eminent domain nor do I want to see the rails cutting across this area and its farmland. Go away. Docket #FD35952 The only one to benefit from this rail line would be the 'privately owned' rail company. It doesn't generate economical benefit to those properties and it decreases land value. Don't forget the fact that it's just too aggressive and not socially responsible to the communities you are willing to trample/section into pieces. Again, Go Away!Crown Point, IN
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(printed as 10/31/2016)CommentEI-25562Susan DaltonPlease open a period of time for public comment for the rail project going through Winnebago county, Illinois. The residents concerns were not taken into account when this plan was suggested. This rail line will be a devastating thing taking valuable crop lands forever out of production and affecting the livelihoods of all in its path. It would go through environmentally sensitive areas disrupting wetland ecosystems irreparably. Our community would be cut off logistically from commercial businesses for even the simplest things as buying groceries. The area farmers will face financial hardships in addition to variables in weather which affects farm income by having additional trucking and machinery operating costs. Small businesses and school districts will struggle being cut off from parts of the community. Please consider a time for more input in order to accurately assess the impact of this endeavor. Thank you.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 10/31/2016)Comment
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(printed as 10/31/2016)CommentEI-25503Bridget FraserFrom: Bridget Fraser [mailto:bb.fraser@hotmail.com] Sent: Monday, October 31, 2016 12:04 PM To: David Navecky <David.Navecky@stb.gov> Subject: Docket #: FD 35952 Mr. Navecky and members of the Surface Transportation Board I am writing to oppose the Great Lakes Basin Transportation's proposed railroad through Winnebago County, Illinois and Rock County Wisconsin. There is no need for this route and the project will destroy agriculture, businesses, residences, tourism, the environment and school districts. I request a public hearing session for those residents and business owners in Winnegago County. Our voices deserve to be heard. Sincerely, Bridget Fraser 7162 Pomeroy Road Rockton, IL 61072
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(printed as 10/31/2016)CommentEI-25488John DowneyI would just like to say that i hope the board denies the request for this rail line. It's hard enough now trying to get to work without having to wait for more railroad crossings. Also this rail line would essentially box in residential homes with a existing rail line in front and now potentially one in back decimating property values. I suppose what really frightens me is that this privately funded railroad for profit will push it's way in here regardless what the communities and people in its path say and we'll be left to deal with the aftermath of homes no one wants. Thank you for your time, John Downey.Union Mills, Indiana
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(printed as 10/31/2016)CommentEI-25487ROCK AGAINST THE RAILStop construction of the GLBT high-speed rail system through Rock County farmland!Julie Fiedler · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 10/31/2016)CommentEI-25471Gerrod Walker[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/31/2016)CommentEI-25470Steve F. Tarrant[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/31/2016)CommentEI-25467Robert Rowley[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/31/2016)CommentEI-25460Polly Doyle[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/31/2016)CommentEI-25459Georgeanne C Daly[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/31/2016)CommentEI-25457Mary Cannell[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/31/2016)CommentEI-25456Gary and Phillis Borchmann[see attached letters]
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(printed as 10/30/2016)CommentEI-25561John M. NelsonI respectfully request an additional 60-day comment period now and after any substantial change to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. The U.S. Surface Transportation Board recently had more questions, and requested more detailed answers from the GLBRR sponsor. Local businesses and residents should have the same opportunity. Allowing the GLBRR sponsor to bypass public comments on the proposal by not actually filing an official request and floating one proposal after another in the press gives the impression that the project sponsor is getting preferential treatment. I'm certain that is not the case here, but to reassure local businesses and the public, I again request an additional 60-day comment period now and after any substantial change to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. Thank you very much. Sincerely, John M. Nelson 1318 E. State St. Rockford, IL 61104Rockford, IL
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(printed as 10/30/2016)CommentEI-25528Barbara Hill[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/30/2016)CommentEI-25486Michael ThompsonDear Ms. Rutson, On the morning of September 24, 2016, while at work, I received a message from my wife about a railroad being planned to be constructed behind our home at 4980 W. Cleophas Rd, in the Town of Beloit, WI. Assuredly, this must be some sort of mistake or a joke, was my initial reaction. Sadly, upon further investigation and speaking to my neighbors, it was confirmed in short order, that the Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. has proposed the construction of a railway adjacent to my back yard. The plans specify a railway built to be capable of handling cargo of all kinds at speeds up to 70 mph. The current plan is 10-12 trains per day, with a future planned expansion up to 6 lines of rail and 110 trains per day. That is more frequent than a train every 15 minutes, all day (and night), every day! If anyone had told me the night before my property value would drop by 50% the next day I would have thought they were crazy, but I can promise you it has, and the only way to restore that is to adopt a No Action resolution to this proposal. These folks have been proposing this railway for a few years now, looking at a number of paths through IL and WI. When they meet resistance or find an obstacle, they just speculate on a different route, while leaving the previous one on their maybe" list, in case the latest one doesn't work out. Without even moving one piece of equipment they have succeeded in driving down our property value, and many others. We bought our home, our dream home in the country, on 2 acres, with a plan to raise our young family and retire there. How do you let your 6 year old son and 9 year old daughter go play in the back yard when there are trains going past at 40-70 mph every 15 minutes? How do you ever go to sleep, have a conversation, or enjoy a television show or a quiet evening on your deck? How do you live in the home if this rail is built? The proposed plan also calls for a bridge over the state highway that runs past a corner of our property, which means all of these trains will be accelerating past our property to take on the grade for the bridge. In addition, I expect an amplification of water drainage issues with my property when the grading is completed to build up what is now a flat farm field behind our lot into the transition for this bridge. That water will all have one way to drain, which is past, around, or under our home. In essence, our dream home has been proposed into a nightmare, with no way out, if they succeed in building this railroad. This is not what we had planned when we sank everything we have worked for in our lives into the purchase of our piece of the American Dream! The problems go from ours, to those of the entire community, also. The same issues we face, our neighbors and all others along this rail face. In addition to home concerns you have someone looking to create countless travesties of injustice to wetlands, parks, businesses that rely on quiet, scenic spaces, wildlife, and farmland, just to name a few. This railway would haul all sorts of materials, including toxic and flammable chemicals, up to the possibility of nuclear waste, past our home and children, and our neighbors’ homes and children. It will cross numerous farm fields where farmers on loud, slow-moving equipment will have to take a leap of faith before crossing tracks that could produce a 70 mph train every 15 minutes, and remember; the plan is eventually to have up to 6 tracks! It is my opinion there is no place for this rail in the Midwest, period; and no great need of it. This rail line is the desire of one Frank Patton to create a toll railroad for personal gain; built on the backs of the residents of our communities, and the land of our cities, counties, and states, with a blatant disregard for anyone's needs and desires other than his own. While he would reap the rewards and the profits comfortably in his home, we will all be left to cope with the annoyance and destruction associated with the new rail in our communities. A "Wait and See" approach will not work! If this proposal makes it past the next hurdle and this start-up transportation company is granted official "railroad" company status they would assume the powers of Eminent Domain. Mr. Patton has stated that he already has $8-10B in financial backing and will not stop until he gets this built. Please rule a No Action resolution on this matter, so we can all go back to our normal way of country life and put this behind us, once and for all. The STB has the power to help us stop Mr. Patton. Feel free to call me at 608-289-4308 to discuss this personally if you so desire. Sincerely, Michael Thompson"Beloit, WI
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(printed as 10/29/2016)CommentEI-25559Jennifer WilliamsI am sending this message today regarding a recently released GLB train route. As I view this preferred route" on the satellite image I have come to realize that although the route runs north/south in general, somehow it manages to run in a manner that blocks nearly every major road my family has access to. Road closings and rail crossings will directly effect us in many ways including increased commute times to work, navigating these dangerous crossings, and longer response times from emergency responders to our area. The noise created by these trains would also greatly harm our area homes and property values in general. My single greatest concern with all of this however is my young daughter who will be receiving her drivers license in the next year. This rail line is a disaster waiting to happen for young drivers and the many school buses that will be forced to deal with these crossing many many times daily. Please block this project. It is going to be devastating for the many small communities along its colossal route. It is an unnecessary project! Upgrade current lines and improve the rail infra structure already in place."
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(printed as 10/29/2016)CommentEI-25485Shawn LopataI am writing to ask for more time for public comment for FD 35952. This is my family farm and this farm will be forever destroyed. all of my parents years of blood, sweat and tears will be in vain. HOw would you like someone to take your home away from you? It's not right and there is no need for this train. It is only about 70ft from their house, they will not be able to live in their own house. How will they get insurance? If they did try to sell it who would want to live close to a hazardous track. They have livestock, they can not adjust to trains, that they say will go 70 miles an hour and up to ONE HUNDRED trains a day. Their land has a high water table, they have no rock base till 200 ft down, how can that support a heavy fast moving train. does the GLBRR not have geologist looking at the ground. this is the start of the aquifer in the top of IL. When, not if, a tanker derail it will ruin the rivers and waters for ever, and the soil. Water is life, dirt if life and clean air if life, and the GLBRR is taking it away from them and many more. God help us all. This is a nightmare, like a black cloud hanging over their heads. have a little empathy here.Rokcton, IL
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(printed as 10/29/2016)CommentEI-25479Brenda SandersMy grandfather was a railroad man; worked for Erie Lackawanna his entire career, so I am no anti-railroad. I am anti Great Lakes Basins plan for a railroad in Winnebago County IL. The proposed route for this project could have great environmental impacts. The largest aquifer in the county is at the north end of Meridian Road. The Pecatonica river is one of the cleanest in the state and this proposal would cross it twice. Nygren Wetlands Preserve is only a few miles away. Much of the area around Shirland IL floods every spring. Derailments are rare, but they do happen. A derailment along this route would have devastating effects. The sponsor of the GLBRR does not have much if any previous experience in rail transportation. Two of the six major railroads that might use the service have said they will not use it. The remaining four rail carriers have not supported the project. In addition, there is also at least one big project, the CREATE Program which is working to relieve rail congestion in northern Illinois. CREATE has the support and participation of the six major rail carriers in question. Please do not approve this project. Thank you for your time.Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 10/28/2016)CommentEI-25484Michael DescampsI am writing to tell why I disapprove the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Probably 95% of the land of the GLBR is going through farm and wetlands. My concern is more for the wetlands and the wildlife that live and migrate to this area. My first concern is for the Endangered Whopping Cranes, which I will try to send pictures of. The first pic is on Moody Rd. a mile long Rd. the train will be crossing, the second pic is on Rockton Rd. about 150 feet from where the proposed route is going. The reason the Whopping Cranes come here is because they where taught to come here by the Operation Migration flight path. They flew the cranes across the area of the Natural Land Institute's property Nygren Preserve which is about 1 mile east of proposed track, all the way to western Pecatonica Il. which is about 10 miles west of proposed track, this area is now there migratory route, winter and spring, and as you can see in the pics, they also bring what few young they have. There are only about 450 Whopping Cranes left in the wild, and the train wants to come right through there migratory route and rest area. They have stayed in this area for over 1 month at a time, and they migrate about 6 months between winter and summer. Plus as you can see in one of the pics, up to 350 Sandhill Cranes also use these prime wetlands, and some of those breed here. As you can guess we have many birds and animals that use these wetlands. So I ask you to consider the American Pelicans, Sandhill and Endangered Whopping cranes, in making your decision, and please do not allow this track to come through this area. Thank you for your time, Mike Descamps.Rockton, Illinois
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(printed as 10/27/2016)CommentEI-25502Jeff WishopFrom: Jeff Wishop [mailto:jwishop@aol.com] Sent: Thursday, October 27, 2016 11:36 AM To: Kenneth Blodgett <Kenneth.Blodgett@stb.gov> Subject: FD 35952 10-24-2016 Ken Blodgett Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Re: Comment on FD 35952 Dear Ken, I am writing to you in opposition of Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. I feel that the only action on this project is a No Build Alternative decision from the STB. There are many environmental concerns that need to be addressed and studied to prove to some that this project in not a bright idea. For those of us that live here the negative environmental impact is obvious. My county has three rivers in this alignment as well as numerous creeks, streams, springs, wetlands and other wetlands in the WRP. When does the Army Corp of Engineers become involved in this process or when is there some discussion on the wetlands that have been deemed “Wetlands” by our Federal Government? Other negative impacts are the destruction of wildlife and their habitat including those acres set aside as conservation practices and woodlands Without this current habitat the migration of certain species will be altered or be lost. On another point I believe it would be appropriate for those of us on the new proposed alignment to receive our own public comment period. Some would consider this a fishing expedition without a fair application process. Sincerely, Jeff Wishop 7202 Wishop Rd Rockton, Il 61072
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(printed as 10/27/2016)CommentEI-25455Rhonda OakeyI recently sent a handwritten letter pertaining to the opposition of this project. I recently became aware of the close proximity to my 4 month old nephews grave in Calvary Cemetery southern Winnebago County. I'm also opposed to abuse of eminent domain, property depreciation, loss of farmland and jobs, and now potential damages to cemeteries. Please oppose this project for humanity. Sincerely Rhonda OakeyDurand, Il
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(printed as 10/26/2016)CommentEI-25595Jim Jost and Alexandria Mercer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/26/2016)CommentEI-25519Jim Jost and Alexandria Mercer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/26/2016)CommentEI-25510Chris and Roger Stambaugh[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/26/2016)Comment[see attached letters]
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(printed as 10/26/2016)CommentEI-25469Edward Specht[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/26/2016)CommentEI-25466Michelle Moen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/26/2016)CommentEI-25463Karen and Brad Kosinski[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/26/2016)CommentEI-25454Lisa PrukaDear Surface Transportation Board: I am writing to voice my objection and express my concern over the new preferred route of the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company rail line thru Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin. While I now find my own property, located in Winnebago County, IL, directly in the path of this project, I feel that the negative impacts go far beyond my own situation. First and foremost is the prime agricultural land that will be taken out of production permanently. Thousands of acres of farmland will be forever changed in terms of runoff, drainage, size and dimension, accessibility. Land will be torn up during construction and the fertile topsoil disturbed beyond repair; runoff and drainage patterns will be forever altered as topographical features are cut and blasted to make way for the rail line. Fields that are used for pasturing animals will also be impacted. The nutrients found in the topsoil will be destroyed when that topsoil and vegetation is disturbed. Much of the area is low lying and many areas flood easily each year. This flooding is due to the 2 rivers that converge in the area and eventually flow to the Mississippi River. Agriculture is a real and necessary industry that already exists in the area. The ecological impacts of any spills would also be huge on both the farmland as well as the surrounding bodies of water. The effects to the natural areas will also be irreparable. Western Winnebago county is filled with natural wonders including lakes, rivers, streams, wildlife and natural areas. These areas will be forever changed as the surrounding land is torn up and moved. The proposed path shows the rail line passing very close to Nygren Wetland Preserve, a beautiful 721- acre marshy area that serves as a migratory stopover site for waterfowl, it is a significant repository for local diversity of plant and animal species. Colored Sands Forest Preserve is located just west of the proposed route. Each year, bird populations are monitored at the Sand Bluff Bird Observatory, the largest bird banding station in the Mississippi flyway, located within the forest preserve. Also in Winnebago county, near the proposed route, is Jensen Forest Preserve where there is work being done to restore native prairie and oak savanna. Other forest preserves in the area that will be negatively impacted include Severson Dells Forest Preserve, Sugar River Forest Preserve, Two Rivers Forest Preserve, Four Lakes Forest Preserve and Trask Bridge Forest Preserve. Western Winnebago County is vital to the migration of many species and much work is being done to continue restoring native landscapes. The proposed route, and rumor of roads being dead ended instead of building flyovers or grade separation crossings, will essentially cut off the western part of Winnebago County from the nearest major metropolitan area. Many people who live in this area work and recreate in Rockford. They travel to Rockford for many reasons, including health care and shopping. The response time of emergency response services will also be adversely affected. Whether there are multiple dead- end roads or railroad crossings, both are costly when time is of the essence in an emergency. Residents will suffer irreparable harm to safety and security. On a more personal note, I raise Katahdin Sheep and Border Collies on my small acreage. I raise the sheep for meat and I also train herding dogs. I have worked for nearly 20 years building a low maintenance, easy care flock. A few times each year I hold herding trials, herding clinics and seminars. I also work with the local career college’s veterinary technician program, helping to train the next generation of vet techs. They visit my farm to learn about sheep care and management as well as to practice giving vaccines and oral drenches. The route, as currently proposed will take about 1/3 of my pasture and training areas. This will render the remaining acres completely unusable for my purposes as the danger to my livestock, dogs and students would be too great to continue these endeavors. I hope that the Surface Transportation Board considers the detrimental effects of this project on the naturally beautiful and ecologically diverse area that is Winnebago County and denies the approval of the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company’s rail line project. Thank You Lisa M PrukaRockton, Illinois
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(printed as 10/26/2016)Comment
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(printed as 10/26/2016)CommentEI-25452Jesse PirrelloWith regards to the proposed GLB route, i am deeply concerned about the proximity of the rail lines to two petroluem pipelines. The proposed route appears to be extremely close, probably running alongside and crossing one or both pipelines. The pipelines i am referring to are the North Shore pipelines and look to be quite close to the proposed rail in the Montague road area within Winnebago County. I am concerned what affect the daily vibration from the rail will have on the pipelines, and consequently our well water if the pipeline should develop any cracks. Thanks Jesse Pirrello.Rockford, il
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(printed as 10/25/2016)Comment[see attached letter] From: Jones, Donna M MVR [mailto:Donna.M.Jones@usace.army.mil] Sent: Tuesday, October 25, 2016 2:38 PM To: operator@aeroinc.net Cc: Heilig, Samantha A MVR <Samantha.A.Heilig@usace.army.mil>; Kenneth Blodgett <Kenneth.Blodgett@stb.gov> Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] Rock Island District Contact Form: GLB docket #FD35952 railroad proposal I received your letter and the email below outlining your concerns regarding the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. At this time, various alternative alignments are being evaluated by the Surface Transportation Board. I am forwarding your comments to ensure that your concerns are considered as they evaluate the alternatives. I was not able to make contact by phone. Please let me know if you have additional questions about the Corps’ role in ensuring compliance with the Clean Water Act. Donna M. Jones, P.E. Chief, Illinois/Missouri Section Regulatory Branch Rock Island District Corps of Engineers 309/794-5371 From: Heilig, Samantha A MVR Sent: Monday, October 24, 2016 3:59 PM To: Jones, Donna M MVR <Donna.M.Jones@usace.army.mil> Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL] Rock Island District Contact Form: GLB docket #FD35952 railroad proposal Donna, We received the email below via our District website contact form. Do you have any information that you could provide to Roger and Chris? Thank you, Sam From: operator@aeroinc.net [mailto:operator@aeroinc.net] Sent: Thursday, October 20, 2016 7:05 PM To: CEMVR-CC MVR <CEMVR-CC@usace.army.mil> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Rock Island District Contact Form: GLB docket #FD35952 railroad proposal This message was sent from the Rock Island District website. Message From: Roger and Chris Stambaugh Email: operator@aeroinc.net Response requested: Yes Message: I own a farm at 3796 Harrison Road, Rockford, Il. 6110. In 1970? the city took 6 acres from Effie and Reynolds Brown (the owners at the time) for the Kent Creek Flood Control Project. Now GLB Railroad wants to run train tracks thru this same area which is wet land, which the ARMY Corp of Engineers over seen. How can they put a railroad track thru this land? Didn't know if you knew of this and wanted your input about it. Will be waiting on a response. Thank You, Roger and Chris Stambaugh 815-543-1259, or 815-865-5985 ---------------------------Donna M Jones
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(printed as 10/25/2016)CommentEI-25500Greg and Carla VassmerFrom: Greg & Carla Vassmer [mailto:gcvassmer@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, October 25, 2016 9:10 PM To: Kenneth Blodgett <Kenneth.Blodgett@stb.gov>; victoria.rutson@stb.gov; David Navecky <David.Navecky@stb.gov> Cc: Greg & Carla Vassmer <gcvassmer@gmail.com> Subject: RE: Docket # 35952 – Great Lakes Basin Transportation. Inc. This requests a new Public Comment Period since a new Preferred Route was initiated September 20, 2016. Many private citizens, churches, county organizations, elected government officials (from towns, counties, state and federal) and attorneys representing groups have been requesting this since September 20th, with no response. Not only is an additional Public Comment period needed, but more time for the environmental study encompassing the revised route. The following is my reasoning for needed Public Comment Period by the Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) Office of Environmental Analysis (OEA): - Most important fact, in my opinion, is the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program. “CREATE is a first-of-its-kind partnership between U.S. DOT, the State of Illinois, City of Chicago, Metra, Amtrak, and the nation's freight railroads. A project of national significance, CREATE will invest billions in critically needed improvements to increase the efficiency of the region's passenger and freight rail infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for Chicago-area residents.” o CREATE is a public-private collaborative plan involving USDOT, IDOT, City of Chicago, Metra, Amtrak and all six Class I railroads. o Goals include: 1) Increase efficiency of the region’s passenger and freight rail infrastructure. 2) Chicago can then accommodate growth in passenger and freight trains. 3) Reduced shipping costs which may be passed on to consumers. 3) Increased safety – elimination of rail/roadway conflicts at 25 grade crossing sites => reduced delay to vehicles => reduced fuel consumption & emissions = > less delays for EMS crossings to save lives when time is the #1 priority. o Rail congestion is already improving in Chicago with this ongoing plan which has spent over a billion dollars so far. - With the CREATE Plan ongoing and with its support from all six Class I Railroads, there is no need for the “privately financed” Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. plan to be considered and permitted by the STB. - If you do not think the CREATE Program is a viable reason to stop considering the GLB plan than please think carefully about the following facts: o Safety: Increased number of railroad crossings; longer response time for EMS when time is most important to save people’s lives; High Speed rail => increased possibility for derailment(s) and hazardous materials exposure to the local population; private farm crossings in fields => combines are very slow moving over railroad crossings. o Impact on Current Land Use: Permanent loss of Prime Farmland [one mile of rail with 200’ of right of way = 24 acres lost]; Large farm fields will be divided into smaller pieces which will become landlocked => large farm equipment cannot maneuver in smaller cutup pieces => result more lost prime crop producing farmland not compensated for; who will build and pay for fences needed to keep livestock away from the rail tracks?; Who will pay to maintain the easement – encroaching weeds/trees?; Damage to existing irrigation systems and field tiles – who pays to repair/replace these?; Decrease in crop and livestock production; Eminent domain compensation does not equal generations of farm family’s incomes being reduced/lost forever. o Increased School District Transportation Budgets with roads being closed => bus route changed and lengthened => additional buses needing to be purchased by already strapped school districts => students being on buses longer => buses needing to cross more railroad tracks which is a hazard. o Impact on Water Flow and Soil: Natural grade of the farm land will be changed resulting in disruption of the flow of surface water which can lead to: creating new ponds and wetlands => can lead to stagnant water and added issues with mosquitoes, wildlife and additional loss of farmland not compensated for by eminent domain; possible ground water, creeks, streams and river contamination with any derailment of hazardous materials; compacting soil during rail construction will lead to additional farmland out of use. - The GLB is a privately funded company – no previous experience with building a railroad. - What will happen if the GLB runs out of money part way through construction? - The GLB is a toll railroad. Right now, two of the six Class I Railroads have stated they will not use this toll railroad (1/3 of the six Class I railroads!). What happens if all six of the Class I railroads say “No” to using this toll railroad and the GLB is in mid construction? - The GLB has asked for an additional 50’ of easement they will then be able to possibly sell use to utilities – GLB makes this money – will additional taxes be paid to the towns/counties/states? - How will local, county and states enforce the GLB pays taxes? Most important is the American way, being able to voice our concerns when a private company proposes to a federal government agency a massive project that will impact: 1) Our Safety 2) Change in Current Land Use – Agricultural, private, church/cemeteries, etc. 3) Wetlands and Endangered species migration routes changed or removed 4) Huge number of acres of Prime Agricultural land no longer producing food for the future of our country and third world countries 5) Social/Economical issues of private homeowner’s property values going down which you may see as an emotional response. When the most important asset Americans own are their homes, they are very protective of it to ensure they have enough money when they retire (other than their possible investments). A Public Comment Period by the Surface Transportation Board’s Office of Environmental Analysis is not only important but should be required to ensure all citizens affected by the GLB can voice their concerns. Please respond, Carla Vassmer Private Citizen, Property Owner Winnebago County, Proposed GLB Running Right Behind Our Property gcvassmer@gmail.com
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(printed as 10/25/2016)CommentEI-25496Margot J. Facklam[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/25/2016)CommentEI-25472Don and Karen Williams[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/25/2016)CommentEI-25465Len and Ann McLevige[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/25/2016)CommentEI-25461Aaron and Julie Gracyalny[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/25/2016)CommentEI-25451Elizabeth ParkerNot enough specific information has been forthcoming to the public from the companies behind the GLB Railroad. It is as if they are attempting to obfuscate their purpose in building this private shipping lane. From the research I have read, the railroad is being built to transport fracked oil. The tracks will not bring any money to our area. The tracks will not bring jobs to our area or help our economy in any way. They will, however, provide millions for their owners. The tankers traversing those tracks will be a constant threat to the land and water tables on which the tracks rest. The right-of-way that will be carrying oil in underground pipes are as much a danger to the countryside and their citizens as the trains. Once the tracks are built, who will maintain them? These are not being built for public transportation so who oversees their safety? Too many questions are going unanswered.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 10/24/2016)CommentEI-25514Lowell and Jeanne Hayes[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/24/2016)CommentEI-25513Brent & Carrie Pollard[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/24/2016)CommentEI-25512Georgeanne C Daly[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/24/2016)CommentEI-25511Ramona Emerson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/24/2016)CommentEI-25450Steven PetersenThis rail line will remove some of the most productive farm land from production. It will divide farms and make the transport of farm equipment to one owners land significantly more difficult, increasing fuel use and safety to others when the equipment must be transported on public roads. Increased fuel use will result from people and buses needing to travel longer distances due to current roads that will be blocked. Potential spills from the RR will contaminate the local streams and water tables.Lancaster, PA
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(printed as 10/24/2016)CommentEI-25449Brian LantzTerrible idea that is not a good use of the most fertile land in the US. The additional corridor for future pipe is against environmental goals established by the administration, that being more use by fossil fuels.Oak Park, IL
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(printed as 10/22/2016)CommentEI-25448Martha VillagomezAllowing this railway to go through IL will not only be detrimental to wildlife, it will also impact many small business owners of the area. Please do not allow this to happen!Dekalb, IL
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(printed as 10/21/2016)CommentEI-25468Judi Schmeling[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/21/2016)CommentEI-25447Les and Pat SzewczykEven though the route has been changed from Boone to Winnebago county the Great Lake Basin Railroad (GLBR) is still a bad idea. It will divide farm fields, destroy prime farmland, and encourage sprawl. The GLBR will benefit investors but not the residents of Winnebago County. We hope that the Surface Transportation Board will deny approval of this new railroad plan. Thank you for considering our comments.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 10/20/2016)CommentEI-25446chris stambaughGlb railroad proposes coming thru our and many many other peoples land. Com Ed has a easement thru the farm, pipe line has a easement along the farm, Kent Creek flood control took with eminent domain thru our farm,now a train diagonally thru our farm land. Roads will be closed, emergency services delayed, farm owners fields cut in half, danger to wildlife, children will have a longer bus commute to school, and if a derailment, the pollution to land and water, etc. We are out in the country to enjoy the peaceful life, raise crops and animals, let our children and grandchildren live in a quiet peaceful setting. So many reasons not to allow this. There's no reason to have this, just greed.rockford, il
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(printed as 10/20/2016)CommentEI-25445John SchroederProposed GLB Railroad: The taking of private property by eminent domain for private interests was an ill-advised decision by the Supreme Court since that was never the intent. That being said, allowing a private toll railroad to be established at the expense of the public is not only not necessary, it is immoral. The affect on property values, wildlife, natural resources, farmland, homeowners, the thousands inconvenienced by the disruption and noise pollution cannot be justified. Saving time through Chicago for items that are not time sensitive is not justification. That the communities that would be affected would derive no financial benefits, but only inconvenience and financial loss. The blocking of more highways frequently is a safety and time issues for the public. The government exists to serve the people. The people don't exist to serve the government. Therefor, serve the people and disallow the GLB Railroad.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 10/20/2016)CommentEI-25444Jesse PirrelloMy name is Jesse Pirrello and my residence is just over a mile away from the proposed GLB route. I have a number of concerns. One of which is how the roads near me will be impacted. Within just a short few mile stretch of the proposed route in the immediate area in which I and others commute daily, the route would have to cross Route 2, Prairie road, Simpson road, Montague road, and Meridian road. Approximate traffic counts for these roads are 6000, 1200, 700, 3000, and 3000 respectively with most of the traffic being people commuting to rockford in the morning, and returning after work at roughly the same time. I just cannot envision this scenario working well for anyone. The proposed route would seperate me and my neighbors from the nearest fire station and hospital, as well as police. School bus routes for Winnebago and Rockford school districts will be impacted also, and are a huge safety concern for me and my community. What, if any bridges are proposed for this area(zip code 61102 just north of Rock river)? Thank you.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 10/19/2016)CommentEI-25499Winnebago County BoardFrom: Jim Webster [mailto:JWebster@WinCoIL.us] Sent: Wednesday, October 19, 2016 3:58 PM To: David Navecky <David.Navecky@stb.gov> Subject: Fwd: Stop GLB RailRoad Mr. Navecky, my name is Jim Webster I'm a county board member I represent the district where your train proposed route comes through Illinois I'm sharing this email with you it is typical of the ones I have been receiving you've got people very upset myself included the latest route that has been chosen would indeed affect my property as well as I am in close proximity. I have received hundreds of calls and emails only three have been in favor of your project. All of the rest are opposed very opposed. as an elected official I'm asking you please reopen a meeting for public comment in Winnebago County I'm sure that you have heard comments similar to the ones in this email and I agree with virtually everything in this email and also add to the fact that I am a Farm Bureau member and I stand with the Farm Bureau on this issue as well so please set up another meeting for public comment in Winnebago County as soon as possible I would greatly appreciate it and so will the people in this county as we are all greatly concerned about the effects of this Railroad. Thank you for your consideration, Jim Webster Winnebago County Board member district 2 ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Mark Grocholl <mark.grocholl@gmail.com> Date: Oct 19, 2016 2:18 PM Subject: Stop GLB RailRoad To: CountyBoardChairman <CountyBoardChairman@WinCoIL.us>,Ted Biondo <TBiondo@WinCoIL.us>,Dave Fiduccia <DFiduccia@WinCoIL.us>,Burt Gerl <BGerl@WinCoIL.us>,Angie Goral <AGoral@WinCoIL.us>,John Guevara <JGuevara@WinCoIL.us>,Joe Hoffman <JHoffman@WinCoIL.us>,Gary Jury <GJury@WinCoIL.us>,Faye Lyon <FLyon@WinCoIL.us>,John F Sweeney <JFSweeney@wincoil.us>,Dave Tassoni <DTassoni@WinCoIL.us>,Jim Webster <JWebster@WinCoIL.us>,Fred Wescott <FWescott@WinCoIL.us>,L.C. Wilson" <LCWilson@WinCoIL.us>,Dave Kelley <DKelley@WinCoIL.us>,David Boomer <DBoomer@WinCoIL.us>,Keith McDonald <KMcDonald@WinCoIL.us>,Eli Nicolosi <ENicolosi@WinCoIL.us>,Dorothy Redd <DRedd@WinCoIL.us>,Julio Salgado <JSalgado@WinCoIL.us>,Steve Schultz <SSchultz@WinCoIL.us> Cc: Winnebago County Board, I am writing about Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. I recently found out that the latest proposed route of the GLB Railroad would past within 2000 feet of my residence. In addition I own 70 acres within one mile of the proposed route. This land is waterfront on the Pecatonica River. This is environmentally sensitive land that I have begun to restore to wetlands (from actively worked agricultural land). I do not believe that this project is for the public good because of the following reasons; 1. Safety: The railroad is proposing crossing or closing all routes in the area. This will cause longer response time for emergency providers (police, fire and ambulance). Because of delays caused to these services it will cause injuries to both people and property waiting for the increased response times. Also, school bus stops and routes would be greatly affected and I worry about potential accidents harming children. 2. Environmental impact: Being so close to wetlands on the Pecatonica River and some of the only cold watershed in Illinois, the proposed route would have a negative on wild life in the area. Thousands of birds migrate everyday through the area and raptors including Bald Eagle have made their home here. Rhule Creek is one of the only cold water springs in Northern Illinois and it may hold endangered species. The proposed route would go right through the creek. I am not willing to risk the harm to the wildlife here. 3. Need: Great Lakes Transportation is a For-Profit company not a railroad. CREATE has been working on improvements to the Chicago area railroads and GLB is not part of the area plan. Major railroads like Union Pacific have already said they are not interested in the project so where is the need. 4. Financial: Because I do not own land that would be used for the project, I would not receive any reimbursement from GLB. My property value would decrease do to the above reasons and the noise from the trains. Also, my insurance rates would increase because of the above mentioned delays caused by the railroad. The only viable alternative for the proposed GLB rail is the “No Action/No Build” alternative. Please take action immediately and contact the Surface Transportation Board and let them know that Winnebago County does not want this Rail Road and it will not benefit the residents of the county. Sincerely, Mark Grocholl"Jim Webster
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(printed as 10/19/2016)CommentEI-25498Stephen GarryFrom: Stephen Garry [mailto:sgarry5593@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, October 19, 2016 4:32 PM To: Kenneth Blodgett <Kenneth.Blodgett@stb.gov> Subject: developed of rail. Yes, good afternoon. I see a lot of unwanted rail going through different proposed areas. I have suggested to continue through Janesville to Monroe, wi. And rebuild the exciting converted bike trails back into rail in which does run to an East,West rail line. This line could be used to the go around Chicago off this line where the only property lose would be done in Illinois. Regards; Stephen Garry Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android
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(printed as 10/19/2016)CommentEI-25494Village of Davis JunctionAttached please find the Village of Davis Junction Resolution No. 16-15 - A Resolution in Opposition of Great Lakes Basin Rail LineSandie Maahs · Davis Junction, IL
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(printed as 10/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 10/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 10/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 10/19/2016)CommentEI-25441John CannellI am writing to raise 3 serious issues with the revised routing for the Great lakes basin railroad. Previous routing near Sugar river to Broadhead was rejected during a fatal flaw reviw for environmental concerns. Now this new revised routing" is near the confluence of the Sugar River and the Pecatonica, a highly sensitive, valuable and protected environmental area. There are known and protected populations of species in this area such as the Blandings turtle. This new revised routing should also be rejected for it's proximity to these protected areas. In addition, the "revised routing" will cause increased flooding of the town of shirland. The railroad routing closely parallels the pecatonica river and cuts the river off from it's broad former lake bed floodplain. The elevated grade of the railroad would push flood flows to the opposite side of the the river where the town of Shirland is located. In addition, by passing so close and directly across from the confluence of the Sugar and Pecatonica rivers, the combined flood flows would have no way to spread out over the existing wide floodplain, and instead would be restricted, concentrated and forced into the town of shirland, like a big funnel. The town of shirland does not have any active flood control structures, there are some old remnant flood control levees and structures, but they have not been maintained and would not withstand flood flows from a railroad grade/levee system directly across the Pecatonica river from the town and next right next to river and also directly opposite the mouth of the Sugar river where it flows into the Pecatonica river. The entire flood flows of the Sugar river have historically flowed out across the Pecatonica river into the wide flood plain of the Pecatonica river here too. This would also be blocked by the proposed location of the railroad grade. This is just in regard to the route of the railroad track across the flood plain and does not address the equally damaging flood hazard that would be created by the "revised routes" Pecatonica river crossing just below the town of Shirland which would again, restrict the flood flows of the combined flows of the Sugar and Pecatonica Rivers adjacent to and just downstream a few hundred yards from the town of Shirland. High flood flows from the Sugar and the Pecatonica currently spread out over the Pecatonica flood plain but the GLB "revised routing" would block that natural hydrologic regime by constructing a raised railroad bed and raised approaches to the proposed crossing of the Pecatonica River. This would in effect constitute construction of a levee along the Pecatonic river and a dam across the river just below the town of Shirland. Both FEMA flood hazard assessments and USGS hydrologic studies of these contricted flood flows and increased flood levels must be made. Every detail and flood impact of any such levee and dam attributes of the proposed railroad "revised routing" must be made. All alternatives to these routings which do not increase flood hazard risk must be made. In addition, the "revised routing" is in close proximity to the town of Shirland and the Shirland public grade school. The project information previously stated that proximity to both towns and schools would be avoided. This revised routing fails to do that, the "revised routing" is just to the south of the school and town across the Pecatonica river. I think this "revised routing" was done in haste due to opposition along the Boone county routing. The previous routing along and across the Sugar river to Broadhead was rejected for environmental concerns, this revised routing also infringes on those same environmental values of both the Sugar river and the Pecatonica River. The confluence of the Pecatonica and Sugar rivers is a protected natural resource area and has wildlife and recreational values as great as any along the river near the previously rejected routing further upstream on the Sugar river. It also has species of concern like the Blanding turtle which are found in this area. Those environmental concerns, as well as altering the flood flow dynamics of both the lower Sugar river and the Pecatonical rivers should remove this "revised routing" from being considered as an alternative, no matter what the opposition to the previously considered, rejected routings may have been. This routing should also be discarded as the previous preferred routings were discarded. The loss of farmland, the environmental impacts, and the proximity to the school and town of shirland should also preclude this "revised routing". This "revised routing" should also be rejected du to the increased flooding hazard to the town of Shirland caused by disconnecting the pecatonica river from it's historic flood plain, by the constructions of an elevated railroad right of way next to the river, and the approaches to the river crossing itself. This will back up the flood flows of both the pecatonica, and the Sugar rivers, and shift those flood flows toward and into the town of Shirland which is already at the very edge of the floods. In summary, for these reasons, this revised routing is unacceptable and should not be allowed to occur. I suggest finding some other "revised routing" or revisit one of the previously discarded routings which were considered during the projects formal review and comment process. Since these issues and concerns were not addressed for this previously unknown "revised routing" the public meeting, review and comment periods should be redone. Thank you for your attention to this matter. John Cannell"
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(printed as 10/18/2016)CommentEI-25716Melanie FetterlyHaving grown up in the West Rockford area, and a current land owner affected by the proposed rail route, I am greatly opposed to this project. This is hardly rural" Winnebago and is barely outside city limits, not to mention the amount of wetland and water resource areas this route covers in Winnebago county. The statements made how this will increase our property values is utterly false. Any property adjacent to a rail line is always reduced to almost the lowest values. I urge reconsideration on this proposed rail line. Thank you for your time, Melanie Fetterly"
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(printed as 10/18/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Tom Demmer, State Representative, 90th District
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(printed as 10/18/2016)CommentEI-25440Melanie FetterlyHaving grown up in the West Rockford area, and a current land owner affected by the proposed rail route, I am greatly opposed to this project. This is hardly rural" Winnebago and is barely outside city limits, not to mention the amount of wetland and water resource areas this route covers in Winnebago county. The statements made how this will increase our property values is utterly false. Any property adjacent to a rail line is always reduced to almost the lowest values. I urge reconsideration on this proposed rail line. Thank you for your time, Melanie Fetterly"
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(printed as 10/18/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Tom Demmer, State Representative 90th District
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(printed as 10/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 10/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 10/17/2016)CommentEI-25458Kenneth and Jennifer Collette[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/17/2016)CommentEI-25439Emily HolmeThis proposed route is much too close to the Pecatonica and Sugar Rivers, numerous forest preserves, the Nygren Wetland, and at least two family owned dairy farms that will no longer be able to operate. It brings nothing to the community but the potential for disasterDurand, Illinois
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(printed as 10/17/2016)CommentEI-25438Fran YankeeThe GLB RR has no benefit to the communities that it will bisect....The wetlands and farmlands will be affected as well as the livelihood of the residents. I stand against this proposal as a resident of Winnebago County.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 10/17/2016)CommentEI-25435Kenneth and Jennifer Collette[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/17/2016)CommentEI-25433LaPorte County Commissioners[see attached letter] From: Surber, Robin [mailto:rsurber@LaPorteCounty.org] Sent: Monday, October 17, 2016 3:08 PM To: Kenneth Blodgett <Kenneth.Blodgett@stb.gov> Subject: Resolution of the LaPorte County Commissioners Attached please find a Resolution that was passed by the LaPorte County Commissioners. Robin S. Surber A.A.S, B.S. LaPorte County Commissioners Executive Secretary 219-326-6808 X-2229 219-326-9103-Fax This transmission is intended only for the use of the addressee and may contain information that is privileged, confidential, and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you are not the intended receipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, this serves as notice to you that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you receive this communication in error please notify us immediately via e-mail at the sender's e-mail address, delete this message from your computer and/or computer network and destroy any hard copies that have been made.Robin Surber
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(printed as 10/17/2016)CommentEI-25432Gary Hill[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/17/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Joe Sosnowski, State Representative, 69th District
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(printed as 10/16/2016)CommentEI-25766Rhonda Oakey[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/16/2016)CommentEI-25429Christine DawsonDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing because the GLB Railroad has proposted a new route from Indiana through Illinois to Wisconsin. This is not a good idea from an environmental aspect. This area is where the Sugar River, Rock River and Pecatonica Rivers converge. This means the area is a haven for wildlife. If there was ever a spill in the area - this would be a disaster for the wildlife there - including the Bald Eagle and Massasauga Snake. Not to mention that the aquafers in this region are very shallow. Also of concern is that there are already existing rail lines in the area. I have been told that the reason they are not used is that they are not in good repair. It seems to me that instead of using vast amounts of resources to build a whole new rail line - not to mention taking peoples property against their wishes - that these existing rail lines be re-vamped and re-used. Please consider opening the comments back up to the public. There are a lot of people that do not want this and they deserve to be heard. Thank you. chris dawsonRockton, IL
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(printed as 10/16/2016)CommentEI-25428John CoxThis would devastate the creak and areas around the proposed site. Risk is too high for spills and other environmental damage. This will destroy wildlife areas for native animals. This is also too close to residential areas and the risk to human life too high.Winnebago, Illinois
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(printed as 10/15/2016)CommentEI-25430Thomas M BenthienThe Great Lakes Basin Rail line has been re routed through western Winnebago county and the comment period has been closed. I am requesting that the comment period for the GLB RR be re opened so the tax paying citizens of western Winnebago County will have an opportunity to voice our concerns over the environmental and agricultural impact on our land. The GLBRR is an Investment for profit driven project that is not needed . There are alternate means to transport these environmentally hazardous products and those should be utilized. Please re open the comment period. Thomas m BenthienRockford, Illinois
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(printed as 10/13/2016)CommentEI-25426Maria DietzI am against the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I am a concerned citizen who will be affected by this. 1. My commute to work will be redirected, causing delays- Who will pay me if I loose my job? 2. we will have no access to Medical assistance-how can they get to the west side of the proposed track, if the first responders have to wait for a train? Who will be liable? How will medical assistance get to our school and children on the west side of the track? This will have an impact on current transportation such as Bus safety, rail crossing safety, potential train accidents, disruption and delays of first responders, rural road closings and implications of up to 110 trains a day. What will be done about the noise?This will also have a impact on the land: impact on agricultural activities, land locked fields, increased fuel use as fields are bisected, destruction of soil a non-renewable natural resource, soil drainage and natural land contours disrupted, compactions, socioeconomics of the agricultural community and cultural and historic resources. Who will cover the cost of hazardous waste spill, the land value will go down, who is compensating us for of this disruption? Rural property would be stripped of its intended use. there will be damage to existing irrigation systems and field tile-who pays for this?decreased production of crops and livestock. All and all I see no pros to have GLB Railroad in our neighborhood. We must STOP this as it will ruin the people who provide for us -the farmers. Please reconsider. Thank youRockton, il
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(printed as 10/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 10/12/2016)CommentKevin Brubaker · Chicago, IL
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(printed as 10/11/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Brian W. Stewart, State Representative
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(printed as 10/11/2016)CommentEI-25413Cherry Valley TownshipFrom: Paul Gorski [mailto:paul@gorski.info] Sent: Tuesday, October 11, 2016 11:28 AM To: STBHelp@stb.dot.gov; Kenneth Blodgett <Kenneth.Blodgett@stb.gov> Cc: Dennis Watson <Dennis.Watson@stb.gov> Subject: Request Extension of Draft Scoping Period GLBT Hello, I respectfully request an extension of the draft scoping period for: GREAT LAKES BASIN TRANSPORTATION, INC—AUTHORITY TO CONSTRUCT AND OPERATE A RAIL LINE IN INDIANA, ILLINOIS AND WISCONSIN The reason for this request is that substantial changes to the proposed map have been made by GREAT LAKES BASIN TRANSPORTATION, INC following the original and extended scoping periods. These maps changes affect large areas previously unaffected by the proposed rail lines and fundamentally change the plan and its affects on local communities. I request a 90 day extension/reopening effective October 15, 2016. Sincerely, Paul Gorski Cherry Valley Township Trustee Cherry Valley Township, Illinois 815-871-6320 paul@gorski.infoPaul Gorski, Trustee
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(printed as 10/11/2016)CommentEI-25409Dustin KaapIn light of the fact that there are so many newly affected people because of GLBTs new submitted route (available September 20), I believe a new commenting period should be officially opened and additional scoping meetings scheduled. Given the fact that GLBT was given the period of July 5th to November 10th by the 2 requests(a period of 129 days) I feel a 90 day period should be given to the general public. One example of new concerns that need to evaluated is the route proximity to the town of Winnebago Illinois. The route cuts through the school district, is within 1/4 mile of a residential subdivision, is within 2 miles of the public schools, etc. Thank You for your consideration.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 10/11/2016)CommentEO-2858Venable LLPJay Johnson
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(printed as 10/8/2016)CommentEI-25412Kathi JurkowskiFrom: Kathi Jurkowski [mailto:kathikowski@gmail.com] Sent: Saturday, October 08, 2016 12:08 PM To: David Navecky <David.Navecky@stb.gov> Subject: Docket FD 35952 Dear Dave, Please, please read the attached email. We desperately need help and someone who cares to look into the GLBRR coming to our land in ILL. and WI. If there's anything you can do to look into what these tracks would destroy please let me know. My farm, my livelihood, peace and happiness will be destroyed. I hope you can read my concerns for myself, my area friends and our land. Thank you. Kathi Jurkowski 5418 Yale Bridge Road Rockton, IL 61072 Even my cows were on the watch list for being endangered but have made a come back because of my years of raising them.
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(printed as 10/6/2016)CommentEI-25411Illinois Beef Association[see attached letter] From: Reid Blossom [mailto:reid@illinoisbeef.com] Sent: Thursday, October 06, 2016 2:23 PM To: RutsonV@stb.dot.gov Subject: Docket No. FD 35952 – Request for Additional Public Comment Please find attached a letter from IBA President Mike Martz. The Illinois Beef Association is requesting a 60 day comment period on GLBT’s newly proposed preferred route through northern Illinois. reid Reid Blossom Executive Vice President Illinois Beef Association 2060 West Iles Ave., Suite B Springfield, IL 62704 Phone: 217-787-4280 Fax: 217-793-3605 www.illinoisbeef.comReid Blossom
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(printed as 10/6/2016)CommentEI-25410Julie NewhouseFrom: Julie Newhouse [mailto:newfarm@t6b.com] Sent: Thursday, October 06, 2016 4:00 PM To: RutsonV@stb.dot.gov Subject: docket 35952, newly impacted land owners Authentication-Results: stb.dot.gov Dear Mrs Rutson, I am inquiring about the newly impacted landowners of the Great Lakes Basin project. First, I am concerned that GLBT has been allowed to change the route after the public hearing was closed. That was never foretold in the hearings or your brochures, that the potential applicant could move the route after the hearings were closed. Second, will then the submittals by the newly impacted owners be included in this study? I do not want to encourage the landowners to take the time to describe their environmental concerns if they would be merely put in the circular file. Julie Newhouse Capron, IL
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(printed as 10/5/2016)CommentEI-25476Nancy Drake[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/5/2016)CommentEI-25407Nancy Drake[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/5/2016)CommentEI-25406Arthur Thomas LeDouxNew Comment Period. In light of the fact that there are so many newly affected people because of GLBTs new submitted route. I believe a new period should be opened and two more meetings. One in Indiana and one in Illinois. Given the fact that GLBT was given the period of July 5th to November 10th by the 2 requests(a period of 129 days) I feel a 90 day period should be given to the general public. If you place the meetings centrally along the changed route it will give the best opportunity for those who did not attend the prior meetings. Thank You for your consideration. Arthur LeDouxStillman Valley, IL
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(printed as 10/4/2016)Comment
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(printed as 10/4/2016)Comment[see attached letter]
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(printed as 10/4/2016)CommentEI-25394Richard & Chrissie SpantonI am writing to oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad because of the effects it will have on our environment. It being 1100 miles will impact too many wild areas. While trains are more energy efficient than automobiles, they do have their own effects on the environment, including producing nitrogen dioxide, carbon dioxide, and particulate matter that can contribute to air pollution and negative health effects. The construction and use of railroads can also contribute to the fragmentation of ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Railroads act as physical barriers when animals are unable to cross through their usual habitats due to physical characteristics of the infrastructure. In addition, wildlife can be affected by an increase in mortality due to collisions and human disturbance. This being a toll train and not a speed passenger train is ludicrous this day and age. To spend 15 billion on old fashioned tracks only to make this route faster is NOT NEEDED. Why not take the 15 billion and upgrade the current tracks to be fast tracks with less polluting fast trains? This proposal no matter where you put it will destroy home values, businesses and wildlife. Water tables will be polluted. In Rockton, Nygren wetlands are way to close to this. Every County has nature that should not be disrupted and destroyed by something that isn't truly needed.Rockton, IL
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(printed as 10/4/2016)CommentFrom: Nee, T.J. [mailto:NeeT@beloitwi.gov] Sent: Tuesday, October 04, 2016 12:59 PM To: David Navecky <David.Navecky@stb.gov> Subject: Great Lakes Basin Public Comment Period Dear Mr. Navecky: The Stateline Area Transportation Study (SLATS) is the federally designated Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the Beloit, WI – South Beloit, IL Urbanized Area. We are adjacent to the Janesville MPO (JAMPO) to the north and the Rockford MPO (RMAP) to the south. It is my understanding that the public comment period for the Great Lakes Basin Rail project ended this past July, but since its close, the new preferred alternative route has shifted significantly through Rock County, Wisconsin and Winnebago County, Illinois. It is also my understanding that area representatives have requested an additional public comment period (at least 60 days)in light of this new alignment for newly affected residents and property owners. Now that the proposed new alternative crosses large expanses of the SLATS Metropolitan Planning Area (MPA), we are concerned that residents and property owners, particularly in Rockton Township, IL, the Town of Beloit, WI and the Town of Turtle, WI that may not have originally been directly affected by the proposed route east of Clinton, WI and in Boone County, IL did not have the benefit of active participation in the scoping process because the preferred route shift did not occur until after the public comment period ended. We kindly request the opportunity for these communities, residents, property owners as well as the MPO to do so. Very truly yours, T.J. Nee MPO Coordinator Stateline Area Transportation Study (SLATS) 2400 Springbrook Ct Beloit,WI 53511 Phone: 608.364.6702 Fax: 608.364.2879T.J. Nee
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(printed as 10/2/2016)CommentEI-25391R.A.I.L.E.D.Hi, I had no idea that the STB was considering running a railway directly behind my home. We just went through fighting to stop the Illiana Highway from being built in front of my home and now we have to fight to keep a railway from being build behind my home. I do not understand why the STB is so intent on destroying our town. There is plenty of open land further south. Besides that, I-55 (Grant Street) is an emergency route for the hospital. If there are trains constantly running, how will emergency vehicles get through? I think this project should be reconsidered.Trina McMillin · Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 10/1/2016)CommentEI-25400Nancy DrakeFrom: Nancy Drake [mailto:bulldgs4me@yahoo.com] Sent: Saturday, October 01, 2016 1:23 PM To: Kenneth Blodgett <Kenneth.Blodgett@stb.gov>; Nancy Drake <bulldgs4me@yahoo.com> Subject: No Railroad in Eastern Rock County Please 10-1-16 Mr. Ken Blodgett Surface Transportation Board 395 E. Street SW Washington, D.C. 20423-0001 RE: Docket No. FD 35952 Dear Mr. Blodgett: Great Lakes Basin Transportation (GLBT) is trying to get a railroad to go through next to our back yard property lines out in the country in Beloit Township, Beloit Wisconsin in Eastern Rock County. The people in our neighborhood bought their homes in the country for peace and quiet and the country environment. The investors know nothing about rail lines and want a new line to collect tolls instead of using existing rail lines. The proposed rail lines would create environmental issues including wetlands and two crossings of the Rock River. Pesticides used on the rail line would affect the trees, shrubs, grass , pets and children in our backyards. The train horn would continuously be noisy since the highway the train would cross is extremely close. The noise and the vibrations from the train would constantly keep us awake at night and shake our houses. People having the railroad running along their property line in the back yard would lose significant property value. Our neighborhood wishes to keep the train from being built at all in our area. Please help us. Thank you. Sincerely, Nancy Drake 5150 W. Cleophas Rd. Beloit, Wisconsin 53511 Email: bulldgs4me@yahoo.com
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(printed as 9/29/2016)CommentEI-25395Save Our Farmland, LLCRequest for Public Comment Period [see attached letter]Jordan Lamb · Madison, WI
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(printed as 9/29/2016)CommentEI-25389Wisconsin LegislatureSent: Thursday, September 29, 2016 3:34 PM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Transportation Letter Good afternoon, Attached please find a letter from Wisconsin State Rep. Mark Spreitzer and State Sen. Janis Ringhand to the Surface Transportation Board regarding Great Lakes Basin Transportation’s proposed rail line. Sincerely, Mark Spreitzer State Representative 45th Assembly District 420 North State Capitol PO Box 8953 Madison, WI 53708 (608) 266-1192 or (888) 534-0045 Rep.Spreitzer@legis.wisconsin.govMark Spreitzer and Janis Ringhand
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(printed as 9/29/2016)CommentEI-25387Andrew CorbusTo: The Surface Transportation Board From: Andrew Corbus Date: September 29,2016 RE: Application and Kankakee County Concerns Application It has now been around a year since you first heard about the GLBT plan to construct a new rail line. Yet, there has not been any formal application made to the STB. And on the expectation of an application, the STB has begun an environmental analysis that is being conducted with many unanswered questions that would be expected to be addressed in a formal application. Could you please address the following questions regarding application: • Is there a point at which you will require an application? • Is it possible to complete a draft EIS without an application? • How will the EIS process be altered based on the content of the application? (One would belief the application would make a case for the economics and business arraignments regarding the proposal. These items would have significant influence on what material would be contained in the draft EIS.) As a taxpayer, I would like to see the application fees paid to offset at least a small portion of the hours that you and many cooperating agencies are investing in the EIS. I also think it is reasonable for the public to be aware and make comment on the information contained in the application, that has up until now been withheld. Kankakee County Concerns As a resident of Kankakee County, the September 20, 2016 response leaves some unanswered questions. There still remains no plan or detailed description of the projected use of the Railport area. Since the size of the proposed Railport is so much larger than any other in the country, it is more than justified to request a detailed usage plan for this land. I would formally request that you seek an answer from GLBT so that informed comments can be added to the EIS. Also, when route alternatives were added to the Kankakee River Crossing, it was strange that no alternative outside of the Kankakee River State Park were offered. The other alternatives seemed to serve no purpose but to list alternatives to appease the STB. I ask that you please ask GLBT for an alternative outside of the Kankakee River State Park, or a specific reason one was not considered. This in important park to our community, and there are alternative routes that should be considered. While I understand that the STB is doing what they have been charged to do, I have deep concerns about the amount of information and opposition this project has received, all without an application. I believe it is in the best interest of the STB and the people of the communities affected by this proposal for the STB to adopt a “No build” stance at this point, or at a minimum require, and publish, an application. Sincerely, Andrew Corbus acorbus@gmail.com (815) 953-9700bourbonnais, il
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(printed as 9/29/2016)CommentEI-25386Jennifer ColletteI writing today to ask for your to reopen or extend the period for public comment on the Great Lakes Basin RR. This new route affects a different group of people, including myself. We need to be given a chance to express our opinions. This may not be the place for this but I am devastated by the new route, which is less than a half mile from my house that is currently being built. This house was our dream home that we have saved for our whole life. Now our quiet country setting will not only be disrupted by one close crossing but four. Thank you for your consideration. Jennifer ColletteLa Porte, IN
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(printed as 9/28/2016)CommentEI-25388Carla VassmerFrom: Greg & Carla Vassmer [mailto:gcvassmer@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, September 28, 2016 4:05 PM To: Kenneth Blodgett <Kenneth.Blodgett@stb.gov> Cc: Greg & Carla Vassmer <gcvassmer@gmail.com> Subject: Requesting You Re-Open the Public Comment Period Now That the GLBT Filed an Alternate Route Kenneth, This is to: 1. Request A New Public Comment Period for the Alternate Route of the GLBT. 2. Public Meeting(s) planned in Winnebago County, IL with the public invited via newspaper (not many get papers anymore), local news stations (WREX, WIFR, etc) and email to contacts you have received requesting this meeting. Please reply at your earliest, Carla Vassmer Carla Vassmer 815.262.3904 Let us not seek the Republican answer or the Democratic answer, but the right answer. Let us not seek to fix the blame for the past. Let us accept our own responsibility for the future." ~John F. Kennedy"
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(printed as 9/28/2016)CommentEI-25382Wisconsin State Assembly[see attached letter]Amy Loudenbeck, Representative, 31st District
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(printed as 9/27/2016)CommentAaron W. Damrill
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(printed as 9/26/2016)CommentEI-25403Julie KokosFrom: julie kokos [mailto:sunsettravel@sbcglobal.net] Sent: Monday, September 26, 2016 12:33 PM To: David Navecky <David.Navecky@stb.gov>; Alfred Forstall <Alfred.Forstall@stb.gov> Subject: please let me know you have received this and you are passing these on to Victoria Rutson and staff....thank you Dear Dave, this is what was said in the recent report from GLB: Question 6 Were other locations and sizes of the proposed Railport near Manteno considered? If yes, identify the other locations and sizes that were considered and specify why they were dismissed and what criteria were used to conduct this evaluation. Response: Alternate locations for the Manteno Railport along the GLBT route were not considered in detail because GLBT could not locate another area that met the following requirements for this facility: (1) A relatively flat and unobstructed site requiring minimal grading and drainage 9 mitigation; (2) A site lying between two potentially significant connecting railroads; (3) A site offering the operational flexibility to handle 15,000-foot long trains efficiently (4) A site large enough to provide railroad operating and mechanical services to GLBT’s target customers; (5) A site with ready access to the Interstate Highway system. GLBT recognizes that many commenters were concerned about the proposed size of the Manteno facility. The layout described in GLBT’s March 7, 2016 submission was the maximum potential extent of the facility, which GLBT offered in an effort to conservatively estimate potential environmental effects. GLBT does not anticipate that the Manteno facility would operate at the size described in its March 7 submission in the foreseeable future. And on Appendix where they have listed all the towns and the populations, they have Sollit, IL listed as NA!!!!! Sollit, IL most certainly has people living there! How dare they act as if Sumner Township, Sollit, IL and Grant Park, IL are so insignificant????? Julie Kokos 8454 E 11000 N RD Grant Park IL 60940 Kankakee County
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(printed as 9/23/2016)CommentEI-25402Julie Kokos[see attached email]
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(printed as 9/23/2016)CommentEI-25385Rock Against Rail LLC et alThomas F. McFarland · Chicago, IL
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(printed as 9/23/2016)CommentEI-25384Tammy WakeleyIn light of the recent release (9/20/2016), I would to request that the STB re-open the public comment period for 60 days to allow those individuals that are now affected by the new route to have the opportunity to share how this proposed rail project will impact their business, residence, etc.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 9/23/2016)CommentEI-25377Illinois Farm BureauRequest for additional public comment due to GLBT's response to STB Information Request #1Laura Harmon
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(printed as 9/22/2016)CommentEI-25401RAILEDFrom: Pat & Harold [mailto:moose1942@att.net] Sent: Thursday, September 22, 2016 5:57 PM To: David Navecky <David.Navecky@stb.gov> Subject: GLBT update Mr Navecky, The update that was released on line to the NWI Times failed to show the proposed alternate routes presented by GLBT. Also the tweaks made still ignore all of the environmental issues that hundreds of us addressed and it did not disclose the person(s) or organizations financing the project. It also did not truthfully disclose the purpose of the rail line and what it would transport. When can we remonstrate????? Patricia Mussman RAILED Unincorporated West Creek Township Lowell, INPatricia Mussman
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(printed as 9/22/2016)CommentFrom: Lisa Pruka [mailto:redborders@msn.com] Sent: Thursday, September 22, 2016 10:04 PM To: Kenneth Blodgett <Kenneth.Blodgett@stb.gov> Subject: New proposed route? Dear Sir When will the STB hold public hearings in regard to the recently announced preferred" route for the Great Lakes Basin Railway? The new route travels directly through my pasture and will adversely affect my life and my livelihood. I am extremely disappointed to see this new proposal and hope that there will be opportunity for public input. Lisa Pruka Czechmate Border Collies, Katahdin Sheep & Dog Sports Delegate to the American Kennel Club"Lisa Pruka
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(printed as 9/20/2016)CommentEI-25414Mary Elizabeth Sweeney[see attached letter]
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(printed as 9/20/2016)CommentEI-25390Mary Elizabeth Sweeney[see attached comment]
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(printed as 9/20/2016)Comment[Note from OEA: GLBT submitted a set of 24 files in response to Information Request 1, not all of which can be shared in the ECT system. Please visit the project website to view or download the full set of files in their original formats at http://www.greatlakesbasinraileis.com/links_docs.html. Attached are the response letter and six appendices]James T. Wilson
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(printed as 9/12/2016)NoticeHonorable Amy Loudenbeck
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(printed as 9/9/2016)CommentEO-2846Venable, LLPJay Johnson
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(printed as 9/8/2016)CommentEO-2845U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
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(printed as 8/31/2016)CommentEI-25398Andy Corbus
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(printed as 8/31/2016)CommentEO-2841Vanable LLPKathryn Kusske Floyd
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(printed as 8/30/2016)CommentEO-2831Wisconsin DOTKathleen Chung
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(printed as 8/29/2016)CommentEI-25348Venable, LLPKathryn Kusske Floyd
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(printed as 8/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 8/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 8/15/2016)CommentEI-25366Helen McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 8/11/2016)CommentEI-25417Alexa Gianatasio[see attached letter]
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(printed as 8/11/2016)CommentEI-25369Nicole Latronica[see attached letter]
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(printed as 8/11/2016)CommentEI-25368Alexa Gianatasio[see attached letter]
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(printed as 8/11/2016)CommentEI-25317Katherine L Alaks[see attached letter]
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(printed as 8/9/2016)CommentEI-25338Patricia Mussman
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(printed as 8/8/2016)CommentEI-25324Suzanne Bump[see attached letter]
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(printed as 8/8/2016)CommentEI-25320Craig and Kathy Williamson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 8/8/2016)CommentEI-25319Lance Rosenbrock[see attached letter]
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(printed as 8/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 8/4/2016)CommentEI-25327William HamiltonPlease fill out the following information to help us complete your filing: Docket #: FD -35952_0 - - Subject: * Why STB website has a different map for the Great Lakes basin railway First Name: * William Middle Name: Last Name: * Hamilton Address: * 244 Elm Ave City: * Wyoming State: * OH Zip Code: * 45215- Email Address: * William.hamilton@outlook.com Group/Affiliation: Message: The proposed mappings for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad (FD_35952_0) that are on your website are different than the mappings that the Great Lakes Basin railroad has on their own website. For example, the route proposed between mile post 155 and 170 is different between the public (your information) and private (their information). How can you and how can we evaluate the proposal if the proposal conflicts. Who has the actual correct one? How do you know? Thank you.
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(printed as 8/4/2016)CommentEI-25318Shirley Peterson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 8/2/2016)CommentEI-25259James Riggle[See attached letter]
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(printed as 8/1/2016)Letter241333LetterSurface Transportation Board
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(printed as 8/1/2016)CommentEI-25311Nicole BrandlHello, I would like to express my concern about the Great Lakes Basin Transportation running through Rock County Wisconsin. I have multiple concerns regarding the trains. Rock County has multiple communities that this train will affect. From safety, environmental, property values, noise, wild life, infrastructure, etc.I work in the transportation industry and use the Chicago terminal almost every day for our containers. We have no issues with using this terminal. I cannot understand why by-passing Chicago makes much sense for anyone involved. I feel there is a hidden agenda here that Great Basin is not making public. I know multiple freight carriers that prefer the Chicago terminal because of its easy access to many locations. Personally, I don't see any reason to disrupt the communities in Rock County. The Great Basin, would kill the small business owners, the farmers and the property values. Please consider all of these people in your decision. The Great Basin will destroy people's lives.Clinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 8/1/2016)CommentEI-25260Kenneth McCormick[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/31/2016)CommentEI-25310LanaRippentropPlease review all the data your have received before making a good decision about the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Thank you.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/29/2016)CommentEI-25272Dan KloosFrom: Dan Kloos <dan.kloos@cjerickson.com> To: Phillis.Johnson-Ball@stb.dot.gov" <Phillis.Johnson-Ball@stb.dot.gov> Date: 06/03/2016 02:41 PM Subject: GLB RR & Frank Patton Waiver Phillis Johnson-Ball I have been reading through the information that is available and I am wondering how it is that a waiver was given to Mr. Patton and his railroad to sidestep the standard requirements for a project like this. This waiver allowed Frank Patton to avoid responsibility for the fact that his plan is not legitimate, it is devoid of details, material facts, and he constantly misrepresents it by directly contradicting himself and others associated with GLBT. I have seen that there are now two of the largest railroads in the area that want nothing to do with this railroad bypass so is this really a proposed railroad or is this a front for something else and Mr. Patton and his “investors” are lying to you and the rest of us. I am in the final stretch of building a brand new home that I have worked very hard all my life to be able to afford and one week after I started I was blindsided with the information that this railroad will be within 200 feet of my new home. It appears to me that MR. Patton and or his investors must have the ear, arm or bank account of someone that was able to “fast track” the project and skip all the required steps. The railroads have already told you and others involved in this that they have their own systems in place that they are upgrading and changing to relieve the congestion. These people are legitimate railroad people with many years in this industry and they have stated they will not use this bypass and that there is no need for it. Do not hesitate to contact me to discuss further. Thank you, Dan Kloos 708-259-3524 - Cell 219-828-1525 - Home phone 18718 Calumet Avenue Lowell, Indiana 46356 P Please consider the environment before printing this email."
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(printed as 7/28/2016)CommentEI-25251June M. Esser[see attached letter]
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(printed as 7/27/2016)CommentEI-25309Cheryl HelopoulosThe railroad would be an environmental hazard through valuable farmland. Using up so many acres to haul hazardous material is a sin. If there were to be a spill, water would be contaminated as well as farmland and who would clean it up?how many years would a spill ruin the water and land? Would it ever be safe again? Being able to cross roads would be nearly impossible for all traffic including emergency vehicles and school buses. Land values will go down greatly. Destroying towns and people's homes and businesses so that people would have to relocate? Using up land in the Kankakee State Park will destroy land and wild life.. There are so many more negative reasons and hazards for this railroad than there are positive ones! Putting a railroad through is horrible idea in almost all ways! Who would really benefit from this railroad? Certainly not the people!!!Bonfield, IL
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(printed as 7/27/2016)CommentEI-25246J M[see attached letter, sender unclear]
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(printed as 7/26/2016)CommentEI-25308carol dollNo GLB railroad. The impart on the lives & livelihood of over 400,000 residents cannot be allowed. The impact on environment both water,air, noise & wild life cannot be measured¬ allowed.grant park, il
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(printed as 7/26/2016)CommentEI-25307john dollNo GLB railroad. will impact the lives & livelihoods of more than 400,00 residents. The impart of the environment would be horrible.. pollute the Kankakee river, displace wild creatures of all kinds, pollute our drinking water, transport toxic chemicals & flammable materals that if spilledhave no ability to clean up. Impact emergency help to residents.grant park, il
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(printed as 7/26/2016)CommentEI-25271Dial Machine, Inc.From: Eric" <Eric@DialMachine.com> To: <NaveckyD@stb.dot.gov> Cc: <Johnson-BallP@stb.dot.gov>, <RutsonV@stb.dot.gov>, <BlodgettK@stb.dot.gov>, <WaylandJ@stb.dot.gov> Date: 07/26/2016 12:56 PM Subject: Oil Pipelines and the GLBT Proposal Mr. Navecky, We met at the Boone County, IL scoping meeting and the Rockford, IL one I also talked with you. I spoke at the Boone County Scoping meeting about our Troy Bedrock Aquifer and where the proposal runs through our farm and over the South Branch of the Kishwaukee River and how a spill over this aquifer in the Boone/Ogle area because of the lack of any non-permeable shale strata/deposits that any oil or chemical would leach right through sand and gravel deposits and into the sandstone aquifer that is the main source of charging for the West-NW Chicago Suburbs groundwater supply as well as our own. It is the belief of many that Mr. Patton is eying the oil traffic boom by rail for his proposal, if this is so then pardon the pun but some water is being tossed on the oil by rail market as I am sure you are aware. Just like what happened between Rockefeller and Vanderbilt, the most cost effective and safer solution will win out in the end as history seems to be repeating itself here again. I think it is important for the STB to read an article that was published today that proves that point, below is a link to today’s Wall Street Journal article on the front page of the Business & Tech section: In U.S., Oil Trains Give Way to Pipelines. http://www.wsj.com/articles/crude-slump-pipeline-expansion-mark-end-of-u-s-oil-train-boom-1469484016 Thank you, Eric Anderberg 35754 W. County Line Rd. Kirkland, IL 60146 (Embedded image moved to file: pic11942.jpg) cid:image001.jpg@01D03BCA.5F6C4CB0 Eric Anderberg Dial Machine, Inc. 2902 Eastrock Drive Rockford, IL 61109 ph: 815-397-6660"Eric Anderberg
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(printed as 7/26/2016)CommentEI-25253Eric Anderberg
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(printed as 7/26/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/26/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/26/2016)CommentEI-25237Elizabeth Clark[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/26/2016)CommentEI-25235Helen McCormick[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/22/2016)CommentGerry J. Scheub
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(printed as 7/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/21/2016)CommentEI-25197Margaret Waite[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/21/2016)CommentEI-25196Robert Walsh[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/20/2016)Comment[See attached letter]Edward O. DeLaney
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(printed as 7/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25183Philip Nelson[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/20/2016)Comment[See attached letter]Karen Brunello, Sandy Erickson, Vicki Gawlinski, Dave Schroeder, Kaleb Frahm, Jim Hamann, Bruce Heldt, Kathy Ekhoff, Pam Lawrence, Doug Zimmerman · Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25181Mary Braden[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25180Russell Pumroy Barbara Pumroy[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25179Chuck Kastning Brenda Kastning[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25178Adrienne Gallinaro[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25176Nancy Larimore[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25175Jan Austgen[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25173Alice Zink John Zink[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25172Curt Krebs[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25171Helen McCormick[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25170Kenneth McCormick[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/20/2016)CommentEI-25169Ruth McCormick[See attached letters]
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(printed as 7/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/19/2016)CommentEI-25157Jacque McNall[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/19/2016)CommentEI-25156Mike Bratt[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/19/2016)CommentEI-25155Bernice Dunn[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/19/2016)CommentEI-25154Mary Braden[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/19/2016)CommentEI-25144Block GLB Railroad[See attached petitions and letters]Rosalyn Thompson LaVerne Thompson Marvin Ekhoff Marjorie Ekhoff Christine Hresil Maria Maldonado Anne Detloff Jeffrey Daniel Carol Dittmer Todd Sherwood Kenneth Heldt Bonita Heldt Connie Schneider Kathy Mason Joan Wehrmann Landis Wehrmann Karie Prokop Thomas Prokop Robert Hawker Eileen Hawker Garry Prokop
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(printed as 7/19/2016)CommentEI-25143Robert T. Bates[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/19/2016)CommentEI-25141Pokagon Band of PotawatomiJason Wesaw - Tribal Historic Preservation Officer
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25203Judy Fleming[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25194John Andryejewski[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25193Beverly Seibring[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25168Helen McCormick[See attached letters]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25167Kenneth McCormick[See attached letters]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25166William Latimer[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25165Gerald Warn[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25164Steven Grenlund Roxann Grenlund[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25163Jan Austgen[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25162Jane Metcalf[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25161James Robb Debra Robb[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25160Gerald Warn[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25159E.L. Lux Farm[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25158William Radovich[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25153Richard Dunn[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25152Myra Jensen[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25151Doug Elston[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25150Albert Bue[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25149Roger Clark[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25148Melinda Rhodes Michael Rhodes[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25147Range Line Presbyterian ChurchRev. Dr. Jeff Deardorff Shirley M. Diane Sharp Glenda Hoot Allen Dockwieler Curtis and Debra Fritts Jamie Thompson Janet Moore Bitsy K. Anna Losneiki Jeannine Kalvaitis Paul Hoffman Fransa Kale Lynne Rastovski Edna Miller Robert Greathouse Bob and Barbara Asher Christopher Biggs Eli Biggs Sue Bell Carl S. Joseph Kennedy Barb J. Dawn and Dale Straryhen Glen and Judy Sharp Ella Jurs Nancy Nethery Thomas Jasborski Ronald Lazlo Richard J. John J. Nicole Barber P. Bes Sandra Ericksen · Hebron, IN
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25140Jacek Kulak
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25138Cindy Brown
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25124Nan HavensI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad going through our Illinois county--Kankakee and surrounding counties. We have too many farmers who would lose their land, and I feel the noise and smells would change the peace, serenity and cleanliness of our environment. No GLB Railroad!Bourbonnais, Illinois
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(printed as 7/18/2016)CommentEI-25123Andrew HippI am writing to register my concern about the proposed train line adjacent to Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See. I participated in a botanical inventory of this property and find it to be very rich, and am concerned about impacts to the gorge habitats there if the train line is created.Lisle, IL
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(printed as 7/17/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/17/2016)CommentEI-25121Linda RapackiBlock the GLB project! Eminent domain shouldn’t be used when it serves commercial interests at the expense of private individuals. There is no need for such a large railroad yard.Orland Park, IL
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(printed as 7/17/2016)CommentEI-25120Lana RippentropPlease review all the sources and information before making a final decision about the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Please block this railroad.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/17/2016)CommentEI-25119Camp ShawI'm MORE than against this railroad. You know why? You're hurting my home away from home. Camp Shaw is a special place to over 300 people I know of. I've got to save camp. It means so much. Every summer I go, I don't just go to camp. I make lifetime memories. I make lifetime friends. Camp isn't just camp, it's family. And I for one, do NOT want this raiload to wreck what's a part of me. This railroad is causing too much pollution anyway! It'll ruin Rock Creek where campers butt surf and play. Why ruin the next generations time to make connecctions with other people?Kyra Jenkins · Marseilles, Illinois
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(printed as 7/16/2016)CommentEI-25273John F. Rindfleisch[see attached letter]
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(printed as 7/16/2016)CommentEI-25137Ryan Rotzien
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(printed as 7/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/16/2016)CommentEI-25117Ken DaggettLets revue: First Mr. Patton plans, behind closed doors and secretly, for 7 years to build a railroad. Then he gets permission to go ahead with this plan, altho he does not show any positive route, will not list any backers and cannot prove a need for the railroad. Then he announces it publicly and only gives the public 2 months to comment instead of the customary 6 months. He promises free electricity to affected land owners, which he will not define who they are. He tells farmers they can ship their grain on his railroad, which farmers will not and can not afford to do and the railroad will say it is too much of a hardship when done. He says it will create jobs, maybe it will in the beginning, for a few union railroad worker from out of the area, none for the local contractors, and after the project is done there will be no jobs from a train going 70 miles per hour through the county. He wants to build a 15000 acre rail yard for a 278 mile railroad, the largest railroad in the world has a rail yard of only 2500 acres, why does he need a rail yard this big for only 278 miles of track? Is there an ulterior motive behind this large of tract of land? When asked about it in Morris he said they told me to go big, next question" end of discussion, who are "they" and why wont he say who they are? He wants an additional 50 feet of right of way for use by utility companies, pipelines or fiber optic lines, which the STB has no authority over. He has nothing in his plan to take care of covering the cost to every community in the affected area of emergency services involving train wrecks, which will surely happen with 110 trains a day traveling at 70 miles per hour, hazardous waste spills into our rivers streams creeks ditches and our aquifer or the extra miles our school busses and farmers will have to take to perform their daily tasks. The 110 trains a day changes to maybe 10 or 12 one day and 110 the next time he is asked about it, I can understand a dicrepency of 10 or 15 trains a day but 100 trains difference? He started out at 6 billion dollars and that went up to 8 billion dollars to build this railroad, does he not have a better grasp on what it will cost? He said he will be up starting this project in 2018, has he no idea how long it takes to get the land bought, zoning changes to deal with, the environment impact studies,the safety studies, and the mountains of paper work to be done before he even turns over the first shovel of dirt? He says he will pay $20,000 per acre for the land and will use eminent domain to do so, the law says you cannot pay more than the land is worth under eminent domain. He says it will be a quiet train, the law designates the use of whistles and bells at crossings, not Mr. Patton. C.R.E.A.T.E. in the Chicago area is already up and running as planned to shorten time through the area and has the backing in place and is well funded and is up front in there actions. Mr. Patton has stated that he may use federal funds to build this project if he needs to!!! HE WANTS TO USE OUR MONEY TO BUILD SOMETHING WE DO NOT NEED OR WANT, JUST TO LINE THE POCKETS OF HIS INVERSTORS AND HIMSELF AT OUR EXPENCE!!!!! JUST SAY NO!!! JUST SAY NO!!! JUST SAY NO!!! Ken Daggett"
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(printed as 7/16/2016)CommentEI-25116Laura WenzelmanWe adimatley oppose the GLB railroad. If given the chance it will alter and eventually decimate our 34 acre wildlife refuge that we have spent our lives developing for the past 30 years. A 2 acre pond and wetland, hosting a 78 pair Purple Martin Colony, Frogs, salamanders, turtles, resident fox, daily sightings of whitetail deer, American Bald Eagles, would all be affected. Don't continue to destroy habitat. If you do, then shame on you! Sit quietly for 10 minutes, and only picture this environment change in your neighborhood!Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 7/16/2016)CommentEI-25115Eric AnderbergAs the proposed GLBT railway cuts our family farm in half I am voicing complete opposition on behalf of my family and myself. Our property would be the second farm affected inside the Boone County line in the SE corner of the County. The loss/destruction of our farm, our way of life, peace and quiet, destruction of property and property value, closure of local roads that impacts our safety and the overwhelmingly negative impact on our rural environment and wildlife does not justify this poorly planned and incompetent proposal. In all of my years this is one of the most asinine things I have ever seen or heard of and after reading about and listening to the principles of the make believe, non-existent railroad company it brings to question how people of such a lack of knowledge or common sense in terms of constructing such a grandiose project (it will take much longer than 2 years) can get this far to a scoping period and rile up and scare so many, just because they have an unrealistic idea, is very puzzling. The STB has an option in this process as an alternative to NOT BUILD, and this is exactly the option and obligation to the citizens, taxpayers and landowners that the STB should exercise. Save the land owners, citizens and taxpayers from any further grief or expense and kill this proposal, No Build!Kirkland, IL
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(printed as 7/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Letter241396LetterHonorable Adam Kinzinger
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment[Note from OEA: more than 300 individuals submitted this letter in opposition to GLBT. OEA aggregated these submissions, and is posting them in groups by last name. This batch contains last names from T to Z.]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment[Note from OEA: more than 300 individuals submitted this letter in opposition to GLBT. OEA aggregated these submissions, and is posting them in groups by last name. This batch contains last names from M to S.]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment[Note from OEA: more than 300 individuals submitted this letter in opposition to GLBT. OEA aggregated these submissions, and is posting them in groups by last name. This batch contains last names from H to L.]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment[Note from OEA: more than 300 individuals submitted this letter in opposition to GLBT. OEA aggregated these submissions, and is posting them in groups by last name. This batch contains last names from D to G.]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment[Note from OEA: more than 300 individuals submitted this letter in opposition to GLBT. OEA aggregated these submissions, and is posting them in groups by last name. This batch contains last names from A-C.]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25325Benita Garner[see attached filing]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25295Paul Gutowski[see attached letter]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25136John Siverly
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25135Douglas Gray
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25134Shawn Hannon
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25133Robert Walsh
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25131Jan Qualkinbush
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25130LaCrosse, IN Town CouncilJustin Kiel, President
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentJohn Evans, Jeff Good, Laura Blaney
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25128Tia Wilks
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25127Doug Wilks
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25126Patricia Mussman
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25125Dawn Zur
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentKathleen Chung and Bennett Conard
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25112Philip Nelson
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentAdam Kinzinger (IL-16)
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25110Hinshaw and Culbertson LLPRichard Porter representing Joseph and Susan Castrogiovanni
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25109Serena Township, ILHarold Barnes for Randy Lay, Township Supervisor
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25106Mark Hannon
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25105Megan Craig
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25103Christine Hannon
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25101DeLaney & DeLaney LLCEdward DeLaney representing New Durham Estates
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25092LanaRippentropIt is a dream of several businessmen to build the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. It will destroy so many dreams of the future farmers and other families that the railroad will go though. Please say no to this dream and block this railroad. I am sure that it is hard to keep up with all of the major issues of the existing railroads, so why would you even consider the Great Lakes Basin Railroad? Please block this proposal. I just do not understand how with all of the road closings that my son would be able to move large machinery from one side of my divided farm to the other? The lost time and the seed will be so much more expensive. Please block the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Being raised in a rural setting is so much different that the big town feelings. Please think about the impact of a railroad going thru the best land in the United States and destroying it forever. The farmers alone will loose so much as well as all the other people living by the railroad. With 110 trains in a 24 hr period going 70 miles an hour would be hard to take. When do you rest? How do you get use to the noise? What if a train derailed? What about our water supply? Water will be setting along the new rail route with no where to go. The tile in our fields destroyed and the water would be their forever. Weeds will be growing so big with all the road closings and no traffic on them, who will cut them? It is so hard for me to even imagine what this could look like for our future. Please block the Great Lakes Basin Railroad forever. Think of America and the great land that we live in. Just put yourselves in our place for a moment and decide to see our future. Will it be this wonderful life or a life changed forever for the Dream of only a few men? Please say no. Thank you. Please review all the information from all sources before making a final decision. I am not sure what kind of freight the Great Lakes Basin Railroad will be hauling and the purpose of going on a rural railroad track to avoid Chicago. I think it is a dream of several businessmen and hope and pray you will not pass this railroad thru. Please review everything and make the best decision possible for the three states involved. Thank you.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25091Garry JunkerSurely it is not necessary to build a 278 mile railroad to by pass Chicago especially when a large portion of it goes in the opposite direction. Existing tracks closer to Chicago and a short bypass should be used instead. The 11 counties in Illinois that are impacted by this railroad project have had their county boards all come out in opposition to this project. This shows the negative environmental and economic impacts of GLBR on those counties.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25090Mirjam MelinMr Navecky Some last minute things . - As you probably do not know we already have two roads closed in our area because of disputes over who is responsible for the maintenance of bridges. The amount of bridges proposed; one trail over rail, eight road over rail, 2 rail over rail for Rock County, WI alone is of great concern for the residents of the affected townships in Rock County WI. - No new rail is proposed in the Wisconsin Rail Plan. - The lack of any information about a bridge over Turtle Creek in any of the available GLBT information is of concern. The area where a bridge should have been proposed is also in a flood plain. This is of concern for the at-grade crossing proposed for Creek Road as well. An at-grade crossing planned just feet from this creek. - Another concern are the many curves in the proposed track in Clinton and Bradford Township, Rock County WI. Curves increase the chances of derailments, especially for unit trains traveling at higher speeds. The problems with the proposed rail are overwhelming and seemingly never ending. The line drawn on the map was not drawn with the care it should have been. Time to respond will end shortly. My hope is that you will do what is right and stop this charade and allow people to go back to leading their lives and taking care of their families, land and livestock.Clinton, WIsconsin
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25089Mirjam MelinMr Navecky Some last minute things . - As you probably do not know we already have two roads closed in our area because of disputes over who is responsible for the maintenance of bridges. The amount of bridges proposed; one trail over rail, eight road over rail, 2 rail over rail for Rock County, WI alone is of great concern for the residents of the affected townships in Rock County WI. - No new rail is proposed in the Wisconsin Rail Plan. - The lack of any information about a bridge over Turtle Creek in any of the available GLBT information is of concern. The area where a bridge should have been proposed is also in a flood plain. This is of concern for the at-grade crossing proposed for Creek Road as well. An at-grade crossing planned just feet from this creek. - Another concern are the many curves in the proposed track in Clinton and Bradford Township, Rock County WI. Curves increase the chances of derailments, especially for unit trains traveling at higher speeds. The problems with the proposed rail are overwhelming and seemingly never ending. The line drawn on the map was not drawn with the care it should have been. Time to respond will end shortly. My hope is that you will do what is right and stop this charade and allow people to go back to leading their lives and taking care of their families, land and livestock.Clinton, WIsconsin
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25088Keith NiemeyerIn regard to the rail yard being proposed between Manteno and Grant Park, I agree with all the concerns that have been brought up in the meetings and literature; particularly, the concerns about water runoff and the disruption of the natural flow of water; not to mention, the decrease in land values. However, there are a couple of points that have not been mentioned. This rail yard will be operating 24 hrs., 7 days a week. The noise, vibration, and air pollution are obvious, but what about the enormous amount of light pollution? An incredible amount of power will be required, stressing the power grid. The night sky will be lit up every night, disrupting the life cycles of plants and wildlife. Secondly, rail yards are very dangerous places to work. The nearest hospital is in Kankakee, over 20 miles away. Longer response times due to railroad crossings and road closures could become a major factor. Is a new hospital part of the GLB proposal, because they are probably going to need one. It would seem that the GLB project is not in the public's, or the environment's best interests.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25087Lake Alexander RV ParkOn behalf of my family's business and our clientele, I am writing to express our strong opposition to the proposal put forth by the Great Lakes Basin Transportation for their railroad project. Our campground is located on the Kankakee River and it's associated wetlands common to the the area involved in the GLBT proposed project. Our assessment of the information we have seen on the project leads us to believe that the environmental degradation and the disruption of the quiet needed for such businesses such as ours and others, including Shaw-waw-nas-see 4-H camp and the Kankakee River State Park will severely impact our businesses and will degrade the tourism industry in our county. It is impossible to provide access to the spectacular natural wonders of our county to tourists when the noise from trains keeps them awake all night. Our business has already struggled because of the immense number of trains going through the town of Momence. An increase in the volume of trains is a frightening thought. In addition, our businesses rely heavily on the quality of the water resources in this area, most notably the Kankakee River and it's associated wetlands. We are devoted to protecting these valuable wetlands and educating the public about the importance of this type of ecosystem. Finally, we are also farmers in the area who value this family heritage in our county. We implore you to consider the stress that you are putting on an already challenging occupation, which has struggled locally with the extreme weather (severe floods, winds, tornados and intermittent drought) over the last decade. Please heed the will of a majority of the counties that oppose this project. Please protect this valuable land that we love. Thank you very much, Christine Kwak Thomas Kwak Owners Lake Alexander RV ParkChristine Kwak · Momence, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25086Far HorizonsI am writing in opposition to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project. Thank-you for the opportunity to comment. My opposition includes the following points: 1 - Major railroads have spoken out against it as unnecessary and as conflicting with other plans already in place 2 - The economics of the proposed railroad are (in my opinion) suspect, and are being marketed by someone with little railroad background, hence (in my opinion) with substantial danger that if started it will be left for the public to bail out when the investors finally find it impractical and ill-advised. 3 - While NOT (in my opinion) being likely to deliver benefits to anyone (even the investors) it will CERTAINLY be disastrous for many thousands of entities currently in it's proposed path: farm families and university research centers whose lands will be rendered unusable and forfeit, residents whose towns are cut off, children whose schools or homes will be adjacent to the (dangerous) railroad path, wet-lands and watersheds which risk either be over-flooded or drained by the in-advised route -- rendering some of them permanently in the state that some of the area was a few years when a hurricane came through. 4 - Arguably what the railroads needs is better access TO Chicago (not bypassing Chicago) 5 - There are reasonable alternatives for any shipments bypassing Chicago such as improvement of existing routes, use of the great lakes themselves for shipping, rehabilitation of many abandoned rail lines, etc. 6 - It is a vestige of an earlier failed project (Illiana expressway and railway) that was soundly rejected some years ago for similar reasons as those discussed here (impact on public finances, public opposition, ill advised economics) Thank-you for the diligence you are giving to reviewing the GLBR proposal and I hope that after your careful research you will reject it based on the expected substantially negative economic and environmental and public impacts.Phillips Hamilton · hebron, in
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25085Ann BaskervilleThe proposed GLB RR would run through some of the richest, most productive farmland in the world. Please consider whether it is in the public's best interest to destroy thousands of acres of farmland. The fifth amendment of the Constitution states nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation." Of course, various court cases have debated when eminent domain may be used. In general, it seems the public should benefit from projects that result from the use of eminent domain. Please require GLB RR to file a full environmental impact statement. Please provide opportunities for public comment on the RR throughout the planning. Please make sure to balance whether the RR would actually create more good than the harm it would cause. Harm from destroying farmland. Harm that you probably can already feel from reading some of the letters you have been sent."
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25084Laura AwdeyOur family lives 2 miles north of the proposed rail line in Porter County, where there is currently very little noise and air pollution. If this rail line is built, I'm concerned about the amount of noise and air pollution that will be created. How will the length and number of trains daily, along with speed affect our noise and air pollution, day and night? I'm also concerned about how often derailments will happen along the line as train speeds increase to 70 mph and as train traffic increases eventually up to 110 trains per day. Will an unacceptable probability of derailments require lower speeds or require Class 1 Railroads to use rail cars that have been updated to the highest possible standards in order to use the new line? I'm also concerned about safety, since this proposed rail line would help move an enormous amount of hazardous materials. Extensive and ongoing training would be needed for all first responders along the line. Also, how will dozens of mile long trains, travelling on 2 tracks, affect school bus travel times? The current proposed rail line splits Porter Township in half, each school bus would cross multiple crossings morning and afternoon. Because of these concerns, I'm opposed to the proposed GLBR project.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-250831953Dear Dave, I’m writing in regard to the devastating impact the proposed route for the GLB rail line would have on the Bernard & Barbara Hannon farms located between mile markers 2 and 4 at 8323 W State Road 2 and 2702 S Wozniak Road both of LaPorte, IN 46350. Our family farm has been recognized by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture as being owned by the same family for over 100 years. The program was instituted in 1976 and recognizes the contributions these family farms have made to the economic, cultural and social advancements of Indiana. Per the attached map, the proposed route and staging lines bisect 5 of our farm parcels and fall within a few hundred yards of two farm houses owned by the Hannon Trust, each of which are over 100 years old. Overpasses are proposed on State Road 2 in front of one home and a 2nd overpass is proposed on Wozniak in front of the 2nd centennial home. Staging lines are proposed to run between the barns where the equipment is stored and the field forcing travel with farm equipment out onto State Road 2 and the overpass. This would be massively disruptive to farm operations. In addition to the loss of farmland and productivity, there is a high risk of farm accidents and destruction of equipment. The back of the 5th parcel would be totally land-locked. As good stewards of this very productive farm land, the Hannon’s have prohibited the building of homes for generations so it’s heartbreaking to think their efforts and sacrifices would be in vain for the capital gain of the GLB railway. This land is irreplaceable and must be preserved. The rail way will destroy water sheds and drainage. The use of chemicals to maintain the rail line and staging lines would contaminate the soil which is the #1 contaminant to rivers, lakes, and streams. The proposed route is aggressively destructive to these very valuable resources. Resources should be focused on mitigating the risk of the handling, storage and movement of dangerous chemicals. Please don’t ask those along this 278 mile route and beyond to sacrifice their safety, quality of life and livelihood by shifting this problem to a less populated area. Thank you for your time and attention to this very serious matter. Lou Ann Hannon RobinsonLou Ann Hannon Robinson · La Porte, Indiana
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25082Erik HildebrandtI oppose the GLBT RR that is currently slated to pass within .5 miles of my home and the 7th generation plat of land which it is on. I oppose it for all the reasons I stated at the public hearing in Lowell, IN (I was a speaker). In addition to those life safety, wellness, cost, and quality of life issues I oppose the rail line as I have witnessed several different species of migratory waterfowl using the waterways and fields within and adjacent to the proposed right of way of the RR. Specifically I have witnessed these migratory waterfowl in the drainage ditches and fields on Clay street North of SR 2, and county road 173rd Ave. East of Clay street in Eagle Creek Township, Lake County, IN. I also oppose the RR as it will negatively affect the hundreds of species on the endangered, threatened and rare species list which possibly reside in the proposed RR right of way. I have attached three lists (one for each affected county in Indiana) which can be found on the Indiana DNR's website through a simple internet search. I request that it is verified and studied how each individual species on this list will be affected by the proposed RR in Lake, Porter, and La Porte Counties in Indiana. Thanks you for your time and I hope that you find that there is no environmentally friendly decision regarding this railroad other than to deny it altogether. Sincerely, Erik Hildebrandt 6415 E. 17rd Ave. Hebron, IN 46341Hebron, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25081R.A.I.L.E.D memberI have spent the day reading comments again from the many individuals, government entities and other and I just want to say that from the bottom of my heart I an begging you to deny this GLBT project from going forward on the basis of the facts and research that these people/groups have submitted to you. We are on the verge of total disaster and devastation if this project is approved. If you approve this project we will all be heartbroken and terrified for the future and our families will loose the legacy our ancestors left to us that we can no longer leave to our children and grandchildren. Why do we deserve to loose this so Frank Patton can leave a legacy to his children when he is one and we are many? Please consider this when you make your decision. Patricia Mussman Unincorporated West Creek Township The most beautiful spot in this area of IndianaPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25079Douglas StockleyPlease see attachment regarding the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail project.Earlville, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25078Ray and Dawn LovellWe are writing to notify STB of our position regarding the construction of the Great Lakes Basin Rail EIS. We do not support the construction of this rail road. We believe it will negatively impact our community and environment. Please do not approve this project. Thank You, Ray and Dawn Lovellreddick, il
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25077Wolfe Brothers FarmThis will affect us on both the dairy end and the agricultural end. Starting with the dairy the noise will cause the cows to lose milk production and lower the conception rate of getting back bred. The agricultural side it will ruin the drain tiles that we have put in. If we have a train derailment we could have contaminated well water. Then if the cows drink the water it could contaminat the milk. If this were to happen we would be out of business. We make our living off the cows for their meat and milk. The ground for hay,straw,corn,beans and wheat. Hope you can take this into consideration when making your decision. Thank you.Dawn Wolfe · Hebron, IN - Indiana
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25073Tod JonesThank you for giving concerned citizens a chance to voice our concerns. I am greatly opposed to the rail road that Mr Patton wants to run through porter county indiana. This will substantial change our tranquil area. We have lived on our 20 acres for 23 years. And has become a very important part of our lives. Two generations of our family have lived here. And to think our way of life will be altered forever is heart breaking. Outside the personal aspect the drainage situation is very worrisome. Heavy rains or winter snow melts cause flooding in our yard. And to have the railroad cause even more drainage issues is a scary thought. It will become a destructive situation. Farmlands and personal properties will be destroyed. And it will be the homeowners or county's responsibility to foot the bill. Another issue I have is the response time for our emergency responders. The railroad will add precious time to response times in emergency sitations. And could mean the difference between life and death in a medical emergency. Another issue I have is that how close the railroad will be to some of our schools. The constant distraction of horn whistles up to 110 times a day is not conducive to education our youth. Most of us who live in this are get their water from a well. If there was ever an accident and a spill of a chemical or petroleum product. It would be devastating. We would not have potable water to use. And to bring in city water would take years and cost millions of dollars. This railroad is not needed. Its not even being backed by the major railroads that supposably it is being built for. I believe this a plan to make Mr Patton and his backers millions or billions of dollars at the expense of hard working citizens. Once again thank you for giving us this platform to voice or concerns. Tod JonesCrown Point, Indiana
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25071Fred & Sandra ClintWe have some concerns regarding the GLB railroad and request that the EIS address them. We live about a 1/4 mile from the proposed railroad. Our neighbors would lose land with a railroad cutting through it. Our son's is within feet of the railroad and would directly impact his quality of life and property value. Some things for you to consider: We live on Turtle Creek which eventually goes to the Mississippi. What happens when an oil spill goes into the Creek? There are deer, turtles, fox and other wildlife around here and how many will be killed by the railroad? How will the vibrations affect our well? There are eagles nesting along the creek. How would the noise and construction pollution affect them? The route goes across the back of our cemetery. We believe the vibrations will affect the old momuments located there and noise interrupting funeral services. The Emerald Grove Church is not far away and has limestone basement. Will the vibrations affect that and the stained glass windows in the church and noise during church services? I hope you will do a very thorough study of all concerns. One concern is whether the railroad is even needed especially up in our area. CREATE is working on improving the rail through Chicago. There are many unused rails that could serve the same purpose. A couple of bridges in our are not being repaired by rails and affects our getting to place already. Thank you for your consideration. Fred & Sandra ClintJanesville, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25065Janet HoisingtonDetailed Map #12 Winnebago County I am concerned about the route of the train through my farm. Not only would it destroy the usefulness of the fields but it would cross two very aged (1949) natural gas pipelines just a few yards uphill from the Rock River. Incredible that anyone would choose this route. This is a huge accident just waiting to happen. Janet HoisingtonRockford, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25064Janet HoisingtonDetailed map #12 Winnebago County It is alarming that the railroad will cross Kishwaukee Road and dead end" Condon Road. These are the arteries that all of the people living down in this direction would use to get into Rockford. It especially is alarming that this is the fastest route for ambulances going to the large hospitals in Rockford. If this is cut off, they would have to go about 22 miles out of their way, down to Byron and up Rt. 2. Crossing Kishwaukee Road is putting lives in danger. Janet Hoisington"
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25063Janet HoisingtonDetailed Map #12 Winnebago County Attached is a letter from a state archaeologist concerning the historical significance of the property at 7901 Kishwaukee Road. There is at least one large Indian mound and several identified sites. There is also the site of one of the first buildings in the county. This farm has evidence of the earliest history in the county. The train will destroy this evidence as well as the natural beauty of the woods along the Rock River. Janet HoisingtonStillman Valley, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25061VaLinda KingI am very concerned about the proposed Great Basin Railroad proposed to go through the middle of our farm ground for many reasons. One of which the proposed route is only 400' feet from our yard. This concerns me as it will cut our farm field right in the middle. We will have to either have an access installed or go around on other roads. Second train accidents are more and more prevalent every day. Especially concerning if this train is hauling crude oil. We have children at our house all the time and expecting a grandchild. They no longer will be able to play in the yard without constant supervision. The installation of the train will disrupt the thousands of dollars we have spent in drainage, which will never be able to be restored exactly due to compaction. We will in a peaceful environment due to our choice. If this railroad is installed, this will be a disruption to our peace. My most concerning item is eminent domain. I do not know how this can happen by a personal investor. This would be like me putting a hot dog stand in the back of Mr. Patton's yard. Please consider all of our concerns when conducting your environmental study. We have a creek with lots of wildlife. Fossils have been found many times in our field. We appreciate your time when considering your decision.Reddick, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25060Daniel & Kristin HuisheereTo the Surface & Transportation board and Dave Navecky, We are sending this letter with our concerns about the GLB railroad. We are a family run farm of ONLY 140 acres of crop land and pasture. We raise pure bred and commercial cattle that we sell nationwide for show calves and breeding females. And we are concerned with the train running through our farm and splitting it into 2 pieces which not only will take this land from us to feed our cattle it is also a concern on how we would get our cattle to the other side of the tracks safely. Our livelihood will be changed drastically if the train were to go through our property. Our other concerns are what the rail will be carrying such as toxic products, that will have an impact on our environment if there is a derailment. We have not heard about what this train will haul only speculation. We have a small stream that goes through our farm which is connected to the turtle creek watershed and tributary to the Mississippi river. In the spring of the year during the melt off of snow we have seen the water flood over the banks of the creek. Where will that water go if they put in a small culvert or bridge for the train to go over the creek where will the water go if the culvert is not big enough. This could also potentially damage our crops. Noise of the railroad will also have an effect on our cattle. They could lose milk production which will effect their calves growth also could effect the cows reproduction. If the train is put in we will have to cut our herd in half because we will lose pasture ground. Please take your time to study the impact that this track will have on the entire area and peoples lives. Thank you for your time, Daniel & Kristin Huisheere of Huisheere Family CattleJanesville, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25058Save our FarmlandMr. Navecky, I live in Bradford Township adjacent to the land where the proposed GLB railroad may run. I am a concerned citizen as I feel this railroad will NOT have a positive impact to our community. The impact I foresee is higher taxes, lower home value, noise pollution, safety hazards loss of prime farmland. Have other option such as the existing rail line that is not in use, or CREATE project been explored. we already have two bridges that pass over the old railroad that cannot be used and are currently closed at the overpass. Our township does not have the funds to repair these bridges. I also foresee higher costs for our township to maintain our roadways (plowing as they will have to go around the closed roads). How about the building of the GLB rail, I assume this will require heavy equipment whereas several country roads have weight limits. Who will pay to maintain rail crossings? Who will cover the cost to train our local Volunteer Fire department? The proposed GLB rail route is also immediately adjacent to a limestone gravel pit. Will the rail vibrations have a negative impact on the Pit? will the blasting at the pit have an impact on the Rail? Lastly - My husband and myself build out in the country for the peace and quite the country has to offer, along with hunting, hiking and other recreational activities. If I wanted to live where I could listen to a train fly by every 10 minutes I would be living in the city. I beg of you to please take careful consideration of all concerns and alternate options available when making your decision that could possible ruin our prime farmland, and our community. Thank you, Diane Herr & Mark HerrDian Herr · Clinton, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25055Georganne HigginsI urge you to disallow the Great Lakes Basin Transportation proposal. It would severely impact several natural areas, including Kankakee River State Park and Camp Saw-waw-nas-see. It would also gobble up prime farmland - an irreplaceable resource. While it may be legal to allow a private entity to use eminent domain to take other's businesses, I consider it immoral. Plus, several railroads have indicated they would not use the proposed line. For all these reasons, I urge you to stop this proposal.Bourbonnais, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment[see attached letters]Kate Cloonen, State Representative, 79th Legislative District · Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25052Vicki Urbanik-RandallJuly 15, 2016 Dear Surface Transportation Board and Mr. Navecky: I urge you to consider the negative impacts that the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation proposal would have on the natural resources and wildlife habitat in Porter County, Ind., if the freight line is allowed to be constructed as proposed. My family and I own approximately 13 acres in Morgan Township, Porter County. With the exception of the homestead area and a farm access easement, our property is heavily wooded with a wetland area. It is our intention to maintain and preserve the property indefinitely in its natural state. We believe that our woods, in a small but meaningful way, contribute to the quality of life we enjoy in south Porter County. With neighboring property consisting mainly of single-family residences and farm fields, our woods provide a cover for an amazing diversity of wildlife. In addition to the more common species, such as deer and opossum, we have seen hawks, pheasants, wild turkey, and great-horned owls making their home in our woods. We have had a sighting of an Eastern Box turtle, which is an endangered species in Indiana. We also have had an unconfirmed sighting of an Eastern Massasauga, which is also an endangered species. Our woods provide a resting spot for a variety of migratory birds; we are fortunate to be visited each year by Eastern blue birds and rose-breasted grosbeaks, among other species. In addition to the animal life, our property provides a habitat for native plant life, including wild geranium and trillium. As proposed, the GLBT rail line would run less than one-half mile north of our property before turning southward and cutting through our woods. We believe very strongly that the presence of the freight lines, with the associated noise and vibration, would displace the wildlife and destroy the habitat we wish to preserve. The freight line would also disrupt, if not destroy, the associated recreational opportunities that our woods and the surrounding woods provide for birders, hunters, and people who like to walk and enjoy nature. We urged you to reject the Great Lakes Basin Transportation proposal. In turn, you will be helping us to preserve our wildlife habitat in south Porter County for the benefit of future generations. Thank you, Vicki Urbanik (legal name: Vicki Urbanik-Randall) 378 S 150 E Valparaiso, IN 46383Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25051Theresa M. HuberDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing to you in regards to Docket# FD 35952. I am requesting that during the Draft EIS process that the STB please study the socioeconomic impact that the proposed rail will have on the agriculture communities that this rail is proposed to travel through. The family farm is alive and well here in the Midwest and it will suffer greatly if this proposed rail is approved. It will not be a matter of one commercial farmer losing a few acres. A 'few acres taken' can mean the success or failure of a family farm. It will effect milk yields, crop production and yields and each individual farmer will be affected differently depending how his/her land is mutilated. But please do not let yourself or any one else think that none will come out unscathed, or that not every single land owner will come out without some scars from this proposed rail if it is approved. And it will not only effect individual land owners. The impact will be felt by each member in every community that this rail will effect if approved. The socioeconomic impact will be felt by everyone in each community as well as agriculture related businesses. Its impact will also be felt by the consumer of agriculture goods, which means every person who enjoys eating dairy, produce, meats, poultry and any other farm product. Food does not come from the grocery store. Food comes from farmers who take great pride in what they contribute to society. The food produced is delivered to grocery stores who then make it available for sale to their customers. If the American Farmer fails, everyone fails. I ask that you add this to your analyzes, take time to talk to the USDA. The American people and the American economy depends on the STB to learn how very adverse taking farmland is to the economy and our food chain. You can't grow more farm land and once a rail is built over farmland it makes it unusable in the future. I ask you to research this, as many studies have been done to prove it already. I thank you for your time and for adding this request to the EIS Study. Sincerely, Theresa M. HuberJanesville, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25050Mark UtzigMr Dave Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 Mr. Navecky, I am very concerned about the environmental impact on the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line ending east of Milton, WI. I’m especially concerned about the “Staging” of rail cars of some of the finest farmland in the world. These rail cars are known to “leak” and who knows what is being stored in them. This leakage would not only affect some of the finest soil in the world but could also have an impact on ground water contamination. I don’t think increasing the efficiency of freight rail traffic around Chicago is worth risking the contamination of some of the finest farmland in the world with some unknown man-made chemicals.Milton, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25048George FlageoleMy concerns are many. Closing roads and impacting school bus travel emergency responders and commute times. Increased possibility of spills and who would clean them up. Permanent destruction of precious farm land. Destroying tiles in the fields. Hundreds of people losing their quiet homes in the country. That has been their dream and it is not right that they should loose them. Trains going over our Kankakee River and through our state park. That River is our main drinking water for all of Kankakee. What if there was a spill in that river. Wildlife that is existing in the state park. I could go on and in but the bottom line is that this rail line is not needed. C.R.E.A.T. Is already doing what needs to be done to help the rail traffic in Chicago. Please read and try to understand the pleas of all of us. Thank you for your time.Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25047Theresa M. HuberDear Mr. Navecky, I am contacting you in regards to Docket# FD 35952. I am requesting that the STB make the safety of the people who live along the GLBT's proposed rail a major consideration during the Draft EIS portion of this process. Mr. Patton says he chose this route because it is 'green land'. It is 'green' because it is developed agriculture land. It is not undeveloped land. Agriculture is the backbone of this nation and in order to be successful it takes the people dedicated to agriculture and their families to make it happen. That brings me to my point. These are real people/families who live on these farms, families with young children, families with elderly parents, to say nothing of the fact that farming is a dangerous profession. The safety of all the above is put at a greater risk if this proposed rail becomes a reality. One safety risk is to families with children who could very well be seriously of not fatally injured by the passing of high speed trains on the rail, and there are a great many children to consider. Children/young adolescents have great curiosity and a rail would be seen as a great adventure to many young people. If any person of any age has a medical emergency including , but not limited to a car accident, a farming accident, heart attack, stroke, a young mother going into labor, I could go on, and emergency services cannot get to them because they have to wait for a train to clear the road there is a great risk of serious consequences to said individual(s) if not fatalities. Plus there is the very real risks to the people in these communities if a derailment occurs. How are emergency crews going to get to everyone who is in danger? Human safety needs to be given great status. The safety and wellbeing of the people who live in the communities that this rail is proposed to travel is just as important as any other persons safety and wellbeing. The EIS process should include conferring with medical professionals (medical doctors and psychologists), local and national government agencies. Every individual has the right to feel safe in their homes and on their land. I strongly urge you and the STB to please put a great deal of thought and study into the safety (or not safe)implications of this proposed rail. Thank you for your time, efforts and consideration. Sincerely, Theresa M. HuberJanesville, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25043Deb EkhoffWith the situation of more and more people moving out of Illinois, I wonder what is going to happen to all the land that the railroad buys up, destroys with industrial building and then they leave? Already we have two railroads near us that are no longer used. They have not been cleaned up so that a farmer could again use the land. This is what will happen when the GLBT fails. The land will be a barren wasteland that will not be able to be farmed again. It will be just another sight that is an eyesore in the state of Illinois. Next, what about the damage that will be done to the existing farmland after the train goes through? Tiles will be crushed by the heavy equipment, land drainage that has been so carefully created by the farmer will be ruined. Farmland will be worth less money and less crop will be produced. More people will be put out of work than the number that Patton THINKS he will be able to create. Patton is not upfront with us. He is no longer talking to people. Not answering questions and if he was asked he can't answer them. Is he really the guy behind this project? I think the people who will be affected by this project are being treated unfairly. Our entire 4 generation farm will be wiped out by this huge railroad yard. I don't think the railroad is necessary. Let CREATE do their job and make the system that is in place more viable. Use the existing railroad system and make it more efficient. Why are we recreating the wheel, when there is already one in place. I know why....someone is looking to become wealthy by buying up all this land and then selling it to industrial companies. I am also worried about train derailment and contamination of the farmland around the tracks. There are so many damaging situations that have been mentioned by others concerning this train system. How many people need to be displaced, lose their farms, their livelihood just because someone is trying to make a buck off this endeavor? Yes, there are possible alternative routes, but someone is always going to be affected. And no, I don't think that the railroad will actually help anyone or any railroad system.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25042R.A.I.L.E.D. memberDave Navecky, Phillis Johnson-Ball and Victoria Rutson, please carefully review my final comment to your board in my attached letter. Thank you, Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25041Laura BarkerI object to conversion of farmland for any other purpose. Alternate routes thru Wanatah and Lacrosse disrupt student transportation. I see financial loss for all property owners in the railway path. Please make this proposal a thing of the pastWanatah, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25038Mark UtzigMr Dave Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 Mr. Navecky, I am very concerned about the environmental impact on the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line ending east of Milton near the Lima Marsh. Lima Marsh is a 2000-acre State owned wildlife area that is home to many grassland birds and shore birds. It provides a natural habitat for waterfowl nesting rearing and migratory stopover. In the spring the marsh is a popular stopover for Sandhill Cranes which fly over my house to get to the marsh. My concern is that the increase rail traffic on the rail liner between Milton, WI and Whitewater, WI will have a major impact on wildlife in this marsh. Since the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will end and connect to the Milton-Whitewater rail, Rail traffic will increase dramatically in this area. In 1956, the Lima Marsh Wildlife area was begun as a Federal Aid in Fish Wildlife Restoration Project for the purpose of protecting wetlands. I feel that the preservation of this area is much more important than increasing the efficiency of freight rail traffic around Chicago.Milton, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25036Linda VineyAgainst the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project: concern: ground water contamination and destruction of natural water ways.Janesville, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25032Raymond R. LarsonTo whom it may concern There is a reason why there has never been a rail line going through Boone County IL where GLB is proposing it. It's not an ideal location for it. It crosses several large flood plain areas and their is no freight traffic stalled because this line doesn't exist. We have a high water table some people tap with shallow point wells and the aquifer beneath Boone County and both are highly susceptible to contamination from Hazardous Material Spills. This is not the first business that has viewed Boone County as empty farmland and came up with an idea to make profit for themselves at the expense of our rural environment living. People that were raised in Boone County stayed here for this rural environment. Others have moved here to get away from the busy railroad, city life and industrialization that has taken over other counties. The more I look into it the more I see there is no reason to have this go through Boone County where it would pose such a negative impact on our rural environment and not a need for GLB at all. Supposedly to ease congestion at a bottleneck in Chicago? There is no Great Line Backed up of thousands of trains waiting to go through Chicago. There are already 2 rails that run East to West South of Chicago and the GLB line would be parallel to them. If any existing railroad saw the necessity to increase traffic through this region they would already have accomplished it or would be looking at improving the lines they already have in place. Ray LarsonGarden Prairie, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25031Theresa M. HuberDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing to you regarding Docket# FD 35952. I am requesting that the STB's EIS analyze include a study of the effect that the proposed rail and the high speed trains that potentially may use it will have on the water tables and water quality. There has been a great deal of concern and conversation as to how the vibrations of high speed train traffic will effect the water tables and quality of wells and the water. Every person should be entitled to quality water and should not have to fear if their well will be effected adversely, possibly fail, by the vibrations of high speed trains. Neither should people have to worry about the quality of their water being adversely effected by the pollution that will come with the proposed rail if approved and more importantly the complications of hazardous material contaminating their wells in the case of a derailment. These are very real concerns to everyone who has well water that they depend on all along the entire proposed route of this rail. I am asking that the STB please give this careful examination and seek the expertise of professionals who see it as their responsibility to safeguard the water quality of the people and communities in the local areas that could be effected as well as at the national government agencies who govern public saftey. The potential damage this proposed rail could bring to the water quality of the effected route should be of great concern to the STB and I request that you make it part of the EIS Draft analyzes. Your time, efforts and consideration are greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Theresa M. HuberJanesville, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentPlease see the attached comments.Jason Culotta · Madison, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25025Theresa M. HuberDear Mr. Navecky, I am contacting you regarding Docket# FD-35952, the GLBT proposed rail. I am requesting that as part of the Draft EIS analyzes that the STB consider the environmental effects that the high speed trains utilizing this proposed rail will have on the many century homes that the proposed rail will run very close to. Our home is a registered century home, 117 years old. There are many other century homes in the path of this rail in our area alone. These 100 plus years old homes were built on limestone foundations and there is great concern regarding the effect that the vibrations caused by the high speed trains will have on our homes. We live in the area called 'Rock Prairie' east of Janesville, WI. This area was settled well over 120 years ago by people who have passed down their homes and farms generation to generation. Many of the names that settled here on the Prairie are still prevalent today in this very historic very agriculture community. Losing our homes due to the vibrations of high speed rail is a very real and daunting concern. These are historic homes. This is our heritage. It would be detrimental to the environment of our families and our community if these homes were to be destroyed as a result of the vibrations caused by high speed rail. I am requesting that the STB take this issue into consideration, consulting with civil engineers, architectures and other professionals with expertise regarding the potential impact on century homes that will be effected by the proposed rail. Thank you and the STB for including this request in your EIS analyzes. Sincerely, Theresa M. HuberJanesville, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25024Ralph & Marla HeldtTo Whom It May Concern: We are property owners of Sumner Township and oppose the Great Lake Basin Railroad proposal and ask your consideration regarding the environmental concerns this railroad would bring to this area of land. Concerns such as the water, the probable spills that would effect the water, the noise train engines bring to the area. The many many acres of prime farm land would be taken away. This area of farm ground has been referred to God's country many times in our life. The rich dark soil produces an abundance of grain and vegetables that help to feed our nation. Another thing to consider is the farm revenue the State of Illinois will lose. Another huge concern is the Grant Park School District #6 and the impact the district would suffer from the proposed railroad. Grant Park School District #6 is an excellent small rural school district known for many academic, sport, and financial recognitions. Locating this proposed railroad in this area will cause many problems for this great school district. A district to the south of Grant Park is suffering and may need to seek help from their neighbor to the north if the state cannot come across with help and funding. We are also lifelong members of Zion Lutheran Church of Grant Park. This church is approaching it's 130th Anniversary of existence. Generations and generations of families have loved ones buried at the church cemetery. Should the railroad be approved, these families will have to relocate their loved ones deceased bodies. There are other cemeteries in the proposed acreage of railroad. Please, please consider just a few of the thousands of concerns of the proposed railroad site. Sincerely, Ralph & Marla Heldt 9914 N. Prairie Trail Grant Park, IL 60940Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25022Lisa MatlockI am writing to express my concern with the railroad project near Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See. The project will have a negative impact on the camp and the natural environment there. This camp has positively affected children for 70 years. My kids attend and their grandmother attended many years ago. Progress of the railroad has already impacted communities I've lived in so I know first hand that there IS a significant negative impact on the surrounding communities. I am opposed to this project and do not support the railroad coming near the camp. The benefits of the camp for the community far outweigh the financial benefits of the railroad. Rock Creek flows through Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See in a deep canyon with a series of natural caves originally used by the Native Americans that once inhabited our land. It is one of the most scenic waterways and geologically unique properties in northern Illinois. The GLB project has real potential to adversely impact the creek, the entire watershed and the camp environment. We need to do everything in our power to protect this irreplaceable natural resource for the enjoyment of future generations.Plainfield, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25021Alice HerchenbachI am very much opposed to the GLB project as a way of preserving the peaceful, serene atmosphere of Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See and its natural beauty. I attended this camp for years as a child and teenager and my children work and volunteer at this camp every summer. This is a beautiful sanctuary from the city and suburbs of Chicago that children and people of all ages can enjoy and it can never be replaced once it is ruined by this project. Please stop this project. Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See was founded by the 4-H foundation in 1946 and dedicated to veterans of WWII. Over the last seventy years it has served the camping needs of hundreds of thousands of campers. It is a place of peace and serenity in a world of noise pollution. Each year thousands of campers attend this venue for camping, wedding ceremonies and receptions, retreats, picnics, pool parties and hiking the beautiful Rock Creek and wooded trails. These activities are threatened by the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad project. Please stop this project - don't let Camp Shaw be ruined by your short sightedness. Thank you. Alice HerchenbachMinooka, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25020Theresa M. HuberDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing to the STB requesting to include evaluating the pollution impact in the Draft EIS stage of the process regarding GLBT's proposal. This includes the pollution that will result during the building of the proposed rail, the pollution that will be a direct result of the trains utilizing the proposed rail and the pollution that will occur if there is a train derailment and the pollution that can be caused if there is a fire as an result of sparks coming off the rail. Please examine the scope of the area(s) that will be contaminated and how the soil that is contaminated will effect the crops and or pasture lands and for how long of a period of time will these lands be unusable. Sustainability is an extremely important component in successful agriculture and the agriculture communities. There are many soil and agriculture professionals with whom you can confer to help with the evaluation of the pollution possibilities and impacts. I thank you and the STB for your time, efforts and considering my concern. Sincerely, Theresa M. HuberJanesville, WI
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25017Brent PollardDear Dave Navecky, As a farmer in Winnebago County, I have major concerns about how farmland is affected. The proposed route will create many severed fields of irregular, non-square or rectangular shapes full of point rows. Any time the rail line moves through a crop field at an angle, it creates economic hardships due to the fact that modern farm machinery is designed to efficiently operate in rectangular or square fields. Anything other than a 90 degree corner is termed a point row. This wastes fuel, uses extra seed, and causes overlaps of pesticides & fertilizers. This last concern creates environmental damage that impacts us all. In an example where a field is 1⁄2 mile wide, there are typically 44 passes into the headlands per side of the railroad. A commonly used 24 row planter wastes 1.450 seeds per pass over the field. A bag of seed corn commonly costs over $300 per bag, containing approximately 80,000 seeds. Working new point rows created by the Great Lakes Basin Railroad would waste about 127,600 seeds or more than one and one-half seed bags, costing that farmer more than $450 in just one field. The over application of fertilizers and pesticides resulting from point rows not only significantly increases a farmer’s cost, but also creates environmental hazards and direct consequences. But this is not all, the wasted seeds (from double-planted rows) reduce yield because those pants cannot grow to their full potential. Point rows mean a farmer harvests less crop and earns less money. Point rows are created by any and all angles that are not 90 degrees. To minimize affects on farmers fields, great care should be taken to find routes that will cause minimal disturbances to farmers and land owners. For this task, I believe any proposed route for the railroad should run parallel to existing roads and section lines in order to not create severed parcels demonstrated above will have more economic impact to the local farmers then just the loss of the farmland consumed by the railroad. Natural boundaries that minimize impact to farmers like running parallel to major US interstates and highways could be one way to accomplish this task. For examples, the railroad running parallel to US interstate 90 from Wisconsin into Illinois could be one route the railroad could take. I also question if the environmental impacts of the proposed rail route extension from the Rockford airport over the Rock River through Ogle County, finally connecting to a Canadian National Railroad Subsidiary in Winnebago County in Winnebago Township can justify any economic benefits of that spur. There is a flyover where the Great Lakes Basin Railroad crosses that Canadian National Line in Boone County, so that effectively eliminates using the Great Lakes Basin spur into Winnebago County as safety benefit effort to community by by passing a larger metropolitan area from collisions with train traffic or by passing materials deemed to be hazardous from a densely populated area. Canadian National if they even agree to the use the line have to continue to use the line to move materials through the city of Rockford for destinations towards Chicago. I suggest that no proposed extension of the line towards Western Winnebago county even be considered if the Great Lakes Basin project does have a guarantee of use from the Canadian National Railroad company. I also ask that your organization carefully scrutinize this whole project and not grant any exemptions from Full Environmental Impact or any other full reviews for this project, because a project of this scope needs to be vetted seriously tome fullest extent. Sincerely, Brent PollardRockford, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25015Ron CharterMr. Dave Navecky and members of the Surface Transportation Board,I would like to make my opinion of Opposing" the location, building and operating of the Great Lakes Basin Railway project (Docket # FD35952.It would destroy the country living we enjoy in the small Community of Bonfield.We have operated a small business here for 55 years.This railway would not make this a desirable place to live,probably forcing the closure of our business.We also have family farms directly situated in the path of this railroad plat.Having just finished with Enbridge Pipeline last year with the same farm,how much more should we have to endure locally here?Please "vote to kill this railroad project"!!"
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25014John C MischkeDear Mr. Dave Navecky, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad - and I have many of them. In my mind, the biggest issue is the need for this new railroad and the sustainibility of it - and the entire current railroad industry. Nobody can truly predict the future. But we can guarantee that it will be different. Just 30 years ago, technologies such as wireless internet, smart phones and self-driving cars would have sounded like science fiction - just as crazy as railroads would have sounded to people living in the 18th century. Despite a couple of surges that have not lasted, Class 1 railroads have been in a downward death spiral in the United States for the better part of 100 years. Recent changes in energy - especially the unstoppable decline of the coal industry - and transportation will only continue this trend. New advances in shipping and technology will only accelerate this chance. There is a reason that this proposal would be the biggest new rail line in the United States in 104 years. There is a reason that more rail lines have been abandoned then built in the 20th century. Railroads are noisy, dirty products of the 19th century - not the 21st. And we know so much more about the dangers of pollution - not just from the construction but from simply running trains on the rails - then we did 100 years ago or more. The potential dangers to homes, communities and water sources along the GLB route is an unacceptable risk, especially when considering the current state and future of the railroad industry. Even if this railroad sees a sizable amount of traffic in its first couple of decades were it to be built, the negative effects on the land around it could last for centuries. The environmental dangers around the proposed GLB route are such that I cannot support any alternative route that involves more than a tiny amount of construction for entirely new railroad. There are enough existing lines that can be used or renovated. Given the state of the railroad industry, any large amount of new construction would be foolish. Among my other specific concerns: 1. The proposed railroad's proximity to Bluhm County Park on County Road 1100 West in Westville is entirely unacceptable. There are two wetland areas on the west side of the park and a small pond - filled with fish and turtles - on the east side that would be seriously threatened by pollution just from the construction of the railroad. The peace and quiet of miles of trails that are frequented everyday by walkers, runners, bikes and horseback riders would vanish. A large dog park and a covered picnic shelter (both key sources of revenue for La Porte County Parks) would become unusable with the railroad tracks less than 100 feet away. There is also a historical site in the park - the sensitive remains of the foundation of the Crumpacker homestead - that is very close to the proposed rail line. Bluhm is a recreational gem for many people living in Porter and La Porte counties. The destruction and pollution caused by the railroad would take that away for the hundreds of people that enjoy the park every day. Additionaly, then proposed road crossings around the park could make driving to the park for residents an unacceptable hassle. 2. Currently, there are two railroad lines just a few miles south of Westville, and another to the north near the Indiana Toll Road exit - all crossing US 421. Frankly, it is a sick joke how the proposed split in the GLB plan slices and dices Westville twice more across US 421 - and even closer to the center of town. The loss in quality of life to everyone in Westville - especially from noise pollution - will be totally unacceptable. Any argument for this new railroad plan defies reason when there are already so many east-west lines crossing the region. The current railroad lines are not running at capacity. And it should not the job of the STB to decide winners and losers by approving a plan by one company so they can make a suppossed profit - at the expense of the people and communities along the route. 3. The effects on the prime and productive farmland along the proposed route are real and serious. Most of the existing railways in the region have been in place for 100 years or more. During that time, the farming industry has seen a tremendous upswing in productivity and the use of technology. Drainage and irrigation has gotten incredibly better - and farms along railroad routes have built their systems around the rail lines. They have had decades to adjust their programs. A new railroad means the farms along the route would be starting over from zero. And no amount of compensation from GLB would make up for the losses farms along the proposed route. Sincerely, John C. MischkeWestville, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25013Alison GambleI am concerned about the excellent school district that Grant Park has. I don't want my son going to school in Momence. I am also concerned about the neighborhood. How many troublemakers and gang bangers will be riding the rail cars here. There are a lot of very good mannered kids in this town. No troublemakers. What will your railroad bring us? My dad retired from Canadian National in Homewood a few years ago and I have seen the neighborhood change since I was a kid. Now they have barb wire fencing around it now. They have a guard shack now. I used to be able to drive right up to where my dad was working and bring him lunch on Fridays. Why do they need the fencing and the guard? What does that say? TROUBLE! We have a nice quiet little town. Please don't ruin it. What about everyone's water wells? How much farm land will be contaminated? Would you eat food from farm land right next to a railroad yard? Diesel fumes, spills. A passing train is one thing, it's not idling forever warming up the engine. I have seen the pollution from diesels. What about jobs? If it does go through who gets the jobs? Local people or people that already work for you? Please do not put the GLB rail yard in Grant Park, IL.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25012Casey JonasMr Navecky, I am writing to you today as a resident of Wanatah, IN, and a frequent visitor of the Kankakee River/Kankakee Marsh area. I don't know how familiar you are with the environmental history of Northwest Indiana, specifically our industrial burdens of pollution, short-sighted suburban planning, and disappearing natural features. However, my concern for the future of the very region I call home is the reason I am writing this letter. The GLB Railroad board has failed to demonstrate any concern for inevitable consequences of transporting hazardous materials by rail in Northwest Indiana. There have been over 340 train derailments in the United States since 01 January, 2016. A quick look at the proposed GLB maps will show every single possible route going over the Kankakee River at some point in Indiana or Illinois, along with the route going next to and/or through state wildlife/fishing/game preserves. This river, since its discovery by Europeans, has been consistently been abused, neglected, and exploited by heavy industry. It has been channelized, deepened, overrun with silt, and polluted in a way that is difficult to fathom for most people. Still, the river survives and provides water, drainage, and its tributaries (ditches) provide irrigation to the surrounding farmland. The marsh, once at around 500,000 600,000 acres in total area, was one of the largest wetlands in North America. To put that into perspective, it was likely bigger than Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Waterfowl were so plentiful they would blot out the sun during the migratory seasons. Settlement and commercial agriculture have decreased the marsh to around 5% of what it used to be. Couple that with our small Lake Michigan shoreline, dotted with steel mills and a power plant, and add our other channelized rivers such as the Grand Calumet, and you have an entire 3 county area whose environmental inheritance was almost completely destroyed by industry. The good news is that today there are numerous groups, including some of industrial giants of the area and commercial farmers, who want to see as much of the marsh restored as possible. Conservation groups like the Izaak Walton League, the Indiana DNR, the NPS, and the Nature Conservancy all work together to help restore the marsh as land becomes available. For the first time since the steam shovels began draining the Kankakee Marsh over a century ago, the environmental movement has gained serious momentum in Northwest Indiana, and it's only getting better. This project would set back the movement to restore the Kankakee Marsh for another 50 or 100 years. If a highway is built next to the railroad, which many suspect of being shoehorned into the plan at a later date, all hope of restoring the marsh area could be lost forever. As we move forward into the future, it is imperative that we learn from the mistakes of the past. Right now, if you were to dust the land for fingerprints of creation, you could still them in some places. However, with this short-sighted railroad plan, the entire dream of doing right by the land might remain a dream, and I can't think of a single good reason as to why that should even be a possibility. Thank you, Casey JonasWanatah, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25011julie kokosDear Mr.. Navecky, Victoria Rutson and All at the Surface Transportation Board, I live in the footprint of the proposed 15000 railyard, more accurately known as Sumner Township, Kankakee County IL. I am speaking from my heart even though we are not supposed to write to you with emotional comments. My husband and I purchased our home in 1983. He always wanted to live in the country and raise our twin boys in a peaceful, healthy environment with an award winning school system in Grant Park IL. He never minded the sacrifices of having to drive to work over an hour each day or getting snowed in for days at a time in the winter or the hard work of keeping up a home in the country in the summertime...etc....He made all of these sacrifices because he wanted the good clean way of life he could get for his family here, in Sumner Township. He never, ever would have thought that this home, that he chose for his family could be taken away by anyone for any reason. He purchased our home with money that he earned and human rights. When he was 42 years old, my husband died....in this home...... I am my husband's widow.... I own and live alone in this home and will continue to do so with the help of my sons. I will NOT be leaving this home! EVER! In memory of my husband, Frank Kokos, this is my last letter to you. Thank you, Julie Kokos Sumner Township, Kankakee County ILgrant park, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25010Alison GambleHello my name is Alison Gamble. I live very close to the proposed railroad. I am against the GLB Railroad coming to Grant Park because I am concerned about the school district. My husband and I bought our house in Grant Park, IL because we wanted our son in a good school. Grant Park schools are the best elementary and junior high in Kankakee county. Nobody here wants their kids going to school in Momence. My husband and I grew up in rougher towns we don't want our son going to school there. My second concern is my water well. How will the railroad effect my well? I live less than a half mile from the proposed area. Thirdly, the neighborhood. Have you seen the neighborhood around the Canadian National rail yard in Homewood? My dad retired a few years ago from there. I used to drive there to visit and watched the neighborhood and how they have a barbwired fence around it now. How many knuckleheads are going to be riding the rails and coming here to Grant Park to the new rail yard? Our schools are right there. Does that sound safe to you? Our town is right there. All of the kids play ball games, soccer, and all kinds of sports in town. Are they going to be safe anymore? We have enough problems with break ins all over the place. Do we need more?Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25009UNEQUIVOCALLY OPPOSEDDear Mr Navecky and STB, Here are just a few excerpts from letters that have been written to oppose the GLB proposal.....these are a very few of the thousands of letters stating valid reasons why this proposal should be denied immediately. Each and every one of them must be addressed. thank you, Julie Kokos The above scenario casts a spot light on the topic of “Environmental Justice”. What justice is there in a private company being granted a right to destroy the environment of peoples and communities in its path way? This is not just a matter of NIMBY, but one of an unjustifiable need being facilitated by government fiat, with the consequences to the human environment being disregarded. We, individual people, depend on our government to protect us from the powerful groups that act only in their own selfish interest. Please do not fail us by not placing the GLB proposal through the most rigorous approval process, and denying it. Environmental concerns: 15,000 acre railyards. That's it. That says it all. I don't even have to list the damn reasons. The adjective in this case (15,000) and the noun (railyard) are environmentally concerning simply by the description. Asking for environmental concerns while proposing a 15,000 acre railyard at the cost of valuable farmland is a pretty redundant question, wouldn't you agree? Please choose the no action alternative. Thank You This man and his GLB line has destroyed the faith many people have that their government is here to protect them. The STB needs to send a clear denial message to GLB and send a message to the country that the government will protect them, that the environment is more important that profits and personal gain. The STB is design to help protect our valuable natural resources and they need to start by telling GLB no, prime farmland is more important to our nation than yet another railroad. DENY THE GLBT PROPOSALjulie kokos · grant park, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25005Roesler Fine Art ServicesDear STB: I may have my Docket # wrong, and am having difficulty with my computer. This letter is in OPPOSITION to the Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. project.Julia Roesler · Union Mills, Indiana
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-25001Block RICL1. This entire process has been FLAWED. There has been a reprehensible lack of notifying potentially impacted landowners and lack of real information about the project. To put the burden of the study" on potentially impacted landowners that haven't even been officially contacted is gross injustice. With just a quick perusal of the original route, I see that there is a major mistake. The route dissects a 1/2 mile runway, but it's not even shown on their map. How many more MAJOR mistakes such as this are there? What comprehensive plan is there (not) to truly find out the true economic and environmental impacts of this project? It's up to landowners WHO HAVE NEVER BEEN OFFICIALLY CONTACTED to provide the information FOR FREE? That is grossly unfair and unjust. 2. I fully support the previous thousands of comments siting safety concerns, farming hazards, significant damage and impact on prime farmland, loss of investments (accrued over generations, loss of future investments, property devaluation, etc. etc."Mary Doughty
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24999Ed & Sandy LindenSurface Transportation Board; Docket #FD35952 RE: GLBT railroad proposal July 15, 2016 It's the last day of the comment period. We have read the thousands of comments against the railroad. We have read the hundreds of specific, individual reasons why this GLBT toll rail road should not be built. Environmental reasons from the negative affect on school children, emergency responders, a farmer's business, land values to well water and soil and river contamination. These are not NIMBYs (Not in my back yard) comments. These are not knee jerk comments as Frank Patton has said. These are researched, intelligent, fact checked comments. The STB itself has stated this rail line would result in “significant environmental impact”. We read the purpose of this proposed toll rail line; “To provide a bypass for the congested Chicago rail yard” even though CREATE is already showing a positive impact on the Chicago area with more improvements yet to come. We read the need; Six class I rail roads need faster passage around Chicago. Frank Patton said he “established what we consider working relationships with current class I rail road management, all 6, and shippers”. Frank Patton says “The route is based on feedback from what we say is our customer base”. “The six class I rail roads and their shippers will be our customers for the GLB rail road”. Why then has two of the 6 class I railroads already said they don't want it and won't use it? That's 1/3 of the need up in smoke! The other two thirds are non-committal. GLB President Jim Wilson “estimates the new tracks could save trains passing through the Chicago region as much as 24 hours”. First of all, that's an “estimate”, secondly, all this for maybe 24 hours on a limited number of trains???, and then charge them a toll too?? There is no valid need or want based on the stated GLBT proposal. Tax money has already gone into CREATE with marked improvement in railroad congestion around Chicago. CREATE is ongoing. It's not done. More improvements are to come. Wait until CREATE is done. Wait to see if any of the fantasy “facts” or “needs” are even relevant after CREATE is done. The GLBT is a private company wanting to put in a high speed freight toll rail line bypass around Chicago specifically for six Class I railroad companies even though at least 2 of the 6 Class I railroads said they don't want it, won't use it and haven't even talked with Frank Patton. The majority of the rail traffic around Chicago doesn't need this bypass. The majority of the rail lines around Chicago would not save any time using this bypass and it wouldn't be cost effective for them to pay a toll to use it. Frank Patton says “no subsidies, not one dollar from federal, state and local”. What happens to the property and the rails when the investors don't make their 8 billion dollars back? Who pays to mitigate contaminated soil, farms, wells and rivers when a private company files bankruptcy? We don't want to bail out another entity with our tax money!! We don't want another ENRON or Savings and Loan debacle. There is no emergency. There is no reason to rush this proposal and grant waivers. CREATE already exists,is working and is ongoing. An extremely environmentally harmful and disruptive toll rail line with no valid stated need or want other than by a private company for private gain is not necessary. The CREATE program has already been vetted, approved, paid for and in the ongoing process of improving rail congestion around Chicago. We believe there is no valid beneficial need or merit and strongly recommend this project be denied and a no build decision be made. Respectfully, Ed & Sandy Linden Cedar Creek Township, Lowell, IndianaLowell, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24998Lana RippentropAfter looking over all of the information on the Great Lakes Basin Railroad it has alot of issues as to where the railroad goes. There would have to be alot of revisions. I feel a good alternative would be to go along either existing railroads or to follow major highways such as I39 and I80 in Illinois. Please give this thought.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24997Lana RippentropPlease consider alternate routes for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. The exisiting railroads through the United States are more than sufficient to go around the Chicago loop and help with congestion issues. Therefore I feel we do not need a new rail system as do the existing railroads now. Please block this railroad and say no.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24996Lana RippentropI would like the STB to look at all of the information for and against the Great Lakes Basin Railroad and give the decision which is best for all of our country. I am against the railroad and feel that the railroads that are in the United States are sufficient to take care of the Chicago congestion. Please vote no for this proposal. Thank you.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24995Joan ZorekI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad line that they want to put through Porter County. We just recently purchased 10 acres out here and just built a house and we did it for the peace and quiet not to hear trains whistling through our back yard! And what does that do to our property value? I'm sure Mr. Railroad wouldn't like it going through his back yard. But as long as he has money for his pockets that's all that matters to him. This is farm land out here and you are taking peoples livelihoods away from them. They are asked to relocate for the sake of some guy making more money that he knows what to do with while they struggle. And what about when one of them crashes or derails? And it most likely will happen, just read the news how often it happens now! Chicago is more of a commercial area so let them deal with it and the congestion. There are existing rail lines that they can use that don't involve farmers picking up and moving. How do you move farmland anyway? I am so sick of these fat cats always thinking of themselves. Always want to disturb the little guy. Like I said let him put it his backyard. If we wanted to hear trains we would not have bought out in the country. Go away Mr. Railroad!! You are not welcome here in Porter County!Hebron, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24993Matt MischMr. Navecky, I would like to express my great disapproval with the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad construction. The newly updated route would be located about a mile from my house and my family farm and would be a great disturbance to drivers, wildlife, other farmers, and property owners anywhere in the area. Travel times and traffic jams would increase. Many farm fields would have to be reconstructed, causing a great deal of expense, labor, and hassle to farmers for as long as the railroad exists. Home and property values would drop because nobody wants to live near a busy rail line. The current rail line is not exceedingly busy and so is not a problem. The expected amount of volume from the new rail line would be a great misfortune to the community. Please do not allow or support any forward progress of this movement. Sincerely, Matt MischWheatfield, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24990Tom ForburgerI'm am opposed to the GLB railroad. I am a Farmer in Yellowhead Township of Kankakee County and someone who owns land in the footprint of the 15,000 acre rail yard in Sumner Township. So I am directly effected by this in several ways. It would have an extremely negative impact on Farming. The taking of 15,000 acres would cause the Farmers who have lost their Farms to seek land to buy and rent. This will raise both rent and land prices for a 50 mile radius. There is also at least 2 cemeteries dating back to the mid 1800's in the footprint of rail yard. The negative environmental impact is unquestionable. How would they keep from contaminating surface and ground water? Drainage runs from the north to the south in the area of the rail yard. How would they pass runoff from the north without contaminating it? What will they do with the runoff from the site. An inch of rain is just over 27,000 gallons of water per acre. That means the 15,000 acre site would generate over 407,000,000 gallons per inch of rain. Will they have to test and treat any runoff from site? Will they have to build lakes to hold that water until it can be tested and treated? Will they have to line said ponds to protect ground water? Will they have to drill wells to test ground water quality? How often will they have to test ground water and surface water? Who oversees their testing? Would the County, state, and federal government all have water testing abilities? What if they contaminate the surface or ground water? Last June saw over 30 inches of rain, that is over 12,000,000,000 gallons of water that fell on the 15,000 acres. 80,000 people in Kankakee County get their drinking water from the Kankakee river. The water from the 15,000 acre rail yard drains directly to the Kankakee river just a few miles away. It is also a source of recreation for 1000's of people. We don't want it to become a Flint Michigan river. Many of us get our water from the underground aquifer. If it gets contaminated what do we do? Stop our nightmare and stop this project. It is not needed or wanted. It makes no sense to destroy 1000's of acres of Farmland, killing hundreds of jobs. It makes no sense to destroy 100's of homes and Farmsteads, some which have been in families for 5 and 6 generations. I'm against this proposal 100%. Thanks, TOM.Momence, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24988Kathryn RudyThis filing is meant to replace my previous filing (this morning) as I neglected to refer to the docket number and address Mr. Navecky in my previous filing. Thank you. KRCapron, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24987Winnebago TownshipDear Sirs, I am writing this letter on behalf of the citizens of Winnebago Township. Many have voiced concerns over the building of the rail system using the purposed path. Many family farms will be affected by this route, and in all fairness to people who have had the land in their families for generations, your plan needs to be rerouted. This route will not only destroy land, but wildlife and forestry as well. Big business does not have the right to anything they want, especially when it is being opposed so strongly. When intelligent people sit down and listen to each other, solutions can be reached. I implore this committee to work with, and listen to, the suggestions being made by the people it is going to affect. Sincerely, Leslee A. Dimke Winnebago Township SupervisorLeslee A Dimke · Winnebago, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24985RUSSELL WIDINGAnother concern I have is what will happen to our property value. Also will State Farm raise or even cancel our home owners insurance? Thank YouLOWELL, Indiana
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24983Timothy and Barbara MessmannDear Safety Transportation Board, We live in a rural area of La Porte, Indiana, at the end of GLBT's proposed project. A move we made some 15 years ago. We have many concerns for our neighbors and community ....especially with congestion/noise, emergency, and environmental issues. Our town already struggles with traffic congestion. 3 highways intersecting downtown, 1 more on the outskirts, RR tracks just 3 short blocks away from the main drag and one over pass. Now add up to 110 more trains a day. Think about it. That's one train every 13 minutes on top of the existing freight and AMtrack trains. Honk!! Honk!! Oh, the noise. We can always keep the windows close. Fresh air is over rated any way. Now try to stay calm. We would hate to call for an ambulance. Which leads us to our next concern. How will this effect emergency response time? We live 5 miles from the hospital in town, but on the other side of tracks. A fire, for a volunteer fire department beating the clock is everything. What about an accident along this proposed line, who bears the cost for additional training and equipment, not to mention the environmental impact. La Porte is a farm community with several lakes in and around the town. The land and the water are our main resources. What happens in case of any potential RR accident or simply pollution over time. Can I still drink my well water? Are the fish safe to eat? Can I enjoy the lake? The land, what about our crops and the cattle that graze them? Is it worth it??? It is for these reasons, that we respectfully request that the STB deny Docket No. FD35952 Great Lakes Basin Transportation Corp, LLC Project. Sincerely, Timothy & Barbara MessmannLa Porte, Indiana
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24982Scott ThorsenThere are several items about the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation llc project I find disturbing and should be reviewed in an environmental impact study. First, 15,000 acres for a railyard" is most unusual. I don't believe for a minute the intent is to only be a "railyatd". There has never been a railyard in North America that huge and GLBT has not offered an explanation why they are seeking such a large takeover of privately owned property. The proximity of this "railyard" to the proposed third Chicagoland airport is also interesting. More information is needed from Frank Patton about the intent of this "railyard", and regardless, an EIS needs to consider the likelihood this "railyard" will be developed into a 12,000 acre industrial Park with rail siting. To put in comparison, the Union Pacific North Platte Nebraska railyard is only 2,850 acres. In all likelihood, it is impossible to use all 15,000 acres as a railyard, but seek eminent domain from the Surface Transportation Board for future use as an industrial development. It only makes sense for an EIS to make contingencies for such and assume the potential for a worst case scenario. The question needs to be asked by the Surface Transportation Board "what potential industry needs to be considered for a 12,000 acre industrial development". At the least, the a very large petroleum tank farm, multiple large oil refineries, and several chemical manufacturing plants should be assumed to be located on the GLBT "railyard". The needs for water and electricity for the GLBT "railyard" should also be considered. Any synergy in development next to a third Chicagoland airport should also be considered. Frank Patton has already confirmed a desire to transport any hazardous materials along the proposed GLBT railroads. It is only fair to assume manufacturing development will also be encouraged at the "railyard". As for the proposed rail line, to make an accurate EIS, every drainage tile district along the proposed path needs to be notified. Every drainage tile main near the proposed rail needs to be found and documented. This proposed project will eliminate any future development of drainage districts and affect farmland not just contiguous to the proposed projects, but also several miles away from the project."
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24981Robert CharterDave Navecky: I am requesting the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project receive a full environmental review, without exception, or stop the project completely. Great Lakes Basin Railroad has not demonstrated the need and necessity of such a project for the “common good “. Existing railroads have not supported this project, and the CREATE Program already exists to reduce railroad transportation freight time through the Chicago land area. Utilizing existing railroad routes or adding tracks to existing routes seem to be better alternatives than building an entirely new railroad. Prime farmland will be permanently destroyed to build this project. Surface and subsurface water pathways will be altered from their current routes. This project will act as a dam for surface and subsurface water (i.e., field drainage tile), creating a breeding ground for insects, bacteria, and disease. Many current roads will be closed by the construction of this project. This will profoundly impact my farming business, causing an economic hardship. This will profoundly impact multiple area agricultural business, local schools, and emergency personnel. This will result in increased response times for emergency vehicles, longer travel times for school buses, and increase traffic congestion by forcing all travelers to use roads with open railroad crossings. I again urge you to stop this project completely. Robert CharterDwight, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24979Vegetation Management Inc.I do business in the area that is planned for the GLB Railroad project. If this project goes thru the Grundy County area, it will add additional expense to my cost of doing business due to all the roads being changed &/or blocked off, all the trains that do go thru blocking roads from time to timeDoug Bentson · Morris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24978GRAINCO FS IncWe are an agricultural business that serves local farmers by spraying & spreading farm fields, and delivering supplies to those customers. This project will be going thru our area and will severely impact the logistics of our business due to all the roads that will be changed or cut off, all the trains that will be going thru & holding up traffic, all the fields we spray or spread that will now be messed up.Doug Bentson · Mazon, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24977steve haasI am against the GLB project for numerous reasons as listed below Major issues with the environment for our generation and generations to follow that include wildlife and drainage issue that need to be address against the limited value of this railroad. Safety issues with additional railroad crossings added and limited access to areas during emergencies. It is my understanding that some roads will be closed as well as some roads and entrance to property will not have gates. Additional burden in costs will be incurred by local government and local land owners. These costs include emergency response teams, drainage issues etc. There is no proven need that their is a need for this railroad - Union Pacific is not supporting this railroad and have spent billions along with other major railroads to correct many if not all of the issues that GLB says are needed. Steve Haasrochelle, il
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24976Valerie YoungDear Mr.Navecky, I'm writing to you in opposition of the GLB railroad. I feel that this railroad is unnecessary and will have more risks than benefits. My home will be three quarters of a mile from the proposed path. Which means our school buses will have to cross it daily, posing major safety risks. The idea of having hazardous material cross in front of children waiting for the train to pass is too big of a safety concern to overlook. This is just one of the many reasons to vote no top the GLB railroad. Thank you for your time.Esmond, IL
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24974Jason kokosDear mr navecky, This is the last time I will write to you in regard to this docket. Oh how I've enjoyed our exchanges on here.....NOT. I ask that the surface transportation board carefully review all of the 3500 plus incoming correspondences and come to the realization that the only alternative for this proposal is the no action one. It's NOT needed and that has been proved. The glbt has NOT proven the actual need, but through the hard work of a lot of people we have proved that it is not. Additionally, the environmental concerns are so great that this should stop this proposal dead in its tracks (See what I did there). Our attorney, tom McFarland has sent our motion for opposition of this project. I ask that my questions be responded to individually and chronologically and that our attorney is copied on those replies. Thank you for all of your consideration you've given to our valid and just concerns. BLOCK GLB RAILROAD JASON R KOKOS HARDWORKING AMERICAN TAXPAYERGrant park, Il
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24973MONICAOn average, 3,300 vehicles pass my house per day on Highway 34 according to IDOT. In a month, my son’s school bus will be using this highway. End of September, beginning of October, depending on the crops, my husband and father-in-law will be entering, exiting, and crossing this highway along with many other local farmers to get to their fields with tractors, grain wagons, combines, and head haulers. All with flashers and SMV signs. Fertilizer companies and local Co-Ops will add to it with their dry boxes, anhydrous rigs and tanks. Semi’s will be hauling grain from fields to the Co-Op, to our already existing rail terminal in Mendota, IL or down to ADM or Cargill Barge Terminals on the Illinois River. All while 3,300 vehicles are on this road as well. Now…. Would the unneeded, unproven, ludacris idea of the GLBT railroad be built, roads would be closed because THEY didn’t feel it was necessary to put in a crossing…. County, Township, hidden dirt paths not on maps, useless. They have just put more tractors, wagons, combines, and fertilizer equipment out on Highway 34. 3,300 vehicles, on average, per day. People in the Agriculture Industry know how important safety is. They learn, They live it, They breathe it. They do their very best to avoid situations that involve 3,300 vehicles/day. Would the GLBT project move forward, it will force them to use Highway 34 and add to the 3,300 vehicles per day. About 2:30AM this morning I woke up, heard the BNSF train that runs ¾ of a mile north of my house. I heard the horn blow as it went through the crossing, heard the Engine and the cars on the rails. I also felt our house shake. Now this train just left the town of Earlville, IL so it is moving about 45 mph? Fastest they go might be 55/60mph on any given stretch. You can follow them on Hwy 34 to Sandwich, IL. Now the proposed GLBT rail is proposed to run between my house and the existing BNSF tracks. We measured it out and it would be approximately ¼ mile from our home cutting at a diagonal through our field. Trains that would use this track are expected to run 70 mph. I can already hear BNSF at ¾ of a mile away. Google “train vibration”! Train vibration increases the rate of deterioration of homes, it also has big impacts on the human body according to a study published in May of 2013 “Effects of train noise and vibration on human heart rate during sleep: an experimental study” Ilona Croy; Michael G Smith,; Kerstin Persson Waye “Conclusions Freight trains provoke HR accelerations during sleep, and the vibration characteristics of the trains are of special importance. In the long term, this may affect cardiovascular functioning of persons living close to railways.” Wall Street Journal posted an article in July 8, 2016 that Freight rail operators cut jobs and that Railroads have cut their employment rolls by 29,600 jobs in the past 12 months. I am requesting that the STB put a stop to this farse once and for all. This proposed project is not needed, nor is it supported by the local communities and NO Class 1 Railroads are showing any support. A man or a Company with no railroad experience has any business even proposing this project, let alone build it.EARLVILLE, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24972Lisa ZarychSafety. I am opposed to the Great Lake Basin Project as it pertains to disruption/delays of emergency vehicles where my life is at stake. July-2015, I had a heart attack. The ambulance got to me and got me to the hospital in about 30 minutes: spared. December 2015-pulmonary embolism-minutes mattered: I was spared, because the ambulance got me to safety. December-bloody nose-I rushed to the ER and hours passed getting the bleeding to stop: spared. I have been very fortunate getting to the hospital in time! The GLB project will stand between my home and the hospital. Even one delay in getting to the hospital-one lengthy GLB train, for example, an impedance, and I could become a statistic. This freight train will be a detriment to my health, and I am opposed to it.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Greg Holmes · Capron, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24970Lisa ZarychTransportation Systems. I am opposed to Great Lakes Basin Transportation Project. My property is very near three active rail lines: Norfolk Southern RR to the west (Belshaw) and intersecting to the south (Schneider), and the CSX RR to the east which runs through Lowell. With or without my house windows open, I can often hear train horns day and night. Every day that I travel from and to my home, I must cross a minimum of one train track. (About seven years ago a woman from my bowling league was killed crossing the CSX track near my home on an extremely foggy morning.)The GLB Railroad would be too intrusive with the current established working rail lines near my house.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24969Ronald WarnkeI oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Significant damage to the town of Westville including splitting the town. Reducing the quality of life and the safety of the community. Stubbing county road 900 West will reduce safety for the community. Also, it will severely impact my farming business by splitting my farm with no chance of private or public crossings in my area due to the 5 track rail yard scheduled for east of Hwy 421 forcing me to travel many extra miles on dangerous roads for farm equipment. There are enough existing rail lines in Laporte County to handle this rail proposal although I don't believe the need for it has been shown. The major adjoining railroads are not interested. Save 7000 acres of land from environmental damage and destruction by stopping this proposal.Laporte, Indiana
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24968DENISE KASTNERI have examined some of the impacts from the building of the proposed GLBT railroad and I strongly oppose its being allowed to move forward through the STB. The rail line is designed to transport over 2000 hazardous materials and chemicals, one of which is dilbet( diluted bitumen with peatane or natural gas liquids) from tar sands in Alberta Canada. It has been found that the very same explosive mixture(72% nitumen 28% diluent) needed to send this crude thru pipe lines is also being loaded into tank cars. This mixture is just as explosive as Bakken crude. It now has a lowered flash point from 330'F to 95'F which makes the mixture a traveling bomb!Both Bakken and dilbit would be allowed to be shipped on the proposed GLBT rail line. The current 1232 standard allows inferior tank cars, as can be seen in many recent derailments with leaks and explosions, to be used to haul this very dangerous crude. Lowell voluntary fire department isn't equipped to deal with this type of disaster. In the event of a disaster the shippers let the railroads fend for themselves and are sorely under insured to handle claims, so they file for bankruptcy and leave the people in the immediate area deal with unpaid expenses. It is time for US Regulators to put public safety ahead of the profits of the oil and rail industries. Please stop the GLBT railroad from being allowed to proceed with building this monster railroad. Denise Kastner Lowell, IndianaLOWELL, INDIANA
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentJuly 14, 2016 Dave Navecky Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Docket No. FD 35952 Attn: Chairman - Daniel R. Elliott III Vice Chairman - Deb Miller Member - Ann D. Begeman To Whom It May Concern: I am writing the Surface Transportation Board today to express my strong opposition to the Great Lakes Basin Transportation and their proposed 278 mile long rail line from Wisconsin through Illinois and on into Indiana. I am also writing to express my deep disappointment in how all the citizens, the municipal leaders of all three states long with their respective town councils and county boards have been treated and affected by the poorly planned and vastly inadequate implementation of the scoping process. I thought it would take me a great deal of research to find the information I needed to write this letter, but your own annual reports and budget requests have provided plenty of fuel for aggravation within the first few paragraphs. Far too much to actually expand on at this time. The fact that this agency was created with every intention of operation outside local, state and federal laws is an immediate red flag that this agency never had the best interest of the citizens at heart. Only the capital interests of private investors and congressional leaders……otherwise there would remain a system of checks and balances to ensure that the general public had some oversight over the activities of the Surface Transportation Board and the impact of its decisions. That is not the case here. You do not have a single committee that represents the interests of citizens only the interests of shippers, rail lines and their investors. No citizen’s review board or oversight committee to protect property, farm and land owners rights from abuses of power and overreaching authority. Your own policies have not protected the constituents along this route from having their lives turned upside down by a project that has neither merit nor backing from area leaders or even other rail carriers touted to be willing to use it. A proposed rail line that has demonstrated it is seriously lacking in any formal planning, vast environmental and safety issues and one that feels the need to hide it’s investors somewhere back in the shadows. There is no transparency to this project which has caused many sleepless nights for the residents, farmers and landowners along its path. This said I refer to you to your own governing policies. 49 U.S. Code 10101 - Rail Transportation Policy Item (12) to prohibit predatory pricing and practices, to avoid undue concentrations of market power, and to prohibit unlawful discrimination; I would consider any attempt to take someone else’s hard earned property as well as the intentional detrimental impact to someone’s else ability to earn a living off their own private land as predatory on the part of the Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC as well as the STB. The handling of the notification of citizens along the proposed route was an absolute fiasco and was performed no better than an amateur game show where contestants were allowed their three minutes to defend a lifetimes work and commitment to their land. It is also reprehensible that none of the members charged with making the final decision on behalf of those citizens had the courtesy or respect to attend any of the public hearings along the routes. So far removed from the process that there is no way you can understand the actual impact these proceedings had on the area farmers and landowners threatened with the use of quick take eminent domain. No way to experience the fear and chaos that erupted when honored veteran Robert Jornlin had a heart attack at the Earlville meeting just minutes after addressing your mockery of a public hearing in his attempt to defend his cherished land. No way to experience the fear and anguish as others there to defend their own property jumped in to try to save Mr. Jornlin’s life. No way to experience the fear and disappointment of possibly losing a lifetimes work for people with absolutely no regard for the hard work of others that produce the food we all eat. No way to relate to the frantic pace at which people along the route had to get informed and pass that information along in order to get even a semblance of an informed statement made in defense of their own property to a panel of basically deaf ears. Just a group of bodies placed there for show. In addition, the 1900 notified by your agency in March of 2016 did not include a single citizen affected along the route. Instead your agency determined that government agencies, schools, townships, local, county and state boards/councils should be notified that a train route might possibly be planned through their districts. Not even a letter to those entities saying….”hey, by the way can you notify the people in your area for us. They have no clue what’s about to hit them…literally!” And the advertising campaign which is being paid for by the STB at taxpayer expense shows blatant and clear endorsement of the project which hasn’t even made it through the scoping process. Your government seal posted big front and center makes it look more like an advertisement directly from the STB not Frank Patton or his Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Anyone in the advertising industry would recognize your ad campaign as a clear endorsement of GLBT. There is no way anyone is going to convince me that these advertisements are intended to inform the public of a potential project in their area as Mr. Navecky explained to me. We are clearly more informed than your agency gives us credit for. They are intended solely to produce new partnerships and endorsements for the project and you should be ashamed for attempting to use our own tax dollars to promote a project that wants to take our privately owned property for strictly private gain. And you are performing the same advertising services for the dozens of other projects working their way through your STB offices. Millions of dollars annually promoting private interest projects some of which may or may not make it to fruition, all at taxpayer expense. Millions of dollars being used in a way that we as taxpayers do not approve. Your agency should technically be required by law to inform each and every individual along the route that might possibly be affected instead of promoting these projects through national and internet advertising campaigns at the expense of citizens rights. I have attached a couple of examples of those advertisements. Some of which were not so intelligently placed. Perhaps your advertising coordinator might need some lessons on the importance of placement. That in consideration, it was clearly apparent that there was an intentional attempt to keep this out of the public eye until the very last second. Unfortunately that plan backfired. Your agency and Frank Patton came off looking like you were all trying to pull a fast one on the citizens of three states. It is time for the citizens to demand a change in how the STB handles its promotion of private interest projects that choose to attempt to usurp our undeniable rights to own land. I would also consider your agency’s attempt to give citizens only thirty days to respond to the threat of quick take eminent domain a predatory practice. Especially when we see clear evidence that citizens were intentionally being kept in the dark from the very inception of this project which was promoted for quite some time through area universities and planning commissions making their future plans, but never announced fully to the public. And when word did get out….it was the citizens themselves who notified each other through social media, emails and any other mode of communication they could find. It is shameful…..absolutely shameful…that the STB saw fit not to inform the public of this in any way, shape or form. As you are now aware by the number of letters flooding your office, we managed to let a vast number of citizens in on the big little secret brewing at your “best small agency to work for”. I am so glad that the members of your staff enjoy such spacious private spaces to work in that are so conducive to happy employees. Your staff, made up of mostly lawyers and economists, definitely need their expansive private space to consider the personal impact your projects have on the general public. Perhaps you should consider the same concept for the residents who live along the routes you take into consideration. We’d like to enjoy our own private space on our own private property that we have bought and paid for over the expanse of several years and would generate quite a bit of happiness for the people here that work on their privately owned land. Your employees did not pay for that privilege of private work space at the STB….the American Taxpayer did and that would be me and the other citizens along the proposed GLB route that you and your agency have held hostage and terrorized over the past three months. Had it not been for such intense public scrutiny and vocal objections in the media of even many of the community leaders I doubt that we would have been given the extensions on our public comments and testimony as it seems your agency’s main goal is to promote the national transportation policy goals of congress….not the American people who actually live and work here. We have already determined that congress has no interest in protecting the people from corporate or private interests. So where exactly do we stand here? I say we are all standing here on the edge of a precipice called America's fleeting freedom. Real Fleeting Freedom! Do we as a nation truly possess this unalienable right anymore if your agency and agencies like RETA in New Mexico have the right to take private property and give it to private intvestors for their own and their investment partners personal gain? I would say not. That would mean that every man, woman and young adult in this nation’s work force is working toward a LIE. There is no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow for anyone in America unless you are a corporate giant, private/foreign investor, or work for one. There is NO American Dream unless you are a member of the corporate elite or private investment groups…foreign or otherwise! The multitude of government agencies we as a society have allowed to take over our government and our lives has eliminated all the freedoms we once possessed. The corporate elite and private interests now have rule over every aspect of our lives through their seeming control over every politician and government agency in this nation. Are all of our personal possessions including our land, homes and farms just a mirage waiting for the next government agency to lay claim for their next pet private interest project? I have two private investor projects trying to lay claim the same field in front of my house for two separate projects. What purpose does it serve for any of us to be working to own a home or toward retirement or anything else for that matter? Your agency has made it impossible for any of us to plan or work toward tomorrow or any future until this whole thing is settled. It’s an absolute shame that agencies like this have the ability to put millions of hard working people’s lives across three states on hold for a project based on personal greed and gain and that of shady private investors who can’t even show their faces. Personally, my opinion is that some of these investors are probably members of congress or some who used to work as top government officials, who don’t want the public to know where their investments lie. We are well aware of the insider trading blatantly conducted by most members of congress that would otherwise be considered illegal for the average citizen. Unfortunately, regardless of who we speculate is behind this project…we are at the mercy and hands of a three member board that has neither made it their priority to reach out to any of the land owners along these routes nor shown any interest or compassion for the impact on hard working citizens so rudely awakened in March to the devastation that was possible to their peaceful existence, the negative impact to their ability to earn a living off their own private land and the pristine world famous prime farmland which provides food for the nation and around the world that could possibly be forever destroyed for the sake of a few private investors desperately grasping for more of our almighty tax dollars. I ask the STB to stop the flow of our tax dollars to private/foreign investors. I ask the STB to stop the practice of using our tax dollars to promote through advertising projects that have detrimental effects on the constituents along their paths. I request the STB stop using our tax dollars against us to take property from hard working citizens for private investor gain. I urge the Surface Transportation Board to take the no action/no construction decision and stop all federal funds going toward the Great Lakes Basin Transportation LLC in the name of all American’s unalienable rights to the freedoms allowed them in our United States Constitution. The freedoms of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness on a person’s own hard earned privately owned land are on the line here. I urge your agency to make the decision that preserves the rights and liberties granted our citizens that our country is so famous for. Sincerely, Andrea and Peter Rackmyer Sheridan, IllinoisSheridan, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24964Laurie FleishmanJuly 14, 2016 FD 35952 I am writing in concern that our mailed letters are not being scanned on your end and posted properly as we can not view a lot of them. My 8 page priority mailed letter sent June 10, 2016 and you have as received on June 14, 2016 - #EI-24659 posted on July 14, 2016. Is only one example. I can see the posting #EI-24679 is my fathers and it was a hand written mailed letter received on June 16, 2016 posted on July 14, 2016 is the same - cant view letter. Several neighbors that I know are also same. I would hope we are being given credit for these. I also have 5 family letters sent on June 3, 2016 that have never been posted. I resubmitted them by e-filing on July 12, 2016 but they still,haven't been posted. We want to have proof. Will you be correcting and reposting these letters? Please respond and let us know as to why this is happening. Thanks, Laurie Fleishman 815-287-2280Verona, Il
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24963Gene & Angela MoenchMy name is Gene. My grand children are the 6th generation of Moenches to work, use and enjoy this farm. The proposed location of the railroad is touching my livestock breeding farm and runs parallel to it for 1/2 a mile. It could potentially end the way we exist in this location. I know that is of no concern to the people who want to force this on us, so I will just leave it at that. I have two legitimate concerns which beg consideration on your part. I listened to several good arguments against this project. We attended two of the organized meetings. However, I never heard anyone address the following... all the information submitted was to describe the imposition on our safety and the instrusion on our lifestyles which we have chosen by living in this community, not to mention the devastation to our property values. All these concerns stem from living with this, as if someone will write a big check and it will exist right where they have plotted it... What I wonder is how they plan to build it without doing immense damage to our roads, our air and our water. They will interrupt the response time of our fire department and police department. It will disrupt peoples commuting to and from work, moving of agriculture equipment and most of all the safe transporting of young school children. The length of time and the amount of materials which will be transported through our community is going to be unimaginable to me. Our infrastructure will not support such a construction project. The other item which concerns me is the permanent damage it will do to an already fragile drainage system in an area which has a very unique ecosystem. This area was formed by the Kankakee Torrent. Please look up on the Indiana dot gov website under Kankakee Torrent. Lake Michigan was a prehistoric pro-glacial lake which actually started as Lake Chicago. As the glaciers melted the topography of this area was changed from a plain to an area that was one of the largest marshes in the US. The unique topography and wildlife in this area are the result of the retreating glacier. This area is a permanent low lying continental drainage divide between the great lakes and the Mississippi River. This proposed track would create a permanent dam through this basin in Illinois and Indiana. There has been a continuous effort to deal with the draining of this area north of the Kankakee River since long before my great grandfather bought this farm in 1926. Much of it won't support a 4-wheeler for months of the year...it is hard to imagine it supporting freight trains. The Kanakee Torrent was a catastrophic flood that occurred 14,000 years ago. The Kankakee River is a path cut by the torrent. This unique are supports a fragile balance of wetlands, woodlands and rolling farms. It is ideal for livestock and the wildlife including mammals, fish, birds and waterfowl. Once outside of this small diverse area there is very little support for the species that reside here...beaver, mink, red fox, muskrat, deer, coyotes and even an occasional bobcat and long tail cats as well. The waterfowl is almost a complete set of all that exist...bald eagles nest here as well as sandhiss cranes, osprey, golden eagles and prairie chickens...walleye, pike, northern pike, large and small mouth bass and numerous pan fish as well as bottom feeders all exist in this area. It is all dependent on the fragile balance of the drainage system...The train would be a permanent dyke which would disrupt it all... If this train is truly necessary, which is questionable, it should absolutely be put well south of the Kankakee River where the topography is the original plain, not carved out by the torrent. The area well south of the river has none of these uniques qualities which were created by the glacier torrent. Again, please view the Indiana dot gov website and look up DNR and Kankakee River...This process to build and maintain this nuisance will permanently damage a fragile ecosystem which has been evolving for 14 thousand years. Thank you for your consideration, Gene and Angela MoenchValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24962Ken DaggettMr. Patton has not proven a need for a rail system around the Chicago area, nor has he proven to have the knowledge or ability to run a system of this type. He has made all kinds of promises that he is unable to keep (free electricity, silent trains, apparently he has never stood alongside a freight train going 70 miles per hour, and the whistles are controlled be the government not him, and what about the safety at crossings if there are no warning of a train coming? He said farmers could use the railroad to ship their grain, he is living in a dream world if he thinks a farmer is going to build a siding so he can load corn on to a railcar and the railroad is not going to stop at every farm to get this grain, he says property value will increase, have you ever seen a million dollar mansion being built next to a railroad? He will provide jobs, maybe temporary jobs for experienced railroad builders, but not for local contractors and businessmen, and if it is built what are the jobs that can be done on a train going nonstop through our county at 70 miles per hour? The environmental reasons for denying this project are endless, so the only conclusion to come to is to <<<<<DENY Mr. Patton A PERMIT TO EVEN GO ANY FUTHER IN THIS PROJECT!!!!>>>>>>> Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24960Julie RustI am very concerned regarding the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. The railroad is potentially very harmful to the wildlife in this area due to potential oil spills, along to the health the people living in this area. Majority of the land is fertile farmland which also became useless in an event of an oil spill. Also, with one track to the north and one to the south, it is difficult most afternoons to get to our property. Emergency personal have to go approximately 5 extra miles now to get our home. If the proposed tracks go in, that would increase the likelihood of increased wait/travel time to our home. The proposed tracks would be to the west. If there was a train on each of those tracks, our home would be inaccessible. I would recommend that no additional train tracks would be placed in our area. I would not only be potentially be hazardous, but also a drastic change to our lifestyle. If the board absolutely feel the railroad would be needed, please consider using the abandoned Monon railroad. The tracks themselves are gone, but the berm remains. Less people, farms, homes, ect would be uprooted. Thank you for your time and consideration.Westville, IN
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24874Block GLB Railroad[See 162 form letters attached]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24873Block GLB Railroad[See 191 form letters attached]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24870Perks Ranch[See attached letter]Robert S Porter (Henshaw & Culbertson LLP) on behalf of the Perks Family
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(printed as 7/15/2016)Comment[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24864Ginny Goodman[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24861Diane Sherrell[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24860Steven Warren[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/15/2016)CommentEI-24700Azure, LLCDear Mr. Navecky: Attached please find a letter which we are submitting to you on behalf of our client, Azure, LLC regarding the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad (Docket Number: FD35952). Should you have any questions or comments regarding this letter, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you. Sincerely, GLENN W. KUCHEL gkuchel@greenkuchel.comGlenn W. Kuchel · Schererville, IN
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-26065Mr. Ron Muskina
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment[See attached letter]Lyle Coffman, George Grosso, Steven Schultz · Kankakee, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25204Robert and Genevieve Hughes[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25189Lynn Kloos[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25146Marily Hussey[see attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25098James Sheely
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25097Craig and Kathy Williamson
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25093Larry Wilson
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25080Kristine Stukenborg
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25075Hinshaw & Culbertson LLPRichard Porter representing Mark and Emily Dummer
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25070Hinshaw & Culbertson LLPRichard Porter representing Perks Family
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25059Mark Ashmann
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25049Lake County CouncilEldon Strong
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25046Barbara Mockler
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25045Kankakee County BoardMichael Bossert, Chairman
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25044Rebecca Severson
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-25040Dawn Zur
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24957Jeffery HillmannThis comment period is at the worst time possible for me, a farmer, to take time to tell you about some of my concerns about this proposed railroad route. Please extend the comment time. Below is a list of reasons not to approve this project or which I believe must be addressed before approval: 1. Karst terrain with sink holes and streams that seldom run to rivers or lakes. It soaks into the ground. 2. In section 31 town of Lima, Rock County, Wisconsin I believe a bridge is best. Culverts are always installed too high and restrict flow in times of high water. 3. See maps for sections that have had sink holes of which I am aware. Some are still open but most were filled in. They varied in size but some took several large truckloads to fill. Rock County Wisconsin sections: Milton (T.4N.-R.13E.) sections 23,27; Lima (T.4N.-R.14E.) sections 7,8; Johnstown (T.3N.-R.14E.) sections 7,8,9,16,18; Harmony (T.3N.-R.13E.) section 2. Wisconsin UW has a good website on Karst formations in Wisconsin. 4. Cutting the landscape to make grade for the tracks throughout our area will affect ground water that runs out of springs and feeds local ponds and small streams. This is very common in Johnstown Township (T.3N.-R.14E.) Rock County, Wisconsin. Sections 3,4,5,6,7,8,9,16,17,18,19,30. Map available upon request pending approval of property owners. 5. The railroad should own and maintain all bridges needed for it to operate. 6. Railroad needs to provide local emergency services with training and equipment and maintain said equipment necessary to deal with rail accidents as long as the rail is in use. Or have their own. 7. In the event of abandonment or default the property owners should have first option to buy/get the property back. 8. A driveway is needed for access to the property of 4001 N County M, Milton WI 53563. 9. When the railroad splits farm fields, the crossover needs to be 60 ft. wide or more to accommodate large farm equipment. Thank you for your consideration.Milton, WI
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24956Alexander JohnsonI am writing this letter in strong opposition to the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad. This project has been created by and for the benefit of one man. No railroad companies have signed on to use this railroad. The funding is not available to build this railroad. If this unneeded railroad is halfway built when the funding runs out, our state is not financially able to complete it. It is quite literally a project that no one wants and no one will use. Why have these proposals been taken so seriously when there is no credible source of funding? One of the many reasons for my opposition is the damage to the local environment. Just because land is currently being used for agriculture does not mean that that land is “undeveloped.” It is being used for a family business. It is used as habitat for local wildlife. It is used as a preservation of wetlands and woodlands. To build a large, busy railroad through this would ruin it. Farmers will not be able to access their fields and farm with ease on their own land. Water will not flow normally across these fields as a railroad berm will now be cutting through them. I see numerous examples of this lack of flow of water which damages cropland currently. In addition to the environmental concerns, there are also safety concerns. Numerous roads would either have rail crossing or have to be closed, creating a safety concern for rural residents’ access to emergency medical and fire personnel. I grew up outside of Lee, Illinois, where there have been multiple train derailments, including one on my grandfather’s farm. This resulted in a potential life threatening situation for anyone nearby this situation, and also severely compacted the soil, hurting the crop yields on his farm. It is stated in publications that this railroad will likely carry hazardous materials. Why is it OK to carry hazardous materials near my family, when it is not deemed safe for the Chicago region? Finally it will damage the quality of life for the communities. Family farms will be torn in pieces, and farmland values will undoubtedly go down. (After all, who wants to farm a chopped up farm, and who wants to live next to a railroad?) No one will be able to afford to use or have a necessity to use the oft –quoted railroad access to farmers. The noise pollution and light pollution will be an additional problem. Please do not approve a project that will damage the social wellbeing, the environment, and the safety of our community. This project cannot financially be completed and has no potential users. Please end this now.Milwaukee, WI
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24955Abe HenkerAlong mile marker 133 of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad narrative is the towns of Serena and Sheridan, IL. This line will destroy the tranquility of these sister towns with the blaring of train whistles, the rumble of train cars and the engine noise trains produce that can be heard for miles from the tracks. This line, if approved needs to be located away from these towns, either further North in the Somonauk area, or further South by Dayton, IL. The Dayton area is already listed as a possible alternative route by GLB, they dismissed it as having a longer river crossing and impacting a sky diving business. These rejections are consistent with the poor logic GLB has used in the preparation of this route. The Dayton Crossing is actually preferable as it will allow their line better access to the US Silica plants, makers of Silica Sand, in the Ottawa area, as well as the other major industries and distribution centers in Ottawa, IL. Dayton is also a less populated area than Serena and Sheridan, and keeps the line well away from the Sheridan Correctional Facility and the Community Unit District Number 2 schools. Dayton has no school or prison, and their sky-dive business can easily be relocated to a new location, as in the 1980’s it was located at the Sandwich, Illinois airport. Skydiving can occur anywhere there is an airstrip, PRIME farmland cannot be moved from where it exists. Dayton is also outside of the Serena and Sheridan shared emergency response area; Dayton is served by the Ottawa emergency services. This too makes the location preferable, as the current GLB line forces the Sheridan and Serena fire departments to cross the line for almost any emergency call, as the two towns work together on major fires and accidents. The Sheridan Ambulance services all of Serena and the GLB line cuts Serena off from its Ambulance services. The town of Serena was also chosen to be the birthplace of Superman in the 2013 hit movie “Man of Steel.” The Hoxsey barn on E2351st Road, off the corner of E2351st and Route 52, is the landing spot of the infant who the world knows as Superman. I know you are laughing, but if Hollywood decided Serena Illinois is the quintessential small town and worthy of being the location of Superman’s discovery on Earth, the Great Lakes Basin Railroad, needs to avoid this area. Serena deserves to keep its peace and tranquility, as recognized by Hollywood. The GLB trains will make it an ugly noise train spur town, home to pollution and trains.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24954Virginia GawThe Great Lakes Basin line runs past many old homes and established communities, ho is the STB going to account for structural damage to these historic homes. Specifically damage to the plaster walls most of them have. These homes are from the Victorian era and their interiors may not be able to handle the constant vibrations from the GLB trains. Please take this damage to the plaster walls of the many Victorian and older homes along this proposed un-needed route.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24953Dennis SchepplerThe proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad is dangerous to the public and needs stopped. GLB will close roads and subject the far Chicago suburbs with having to cross the tracks numerous times each day. It will also require many businesses to alter how they deliver services. A few examples are mail carriers and newspaper delivery people. Both these groups will be negatively impacted, as they will have to alter their route AND cross these dangerous lines multiple times per day. According to Operation Lifesaver a vehicle or person is hit every 3 hours by a train. Why would we want to add thousands of new public and private rail crossings, when we have existing tracks and crossings that can be expanded and improved to handle GLB’s proposed freight volumes and still by pass Chicagoland? The GLB proposal will result in numerous accidents per year, especially along the private rail crossing that GLB feels can just be built anywhere along their line. The STB needs to account for the increased fuel usage from the mail carriers, UPS divers, FedEx drivers, and newspaper delivery drivers when it calculates environmental impact. These people will be forced to make longer and more dangerous routes, they will idle more waiting for trains, and they will lose profits due to increased fuel and time costs associated with idling waiting for the train to pass.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24952Laura SchepplerFrom reviewing the map of Illinois rail lines, the state is scarred top to bottom with existing rail lines. Many of these lines already bypass the Chicagoland region. Please explain why the GLB project is needed why if the railroads wanted to avoid the Chicagoland region they can already. All the class one railroads have tracks that can take them around Chicagoland, if they wanted to use them. The GLB project is completely unneeded as the railroads obviously want to go through Chicagoland. This is support by the facts. 1. No existing railroad or railway has come out in support of the GLB plan. 2. Existing by-passes are in place, such as the old Elgin, Joliet and Eastern line, and the Keokuk Junction Railway line and the Toledo, Peoria and Eastern railway line. 3. The current flow of freight traffic is directed to the Chicagoland region by design. A design that has been in place for decades. The early railroad planners had a vision and that vision still works. 4. The railroads could easily improve and expand their current tracks to accommodate the larger freight volumes; they chose not to do this. Since the railroads themselves have not proposed this line, and they have not sought to improve their existing lines that they can by-pass Chicagoland on, this line from GLB is un-needed. Why too do we need more lines in Chicagoland, a bypass takes trains away, GLB needs to build their line where it is needed, such as in Kansas City or Atlanta the fastest growing rail hubs in the nation.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24951Laura SchepplerThe proposed Great Lakes Basin Railway will have tremendous costs placed on those forced to live near these tracks. The constant noise will be bad enough, but the STB needs to also account for the added stress that this line will cause as the dust and dirt form the line will necessitate more frequent dusting and window washing for those living along this line. This added burden on homeowners and tenants needs to be addressed. While many would consider this a small matter, it is not. Homes become dirty faster when they live near transportation systems. How is the STB and GLB going to control dust, engine smoke and other pollutants from adding to the cleaning burdens homes currently have? Not to mention the health effects from breathing in these pollutants. How too will the damage to the paint and sidings on homes and buildings be addressed? Trains are notoriously dirty and this dirt will lead to much additional work when cleaning homes in the area, it may also lead to damage being done to buildings along the route, as smoke and dust is propelled from the train. Please also address the health effects on the populations forced to live by these new, un-needed, new rail lines.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24949Dennis SchepplerThe Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company’s plan to run tracks through Prime Farmland is unacceptable; the Surface Transportation Board needs to examine the impact that train noise, vibration and pollution will have on crops and livestock. There are many scientific studies which show noise and vibrations affect the health of both plants and animals. Any environmental review must include an analysis of how these factors affect not only humans, but plants and animals as well. Please also explain how in the event of an emergency the numerous livestock farms along this proposed route will be evacuated.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24947James RuedinMy family lives 1 mile from the proposed Great Lakes basin RR project. We have sunk all of our savings to have a beautiful life out on the I & m canal towpath. Our children love our big garden, chickens, and bee hives. They have 2 acres to run and all the wildlife to observe thru all the seasons. They quiet beauty we all love dearly will be swept away with this project. Our property will be destroyed as will the the natural beauty. We are just far enough away from the this wretched RR that they will not have to compensate us so we will be forced to live with the constant drone of trains every 7 minutes or sell our property if we are lucky enough to a buyer who will pay us far less than our property should be worth. Our lives will be in constant danger from these hazardous trains but we would be forced to live like this by a greedy bastard like Frank Patton so he can have what he wants!!! We are begging you to not let this horrible train be built, don't let greedy big business destroy a whole lot of lives and land!!!! We need farmers and we need wild places in the country much more than we need this train!!!!!!!!!!!!Seneca, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24946Wendy L SheelyI oppose the docket #35392. My beautiful, historic, family home sits on the proposed route.La Crosse, IN
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24945R. James SheelyOne day is not legally or morally enough notice. Strongly oppose the GLB RR coming thru my property. I would have to move my house and whole farmstead. My whole way of life would be destroyed.La Crosse, IN
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24943Jordan JorstadHow will the eventual road closures affect the flow of traffic. I think that there needs to be a study done on how the traffic patterns will change to determine the impact on the modern human environment. How much longer will people spend waiting on trains or driving around the road closures?Seneca, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24942Jordan JorstadThis railroad will cross the nettle creek at least two times. In their proposal they only mention crossing main rivers. How will the railroad affect the smaller creeks and rivers. What effect will the railroad have on the smaller water environments?Seneca, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24940Dr Martin O'NeillDave Navecky, DEA project manager for the environmental impact statement of the STB concerning the GLB RR proposed route: Land owners in Porter County, IN, were recently notified of the intentions of the GLB RR to build a rail line that would pass through our county. Soon after that there were notifications of a scoping meeting to be held in the county to voice our comments and objections to the proposed route. And, more recently, we were given the opportunity to write the STB and explain our position and problems with this project. This letter is my effort to explain the myriad of problems I foresee as the result of the proposed rail line. I am one of the land owners whose property is crossed by the route which has been suggested, although I have just learned that the STB has asked the GLB RR to propose an alternative route which will only be done by late Aug. As it is, my letter is in response to the first route, but some of the criticisms would apply to any attempt to build a rail line in proximity to Porter County. My land, as is all of that in Porter county, was originally part of the Kankakee River wet lands and, as such, required extensive drainage with tiling systems to allow farming on this soil. The water, drained from my land flows South via Crooked Creek to the Kankakee River in the Southern part of the county. I should note that the proposed rail line parallels the Kankakee River from its origin just to the South of South Bend, IN, to its termination in IL. It is hard to imagine that the railroad would not disrupted this system at multiple points along its route and thus seriously disrupt the agriculture in the area. The difficulties inherent in building across this former marshland are enormous, expensive and risk returning this quite productive farm land to its original, undrained, state. Aside from its agricultural impact, the consequence to plant and animal life in the area would be quite hard to anticipate. Besides the more general concerns just expressed, I have some more specific concerns about the impact and consequences for my property. The route proposed bisects my farm, going across a field with a soil of very high organic content (70%). The soil is humus which has also been called muck. Because of its high compressibility and large creep coefficient this soil is extremely problematic on which to build. The problems to be encountered are detailed in a 2009 report from the department of civil engineering of Purdue University done in conjunction with the US Department of Transportation. This document is attached. Rail lines in the area which intersect this proposed route were built 50 to 100 years ago and have had numerous derailments. I suspect the recent derailments in the Columbia River valley between Washington and Oregon result from similar considerations. A derailment with an accompanying fire present a major hazard for my fields, which have a high muck composition, in that, an underground “muck fire” could be initiated. This would render the land and the railroad potentially unusable for years. A second reason for concern is that the Columbia Pipeline has a 30 inch high compression gas pipeline running East West across this field which would be a risk in a muck fire or derailment. A breach of this line could result in a gas explosion with a kill radius of 600 yards according to the company. My concern is heighten by the fact that Columbia Pipeline was unaware of this rail project when contacted. My other major concern is related to the potential disruption of the medical transport system. I have extensive experience in this area being a cardiovascular surgeon who helped found the emergency room at Porter County Hospital, prior to serving a year in Vietnam where I was responsible for the care of injured Army infantrymen in a combat zone. There, speed was essential in treating injuries and combat wounds and it is no different here in treating civilian injuries, especially involving hemorrhage and blunt force trauma. Another, more recent issue is the speed with which patients with heart attacks and strokes can be treated at hospitals with access to modalities which allow doctors to prevent ischemic injury from arterial clots. In these instances time is of the essence and the possibility that traffic will be blocked for even minutes could be critical. There are already multiple railroad crossings that must be negotiated from many locations in Porter County to reach the hospital, and the proposed route will compound the problem that medical emergencies will not have timely treatment of life threating situations. In ending this letter I suggest that the entire route be filmed by a drone- mounted camera in order to obtain an adequate perspective of what the proposed route of the railroad will mean to the communities that are involved. Hopefully, this could be done well before your recommendations will be voted upon. Today, I just learned of another proposed route submitted by Bob Cauffman, President of RAILED, to the STB for consideration. I am not familiar enough with this proposal to make any comments except to say that it eliminates the problem for Porter County. Sincerely, Martin J O’Neill MDValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24939Matt SheaferThe Porter County (Indiana) Board of Commissioners is opposed to the construction of the rail project by Great Lakes Basin Transportation and has submitted an alternative route. This alternative route starts at Kingsbury, Indiana in Laporte County, continues South into Starke County and then West through Jasper County. With this, Porter County would not be affected by this project. In doing so, the residents of Jasper County have been thrown under the bus" by Porter County. As a land owner and resident of Jasper County, I am strongly opposed to the construction of this project. Without going into great detail, the concerns I have include the following: 1) quality of life for residents near the rail 2) environmental concerns 3) the alternative route runs though several towns which Frank Patton, Chairman of Great Lakes Basin Transportation, has said many times that he would not do 4) reduction in property values 5) noise pollution 6) the splitting of farms and fields leading to reduced efficiency and access 7) automotive traffic concerns with increased rail traffic causing delays 8) safety concerns for emergency vehicles (see #7 above) 9) pollution risks with the products being transported by rail should there be an accidental spill or derailment If the alternative route is considered, you must notify the people affected and allow them to voice their concerns to give them the same opportunity as those people in the original route. From what I have read, the overwhelming majority of land owners, municipalities, schools and special interest groups are opposed to this project. The bottom line is that we do not want it! I would hope that the Surface Transportation Board gives full consideration to these concerns. If the people don't want it, then please put a stop to it now."
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24938Maisie ZinkDear Mr. Navecky, My name is Maisie Zink I’m an 11 year old 4-h’er from Illinois. I have gone to Camp Shaw since I was 8 years old. Camp Shaw is my home away from home and it is my dream to be the youngest counselor there. However if that new railway you’re putting in has its access granted that opportunity might be taken away from me.Imagine that you are in arts and crafts making something, say a popsicle-stick barn or better yet a paper plate dreamcatcher.As sudden low rumble reaches your ears you sigh and put down your craft, “It’s just the train” you think. As well as being disruptive/annoying this train could be hazardous to campers, counselors, and staff alike. The trains you are using are called “Bomb Trains”, trains that carry dangerous materials. And if one of the oil tankards spilled and all that gunk got into the creek everything in it would die, there would be no turtles, no fish nothing. Overall the camp would be less appealing and nobody would want to come.Imagine how that must be for kids in the city who to them camp shaw is a fun and safe place. I really hope you choose not to put up the railroad that could ruin camp shaw. Sincerely, Maisie ZinkWinfield, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24937Sam ZinkI have been a camper at Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see for five years, and I have planned to be a counselor there as soon as I am old enough. By going through with the GLB rail project, you will be negatively affecting Camp Shaw's environment with sound pollution as well as the pollution of the Rock Creek, which might mean the end of Camp Shaw. Going to camp provides me as well as hundreds of other kids with lots of new opportunities and summers full of memories that are unique and new to all of us. Being a counselor in the future, going to Camp Shaw would also benefit me with the experience of having a job that I enjoyed and learning about guiding children in activities such as hiking, team building, and nature skills. Camp Shaw is a valuable part of my life and many others that shouldn't be taken away just for the most convenient spot for a railroad. Please consider my point of view as a camper and future counselor at Camp Shaw. I have attached a picture of me and my friends I met at camp trying Adventure Tree Climbing at camp, an experience we would probably never would have had outside of Camp Shaw. This is one of many examples of the things future campers would probably never have outside Camp, and there are many more such as zip lining, hiking to the Chief Shaw's grave and learning the camp's history, as well as many other opportunities that are special to Camp Shaw.Winfield, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24936Jordan JorstadThis railroad will be bisecting my family’s centennial farm at 9720 Nettle Creek Rd,. Morris, IL 60450. In the next 10 years this farm will have been in my family for 150 years. I left my job in Iowa to come home and continue my family’s tradition of farming the land. Destroying this centennial farm is directly taking away opportunities from the local economy. I plan to farm in this area for the rest of my life and right as I begin a railroad is coming in and saying they have more important things to do with my families land than what I would do with my future.Seneca, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24935Lee BozemanPlease consider my concern about the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Rail Line project. The amount of farm land lost, the amount the additional farm land lost due to making over passes. Boone County would have to double its police, fire and EMT services because it will cut the county in half. One section of our field takes weeks to dry out in order to plant, which makes me believe that the water is very close to the surface possibly due to an aquifer or part of an aquifer, with the building of the rail line I am worried about how it could alter our field. Thank you for reviewing my concernsCapron, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24934Jordan JorstadI am concerned about weed control along the railroad. We have done a tremendous job of keeping out invasive and catastrophic weeds from this area. Other railroads are so narrow that they do not have much of a chance of weeds following it but this is going to be the first railroad with a 200 foot right of way. Since the rail only needs 50 foot the other 150ft will be left bare or gravelled for an access road. This gives a never-before seen opportunity for invasive weeds to enter our area. The railroad company’s first priority is to make money and they will do this by cutting costs at any opportunity. The entire city of Seneca has been trying to reach out to the major railroads to discuss the delays in town and the rail companies ignore them. When a bunch of farmers try to get their issues with the rail lines solved we will be ignored. The weeds will follow the tracks and the GLBT will do just enough to make sure the trains can run and the rest will be left to the farmers. As the STB you have the power now to stand up to them and demand that if this rail were to be built they must keep their weeds under control.Seneca, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24933Jordan JorstadI am very concerned with how the railroad will affect the local drainage zones for the area. I know that the railroad will have to put in engineered systems to ensure that the water still drains in a timely manner. I have enough experience as an Agricultural Engineer to know that those systems will probably work for 5-10 years. What happens when the railroad in an effort to cut costs stops maintaining the systems. Who will ensure that the railroad keeps these systems working properly for the future? What happens when the rail is abandoned and the drainage systems breakdown? Who has to take care of these environmental problems? The railroad needs to be bonded to protect the environment from its eventual bankruptcy.Seneca, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24931Gregory MairI encourage you to evaluate the economic impacts of the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line as a whole project and not individual issues. In Rock County, Wisconsin there are significant economic and environmental impacts this project will create. The amount of land required for the project removes a significant portion of the worlds most productive and profitable land from production. The milk and beef production losses cannot possibly be evaluated enough to understand the long term affects the sound and vibrations can have on the livestock in the affected areas. The lifestyles and incomes of those landowners and livestock owners should not get taken away for the rail line investors to profit from this project. Will there be an action plan for how to move forward with the Rail Line after the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company files bankruptcy? How can the land owners guarantee that the project will not disturb the surrounding land? How will the rail lines affect the water tables including surrounding housing areas? Even if there are steps taken to help the water flow in the affected fields, there is still more water run off into those smaller fields from the rail lines that will limit the yield potential for those remaining acres. While some folks can justify this project, I don't see the justification of the proposed rail line when there are other methods that can address the backups and delays at the Chicago Rail Yards. Safety of the citizens of Rock County, Wisconsin and all the other towns and villages will likely be compromised, if this proposed rail line is approved. Are there any protected species that live in or around the proposed areas? I encourage you to study and alternate means to resolve the need of an additional rail line in Wisconsin.Janesville, WI
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24930Martha McLarenI am writing to oppose the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Corporation Rail Line project that is to run 278 miles from Indiana to Wisconsin. I live in Salina Township, Kankakee County, Illinois which would be part of this proposed route. The proposed route would run thru prime farmland, reduce property values and adversely effect the existing system of state, county and township roads. The loss of agriculture income in our county is projected to be in the millions. The proposed rail line will not make up for that loss of income. In our township, the proposed route would cut our township in half. Our volunteer fire department and rescue personnel would be unable to respond quickly to emergencies on either side of the proposed tracks. When a rail disaster occurs, our local emergency personnel would not have the resources to deal with the aftermath - cleanup of hazardous materials, cleanup of surrounding land from spilled chemicals. The proposed route would create landlocked farmland and disrupt the field tile drainage systems of the existing farms. The safety of every farmer would be in jeopardy each time they have to try and cross tracks with their farm equipment. Rural communities rely on wells for drinking water. Every well near this rail line would be adversely effected by leaking rail cars and potential spills of toxic materials. There would be added danger for our local school children with the many rail crossings the buses would have to navigate every day. The trains moving thru our area would bring in weeds and noxious plants from other areas which would lower production of crops. The proposed route cuts thru the Kankakee River State Park. The Kankakee River was recently designated as a National Recreational Trail - one of only three water trails in the state of Illinois. Having 110 trains a day crossing the river and going thru the State Park would adversely effect the park and the river. The trail system would be truncated and some of the camping areas would be unusable due to noise and vibration. The possibility of hazardous material leaking and spilling from the train cars could ruin the park and river for generations to come. The many water fowl that nest in the area would be driven away. White tail deer, turkeys, pheasants, raccoons and other species that live in the park and the surrounding area would all be adversely affected. The Rock Creek area is also part of this rail line - another waterway that would be potentially ruined for the next generation. There doesn't seem to be any proof provided that this rail line is needed. The CREATE program currently in place is addressing the same issues. Why not give that program time to work? How can a privately funded individual or corporation be allowed to destroy so much just to line their pockets with money? How can a privately funded individual be allowed to destroy part of a State Park that is available for everyone to use just to generate corporate profits? How can a privately funded individual be allowed to use eminent domain to take private property for public use when he's just going to make money from it? Please put a stop to this proposed rail line!Bonfield, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24928Jordan JorstadI am concerned about weed control along the railroad. We have done a tremendous job of keeping out invasive and catastrophic weeds from this area. Other railroads are so narrow that they do not have much of a chance of weeds following it but this is going to be the first railroad with a 200 foot right of way. Since the rail only needs 50 foot the other 150ft will be left bare or gravelled for an access road. This gives a never-before seen opportunity for invasive weeds to enter our area. The railroad company’s first priority is to make money and they will do this by cutting costs at any opportunity. The entire city of Seneca has been trying to reach out to the major railroads to discuss the delays in town and the rail companies ignore them. When a bunch of farmers try to get their issues with the rail lines solved we will be ignored. The weeds will follow the tracks and the GLBT will do just enough to make sure the trains can run and the rest will be left to the farmers. As the STB you have the power now to stand up to them and demand that if this rail were to be built they must keep their weeds under control.Seneca, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24927Laurie BozemanI am writing as a private citizen and property owner where the Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project is proposed. I have two major concerns about this project, my first concern is the road closings since this proposed rail road would slice through our entire county. There has been talk of at least 32 roads that would be affected. Where our property is located all the roads that lead to our daily activities (work, church, shopping, taking care of an elderly parent, picking up grand kids from school, appointments business and personal)would be blocked by railroad crossing. Which leads me to my second concern, which is the safety of not only my own family but the families in my neighborhood (many have lived here for decades). Our neighborhood consists of elderly couples that walk on a daily basis, we have children who play in the fields and ride their bikes, as well as people who walk their dogs and ride their horses. Pets, live stock and wild animals which roam freely. This concerns me because the proposed plan of the railroad crossings, it states that not all will be equipped with flashing lights, bells or gates and the train will not sound a whistle as it approaches our area. Thank you for reading and considering my concerns.Capron, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24923Stephen ButlerI am opposed to using eminent domain to obtain land in support of the GLB rail project. I do not feel use of this government power is in the public interest for my community.Morris, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24922Heather BozemanI would like to express my concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation,LLC rail line project. I oppose the project and ask the Surface Transportation Board to deny the proposal. My concern is the impact on animal habitat, we have a flock of eastern wild turkeys, (which is the only turkey species found in Illinois and it became extinct in Illinois in 1910 , but has since been reintroduced) living in the area that the proposed rail road would be going through these turkeys can be found around our property on 9498 Edson rd, Capron Illinois. We also see a bald eagle pair flying near this area as well. Bald eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden eagle protection act (which states that nesting sites can not be disturbed). In the 37 years that we have lived in our home it has been in the last 5 years that these animals have returned. I plead with you that you study the impact that this would have on these animals and the destruction the train could cause to these animals and their habitat. I appreciate the opportunity to tell you my concerns. Thank you for your considerationCapron, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24921Richard SchultzMr Navecky, I am a farmer in Porter County IN. I am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad plan. 1. Safety. Closing roads will impact emergency vehicles and will force farmers onto busy main highways with machinery increasing the possibility of major accidents. 2. Drainage. The railroad would block at least 95 acres of mine from draining properly. 3. Loss of farm ground. Thousands of acres of prime farm ground would be taken out of production. They are not making any more farm ground. It should be considered an endangered species. Will we be able to feed ourselves in the generations to come? Where will the soil for all the over passes come from in addition to the 200 ft right of way coming out of our fields? Thank you for your time and consideration on this important issue.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24920Kim LandAs a long-time resident of La Porte County, Indiana, I ask you to say no to this proposed rail line. As you know, there are large numbers of government entities, organizations, and private citizens against this project for many valid and critical reasons including public safety, environmental impact, disruption of farming and other industries, and so on. There would be a negative impact to many. More than one railroad has already weighed in that they are simply not interested in this particular project. Additionally, technology has moved so fast in recent years that this particular rail construction project is already obsolete! This project simply makes no sense.Union Mills, Indiana
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24919Jordan JorstadAttached is a picture of where I live; 8500 Nettle Creek Rd., Seneca, IL 61360. I have a half-mile driveway that connects me to Nettle Creek road. The railroad will cross my driveway at the rail’s 121st mile marker and I do not see the railroad caring much about putting in a single crossing for one family. The blue line I drew on the map is a major creek that has no crossing. If the railroad were to be built on the current proposed GLBR route my house would be encircled by a railroad and water on all sides. Travel would be impossible. For my farm we also have 5 grain bins, a barn, and 2 machine sheds that we would lose access to. We would also lose access to the 240 acres that we farm on that side of the railroad tracks. The great lakes basin railroad company has no reason to give us a crossing at our driveway and I am afraid they will not. Even if they say they will they have little to fear if they upset one family and do not build it or delay its construction for months. GLBR has already tried to go around landowners to get it’s way. First with holding the STB hearings during planting and now by threatening eminent domain to force landowners to give in or face the courtroom. I have no faith that GLBR will put a crossing or if they do they will delay its construction in such a manner that we will not be able to farm that 240 acres that year and we will not be able to access our 6 grain storage bins. I will most likely be forced to find somewhere else to live. This railroad cannot be built on the proposed route; doing so would displace me and severely hurt our farming operation.Seneca, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24918Vicky DuossPlease consider the attached letter regarding a recreational issue with the GLB rain line. Thank you.Janesville, WI
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24917Patricia DustTwenty five years ago, we moved from a subdivision to the country. This is our forever home and we came here for the quiet. We don't want our lives and our town over run by dangerous trains. The thought of the noise is driving us nuts. We won't sell our home since we were here first and want to stay. The school children don't need to be on a school bus for an extra hour every day. To say nothing about the farmers whose cattle and other animals will be upset with the noise. Please reconsider and allow us to maintain our little country homes without interruptions every 13 minutes. We managed to stop the garbage and the toll road and we will do our best to stop you also. As far as I can see, the airport in Peotone is at a standstill now after many homes were taken and people were displaced. Last time I checked, we were still in America and we had choices. Please don't take that away from us.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24916Rock the Rail memberEmerald Heights, Inc. is attaching a letter regarding a possible water flow and drainage problem caused by the rail line. Please add this to your list of considerations. Thank you.Vicky L Duoss · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24913Steve BieleckiI am opposed to the GLBT RR project because it will destroy our beloved Kankakee River State Park for me, my family and grandchildren. It will irreparably damage our quality of rural life due to its close proximity to our land. I am also extremely concerned about the ability of emergency personnel being able to administer their services adequately when time is of the essence due to the many crossings involved. Please consider halting any forward motion with this narcissistic venture by Mr. Patton for our sake and the sake of future generations. Thank you.Manteno, Il
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24912Bernadette RichterDear Mr. Navecky, I ask that STB records reflect my opposition to the GLBT rail line and request that it not be authorized. I am baffled that this project was considered, and Scoping hearings held, without GLBT providing a detailed and solid business plan and a firm route, and that notification and communication with stakeholders was not done. Your office has received oral testimony at the April Seneca Scoping hearing from my organization (SOAR-Save Our American Raptors - see page 25 on STB comments site). Your office has also received thousands of comments and resolutions from other organizations, individuals, government entities, county boards, members of Congress, state representatives, etc. opposing this project. (Ms. Ruston was quoted saying the proposal has generated a greater response than any she's seen in her 30 years with the agency.) I do not feel it's necessary for me to repeat their sound reasons and documentation for their opposition. I agree with and share their concerns. I can not offer 'alternative route' suggestions, as I have no expertise in that field. Nor would I offer any. In my opinion, alternative routes only serve to pass on the same (or more or different) problems with this proposed project to other stakeholders. GLBT should have done their own environmental impact study rather than rely on stakeholders and the STB to do it for them. Alternative routes that may be considered would necessitate that those new stakeholders along the route be promptly notified, given the opportunity to comment, and the process repeated. Where and when does it end? Your office has asked GLBT to update their proposal, clarify their route, provide route alternatives for every 10-mile section of the proposed line by August 29, 2016. The public should be given ample time to review GLBT's updated proposal, and be allowed to comment on the revisions and alternatives. I ask for an extension on the comment period for this purpose. Thank you for your time and consideration, Bernadette RichterEarlville, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24891GRAINCO FS, Inc.I am the Mazon Plant Manager at GRAINCO FS, Inc. If the GLB railroad was able to go through our territory it would create great logistical and safety concerns for our farming industry.Brian Mino · Mazon, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentPlease see attached comments.Kevin Brubaker · Chicago, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24888Paula VanBeekFrank Patton's proposed destruction with his GLBT is an utter travesty to the people and their property. It will devastate the land, the air - it will destroy a way of life!! It is unconscionable to think that in this country Patton could force people out of their homes and off their property when it's not even for sale - all in the name of profit!! Patton's proposed destruction will bring criminals (it's common knowledge rail yards are a criminal's playground)gang-bangers and rats - not to mention the stench. Everyone knows he will not be using the 15,000 acres just for a rail yard but Patton's not telling anyone his true intentions. Maybe it's the big money making Cook County dump that various stakeholders have tried to establish. At the very least, you Mr. Navecky and the Board deserve to know the truth!!Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24886Dan BockelmannThe environmental impact would be devastating to the local Agrian community. Not only near term but for generations to come. The noise level would change the way of life that is known as bucolic. In order to avoid Chicago this group wants to wreak havoc on an entire multigenerational farming families within the proposed tract near Grant Park Illinois. I oppose the rail yard as it takes valuable farm land out production and changes the financial picture of area. Transportation replacing crops is not an acceptable alternative when the same transporting of goods can remain on the tracks presently in place. Traffic would increase causing noise and air pollution along with long term soil pollution. Lose of green space and quality air would be a major deterrent for the quality of life which is presently part of the farming community. Lose of productive farm land also affects the long term stability of feeding America.Beecher, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24885julie kokosDear Mr.. Navecky and Surface Transportation Board, Please tell me why the GLB proposal is in an Environmental Scoping Study at this point. I can see so many reasons why this proposal should have never even been looked at. Here are only a few.... First, there has been no formal application filed. Investors have not been disclosed. The GLB is not a railroad with railroad experience and expertise to run or construct a railroad thus a multitude of false truths have been told to the public. No need has been established. The purported object of this project is to relieve Chicago's congested rail system. CREATE is already in place. The extreme and completely evident negative impacts this would have on our environment. The extreme and completely evident negative impacts this would have on our socioeconomic status. There are no Class 1 Railroads interested in this project. With all of the recent derailments and explosions, hazardous materials should be banned from rail transportation instead of increasing it. This is an unjust, abuse of eminent domain for private gain. There are many, many more reasons that this proposal should be stopped dead in it's tracks and the STB should cease all further studies and inquiries. Please take the NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE. I remain, vehemently opposed, Julie Kokos Sumner Township 708-426-4180grant park, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24884Danielle DahnI am in opposition to the GLB project. I am particularly concerned with the environmental impact and it's close proximity to Camp Shawanawsee - A very important facility for our youth.Naperville, Il
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24883City of St. FrancisAttached are the concerns and comments from the City of St. Francis regarding Docket No FD 35952, Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. – Authority to Construct and Operate a Rail Line in Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin: Notice of Intent to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement, Drat Scope of Study, Notice of Scoping Meetings, and Request for Comments on Draft Scope. Please contact me with any questions.Melinda Dejewski, PE · St. Francis, Wisconsin
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24882Jason KokosDEAR SURFACE TRANSP. BOARD, GLBT HAS SHOWN NO STUDIES, METRICS, OR DATA THAT SUPPORTS THEIR THEORY THAT DIVERTING RAIL TRAFFIC AROUND CHICAGO WILL IMPROVE CONGESTION. FURTHERMORE, IT HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED THEIR IS ACTUAL NEED FOR THIS PROJECT. THIS POTENTIAL LAND GRAB IS UNWARRANTED, AND SHOULD BE DISALLOWED. PLEASE CHOOSE THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE IMMEDIATELY.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Chad Miller, Manager · Kankakee, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24880Michael ReplinPlease refer to an article in the Times newspaper of Northwest Indiana dated July 14, 2016, page A9. Do you see all the smoke from a derailed train car near Mosier, Oregon? The same thing could happen in Lowell, Indiana next to the middle school and the town's water pumping station. Please don't let this proposed rail line proceed.Lowell, INdiana
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24879Nelda (Mrs. R.L.) RavensPlease deny the GLBRR any routes. Mr. Patton and his group are greedy, money-hungry parasites. If they have so much money, let them upgrade all the existing railways of which many are not being used. Besides, I truely believe he and they" only want to build a hugh industrial park in hopes of pushing the 'not-required' airport through. Don't they realize northeastern Illinois has the BEST and RICHEST soil in the world. When the midwest runs out of water for irrigation and all the fracking takes place, that farmland in going to disappear. Then where will all of us get our food? Besides, as an "LLC", what if they get started, destroy all the land, then realize (too late) they can't recoup their money and just leave their messes for us. Then what will we do? Illinois is still trying to recoup their money from their boon-doggle "Mascoutah" near St.Louis. No wonder we are near bankruptcy!!! DENY the Request, PLEASE."
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24878Ms. Janet HoisingtonOur farm is on Detailed Map #12" at the west side of Winnebago County. The proposed rail would go lengthwise through our farm and then turn and go widthwise. It would destroy the fields heading all the way back to the river, cross two very old natural gas pipelines right next to the Rock River and then proceed up through the woodlot that is on a sheer cliff overlooking the river. It would cut through at least one of the Indian mounds and destroy one of the few remaining wildlife corridors in the county. Our farm is taking a particularly big "hit" from this project rendering it pretty much unlivable and unproductive except for the benefit of the rail road owners. Even if we tried to sell, it probably wouldn't be possible. Who would buy next to a railroad or want to live there? This would destroy what my family has worked for and lived on since the 1860's. Disgusting misuse of Eminent Domain for profit to a small group at the expense of helpless landowners who are no longer protected by law. Janet Hoisington"
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24877Erin rittschofTo whom it concerns, In wrighting you , I will be asking you to turn down the GLB. It will effect to many people, you can't just mess with others lives. These properties are ours , not anyone else. There are too many negitive out comes that will be. You are ruining all of our life's, I live in the country to be away from all drama. I have had my property for 10 years. I live where I live because I have Multiple Sclerosis, my farm is my therapy. All of this drama will bring havoc to my animals. Please vote no for us!! Put your self in our shoes no matter how much money it brings in , bc after all that's what it's all about. Money and power, in the end I'm not the one you have to answer to. Thanks for hearing me.Esmond, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24876Phyllis GorskiI would like to also STRONGLY OPPOSE the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Railroad Project that has a proposed route to go through our farm in La Crosse, Indiana. It will destroy the farm, render our irrigators useless, and limit the type of crops we are able to grow without irrigation--which will severely affect our potential income.La Crosse, IN
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24875MICHAEL KASTNERAfter studying some of the impacts that come with the building of the proposed GLBT railroad, I respectfully insist the proposed GLBT rail line be denied.The rail line is designed to transport over 2000 hazardous materials and chemicals, one of which is dilbit(diluted bitumen with peatane or natural liquid gas) from tar sands in Alberta Canada. It has been found that this same explosive mixture (72% bitumen 28% diluent) being used in pipelines is also being loaded into tankcars. This mixture is just as explosive as that from Bakken crude,with a lowered flash point from 330'F to 95'F, which makes the mixture a traveling bomb! Both Bakken and dilbit would be allowed to be shipped on the proposed GLBT rail line. When these trains derail and explode, they cannot be extinguished due to excess heat and must be allowed to burn themselves out which can take as long as a week. New proposed rules from the US Transportation Regulator incorrectly assumes the tar sands crude is not being mixed with diluent and is therefore safe to ship via railcar. They are proposing a scheme to move the oldest tank cars(dot-111) to Alberta to haul this exp[losice crude, instead of requiring these cars to be more robust and safer in case of derailment. When one of these trains derails on the GLBT line, Lowell Indiana volunteer fire department isn't capable of dealing with it. If by slim chance it doesn't explode, the leaking crude will leach into surrounding soil and contaminate well water for everyone sharing that aquifer. Since I live in Lowell, Indiana there is no alternate source for drinking water other than well water. How would any company be able to remove the crude from the aquifer, and who could do it? In addition the tank cars are constantly leaking their cargo and that goes into the soil and the air polluting our pristine area. According to Rob Gillies of the Associated Press, leading Rail Industry Representatives say it would take a decade to retrofit and modify 50,000 tank cars,not 3 years anticipated by US Federal officials. Also US government predicts trains hauling crude will derail an average of 10 times a year over the next 2 decades, which equals 200 derailments. In my area there are flood plain issues that will be exaggerated from the interruption of natural water flow due to rail construction. The air quality will suffer from heavy diesel particulates(some of the worst pollution for human and animal lungs), which carry for miles in the air. It would be a huge disaster for everyone near this unnecessary rail line if it is allowed to proceed forward. Please don't allow it. Thank you! Mike Kastner Lowell, IndianaLOWELL, INDIANA
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24872Janet HoisingtonAs the owner of the farm at 7901 Kishwaukee Road in Winnebago County, I am alarmed at the damage this railroad will do to our farm and the historical sites located on its route. Attached you will find a letter from a state archaeologist attesting to the sites located on this farm. The Indians in this area built burial mounds on the cliffs overlooking the Rock River and they are in the direct proposed path of this railroad. As well as the mounds, there are other significant sites located around the property that must be studied and preserved. Please consider the ramifications of this type of project. Janet HoisingtonRockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24871Harry StenhouseI am against this proposal in its entirety: This is simply a land grab.It is strictly for private gain. This is not in the public interest, it's only for big business. The destruction of the prime farm land, owned by many generation farmers is wrong! This is not needed. Eminent domain is wrong.GRANT PARK, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24867LanaRippentropI am against the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. In the United States we have many existing railroads to transport goods around Chicago. Please block this new proposal.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24866Lana RippentropWhen I went to the meeting for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad it was brought up about a pipeline under the ground only a few feet. Their has been problems with just semi trucks. What would a heavy train do going over pipelines? Who would fix this problem? Think of all the lives effected with this. It would be better to transport on exisiting tracks. Please block this railroad.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24865Lana RippentropI know that the Great Lakes Basin proposal will be going very close to the Sheridan Illinois prison. How do you think that you could get several hundred people out if their was a spill? Please say no to the proposal. Thank you.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24863Carey GorskiI STRONGLY oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. It will destroy my farm and have disastrous effects to my livelihood.La Crosse, IN
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24862Lana RippentropPlease read all of the comments from all of the emails from all sources pertaining to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad before making a good decision. Thank You.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24859Marcia BuellNote this is long so a word.doc is attached containing the full text. I am writing to ask that you deny the Great Lake Basin railroad project and seek alternatives to building the proposed line so close to Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See in Manteno. It is essential to preserve the quality of the camp and the surrounding environment for our children and children of generations to come. No doubt others have written about the wonderful outdoor experiences that their children have benefitted from at camp. While these experiences may not seem like an investment in the future, they truly are. Many parents and educators worry that on a daily basis, children do not go outside and play as often as they should, and may be losing their appreciation of nature. Camp helps to assure that this appreciation is well –instilled in the future generation and that our children welcome opportunities to play and learn outside. Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See, is very special to many children, including my 12 year old daughter. For my daughter, Emily, it is not only because it is a beautiful and exciting place to be, but more importantly because it has been a place of healing and confidence building for her. Emily started attending Camp Shaw just before her 8th birthday. The year before her older sister had been diagnosed with cancer and we as a family had gone through a horrific year of surgeries and treatments. Emily, like many siblings of children with serious illnesses, was caring and supportive, putting her sister’s needs before her own, without asking for much. But as her sister got through treatment and started to learn about a camp program for young cancer survivors, the only thing Emily asked for was to have a camp to go to too. Emily’s school helped us find out about Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See, and Greg LaPlante, the camp director, was very kind in helping us navigate her application. In her first year, and the years that followed, she explored in Rock Creek and eventually “ziplined” over it, slept out under the stars on the camp- out nights, learned to take care of baby farm animals, which had a lasting impact on her dietary choices, and most of all, laughed and played without having to think about her sister’s challenges in the pediatric cancer world. For one week each year, Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See has her place, where she could just be Emily.. Throughout the year, she tells stories about Camp Shaw and when some of the other kids her age shy away from trying new things, Emily’s sense of adventure, inspired by Camp Shaw, comes through. Emily dreams of becoming a counselor for Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See and she will make a good one some day, assuming the camp can continue to function in such a clean and peaceful environment. She will perhaps help another child who is going through something traumatic (and far too many children do these days) to appreciate nature and to learn how how nature can help heal. We understand that the railroad transportation of materials is important, but we ask that you build it in a place that does not so negatively impact the environment around Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See and in turn diminish the quality of the camp. We ask that you deny the GLB proposal so that “Emily’s place” can be a part of childhood for many years to come.Skokie, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24858Gregory A WilliamsI would like to comment on the pending environmental impact study to be conducted for the proposed GLBRR route. I believe the evironmental impact to be minimal. The proposed right of way leaves only a small footprint in most of its route. Wildlife, water , air and soil quality would hardly be affected. Only around the three major rivers would there be a heightened environmental concern , but the proposed engineering for the bridge approcaches and egresses would minimize any potential problems. In summary, I believe the environmental impact to be negligible to all the affected areas. Thank You.LaPorte, IN
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24857R.A.I.L.E.D. memberFD # 35952 Mr. Navecky, The attached partial transcript from and NPR broadcast was done a year and a half ago. Since then we have had several more train derailments with fires and explosions, proving the dangers of shipping crude oil by rail is only increasing. Please remember that we are trying to preserve our environment. This volatile oil should be banned from rail transport. PLEASE, deny this proposed rail line. Thank you. Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24855City of MiltonThe City of Milton, WI has officially adopted a resolution in opposition of the GLBT rail line.Anissa M. Welch · Milton, WI
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentThe Patten-proposed rail bypass around Chicago, originating in Kingsbury, Indiana and extending through Illinois into Wisconsin, is, in our opinion, a project that is exceptionally destructive environmentally. Its eastern terminus would be adjacent to the Kingsbury Fish and Wildlife area. A similarly proposed interchange yard at this terminus would impact, if not destroy, this 6000 acre conservation area. Our group, the Woodland Savanna Land Conservancy, owns a small parcel adjacent, which would also be impacted or destroyed. Dozens of homes have been build along the nearby 500 South in LaPorte County, extending from Kingsbury west into Porter County. The rail line would go on the long-abandoned Wabash tracks directly behind these homes, in their back yards, a distance of several miles. These homeowners are middle to low income, doubtless with little political influence to stop this ill-conceived idea. Chicago's CREATE project is addressing rail congestion in that city. Rail carloadings are down some seven percent this year, due to a reduction in coal usage that is predicted to continue. No Class One railroad that we know of has endorsed this project. CN has already contracted a bypass using existing rail lines. Moreover, CP has said that the existing IHB railroad could be used as a bypass, if anyone were interested. An interstate highway proposal parallel to a section of the rail route in Illinois was recently halted by the state as unwarranted. Patten, a man as elderly as I am, has an if we build it they will come" attitude. He has hatched this speculative project, inexplicably armed with eminent domain, that would result in vulgar environmental degradation and family disruption along much or most of its nearly 300 mile route. We ask that you do not allow this project to proceed, or indeed any similar schemes with alternate routes. We who live in the Chicago area already have an abundance of rail corridors, some of them seemingly underused. Garland F. Hicks, Jr. VP and Founder Woodland Savanna Land Conservancy, 501(c)3"Hicks, Garland F. Jr.
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24852Laura WenzelmanI oppose the GLB railroad because if it is allowed it will forever decimate pristine land and alter the environment. There is only so much land and you keep destroying it, then what?Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24851jim cizmarI think a rail line sounds much better then a tollway with much less environmental impact(footprint) just look at how many truck crashes happen every week,driver asleep,dangerous-loads,and bad equip anything-thing that gets trucks off the road sounds good to me. plus any thing heavy should travel by train not truck.get them off our roads.lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24850R.A.I.L.E.D. memberDear Mr. Navecky, Attached is an excerpt from an article published by the CENTER FOR BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY. It explains many of the dangers of shipping explosive crude oil. We now know that Shale oil is as dangerous as Bakken crude oil and that even the new reinforced rail cars explode just like the old ones. Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24849Kathleen BessenDear Mr. Narvecky, I oppose the GLBR project. The cons far outweigh any possible or speculated pros. The impact to the agricultural community would be largely negative. This is established prime, productive farm ground, that is an absolute and valuable asset, truly a treasure of Illinois that deserves to be safeguarded from development. Please honor and protect our heritage. Thank you, Kathleen BessenGardner, IL
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24848Lana RippentropDo not let a few people who have a big dream of building a railroad make your decision to hurt so many people lives and their dreams. The country life is very special. With the Great Lakes Basin Railroad this life will forever be changed. Please review all of the pros and cons before making a major decision on this huge issue. Thank you.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24846Rick JonesI am opposed to the Great Lakes Railroad project. I am for progress and economic growth. This project appears to not be able repay the economic, environmental or family displacement costs it will cause.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24845Camp Shaw supporterI am writing to oppose the construction of the railroad line through Rock Creek. This line will be situated 1/2 mile from Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See. My daughter has attended the camp as a camper for the past several years. It has provided the best experience for her, as well as other children. The railroad line will affect the quality of camp life at Camp Shaw greatly. The noise and pollution will be too much for the camp. The camp has been there for 70 years and has provided so much for local families. Please don't build the railroad!Anne Walk · New Lenox, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24844Tammy MasonI am against the proposed GLBT rail line. I am even more against Lake & Porter County's alternative plan!!! Running the line through two towns (and just blocks from 2 schools) is not the answer, especially if speed is your priority.Wanatah, Indiana
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24843Thomas MasonPorter County has proposed rerouting the GLBR through LaCrosse and Wanatah to save some farmland. This has a far greater impact on more people locally not to mention proximity to schools which are mere blocks from the proposed route. Keep it out of our towns, please!Wanatah, Indiana
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-248421953I am writing as a concerned citizen who lives in an area directly affected by the proposed route. Even if the route is changed the concerns that I have will still be valid for others and because of this I strongly oppose the construction of this line. Below are a few of the issues that I see as problems to the community and environment with this plan. 1. The disruption of water flow will have unpredictable effects of flooding in times of storm and heavy rains, this may cause flooding in homes and across roads making an unsafe environment. 2. In an area that can get heavy snowfall, roads that will be closed will present problems for snow clearance as ploughs will not have the ability to turn on these narrow rural roads. This will lead to additional dangers for winter driving. 3. The addition of so many railroad crossings will present problems for emergency vehicles, school bus routes and other transportation. 4. Noise levels will be intolerable as volume on the line increases. The plan is proposed by an investment group so their goal has to be profit, presumably gained by the volume of trains. We currently hear trains that run on a track some seven miles away and the construction of this new line will bring noise levels to an unbearable level. All of these issues will cause property values to drop immensely, even making some unsellable. Nothing can compensate for the loss of the peaceful rural lifestyle currently enjoyed on the area. The alternates that seem viable include making more use of existing tracks. If oil transportation is a goal of the project, then pipelines may cause disturbance while being built but in the long term will have less impact on communities and farms.Paula Clarke · Verona, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24840Ken DaggettMr. Patton is asking you to give him permission to run a railroad through the richest farmland in the world, through an Indian reservation, across may rivers, streams, creeks, waterways, drainage ditches and over the aquifer that thousands of residents rely on for their everyday water use. This would be a major mistake to let this one individual have such a huge affect on a vast area of our state!!! The devaluation of our homes and land would be a loss not only to us as home and land owners but the loss of revenue to our taxing bodies through devaluation would put our already cash strapped state, county and township in even more dire straits. Mr. Patton NEEDS TO BE STOPPED NOW!!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24786Shirley Sklavos[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment[See attachment 2 of 2]Thomas F McFarland, P.C.
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(printed as 7/14/2016)Comment[See attachment 1 of 2]Thomas F McFarland, P.C.
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24669Karen Gill[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24667Phillip R White, Ph.D.[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24666James A Grenlund[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24665Charles W Meyers[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24664Martin Newhouse[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24662Chuck Hamilton[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24661David K Wollgast[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24660Edna Hoffman[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24658Tom Kettle[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24657Helen McCormick[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24656Helen McCormick[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/14/2016)CommentEI-24655Kenneth McCormick[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-25245Diane M. Perez[see attached letter]
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-25190Joe O'Brien[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentGeoffrey Olson
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-25037Porter County GovernmentScott McClure
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-25030Porter County GovernmentScott McClure
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-25029Dale Hoots
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-25026Mike Muller
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24868Virginia GawIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24838Virginia GawIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24837Mary SchepplerIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Serena, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24836Mary SchepplerIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Serena, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24835Laura SchepplerIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24834Laura SchepplerIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24833Fred SchepplerIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Serena, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24832Fred SchepplerIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Serena, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24831Dennis SchepplerIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24828Dennis SchepplerIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24827Abe HenkerIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24826Abe HenkerIt is improper that the Surface Transportation Board is allowing the Great Lakes Transportation Company until 08/29/2016 to submit alternatives and revisions to their route, but the public can only comment until 07/15/2016. The STB needs to ensure the public is heard in this process and extend the comment period until October 31, 2016 so the public has the ability to comment on the Great Lakes Basin revisions. Not allowing the public to comment on revised plans, amounts to shutting out the very people the STB is commissioned to serve and protect. The public deserves to be able to comment and the STB needs to allow them to comment on the GLB revisions.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24825Dennis SchepplerPlease explain why a company with no railroad experience, a company that owns no trains, a company with no viable business plan available, a company that cannot tell the public how they are going to pay for the line, is allowed to even submit a proposal like the one Great Lakes Basin Railroad has proposed. This is simply one man’s dream being forced onto the public in the form of a nightmare. This man and his GLB line has destroyed the faith many people have that their government is here to protect them. The STB needs to send a clear denial message to GLB and send a message to the country that the government will protect them, that the environment is more important that profits and personal gain. The STB is design to help protect our valuable natural resources and they need to start by telling GLB no, prime farmland is more important to our nation than yet another railroad.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24824Abe HenkerPlease explain how this line will be profitable. Canadian National purchased the longer Elgin, Joliet and Eastern line for 300 million dollars; Warren Buffet purchased BNSF for 44 billion dollars. GLB plans to spend 8 billion on a relatively short rail line. How is this going to be financially viable? Please address this because if the rail line fails the environment will have been forever destroyed. Please also explain why GLB does not simply buy an existing rail line and improve that line to serve as a bypass. Based on the prices paid for the two mentioned existing rail lines, essentially two entire companies were bought, wouldn’t it be more profitable to purchase existing lines. This would also be the environmentally prudent thing to do.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24823Jeffrey SzarleyThank you for listening to us! We really hope GLBT is stopped or sent onto a more practical alternate.Hobart, Indiana
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24822Virginia GawGreat Lakes Basin Transportation Company claims all landowners will receive free electricity, if some of their land is acquired for the new rail line. What kind of environmental impact study is going to be completed by the STB taking into account these thousands of new power lines GLB plans to install along the rails. Also the STB needs to ensure GLB pays for these lines, this needs to be written into any statements from the STB. GLB has publicly stated they will do this and the STB needs to hold them accountable. The STB must also ensure all land is acquired at the stated $20,000 per acre price, or the fair market value of the land, whichever is higher. The STB needs both of these provisions written into their reviews with assurances they will enforce all the claims GLB has made regarding reimbursement and what they will pay for.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24821Laura SchepplerPlease explain in detail the safety measures that will be in place to ensure farmers and the trains themselves will be kept safe at the thousands of private field crossing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company says they will provide along this new rail line to farmers. Crossing that will not have lights or gates. Please keep in mind farmers use flammable liquid chemicals that they will be forced to transport across these lines, lines with no safety protections in place. Please explain who will be responsible for the damaged caused and the loss of life when a farmer hauling liquid flammable chemicals is struck by a freight train also carrying flammable liquids or oil tankers. This is a real threat that needs addressed. The GLB plan has some many deficiencies and naiveties in the plan it is insulting. How are farmers and the trains themselves going to be kept safe at these thousands of private rail crossings?Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24820Dennis SchepplerGreat Lakes Basin railroad claims all fields adjacent to their line can attach a rail spur onto the new line. These spurs need to also have an environment impact study done for each field adjacent to this line. Please also explain how the safety of the farmers crossing this line, a line that will bi-sect thousands of fields, will be ensured. What protections will be in place to let them know that a train is coming? The same with the private driveways this line cuts through. How are these farmers and private homeowners going to be kept safe crossing the line?Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24819Virginia GawAs you know, crossing where roads and train tracks intersect at an angle are significantly more dangerous than crossing that are at 90 degree angles. How is safety going to be maintained at railroad crossing when the Great Lakes Basin plan seems to intersect at an angle most roads. What kind of safeties will be in place to limit angled road crossings?Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24818Laura SchepplerThe Great Lakes Basin line will seriously reduce in many areas the amount of land that can be farmed and it will destroy acres of wooded areas along the rivers and wetlands and even homesteads it passes through. This will result in less CO2 being taken out of the air by plants, the STB needs to calculate the loss to the environment in CO@ being taken out of the air by these plants when it considers the GLB route. The carbon footprint of this proposed rail line is huge. Instead of farm crops, trees or even green grass helping to clean the world's air, we will have stone an gravel train beds with no plants capable of growing beside them. How is the STB going to ensure that this route will not increase greenhouse gases in the world, as millions of plants will be replaced by stone. How too is the STB going to calculate the gallons of flood waters these plants absorb, preventing flooding in the nation? Our plants are what keeps our world healthy and the STB needs to think long and hard before they allow GLB to remove these valuable air cleaners from our world.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24817Abe HenkerThe Great Lakes Basin line creates many new head-rows or the rows of crops on the outside of the field. This will happen as GLB rips farms apart and fields are sliced into two or more smaller pieces. These vastly increased head-rows in fields will require additional chemicals to control weeds, as these rows serve as the buffer from the ditches and roads to the main crops. The STB needs to seriously look at the huge increase in chemicals needed to control the additional weeds this line will produce in the field's head-rows. Please also consider all the harmful chemicals the train line will use to control weeds, as they are required to do, along the tracks.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24815Abe HenkerHaving listened to my Grandfather who has farmed for over 80 years I have learned a lot. Such as Head-rows in a field, those along the outside of the field have lower yields than the main body of the field. The Great Lakes Basin line will create many more Head-rows in the fields it dissects. The STB needs to take into account the sever loss of production each farmer will face as their PRIME farmland is taken and more head-rows are created in smaller fields. How will a farmer be able to maintain their lifestyles when they are looking a serious production deceases because of smaller fields with more head-rows? The plants in a head-row can be up to 25% less productive than the rest of the field.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24814Dennis SchepplerGrowing up in Serena, IL, I remember the huge Blizzards we would have in the country. In 1981 we were trapped in our house for a week, as the county and state could not clear the roads and keep up with the blowing snow. I also remember a storm I the 70's that resulted in Hoxsey Road being one lane for days with 15 foot high drifts of snow. Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company needs to have plans in place to deal with unbelievable weather extremes, including the yearly Blizzard. What are those plans? Since none have been stated, other than they believe Kankakee has better weather than Chicago proper, so delays will be less what plans are in place when severe weather hits? The STB needs to ensure this track is built to handle all weather conditions including blizzards, floods and tornados, as well as earthquakes as this line runs along many fault lines.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24813Laura SchepplerHaving lived in a suburb of Chicago my entire life, I know how people ignore broken railroad gates. What protections will be in lace to ensure broken and malfunctioning gates are quickly repaired. With one train every 13 minutes, 110 per day, this is a serious concern, if a crossing has a broken gate too often eventually people will just drive around it even when it is working. This has the potential to be a serious problem. We also have major snow storms in the area, what is going to be in place t ensure the switches work all day every day in even in blizzard conditions, which are common.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24812Dennis SchepplerHaving recently attended a major funeral in the Serena, IL area, I was struck at how the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad would affect local traditions, like the funeral procession. Many funerals are major community occasions with funeral procession of 50 to 100 cars common and police escorts through towns. Add to this the nearest funeral homes are either in Sheridan, which will have the train tracks running through it or Somonauk and Ottawa, IL. The Somonauk and Ottawa locations of the funeral homes can result in a 30 to 45 minute procession ride to the Serena Cemetery. The sheer volume of trains, 1 every 13 minutes, 110 per day, will greatly impede the traditional long funeral procession in this area. I think this is wrong. Another common tradition throughout the country is one final drive by for the funeral procession past the deceased's home or farm. A Serena funeral can easily have to cross this proposed GLB line 3 or 4 times to keep with the traditional respects paid to the deceased. This line will effectively ruin a time honored rural tradition, as for this reason alone the line needs to be denied. This line takes away from the culture of the rural people.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24811Miranda and Richard SerleticWe are opposed to the GLB, especially since there is already a program in place to alleviate train congestion in Chicagoland through the CREATE - Chicago Region Environmental And Transportation Efficiency Program. See attached program overview. We question the need for the GLB when CREATE is already in place addressing the congestion issue.VALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24810Miranda and Richard SerleticPlease see attached article Why Save Farmland?" Although, it is somewhat dated, the main ideas still hold true today and give more reasons why the GLB should not be allowed to use eminent domain to take farmland for private gain."VALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 7/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24808Virginia GawI think that the STB needs to demand the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company show written proof that the existing railroads have agreed to use the rail spurs the GLB line proposes. I would like to see in writing an agreement, for example, that the Illinois Railway actually wants to have a would use a rail spur built outside of Sheridan and Serena, Illinois. Right now all we have is the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company saying they want these spurs, where is the proof anyone else wants them? The STB needs to deny any rail spurs or interchanges, whatever term you use that does not have an agreement in writing from the other railroad that they would use the line. We already have a Bridge to Nowhere" in Alaska, we do not need Illinois littered with rail interchanges and spurs to "nowhere." Where is GLB's proof they have rail lines in lace to use these spurs?"
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24807Abe HenkerI think the STB needs to explore a new route for the Great Lakes Basin rail line. The current line involves too much destruction of the environment. I think the line needs to run South from Wisconsin using the BNSF line to Knoxville, IL. From Knoxville it can follow the BNSF line East to Streator, Il. From Streator, IL the line can follow the Norfolk Southern line to Indiana. This route is a true bypass and uses existing lines, or can run along side of existing lines. This reduce the environmental impact, reduces the new road crossings and has established re-routes for field drainage tiles, utilities and pipelines. This route uses what is already in place and makes it better. it does not destroy a whole new area. Please deny the existing GLB line in favor of this route.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24806Laura SchepplerI think the STB needs to explore the gre4at Lakes Basin Railroad using alternative routes. I think in light of the fact Frank Patton, managing partner and founder of the company is so fond of trains, and publically states they are so wonderful, he needs to fully enjoy his vision. This is why I am proposing the alternative route that follows, as it connects, Crete Illinois, Frank Patton's home town with the rest of the world via train. The line would begin in Crete, IL and head South on the existing Union Pacific line or parallel to this line, to Watseka, IL. In Watseka the line would follow the Toledo, Peoria and Western Railway line to Peoria. From Peoria the line would follow the BNSF line North and West to Wisconsin. This route would utilize existing lines and would reduce environmental damage in Illinois. The plan to revamp and expand these existing lines, rather than build a new rail line from scratch has many advantages: 1. Significantly less environmental destruction. 2. Significant cost savings due to existing infrastructure and easements being in place. 3. Filed drainage, utility and pipelines have already be re-routed. 4. Little to no loss of Prime Farmland. 5. Existing rivers and waterways, including the Illinois River, have crossings already in place. 6. The STB can conduct a more accurate environmental review as these areas already have trains running through them. Drainage and other issues have already been addressed and problems area already know. For a new line this would all e conjecture. 7. The population in this area is less populated then the GLB proposal. 8. First responders and residents already have plans in place to cross these lines. 9. There will be no need for road closures. 10. There will be no need for thousands of private rail crossings to be built for farms along the route. Crossings that are hazardous. 11. Easements and right-of-way’s have already been established. 12. Rail crossing of roads are already in place. 13. Fewer major roadways are affected. 14. GLB only needs to upgrade these lines to handle a larger freight volume. 15. This is a true by-pass preventing trains from needing to travel into Chicagoland. The current GLB line is not a bypass all it does is move existing trains to a new location in the same area. A bypass takes trains away from an area.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24805Miranda and Richard SerleticSee attached comments regarding water resources with photos. Info about Porter County Stormwater Management also attached.VALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24804Dennis SchepplerThe Canadian National Railroad purchased the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern line for 300 million dollars. Warren Buffet purchased BNSF for 44 billion dollars. Given the size of BNSF, that comes to Warren Buffet paying approximately $1,260,000 per mile of track, including trains and cars. In Southern Illinois we have two small railways, the Toledo, Peoria, and Western Railway (TPW) and the Keokuk Junction Railway (KJR). The Keokuk Junction Railway (KJR) runs from Keokuk Iowa, across the Mississippi River to Peoria, Illinois. Their line is 126 miles long. Their line runs through very rural Southern Illinois. The largest town they go through is Macomb, population 19,265, and of course near Peoria, population 115,828. This line has connection agreements with BNSF, Union Pacific, Canadian National, Norfolk Southern and the Toledo, Peoria and Western Railway. Given the price paid for BNSF, this line would be valued at 158.8 million dollars. The Toledo, Peoria and Western Railway (TPW) runs from Peoria, Illinois to Logansport, Indiana, crossing the Illinois River. Their line is 247 miles long and also runs through very rural Southern Illinois. The largest town besides Peoria it travels through is Watseka, IL with a population of 5,100 people. This line has connection agreements with BNSF, Canadian National, CSX, Norfolk Southern, and the Keokuk Junction Railway. Given the price paid for BNSF, this line would be valued at 311.2 million dollars. Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company (GLB) claims they have 8 billion dollars to construct a rail bypass of Chicago. GLB plans to run their line through the populated far suburbs of Chicago. The GLB proposal fails to account for the fact the Chicagoland Region has expanded to include the entire Northern area of Illinois East of Route 39 and extends as far North as Rockford, IL. The areas they want to build in are rapidly growing as Chicagoland continues to expand. Placing a line in this area only temporarily moves the congestion to a new area of Chicagoland. Some examples of cities affected by the GLB line and their population are: Rockford, IL population of 149,123, Kankakee, IL population of 26,860, Rochelle Illinois population of 9,424, Sheridan, IL population 2411 (and an additional 2,000 residents of the Sheridan Correctional Facility) and Seneca, IL population 2,371. These are not insignificant populations and are substantially larger than those in rural Southern Illinois where the KJR and TPW lines operate. GLB needs to explore purchasing the KJR and TPW lines, these lines run in an almost straight line east to west across truly rural Southern Illinois, and not the far suburban Chicagoland areas. These lines also currently connect to and have usage agreements with 5 of the 6 class one railroads, which are the intended clients of GLB. GLB, based on the selling price of BNSF, could purchase these lines for under 500 million dollars. This leaves GLB 7.5 billion dollars to upgrade these lines to be the premier rail lines in the nation. It is important to note GLB estimates they need to purchase 21,500 acres of land at $20,000 per acre. The land acquisition costs would be 450 million dollars. For 50 million more they could purchase two existing in service rail lines with existing non- court challengeable easements in place. Fifty million dollars is a small additional price to pay, given the destruction the proposed GLB line would create on the environment. This line would upgrade existing tracks and expand rail capacity in areas that have already been harmed by having a rail line built on them. The KJR and TPW lines also have existing bridges over rivers and streams. No new bridge locations across the Illinois River, or any river, would be needed, GLB simply needs to improve the existing bridges. This applies to the rest of the water crossing along this route; the infrastructure is already in place. Field tile drainage lines, phone lines, electric lines and pipelines have already been re-routed along this line. The environmental impacts of GLB purchasing and expanding the KJR and TPW lines are meniscal compared to the environmental destruction of fields, forests, wetlands and waterways that a new rail line would cause. GLB needs to utilize and purchase existing rail lines to accomplish their only stated goal of providing a bypass for Chicago freight traffic. GLB is also lost on the concept of what a bypass is. A bypass takes an item, in this case trains, and prevents them from reaching another place, in this case Chicagoland. GLB is using Chicagoland Statistics to justify their proposal and is failing to acknowledge the huge size of the Chicago Megatropolis Area. Their plan also simply moves existing trains from one part of Chicagoland into another; there is no bypass of Chicagoland. The KJR and TPW lines can be a true bypass; they are uniquely positioned to allow all trains coming from Southern Illinois to be moved into Iowa or Indiana. Thus this route accomplishes the task of preventing trains from reaching Chicagoland, the function of a bypass. These lines are also near enough to Chicagoland; the trains coming from the north can also be funneled south to the Peoria area, using existing class one tracks, and then moved east and west using existing class one tracks. Peoria is only 167 miles from Chicago. This route would add only 4 hours onto a train’s travel time (assuming a 40 mph speed which is significantly lower then the proposed 70mph GLB route). GLB currently claims it takes 30 hours to get through Chicago. This is a saving of 26 hours for traffic from the north and it also accomplishes the goal of bypassing Chicagoland. The KJR and TPW lines can and should be made into a true Chicago rail bypass. The proposed GLB line does not bypass Chicagoland, it simply moves trains from one location to another. The next advantage of using the KJR and TPW lines is GLB can build their proposed 15,000 acre rail yard in truly unpopulated areas. This rail yard would also have the potential to actually be successful in this area, as it would be located away from the existing railyards in Chicago. The problem with the GLB plan is why would a railroad choose to use the new GLB yard when they can move just a few more miles north into Chicago and use their own yard? Located in Southern Illinois this yard could service an entirely new customer base and some existing railroads might be enticed to move operations to this area of the country. As it stands the GLB rail yard is too close to existing established yards. Railroads have no incentive to move operations there. Another advantage, that GLB claims to have with their railyard is better climate, GLB claims that their line would not be as affected by weather in Kankakee as the railyards are in Chicago. Kankakee is only 60 miles from Chicago; it has the same or worse weather than Chicago. Chicago has on average 28.5 snowy days per year and 37.1 inches of snow on average yearly. By contrast Peoria, 167 miles from Chicago, averages 19.9 snowy days and 24.6 inches of snow per year (CurrentResults.com). Based on these statistics, a railroad could consider Peoria to have a more attractive climate and as a result may wish to move operations to a new rail yard with a more preferred climate. Yet another rail yard advantage is that there are some non-prime farmland areas along the Mississippi River and along the KJR line that the proposed rail yard could be built on and not harm Prime Farmland. Finally, these lines have existing rail crossing in place and any roads that needed to be closed where closed years ago when these lines were first constructed. There would be little need for towns and counties to revise emergency response plans and routes. There would be little impact on current roadways as they were built or revised with the existing rail line in place. The new GLB line requires hundreds of new rail crossings, revisions to and the closings of many roads and a whole new population based to adjust their ways to accommodate the new line. These lines also have already established how farmers operate around them. GLB expects a whole new farm base to have private rail crossings and split fields. These lines have already solved these issues. The plan to revamp and expand the existing KJR and TPW lines, rather than build a new rail line from scratch has many advantages: 1. Significantly less environmental destruction. 2. Significant cost savings due to existing infrastructure and easements being in place. 3. Filed drainage, utility and pipelines have already be re-routed. 4. The climate is better. 5. Little to no loss of Prime Farmland. 6. A rail yard can be built on non-Prime Farmland. 7. Existing rivers and waterways, including the Illinois River, have crossings already in place. 8. The STB can conduct a more accurate environmental review as these areas already have trains running through them. Drainage and other issues have already been addressed and problems area already know. For a new line this would all e conjecture. . 9. The population in this area is less populated then the GLB proposal. 10. First responders and residents already have plans in place to cross these lines. 11. There will be no need for road closures. 12. There will be no need for thousands of private rail crossings to be built for farms along the route. Crossings that are hazardous. 13. These lines are already serviced by 5 of the 6 class one railroads operating in Illinois, these railroads do not need to alter anything to use these lines. Connections are already in place. 14. Easements and right-of-ways have already been established. 15. Rail crossing of roads are already in place. 16. Fewer major roadways are affected. 17. GLB only needs to upgrade these lines to handle a larger freight volume. 18. Being more centrally located in Illinois this line may attract new customers. 19. There is room for expansion as the area is much more rural, with significantly few towns being affected. 20. This is a true by-pass preventing trains from needing to travel into Chicagoland. The current GLB line is not a bypass all it does is move existing trains to a new location in the same area. A bypass takes trains away from an area. Please deny the current GLB proposal, as there are hundreds of existing tracks that they could purchase and upgrade to accomplish their only stated goal of providing a bypass for Chicago freight traffic. A map of Illinois railroads can be found at http://www.idot.illinois.gov/assets/uploads/files/transportation-system/maps-&-c harts/railroad-maps/il%20railroad%20map%202012.pdf Sincerely, Dennis Scheppler 212 North Owen Mount Propsect, IL 60056Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24803Dennis Schepplerpart 3 of 3 The plan to revamp and expand the existing KJR and TPW lines, rather than build a new rail line from scratch has many advantages: 1. Significantly less environmental destruction. 2. Significant cost savings due to existing infrastructure and easements being in place. 3. Filed drainage, utility and pipelines have already be re-routed. 4. The climate is better. 5. Little to no loss of Prime Farmland. 6. A rail yard can be built on non-Prime Farmland. 7. Existing rivers and waterways, including the Illinois River, have crossings already in place. 8. The STB can conduct a more accurate environmental review as these areas already have trains running through them. Drainage and other issues have already been addressed and problems area already know. For a new line this would all e conjecture. . 9. The population in this area is less populated then the GLB proposal. 10. First responders and residents already have plans in place to cross these lines. 11. There will be no need for road closures. 12. There will be no need for thousands of private rail crossings to be built for farms along the route. Crossings that are hazardous. 13. These lines are already serviced by 5 of the 6 class one railroads operating in Illinois, these railroads do not need to alter anything to use these lines. Connections are already in place. 14. Easements and right-of-ways have already been established. 15. Rail crossing of roads are already in place. 16. Fewer major roadways are affected. 17. GLB only needs to upgrade these lines to handle a larger freight volume. 18. Being more centrally located in Illinois this line may attract new customers. 19. There is room for expansion as the area is much more rural, with significantly few towns being affected. 20. This is a true by-pass preventing trains from needing to travel into Chicagoland. The current GLB line is not a bypass all it does is move existing trains to a new location in the same area. A bypass takes trains away from an area. Please deny the current GLB proposal, as there are hundreds of existing tracks that they could purchase and upgrade to accomplish their only stated goal of providing a bypass for Chicago freight traffic. A map of Illinois railroads can be found at http://www.idot.illinois.gov/assets/uploads/files/transportation-system/maps-&-c harts/railroad-maps/il%20railroad%20map%202012.pdf Sincerely, Dennis Scheppler 212 North Owen Mount Prospect, IL 60056Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24802Dennis SchepplerPart 2of 3 GLB is also lost on the concept of what a bypass is. A bypass takes an item, in this case trains, and prevents them from reaching another place, in this case Chicagoland. GLB is using Chicagoland Statistics to justify their proposal and is failing to acknowledge the huge size of the Chicago Megatropolis Area. Their plan also simply moves existing trains from one part of Chicagoland into another; there is no bypass of Chicagoland. The KJR and TPW lines can be a true bypass; they are uniquely positioned to allow all trains coming from Southern Illinois to be moved into Iowa or Indiana. Thus this route accomplishes the task of preventing trains from reaching Chicagoland, the function of a bypass. These lines are also near enough to Chicagoland; the trains coming from the north can also be funneled south to the Peoria area, using existing class one tracks, and then moved east and west using existing class one tracks. Peoria is only 167 miles from Chicago. This route would add only 4 hours onto a train’s travel time (assuming a 40 mph speed which is significantly lower then the proposed 70mph GLB route). GLB currently claims it takes 30 hours to get through Chicago. This is a saving of 26 hours for traffic from the north and it also accomplishes the goal of bypassing Chicagoland. The KJR and TPW lines can and should be made into a true Chicago rail bypass. The proposed GLB line does not bypass Chicagoland, it simply moves trains from one location to another. The next advantage of using the KJR and TPW lines is GLB can build their proposed 15,000 acre rail yard in truly unpopulated areas. This rail yard would also have the potential to actually be successful in this area, as it would be located away from the existing railyards in Chicago. The problem with the GLB plan is why would a railroad choose to use the new GLB yard when they can move just a few more miles north into Chicago and use their own yard? Located in Southern Illinois this yard could service an entirely new customer base and some existing railroads might be enticed to move operations to this area of the country. As it stands the GLB rail yard is too close to existing established yards. Railroads have no incentive to move operations there. Another advantage, that GLB claims to have with their railyard is better climate, GLB claims that their line would not be as affected by weather in Kankakee as the railyards are in Chicago. Kankakee is only 60 miles from Chicago; it has the same or worse weather than Chicago. Chicago has on average 28.5 snowy days per year and 37.1 inches of snow on average yearly. By contrast Peoria, 167 miles from Chicago, averages 19.9 snowy days and 24.6 inches of snow per year (CurrentResults.com). Based on these statistics, a railroad could consider Peoria to have a more attractive climate and as a result may wish to move operations to a new rail yard with a more preferred climate. Yet another rail yard advantage is that there are some non-prime farmland areas along the Mississippi River and along the KJR line that the proposed rail yard could be built on and not harm Prime Farmland. Finally, these lines have existing rail crossing in place and any roads that needed to be closed where closed years ago when these lines were first constructed. There would be little need for towns and counties to revise emergency response plans and routes. There would be little impact on current roadways as they were built or revised with the existing rail line in place. The new GLB line requires hundreds of new rail crossings, revisions to and the closings of many roads and a whole new population based to adjust their ways to accommodate the new line. These lines also have already established how farmers operate around them. GLB expects a whole new farm base to have private rail crossings and split fields. These lines have already solved these issues.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24801Dennis SchepplerPart 1 of 3. The Canadian National Railroad purchased the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern line for 300 million dollars. Warren Buffet purchased BNSF for 44 billion dollars. Given the size of BNSF, that comes to Warren Buffet paying approximately $1,260,000 per mile of track, including trains and cars. In Southern Illinois we have two small railways, the Toledo, Peoria, and Western Railway (TPW) and the Keokuk Junction Railway (KJR). The Keokuk Junction Railway (KJR) runs from Keokuk Iowa, across the Mississippi River to Peoria, Illinois. Their line is 126 miles long. Their line runs through very rural Southern Illinois. The largest town they go through is Macomb, population 19,265, and of course near Peoria, population 115,828. This line has connection agreements with BNSF, Union Pacific, Canadian National, Norfolk Southern and the Toledo, Peoria and Western Railway. Given the price paid for BNSF, this line would be valued at 158.8 million dollars. The Toledo, Peoria and Western Railway (TPW) runs from Peoria, Illinois to Logansport, Indiana, crossing the Illinois River. Their line is 247 miles long and also runs through very rural Southern Illinois. The largest town besides Peoria it travels through is Watseka, IL with a population of 5,100 people. This line has connection agreements with BNSF, Canadian National, CSX, Norfolk Southern, and the Keokuk Junction Railway. Given the price paid for BNSF, this line would be valued at 311.2 million dollars. Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company (GLB) claims they have 8 billion dollars to construct a rail bypass of Chicago. GLB plans to run their line through the populated far suburbs of Chicago. The GLB proposal fails to account for the fact the Chicagoland Region has expanded to include the entire Northern area of Illinois East of Route 39 and extends as far North as Rockford, IL. The areas they want to build in are rapidly growing as Chicagoland continues to expand. Placing a line in this area only temporarily moves the congestion to a new area of Chicagoland. Some examples of cities affected by the GLB line and their population are: Rockford, IL population of 149,123, Kankakee, IL population of 26,860, Rochelle Illinois population of 9,424, Sheridan, IL population 2411 (and an additional 2,000 residents of the Sheridan Correctional Facility) and Seneca, IL population 2,371. These are not insignificant populations and are substantially larger than those in rural Southern Illinois where the KJR and TPW lines operate. GLB needs to explore purchasing the KJR and TPW lines, these lines run in an almost straight line east to west across truly rural Southern Illinois, and not the far suburban Chicagoland areas. These lines also currently connect to and have usage agreements with 5 of the 6 class one railroads, which are the intended clients of GLB. GLB, based on the selling price of BNSF, could purchase these lines for under 500 million dollars. This leaves GLB 7.5 billion dollars to upgrade these lines to be the premier rail lines in the nation. It is important to note GLB estimates they need to purchase 21,500 acres of land at $20,000 per acre. The land acquisition costs would be 450 million dollars. For 50 million more they could purchase two existing in service rail lines with existing non- court challengeable easements in place. Fifty million dollars is a small additional price to pay, given the destruction the proposed GLB line would create on the environment. This line would upgrade existing tracks and expand rail capacity in areas that have already been harmed by having a rail line built on them. The KJR and TPW lines also have existing bridges over rivers and streams. No new bridge locations across the Illinois River, or any river, would be needed, GLB simply needs to improve the existing bridges. This applies to the rest of the water crossing along this route; the infrastructure is already in place. Field tile drainage lines, phone lines, electric lines and pipelines have already been re-routed along this line. The environmental impacts of GLB purchasing and expanding the KJR and TPW lines are meniscal compared to the environmental destruction of fields, forests, wetlands and waterways that a new rail line would cause. GLB needs to utilize and purchase existing rail lines to accomplish their only stated goal of providing a bypass for Chicago freight traffic.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24799jason kokosEnvironmental concerns: 15,000 acre railyards. That's it. That says it all. I don't even have to list the damn reasons. The adjective in this case (15,000) and the noun (railyard) are environmentally concerning simply by the description. Asking for environmental concerns while proposing a 15,000 acre railyard at the cost of valuable farmland is a pretty redundant question, wouldn't you agree? Please choose the no action alternative. Thank YouGrant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24798April GerstungRe: Docket No. FD 35952 - Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky, My friends, who own and farm prime Illinois land with an historic home lovingly and accurately restored to its era, are faced with the possibility of having their dream and their planned legacy destroyed when the train runs through the middle of their property. On of their children, who has grown up in that home had a lung condition where he cannot be exposed to certain environmental particulates. His planned legacy will also be destroyed when the train runs through the middle of that property. Field drainage and tiles that have taken years of establishing will be eradicated. Soil will be compromised and never be the prime farm ground that nature provided. Environmental particulates will become present. Noise and vibrations will disturb their livestock, their home, and their lives. They are good, honest, hard working people. They are committed to doing everything right. They tell me that their home is not for sale. There is no need or want to do so. The neighbors to the south of them are a young couple with two small children who purchased their home to fulfill another piece of the puzzle called the American Dream. The house that has been created into a home is their planned legacy, which will be destroyed when the train invades the back of their property. The mom put her career on hold to raise their children as contributing members of society. Every possible building block to accomplish this is apparent in how these children are being raised by the couple. The husband also works for the State of Illinois helping our precious wildlife, the environment and properties owned by the state that provide rural recreation on land and water which also attracts tourist from around the world. Noise and vibrations will disturb their home, their lives and their dreams. Drainage will be altered causing problems that do not need to begin to exist. Environmental properties will become present that no one, especially children should be exposed to. They are also good honest, hard working people. They are also committed to doing everything right. Their home is not for sale. There is no need or want to do so. My friend who lives in Sumner Township heralded from Chicago Heights, Illinois. When the children came into their world her husband was insistent that they move somewhere where they could grow, as individuals and as a family. They bought a rambling farmhouse surrounded by lush farm fields and began establishing their dream and their legacy. Good, honest, hard working people. Committed to doing everything right. When the boys were very young, Julie's husband was diagnosed with colon cancer and died. I would strongly suspect that you would probably prefer not to see this woman's face when she would tell you that the remaining family of three made memories together and created, in honor of this man, the legacy that he had wanted for his family, and that they wanted for each other. Sumner Township. The proposed site for a 15,000-acre rail yard. No citizen of this county has had the courtesy of knowing for what or the whys. Every negative word or word can be placed here for an Environmental Impact Statement. I can't do it anymore but I can tell you this: This home is not for sale. There is no need or want to do so. These are just three stories of thousand... Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. is not needed or wanted. Regard, April GerstungMorris, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24797Amanda ZippelI farm in Wilders, Wanatah, Wheatfield, and DeMotte, IN. The new planned route not only directly has an effect on my farm ground but my livelihood. Among others I recently bought my dream property and built a house in Wheatfield. This proposed route would cause a lot of extra traffic that would make going anywhere very difficult as well as take up valuable time, be very loud at my property that specifically bought for peace and quite. My property values would decreased due to all the extra noise and traffic. Not only would getting around in a vehicle be hard enough, my farm is on the north side of the tracks in Wheatfield, thus I have to move equipment over the tracks no matter what route I take. People are impatient enough let alone having to wait longer for farm equipment as I wait for trains. This would make moving equipment much more dangerous for me. I also fear for anyone that may need emergency services that would have to wait longer. Those few minutes could be life or death. I know there is no perfect route, however I do feel there are better options that wouldn't affect farms and farmers quite as much. I see no benefits for any of these small towns affected.Wheatfield, IN
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24796Donna HallPlease oppose the GLB Railroad project. If a train were to derail It would be impossible for rural communities volunteer fire departments to control the massive wildfire that would rip through corn fields and grasslands. This would be on top of the environmental damage the derailed oil spill would create.Monroe Center, Il
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24795Justin ZippelI farm in Wilders, Wanatah, Wheatfield, and DeMotte, IN. The new planned route not only directly has an effect on my farm ground but my livelihood. Among others I recently bought my dream property and built a house in Wheatfield. This proposed route would cause a lot of extra traffic that would make going anywhere very difficult as well as take up valuable time, be very loud at my property that specifically bought for peace and quite. My property values would decreased due to all the extra noise and traffic. Not only would getting around in a vehicle be hard enough, my farm is on the north side of the tracks in Wheatfield, thus I have to move equipment over the tracks no matter what route I take. People are impatient enough let alone having to wait longer for farm equipment as I wait for trains. This would make moving equipment much more dangerous for me. I also fear for anyone that may need emergency services that would have to wait longer. Those few minutes could be life or death. I know there is no perfect route, however I do feel there are better options that wouldn't affect farms and farmers quite as much. I see no benefits for any of these small towns affected.Wheatfield, IN
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24792Doreen E. Savage Farms Inc.We own land located in one of the potential rail lines. We have wetlands on that property. The United States feeds the world and we can't keep losing farmland. Our farm land has very good types of soil. The rail lines will be very close to our grain bins and dryer. It will be very costly to replace them. When roads are closed we will be a greater distance from the Mendota Hospital. We will be a longer distance from the Earlville Fire Department. Our land will be divided by the rail lines resulting in impossible farming problems. We built a 2600 square foot home which will be affected by the rail lines noise and fumes. There will be an environmental impact on the air and water.Doreen E. Savage · Geneva, Illinois
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24788Stephen HillI have great concern over the currently proposed route of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad through Kankakee County, IL. Expansion of infrastructure can be useful and positive for an area's economic development, but the proposed route will have devastating effects on the area state park, a youth summer camp, Rock Creek and environmental areas unique for this county. There are other potential routes that would not cause such devastating effects on the well-being and quality of life for area residents and visitors as well fragile fauna and natural environments. I do not believe the currently proposed route reflects any serious consideration to any of these factors.Bourbonnais, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24787Robert C. HughesThis document is in reference to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Transportation Project. FD 35952. Robert and Genevieve Hughes own the property at 6250 Mulford Rd, Rochelle, IL 61068. IF you have any questions please contact them at 815-338-5230. Thank you.Woodstock, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24785Matthew BarwegenI am very concerned about the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I am 16 and have just became a counselor at Camp Shaw-waw-naw-see, which the railroad is proposed to run nearby. One of the main reasons I have enjoyed being at camp for the last 5 years is that it lets me get away from normal, hectic life. I've had the wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty of Camp Shaw, and the peaceful, picturesque mood it has created. The Great Lakes Basin railroad would undermine the decades old feeling of calmness present at Camp Shaw. The noise pollution cause by the railroad every 20 minutes, as predicted, would destroy the sense of disconnect from the rest of the world. At Camp Shaw, there are children who are as young as 7 spending up to 6 days there. For most, it's the longest they have ever been away form home. Many younger campers are homesick and it can be difficult for them to go to sleep. The noise pollution caused by the railroad would make matters worse and would keep younger campers up. Another reason the Great Lakes Basin railroad would be negative to my area would be its route over rock creek. This creek runs through the heart of Camp Shaw, and I pass over it nearly every day during the summer. It is beautiful and untouched, but the proposed railroad could change that. Several times a week, we usually bring campers who desire into the creek to play and beat the heat. We have to be careful though and avoid any whitewater rapids, and if it has rained recently, we cannot bring campers in because the water is too high and fast. The Great Lakes Basin railroad could make Rock Creek permanently too fast to go in. Any sort of changing to the landscape around the creek could have detrimental effects to the entire ecosystem and history of Rock Creek and Camp Shaw. Any change in the flow of the creek could destroy popular spots in the creeks such as several waterfalls and the many caves lining the creek which were once used by the Native Americans. I feel that the need for this railroad cannot be compared to the lifestyle and beauty it would destroy, not just at Camp Shaw-waw-naw-see, but to the entire extent of its proposed path. I just want to make sure my home away from home here at Camp Shaw won't be effected and destroy its 70 years of history.Herscher, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24784Mike E BrattMy letter and comments in opposition to the GLBT railroad project. Thank you for taking time to read it and if any questions or discussion points, please call me. I would appreciate it if you'd let me know you received my input. Email would be good. Have a good day.Stillman Valley, Illinois
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24783Paul T. KwiatkowskiMy house is located across the road from the proposed rail yard. The house is on the Historical Record as the Christian Krohn house circa 1880. I am concerned that vibrations from the train/increased traffic and construction will cause damage to the house. Is there anything that can be done to continue to preserve this property and protect it from damage? It is the only property on the record here in Will Township.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24782Laurie AndersonI am a local real estate agent, and first of all the negative impact this will have on our property values is a huge concern. I have shown many many homes over the years that are on, or by railroad tracks and have NEVER had a client move forward with that property. We moved out to the country to get away from all of that so it's not fair that now it wants to follow us. The negative impact it will potentially have on our drinking water is a huge concern if there was ever a spill since we are on wells out here. The noise, and inconvenience of having a train come into our town isn't what anybody who moves to the country wants to hear or have to wait for. Please don't move forward with this project. We don't want it in our town!Hebron, IN
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24780Alexa GutzwilerThe train line should not run by Sheridan Illinois because it will cause a lot of damage to the area. The area you want to run the line through is fields of corn and soy beans. It will impact the farmer and also their lives. If something were to happen and the train derails it would destroy the land and make it harder or incapable for the crops to grow, or the crops would grow but be dangerous for people and animals to eat. Also many of people could be injured because of these high speed trains.SHERIDAN, Illinois
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24779julie kokosDear Mr.. Navecky and Surface Transportation Board, I must say I am in awe! The thousands upon thousands of letters submitted to you from concerned citizens, landowners, citizen groups, farmers, businesses, senators, congressmen, local, county and state governments, school districts, churches, fire departments, farm bureaus, DNRs, Soil & Water Conservation Districts, US Fish & Wildlife, etc, etc, etc.........can you tell me, which letters are in favor of this unsound business plan?? NONE! Simple common sense is showing you this is a bad idea! Whom, may I ask, at the United States office of the Surface Transportation Board knows right from wrong?? The total disrespect and dishonesty Frank Patton and the GLB have shown thus far shows that they are not to be trusted and do not know what they are talking about. It is blatantly clear! Please reject any current or future application from them and cease all further studies immediately. Let the good people of these three states, that are being threatened to have their land ripped from them, get back to their normal lives! We should not have to fight to live on our own land and keep our normal way of life that we work for! Please take the NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE!!! Thank you, Julie Kokosgrant park, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24778Wisconsin State SenateJuly 13, 2016 Surface Transportation Board Attn: Victoria Rutson Director, Office of Environmental Analysis Docket No. FD 35952 Dear Board, Recently, Great Lakes Basin Transportation announced that it was interested in building a rail line from east of Milton, Wisconsin to La Porte, Indiana. As the State Senator who represents Milton and portions of Rock County adjacent to the proposed route identified by Great Lakes Basin Transportation I object to the route proposed by the Great Lakes Basin Transportation. The route would require new track to be laid and it would run through some of the best farmland in our state. It is estimated that with the railroads 200 foot easement 575 acres of farmland would be lost. According to University of Wisconsin Extension agriculture agent Nick Baker the minimum financial loss per acre would be $769.50. He calculated that figure based on the typical rotation of corn and soybeans, and he stressed that his figures represented minimum amounts and that could be much higher using Farm Service Agency yield averages for Rock County. Agent Baker also indicated that it wouldn't just be farmers losing money. He estimated that the loss to the agriculture service industry would be $170,000 when you add in the losses associated with providing seed, fertilizer, herbicide, agronomy services, fuel, and equipment. Additionally, the proposed route will fragment large blocks of woodlands and negatively impact wetlands. The proposed rail line will have a significant and permanent impact on the environment, people living near the route, and the local governments whose boundaries the train will run through. Just this week I received a petition signed by over 850 Rock County residents opposing the project. I urge you to strongly consider the input you have received from Rock County residents, the county board and town governments when examining this proposal. Sincerely, Janis Ringhand Wisconsin State Senator 15th Senate DistrictSenator Janis Ringhand · Evansville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24774Hilary BanksHello, This new proposed railroad line will go literally through my backyard. I am against this proposal completely. My husband and I work hard so we can maintain our home and our property. We both are very proud of what we have accomplished in our lives. If this railroad line proposal passes it will impact the way we live. How will my children be able to raise their 4H animals? How will my children be able to run and play freely in our backyard. My home and property will be worth nothing because there is a railroad in the backyard. The constant rumble of a train going through will be disturbing in the day and unbearable at night. This railroad line will tear through the town that I have called home for the last 36 years. To the people who are behind this proposal think about what it would mean to you if your home, that you love, that you have worked hard to have, is on the chopping block because of a railroad. How would you feel? Would you feel sad or angry? How would you feel if your children's lives had to change because of this. I know the people who are behind this proposal probably do not and will not care for the people that it will impact, but put yourself in our shoes. Think about how you would feel if this was happening to you.Wanatah, Indiana
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentPlease find attached Walworth County Resolution No. 20-07/16 Urging the Surface Transportation Board to Conduct a Thorough Environmental Impact Statement for the Proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad - passed by the Walworth County Board of Supervisors on July 12, 2016Kimberly S. Bushey · Elkhorn, Wisconsin
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(printed as 7/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24767Tammy BushPlease reconsider the current location of the proposed GLB rail project. There are very few places a kid can enjoy the great outdoors and this project will greatly impact Camp Shawwasnasee. My son is a camper, who has a life threatening condition, that could be impacted by the railway cutting off EMS services and quick access to emergency centers. Camp Shaw needs to be preserved, as is, to ensure quality and emergency access. Please move this project somewhere else. Thank you for your time.Peotone, IL - Illinois
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24766Mary StufflebeamI am opposed to the railroad because it will cause a loss of precious farmland, split family farms, and cause a hazard to our community particularly in the event of derailment My house is approximately a mile from the first proposed site. .paw paw, il
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24765Mary StufflebeamI am opposed to the railroad because it will cause a loss of precious farmland, split family farms, and cause a hazard to our community particularly in the event of derailment My house is approximately a mile from the first proposed site. .paw paw, il
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentAttached, please find Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources comments related to the Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Draft Scope of Study for preparation of an Environmental Impact StatementLaura Bub · Fitchburg, WI
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24762Mary HirstI am concerned about our farm as well as how this will effect the livestock and other animals in this area. It is proven that stress drastically reduces production from the animals. The noise, pollution and vibrations will be major stressors. This will drop production and income will be lost. The apiaries in this area will also be disrupted which will impact crops as well. There are also nesting eagles in this community that should be protected.Capron, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentBrooke Baker · Morris, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24757Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-SeeI have been to Camp Shaw several times in the past year and I love how peaceful it is. It's far away from traffic and the town so there is never noise other than the sounds of Camp. It is a great place to get away from the outside world and be with nature. A train near Camp would be devastating because every time I go there I'll be focused on the noise of the train and be distracted and it will no longer be as serene as it has been.Breanna Gifford · Manteno, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentSubmitting on behalf of the Lake County Drainage Board and Advisory CommitteeBill Emerson, Jr. · Crown Point, Indiana
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24755Alexandra WalshDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing to you about the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad project. The proposed railroad would run immediately adjacent to Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See, a 4H camp in Manteno, Illinois. Camp Shaw is a place that holds a special place in the heart of thousands of campers and staff, myself included. The GLB railroad would increase noise pollution at camp and in the surrounding area, impacting camp, campers, and programming. Camp Shaw is a place where children go to escape noise and pollution. It's a place for peace, for relaxation, for retreat, and--most importantly--for fun. Putting in a railroad immediately adjacent to camp property would negatively impact this experience. A hike through the woods is not improved by a train thundering by. Camp Shaw is a special and important place to those of us who have attended and to those who will attend in the future. I want my daughter to be able to experience Camp Shaw as I experienced it, without hearing trains go by at all hours of the day and night. I want her to sing campfire songs without being interrupted by noise pollution. Camp Shaw is truly a treasure. Please do not imperil the future of Camp Shaw and impair the enjoyment of future campers by going forward with the GLB railroad project as planned. Please protect Camp Shaw and all those who need a safe, quiet, and fun retreat from the noise and pollution of the city. Best, Alexandra WalshMorton, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24754Marcia Paldocket number FD-35952 Why Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See is a natural treasure is because Rock Creek flows through Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See in a deep canyon with a series of natural caves originally used by the Native Americans that once inhabited our land. It is one of the most scenic waterways and geologically unique properties in northern Illinois. The GLB project has real potential to adversely impact the creek, the entire watershed and the camp environment. We need to do everything in our power to protect this irreplaceable natural resource for the enjoyment of future generations. We travel about 2 hours one direction just so our boys can attend this camp. Mostly because of the area and what nature activities the camp offers, we can’t allow the natural area and nature to be destroyed. Please do no continue with this project. Sincerely, Marcia Pal and familyCaledonia, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24749Beverly LarsonI am against the new rr to be put in near camp Shaw wau nau see because of the negative impact it willhave on the camp and the environmentHinckley, il
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24748John BryantAttached please find a study of the GLBR proposed rail route and its effects on land use, populations, and businesses. It was done by Purdue University.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 7/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24745Lana RippentropPlease read and study all of the information and the impact of the whole prospective of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad before making a decision. Block this railroad. Thank You.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24744Rita DreesenI am totally opposed to the railroad yard being considered in this area. Too much precious farmland will be lost, too many families will lose their homes and livelihoods, and our quiet lives will be shattered! Please stop this now!Beecher, Il.
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24743Kent Danielson[No text or attachment received, please resubmit your comment]Marseilles, Il
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24740Diane SherrellAttached please find a four page list of my comments regarding the environmental issues which would be created by the construction and operation of the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. This project should not ever be permitted to enter and destroy the irreplaceable, precious resources of Kankakee County in Illinois.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24739Russel JorstadThis railroad project would have a major negative impact to my farming operation and livelihood. I am concerned about farm drainage and water control. My fields have been tiled and running a railroad over the tile will destroy it. What was once one drainage systems will become two, the high cost of returning my fields to the state they were at before the railroad will be forced on me alone. I have a large cattle pasture that runs along a creek; the railroad would cut this in half. The pasture connects two building sites for the cattle and allows for over 100 head of cattle. If the site were to be cut in half the additional cost of moving cattle from one farm to the other will be forced on me. The two halves would not be able to support the same number of cattle as the large pasture, the loss of profitability would be for me to bare alone. The railroad would run across our driveway to a farm building site and my grandson’s house. How will we be able to access this location? Will the railroad build us a personal overpass for our driveway? Will they have us cross the tracks at grade at our own peril? Will they remove our access to the location and force us to cross the creek like they did back in the 1890’s. We have made several investments to the grain storage buildings that are at this location and we see over 200 loaded semi trucks to the location per year. We need a road to this location that can handle the 80,000lbs trucks and heavier farm equipment without question; like we have now, before the railroad would destroy it. I have 1.5 miles of land that is being dissected by this proposed railroad. This would cause additional expenses to my farming operation by forcing me to move my equipment over the road to farm what I am able to farm as one field currently. This is an additional fuel and time cost that I will have to pay out of pocket without reimbursement every year and my son, grandson, and future descendants will have to continue paying forever. A field that this railroad would bisect is rotationally used for seed corn production. This is a very delicate process and it is difficult to find land that is suitable for seed corn production. Seed corn can be more profitable than regular corn production and this is our only location for producing seed corn. If the railroad runs through that field the seed company may not allow us to grow seed corn for them and this would be a loss of income for us. I am concerned about weed control along the right of way for the railroad. We have been incredibly diligent about eradicating troublesome weeds in our fields such as burr cucumber. If the railroad were to be irresponsible with their weed control we could see a resurgence of this devastating weed and as neighboring landowners we would only be able to manage the weeds on our property without being able to solve the issue on the absentee railroad. This would cause additional cost to our farming operation every year without compensation. The railroad will decrease the value of my land. There is no question of this. The land will only be used as farmland for the next 100 years at least. No farmer would spend good money for a bisected field and wouldn’t care the least bit if it had rail access or not. While I have no intention of selling my land this decrease in land value hurts my business’s growth potential and debt/asset ratio which any modern business owner has to be aware of. The land could be used as collateral to borrow against for business expansion purposes and this railroad would greatly reduce my ability to do that. This railroad would run next to my home which is on my family’s centennial farm. My grandfather lived here and this farm has been certified as being in the family for 144 years. By the time this study is completed it could be 150 years in my family. The department of agriculture certified our farm in it’s effort to show that the state needs and recognizes all that agriculture does for it. To allow a centennial farm to mean nothing is to turn our backs on our history and our future. In summation the proposed railroad project will create additional expense for my farming operation every year forever. This cost will be paid by only me and I will receive no compensation for this nor will my descendants as they farm this land after me. My farming operation will never be as good as it is without a railroad running through it. The railroad would limit my ability to earn a livelihood not just in the year it would be built but for the rest of my life.Morris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24738Ken DaggettIt is coming to the end of the comment period and I am asking you to deny Mr. Patton a permit to build a railroad, and I cannot express to you how very important denying this project is to tens of thousands of families along the proposed route. People have wrapped all of their time, money and hopes into their lands and homes, we will not stand by and let ONE man come along and let him take this away from us, and will do all we can to stop him!!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24637David K Wollgast[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24636David K Wollgast[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/13/2016)CommentEI-24635Mary Auchstetter[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentStacey Myers
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-25008USEPA, Region 5Kenneth Westlake
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24911Dawn Zur
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24910Arthur LeDoux
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24909Jim and Judy Duffy
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24908Jason Dove
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24734Matthew FleishmanI am resubmitting by e- filing through my parents email as I sent this letter by mail to the STB on June 3,2016 and it was never posted. June 3, 2016 Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Matthew Fleishman 2390 S. Verona Road Verona Road, Il 60479 8152872280 Jmmkyle@csky.netVerona, Illinois
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24733James Andrew FleishmanNote from Submitter: Resubmitting by e-filling through my parent email as I sent by mail on June 3r,2016 and you have never posted it. Resubmitting by e-filing through my parents email as I mailed this letter June 3, 2016 and my letter was never posted. June 3, 2016 ATTN: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. James Andrew Fleishman 2390 S. Verona Road Verona, Il 60479 815-287-2280 jmmkyle@csky.netVerona, Illinois
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24730Susan VorgiasI am a current resident of Lowell Indiana. I recently moved here from a metro area. I came here to live in the peace and quiet, to give my family a piece of land they could live off of and preserve what I can for generations to come. I am opposed to the proposed rail line. We as a society have come to realize we have abused our planet to an almost point of no return. We have been recycing and trying to conserve energy for years. It is a different life style from the throw away" and Industral Age. Recycle, reuse, reclaim, conserve are no longer buzz words, but a way of life. Just about every show I see on TV is in full support of reclaiming and reusing materials used by our forefathers, Amerian Pickers, Barnyards Builders, DIY network shows. Yard Crashers have used goats to clear a yard of folliage, and so does Chicago, so as not to use gas powered machinery and heavy equipment. Gardens are being placed on TOP of buidlings and in empty city lots across the country. Using farming to rehabilitate neighborhoods as well as humans. Farmers Markets are more popular than ever, are in great demand and are supporting families. GMO's are no longer accepable. Old tires are shredded into rubber mulch for playgrounds. The tops of rubber fishing boots are used to make windshield wipers. We are finding new ways to use throw aways instead of putting it in landfills. We are smarter today. The Goverment has placed very strict rules and requlations on all industries to not only to reduce energy conspumtion but to reduce the air, water, land and noise pollution they create during the manufactring process, and to reduce the end comsumers energy comsumption. Things you and I use every day, recycled items such as garbage bags, energy efficient light bulbs, appliances, tools are designed to reduce everyone's energy consumption. Cars are required to use less gas, less toxic emissions, more elctric cars. The EPA requiring the redesigning of gas cans to reduce the potential of the avaerge Joe spilling ounces of gasoline. We are erecting windmills and installing solar panels at an alarming rate to further reduce energy compumtion and depenency on fossil fuels. Each person on this planet is making a contribution to reduce the depency whether they realize it or not. The negative environmental impact of this project is in direct contradiction of what our society is doing. Taking down one tree has a direct negative impact from the insects and animals that depend on it for survival to the air it puifies to the roots that naturally irragte the soil and the shade it provides. This one simple tree's eco system is destroyed. Where do they go now? The Bald and Golden Eagle, the Indiana and Long Eared Bats? The robins and cardinals, wrens, owls...the list goes on. They all perform part of the cycle of life.....for us to survive from and enjoy. The plants such as Eastern Prairie Fringed Orchid? Leafy Prairie Clover that is endangered? I need not go on, do I? The creasote from the ties will contanimate the land and will leach into the water, the air pollution will contaminate the plants the wild and farm animals and insects feed from and the air WE breathe. The noise will be above the industry standard of 85dB and subsequent vibration will dissrupt not only humans but the wild and farm aminals and plants. The natural flow of air currents and water flow will be dramatically affected as well. As rain falls and ice and snow melts, it will no longer have a natural flow into the ground where flora and fauna need it to be. It may either cause a draught, flooding or pooling of stagnent water, causing major damage to wildlife, plants and farming. Our land cannot be duplicated or replaced by humans. This project will sever farm parcels, landlock them to a point it is not longer feasible to farm or use. It will cause not only farmers, emergency personel, school buses, mail delivery, trucking supply/distrabution,and citizens to re-route resulting in more time, fuel expense but a greater use of the energy we are trying to conserve. The human time and efforts into the re-routing process is astonomical. Again, in direct contradiction to where our entire society is headed. Areas set for ecology research will be destroyed, years of valuable past and future information gone forever. Parks and personal recreation, gone. Family memories that could have been made at the parks, farms and homes will never be. Gone. Forever. Monies spent for jobs maintaining these parks, farms and investments made for homes and research, gone. Future farm revenues, gone. Land values decreased, resulting in taxes down for some, burdening others. The air, water, land and noise pollution, damage, this rail line will create speaks for itself, and is NOT where this country knows we need to be. The opposite direction WE ARE GOING. What will you be telling the country, the American Citizen along the MILES of this project, if you approve this? That all the knowledge, education, experience of the past,current, and future efforts are for not? That the parks, farms, generations of farmers, wildlife and our lives don't count? That our lives in an emergcy don't count? That our livihood doesn't count? The pollution isn't there? This project won't contaminate our environment? The windmills, solar panels, govenrment requlations protecting our environment doen't count in Northest Indiana? Illinois? Wisconsin? The air, water, land and noise pollution, damage, this rail line will create speaks fr itself. and is NOT where this country is headed. We have learned we need to live WITH the planet not adjust the planet to suit out wants. I am asking you to consider my opinion and oppose the project. Period."Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24728Michael FleishmanNote from submitter: resubmitting through e-filling through my parents email as I sent this letter on June 3rd ,2016 and it was never posted. Resubmitting through my parents email as I sent this letter by mail to you on June 3rd, 2016 and it was never posted. June 3, 2016 ATTN: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Michael Fleishman 2390 S. Verona Road Verona, IL 60479 Jmmkyle@csky.netVerona, Illinois
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24727Susan VorgiasI am opposed to the GLBT proposed rail line at this time. I do not feel this proposal was publicly communicated well at all. I have met so many people that are unaware of this proposal and therefore know no true facts. I have been attempting to stay on top of events however, it seems there are many versions and are contradicting. When is someone going to stand up and explain the real story? Why did the STB waive the 6 month mandatory notification period when you claim to have had it since September 24th, 2015? When and where were any pubic notices made if any? I live close to where the rail line would be and I have received NOTHING. I just purchased this home in January of this year, and if I would have been made aware of this proposal, I may have reconsidered this home, in this area and or for this price. It is my understanding the real estate buyers are already avoiding what properties and areas that MAY be effected by this rail line, even with the influx from Illinois. This is just a proposal and is already having a negative effect here in Lowell, Lake and Porter Counties as well. Your approval process is also flawed. Frank Patton did NOT have to certify that anything he said was true to the board. He has misstated and misrepresented his plan on so many occasions and hence the confusion to us and his miles of no specified land use and 50 foot unspecified utility corridor" falls outside of your jurisdiction. How can this be fair, just legitimate??? Why hasn't Frank been required to put the facts on the table and made public??? Until the FACTS are presented and can be PROVEN, I will not support any part of this rail line. Thank you."
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24725James R FleishmanNote from Submitter: Resubmitting by e-filing as I mailed this on June 3,2016 and it was never posted Resubmitting this by e-filling as I mailed this letter June 3rd, 2016 and it was never posted. June 3, 2016 ATTN: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. James Fleishman 2390 S. Verona Road Verona, IL 60479 Jmmkyle@csky.netVerona, Illinois
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24724Lana RippentropThe family farm has been in our family for three generations. It would be cut in half and the roads they say will be closed making it very hard for my son to farm it. The farm life is a very special form of life and you watch the crops grow and are so blessed to have this as your wonderful life. Please say no to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Thank you.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24723Lana RippentropThe family farm has been in our family for three generations. It would be cut in half and the roads they say will be closed making it very hard for my son to farm it. The farm life is a very special form of life and you watch the crops grow and are so blessed to have this as your wonderful life. Please say no to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Thank you.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24722Laurie FleishmanNote from submitter: Not posted when sent by mail on June 3, 2016 resubmitting by email Resubmitting as this was never posted and I sent by mail on June 3, 2016 ATTN: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Laurie Fleishman 2390 S. Verona road Verona, IL 60479 815-287-2280 Jmmkyle@csky.netVerona, Il
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24721Lana RippentropI am writting you once again to ask you to vote no to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I do not think that it is intended to be only a bypass around Chicago. Please consider using the existing railroads as an alternative. Thank you for your time.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24720Jeffrey RubackI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin's proposal for a new rail line. While there are numerous environmental issues associated with the proposal I would like to address the noise associated with the proposed line. Noise Pollution - In 2005 the volume of the horns was increased in an effort to increase safety. The increased volume is injurious to those living in close proximity of the proposed line. It is also disruptive to others living within several miles of the line. The noise also has the potential to lower property values. I personally had difficulty selling my previous home due to the increased noise from trains. Alternative Alignments - There are already numerous east/west rail lines in northern Indiana. Adding a new line to La Porte increases the saturation of rail lines and limits the amount of noise free area in which to live. While bypassing Chicago has it's advantages, this line could connect with other established lines further west, minimizing the impact to people, wildlife and the land.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24719Beth HuberI think that putting a rail line through Southern Lake County and Porter County is a terrible idea for many reasons. We live and built our homes in the country because we love country living. Having a railroad running through or close to our property will kill our quiet, rural way of life. Not only will the noise and vibration of 100 plus trains a day be a nuisance, it will cause much of the wildlife to move, or be run over, by the trains. The chances of a derailment are something I hate to even think about. Hazardous, toxic materials will be transported through the middle of very productive farm ground with the risk of contaminating our water supply and the health of my family and neighbors. Our home and 150 acres of land are things we would like to leave to our children to enjoy in the future. The loss of farm land will also be a loss of income for us and those who farm it and our children in future years. Please reconsider this plan!Hebron, IN
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24718Daelyn CharnetzkyPlease be aware that myself, family and many of my neighbors are concerned about the high speed railroad. We live close to highways 421 and route 6. This is already a very dangerous intersection, there was a near fatal accident this past Mother's Day. The increased truck traffic coming from the the proposed rail hub would be even more dangerous. Also the semi traffic would be damaging to our highways and also a pollution concern. Thanks for your considerationWestville, Indiana
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(printed as 7/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24716Brian D. HallBefore any more rail lines are built, utilize the existing lines! The east-west rail line from Savannah Il to Elgin Il can not be used at more than 20 percent and the north-south line from Janesville Wi to Rochelle Il can not be used more than 5 percent. Use these lines first before wasting more land!Monroe Center, Il
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(printed as 7/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24714Rock Against the Rail memberWe oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Line proposal through Rock County. The proposed path of this railroad track is 4 tenths of a mile from our house. Mr. Patton has called this land Green Land" or in other words land that is just sitting idle. This is agricultural land in full production, it is not green land or simple green space. I am asking that you do a study on where in the United States there is land of the same geological make up as the land in Rock County that Mr. Patton is so ignorant about. Thank you"Mary Adamson
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24713Rock Against the Rail memberWe oppose the railway line being considered to go through Rock County. The proposed path of this railroad line is 4 tenths of a mile from our house. Mr. Patton indicates that this railway line would be bring new business to area close to the railroad track. Most of the land along the proposed route is zoned Agriculture 1 or Agriculture 2. The zoning ordanances prohibit commercial businesses starting up on rural land. We ask that you do an in depth study of the zoning ordanances along the proposed route to determine if they would allow a rezoning for a commercial business to be built, and that you make your findings available to the general public. Thank you.Mary Adamson · Milton, WI
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24712Donna HallPlease stop GLB Railroad from going any further with their plans to build a railroad. It has been a waste of tax payers money and also caused sleepless nights for many. We do not need more abandoned rails across the country.Monroe Center, Il
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24711Rock Against the Rail memberWe are in opposition to the railway line being considered to go through Rock County. The proposed path of this railway line is 4 tenths of a mile from our house. People in this rural area have well water for ourselves and our livestock. Have you done a study into how many wells would be affected by a chemical/fuel spill should a train derailment happen. Have you looked into how long it would be before our water would be safe to drink again for ourselves and our livestock? Have you determined how we would obtain enough water for ourselves and several hundred head of livestock until our well water would once again be safe to drink? Please do an in depth study into this and make your findings available to the landowners. Thank you.Mary Adamson · Milton, WI
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24710Rock Against the Rail, memberWe appose the proposed rail line the that is being considered to come through Rock County. The proposed path is less that 4 tenths of a mile from our lot line. There is a creek and several ponds that exist along the proposed path of this rail line, creating a natural habitat for many different species of wildlife and indicating a very high groundwater table. We are asking that you do an in depth study on the topography of this area and how this rail line would affect wild life and ground water and make the findings of this study available to the public. Thank you.Mary Adamson · Milton, WI
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24709Rock Against the Rail, memberI am apposing the proposed rail line through Rock County. The proposed path of this rail line is less than 4 tenths of a mile from our property line. We have seen Bald Eagles flying around our property this spring and summer. Bald Eagles are a protected species. Have you done an in depth study on the wildlife that would be disrupted by this rail line coming through on the proposed path. We ask that you do an in depth study of all wildlife in this area and make the findings of this study available to the public. Thank you.Mary Adamson · Milton, WI
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24708Sandra SmithI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Transportation project for the following reasons: Noise Pollution Safety of travel - proposed railroad is near a number of schools adding to travel hazard for student population and families Inability of local fire department to handle major potential fuel spill or derailment Impact to travel times as the number of proposed trains will make it incredibly difficult to travel on many existing roadways Potential for negative impact on well system and irrigation network. A spill leaking into the current well system could severely impact availability of clean waterBoone Grove, IN
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24707Rock Against the Rail memberI am apposing the proposed rail line through Rock County. The proposed line is less that 4 tenths of a mile from our commercial goat dairy farm. I would like you to do a research study on how the noise and vibration from these trains will affect the milk production of dairy goats. Please make your findings public following your study. Thank you.Mary Adamson · Milton, WI
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24706Karen NelsonI am and have been a resident and citizen in NW Indiana, Lake and Porter Counties, my entire 57 years. My grandparents and parents are all from East Chicago, Indiana, a well-known city to the STB I am certain since rail lines and rail yards permeate the landscape like arteries transporting blood throughout the body. I thoroughly understand that they are vital to the area for transportation of goods and services and have been a part of the city since even before my family settled there. My grandparents and mother lived mere yards from a rail yard, and during my first year of marriage, I brought home my first born to that same house where the trains became a familiar part of our existence, too. My oldest son is actually a third generation rail employee so the railroad has been financially responsible for my family's economic success and unfortunately occasional uncertainties in many ways. I have always lived within train horn distance" for as long as I remember from within yards of rail tracks to currently owning a home a mile away from tracks. I had to cross the rail tracks twice daily in my commute to high school and have had to sit for passing trains while going to work or simply the grocery store for more times than most people can imagine. I, sincerely, can say on a personal level that the railroad industry has been a vital and important part of my life and has therefore shaped my opinions about the Great Lakes Rail Basin project. I will however leave emotions out of these comments the best I can, and turn to facts. As mentioned, my son is an engineer for the Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad and actually operates those trains that end up in the Chicago area rail yards. I have had in-depth conversations with him on several occasions to obtain not only facts, but his opinions about this alleged need for the rail transportation industry that Mr Patton has sought relief for. While he admits that there is congestion, he states that the majority of the problem lies in red tape, communication errors and typical business delays rather than a lack of rail space or a bypass around the Chicagoland area. He saw no current need for the proposed route at all and couldn't see railroads using it at this time. He stated that if projected growth and use of rail transportation did occur over the next twenty years as Mr Patton and others are predicting, then an extended or alternate type of route might be necessary but as he stated, "there are enough alternative rail routes currently in existence, currently in place or unused or improperly used, and many rails that have been removed in past years for various reasons". I spoke with my son regarding environmental impacts of trains since we are both passionate about this issue. He explained to me immediately that trains do cause sparks along the rails on occasion, and proceeded to tell me of a somewhat recent incident in the suburbs of Chicago where a spark ignited a fire in a protected butterfly prarie which turned into quite an ordeal, as you might be aware. Trains also contribute to air and noise pollution on an on-going basis, and while humans can obviously choose where they live and how they live, the rest of the living creatures and plants don't really have that option. Other concerns that I would have are with regards to safety. I sat waiting for a train to pass this morning while two blocks away from my daughter's home to babysit my granddaughter. I watched tanker car after tanker car pass by with highly flammable chemicals and liquids. My mind quickly raced back to earlier conversations I had with my son regarding rail safety, and terrorism. Ever notice how much graffiti you see on tank cars? As my son would say, it takes them longer to paint those graphics than it would take someone to absolutely shut down a rail yard, track system, or the entire rail industry. The rail system is vulnerable because it can't be policed or monitored. This may be an extreme hypothetical event for conspiracy theorists in most people's minds, but how are you going to reassure with 100% certainty that there will be no accidents, no catastrophic spills into farmlands, and even worse, contamination of wells with vital drinking water for both humans and animals. In the 1980's, I took a Public Affairs class at a local college. Our entire semester was built around discussion and potential solutions for problems concerning the public in Lake County, Indiana. Our number one issue at that time was the railroad's impact on automobile traffic and basically, the constant blocking of rail crossings, particularly in Hammond, Indiana. Discussion centered around the facts that population and industry growth far outpaced the railroad's ability to adapt to the change. This led to not only daily commuter nightmares, but also safety issues as emergency vehicles were often redirected around blocked crossing gates. Now in cities, you are offered sometimes many other viable options for travel, miles of roads and cross streets which only take you minutes out of your way and solutions to these concerns in Hammond were addressed. A concern I would raise is the proposed rail line is not cutting through a city or even populated areas where you would have many options to divert traffic, especially emergency vehicles. In some areas, I would expect you might have to travel miles out of the way in order to get to the same destination, wasting precious minutes in the process. Will the railroad be proactive in providing alternative routes in these situations? One might argue that there are rules in place that prevent blocked crossings for longer than ten minutes, but as an example to the ridiculousness of that statement,contact the Dyer, Indiana police department and ask how many phone calls they have received in the past year regarding the blocked crossing gates on 81st Avenue. Besides that point, if I had a medical emergency, I would think that an extra ten minutes would be uncalled for anyway. A would expect that a thorough study of traffic flow and emergency routes would be conducted in a situation as important as this. Another concern I will raise is the maintenance of the rail crossings. The NW Indiana region is notorious for brutal, lake effect snowstorms and a freeze/thaw cycle each Spring that wreaks havoc on our roads and rail crossings, and this should obviously be taken into account for many reasons, especially with regards to maintenance costs and closed crossings during repairs. I realize that this is the environmental impact portion of the study, but I would also debate Mr. Patton's suggestion that this would be an economic plus for the farmers and towns that this would affect. I only see farms, some that have been in families for generations, unusable or diminished in capacity. I see decreased property values in areas where the rail line will cross and people leaving towns where they had hoped to raise their children in quiet, rural surroundings. I see more crossing gates and the potential headaches that come with them. Money doesn't fall off trains as they pass any more than it grows on trees. In conclusion, I would like to voice my opposition to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail project and propose that rail lines that are already established be looked at as an alternate solution to projected and not yet realized growth in the Chicagoland rail transportation industry. We must be proactive, yes, but it is also important to take into account our past experiences in order to arrive at the most logical solution, if one is indeed warranted. As my Dad likes to say, if it isn't broke, don't fix it. You only end up with more problems in the end."
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24705Bybee FarmsTo Mr. Dave Navecky I am writing comments regarding the proposed Great Lakes Basin rail road. My family own, operate and live on our family farm located at the address above. Our property lies between 1/2 mile and 1 mile east on Herman Road, between mile marker 161 and 162 of the project. Our farm consists mostly of Conservation Reserve Program acres planted to trees and prairie primarily for wildlife habitat and selected as so as part of the Green River priority watershed. In addition our farm is adjacent to a wind farm, has an east to west 345,000 volt transmission line, a 6 petroleum pipe line, also running east and west, and a repurposed pipeline carrying an inter continental telecommunication line. We also have a Christmas Tree farm with over 100 customers that cut their own trees. Drainage from our area is generally east to west with 3 - 5 intermittent streams providing drainage for a substantial subsurface tile area as well as surface water runoff. Concerns: Our main concern is for the proposal to have 5 staging tracks from MP 158 to 162. Activities in this yard proposed to be maintenance and refueling post a hazard to surface and groundwater in the priority watershed. Soils of the area also have gravel at 4 - 6' of depth increasing the risk. The drainageways provide wildlife corridors that would be interrupted by the main tracks and even more so with the staging tracks. Noise from the main lines and staging tracks to neighboring homes will be enhanced by westerly prevailing winds and topography. Lighting for the staging area also will destroy the dark skies of the area. Currently there exists a BN crossing 1 1/2 miles east of our property that runs to the northwest. The proposed railroad would basically frame our property on 3 sides posing safety concerns for police and fire response times. In a larger sense, the continued loss of prime farmland in Illinois is a problem, and the proposed rail road would not only displace thousands of acres of the best soils in the world, but would accelerate the conversion of this valuable resource for non farm uses. Our family has owned this land for 46 acres with our 4th generation of Bybees working and enjoying our farm. As can be seen from the utility and other uses on or adjacent to our land, our community has done our part to provide energy, communication and transportation to our neighbors to the east and west. Enough is enough. Please consider these environmental concerns and recognize that prime farmland is a natural resource and agriculture needs to be protected in our community. Thank you for your attention. Sincerely, Joe and Pam Bybee"Joseph Bybee
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24704jason kokosDear STB, I would like you to see the amount of opposition in list form. At this point, it seems like JUST ABOUT EVERYONE is opposed to this boondoggle of a project. CHOOSE A NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE NOT TO BUILD. ILLINOIS: Boone County Agricultural Conservation Easement & Farmland Protection Commission Boone County Board Boone County: Belvidere City Council Boone County: City of Belvidere Boone County Conservation District Boone County: Flora Community Grange Boone County: Pamona Grange Boone County: Spring Township Boone County: Village of Capron Boone/Winnebago: Northern Regional Groundwater Protection Planning Committee Cook County: Chicago Botanic Garden/Chicago Wilderness Cook County Department of Transportation & Highways Cook County Farm Bureau Grundy County Board Grundy County Farm Bureau Grundy County: Gardner-South Wilmington Township High School Dist 73 Grundy County: Norman Township Illinois Beef Association Illinois Department of Natural Resources Kankakee County Board Kankakee County: Essex Township Fire Protection District Kankakee County Farm Bureau Kankakee County: Grant Park Fire Protection District Kankakee County: Salina Township Board of Trustees Kankakee County Soil & Water Conservation District Kankakee County Republican Central Committee Kankakee County: Rockville Township Board of Trustees Kankakee County: Village of Grant Park LaSalle County: Adams Township LaSalle County Board LaSalle County: Earl Township LaSalle County: Earlville Community School District LaSalle County Farm Bureau LaSalle COunty: Miller Township LaSalle County: Serena Unit School District #2 LaSalle County: Sheridan Community Fire Protection District LaSalle County: Village of Sheridan LaSalle/Grundy: Village of Seneca Kankakee County: Manteno Fire Protection District Kankakee County: Manteno Township Kankakee County: Salina Township Fire Protection District Lee County: Alto Township Board Lee County Board Lee County: Willow Creek Township Board Ogle, DeKalb, Lee Counties: Creston Community Consolidated School District 161 Ogle County Board Ogle County: Dement Township Ogle County: Eswood Consolidated School District Ogle County: Girl Scouts of Illinois Ogle County: Lee Fire Protection Board Ogle County: Lynnville-Scott-White Rock Fire Protection District Ogle County: Monroe Township Ogle/Lee County: City of Rochelle SOAR Illinois - Save Our American Raptors Winnebago County: Boone Farm Bureau Winnebago County: Seward Township Board of Trustees INDIANA: Indiana State Representative Michael Aylesworth Indiana State Senator Ed Charbonneau Indiana State Senator Rick Neimeyer Kankakee River Basin Commission (8 County Board) Lake County Board of Commissioners Lake County: Calumet Astronomical Society Lake County Council Lake County Drainage Advisory Board Lake County Drainage Board Lake County: Indian Trail Grange Lake County Parks Department Lake County Plan Commission Lake County: Purdue University Northwest Lake County: Range Line Presbterian Church Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District Lake County: Town of Lowell Lake County: Tri-Creek Ambulance Board Lake County: Tri-Creek School Corporation Lake County: Cedar Creek Township Lake County: Eagle Creek Township Lake County: West Creek Township LaPorte County: Town of Westville Porter County Assessor Porter County Board of Commissioners Porter County Council Porter County Dept of Development and Storm Water Mgmt Board Porter County: Hebron Town Council Porter County: Kankakee Valley Historical Society Porter County: Metropolitan School District of Boone Township Porter County Plan Commission Porter County Soil & Water Conservation District WISCONSIN: Rock County: Bradford Township Board Rock County Board of Supervisors Rock County: Clinton Community School District Rock County: Clinton Town Board Rock County: Emerald Grove Cemetery Auxiliary Rock County: Emerald Grove Cemetery Board Rock County Emerald Board Congregational Church Rock County Farm Bureau Rock County: Town of Fulton Rock County: Town of Harmony Rock County: Town of Johnstown Rock County: Milton City Council Rock County: Village of Clinton Board of Trustees Walworth County: Town of Linn Walworth County: Town of Sharon Wisconsin State Grange Wisconsin State Representative Amy Louderbeck OTHER: CMAP Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Washington, DC Norfolk Southern Railroad Northern Illinois 4-H Camp Association Union Pacific Railroad (2014)grant park, il
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24703Roch Against the Rail, memberRegarding the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line being proposed to run from Indiana into Southern Wisconsin. The proposed complete path of this rail line runs through some of the most productive farms in the United States. In addition, the farm land in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin that is in the path of this rail line has been documented as some of the best farm land IN THE WORLD. Most of the farm land that is in the direct path of this rail line in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin (specifically Johnstown Township, Rock County, Wi.) has high quality Alpha Silt loam deposited by the glaciers of long ago. The corn yields from this land are the some of the highest in the United States ( > 175 Bushels / Acre) When considering this rail line proposal, I urge you to ask yourself if this rail line will mean more to the human race in the next 200 years than the farm crops produced on this land in the same time frame. This railroad project will not take place without invoking the use of Eminent Domain procedures – not on a few properties involved but on a majority of properties from Indiana to Wisconsin. If this project is allowed to proceed, this valuable farmland will never be used productively for mankind again. Please stand up and take the initiative to put a stop to this project immediately.William Lloyd · JANESVILLE, WI
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24702Rock Against the Rail, memberRegarding the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line being proposed to run from Indiana into Southern Wisconsin. I have read in literature that the main focus of this project is to reduce the time it takes a train to get from Indiana past Chicago. Noting this general assumption, I believe the Surface Transportation Board’s Office of Environmental Analysis should take a hard look at ALL affects that this project might have, not only on the physical environment but also on the human environment. The proposal does note numerous intersections with roads will have overpasses / underpasses installed to alleviate delays. However, I believe the number of intersections without overpasses far outnumber the actual overpass/underpass intersections. For each one of these intersections there are several concerns. First of all there is the safety factor. As we all know, even with signs, gates and flashing lights, automobile accidents still happen. In addition, this rail line will be traveling through many farm fields. Some of these fields will be connected / owned by the same farmer and as such there will need for farm equipment to transvers the rail line. With farm equipment traveling at very slow speeds and the trains traveling at 50 – 70 mile per hour this greatly increases the probability of tragic accidents. This real line is specifically targeted for the rural area. These rural areas require school buses to transport students to school. This railroad greatly jeopardizes the safety of students riding those school buses on a daily basis. This rail line proposal will inadvertently result in many injuries and fatalities in the years to come if approved. Secondly, the board should weigh the benefit of time saved by the railroads vs. the time lost by individuals sitting at all the intersections blocked by passing trains. I firmly believe that if a good study is done of the amount of time that these intersections will be blocked, the calculation will show that the lost time of individuals will outweigh the time gained by the trains involved. Add to that the inconveniences imposed on the common citizen during the construction process and the project will clearly become questionable on this basis.Bill Lloyd · JANESVILLE, WI
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24701Ronald P StrojnyThis communication is to indicate my opposition to the Great Lakes Basin railroad (GLB) project in an attempt to help preserving the peaceful, serene atmosphere of Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See and its natural beauty. Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See was founded by the 4-H foundation in 1946 and dedicated to veterans of WWII. Over the last seventy years it has served the camping needs of hundreds of thousands of campers. It is a place of peace and serenity in a world of noise pollution. Each year thousands of campers attend this venue for camping, wedding ceremonies and receptions, retreats, picnics, pool parties and hiking the beautiful Rock Creek and wooded trails. These activities are threatened by the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad project. Rock Creek flows through Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See in a deep canyon with a series of natural caves originally used by the Native Americans that once inhabited our land. It is one of the most scenic waterways and geologically unique properties in northern Illinois. The GLB project has real potential to adversely impact the creek, the entire watershed and the camp environment. The projected train traffic is up to 110 trains per day or one every 20 minutes. Noise and vibrations from this project would be less than half a mile from the camp facilities. Train traffic, noise and vibration day and night will render the camp much less desirable and affect the quality of camp programming.La Grange Park, IL
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24699Jason KokosDear Mr. Navecky and Surface Transporation Board, The county I reside, Kankakee County in Illinois, unanimously voted today to send a letter of opposition to your agency regarding the GLBT. They wrote 21 pages of explanation as to why this proposed rail is unnecessary and detrimental to homes, farmland, businesses, communities, churches, and cemeteries. I implore you to take this boards letter into special consideration due to the simple fact that the GLBT has asked for a ridiculous pie in the sky" quantity of 15,000+ acres. A proposed railport 5 times the largest railport in this country. Frank Patton has claimed they've asked for this amount because "that's what they told him to ask for". He proves his ignorance and shows that he knows nothing about railroads, rail lines, rail cars, rail transportation, rail yards, etc. Based on this information, it seems anyone can bypass local and county planning and go directly to the federal government with a proposal without even the extent of a formal application to build. Is that the case? because that is what GLBT has done? I'd like a formal response please, as I'm a hardworking middle class tax payer who is tired of being crapped on. Just the threat of some billionaire using eminent domain to take my home and land for their own profit is sickening. I thought this was America, where people work hard to fulfill their American dream? Jason R Kokos 708-259-5250"
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24698julie kokosDear Mr.. Navecky and STB, Please explain to me why the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal is even being considered? This needs to be stopped immediately. There have been no proven resources, no support from existing railroads, no company track record, and no application. It is as if this company and Frank Patton were fantasizing making millions of dollars and about leaving a legacy and becoming famous, with no knowledge of railroad construction or operation. This company has not filed an application, therefore no EIS should done! How does a company go to a government agency and start the ball rolling with out filing an application, without being named a railroad and without proving a need for their train wreck of a proposal??? Plus using threats of eminent domain???? That needs to be explained. After the explanation, it needs to be stopped. This process has been started illegally. Please reject the GLB proposal now. Thank you, Julie Kokos 708-426-4180grant park, IL
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24697Mylane BryantI am writing in opposition of the proposed GLB rail project in Manteno IL. My daughter attends camp at Camp Shaw and we loved that this natural environment was so accessible. There are not many of these spots left and it would be a shame to lose yet another opportunity for children to explore the outdoors. The tradition of Camp Shaw is wonderful. Why destroy this?Saint Charles, Illinois
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentComments from Rockford, IL. Urbanized MPO Policy Committee Attached. Comments received a 6-0-2 vote representing Winnebago County Chair, Rockford Mayor, Belvidere Mayor, Loves Park Mayor, Machesney Park Mayor, and the Rockford Mass Transit District.Michael P. Dunn Jr. · Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/12/2016)Comment[See attached letter]Congressman Paul D. Ryan (WI-01)
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24570John Mueller[see attached letter]
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24568Laura VanDerStuyfI am vehemently opposed to the proposed the Great Lakes Basin railroad (GLB) project!! My own, extended family & countless other families for over 3 generations have enjoyed the serene, peaceful, naturalistic retreat that Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See provides. The building of a railroad near this beautiful area will severely impact the air quality, noise levels, & naturalistic setting of this once Native American-inhabited land. Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See was founded by the 4-H foundation in 1946 and dedicated to veterans of WWII. Over the last seventy years it has served the camping needs of hundreds of thousands of campers. It is a place of peace and serenity in a world of noise pollution. Each year thousands of campers attend this venue for camping, wedding ceremonies and receptions, retreats, picnics, pool parties and hiking the beautiful Rock Creek and wooded trails. These activities would severely be threatened by the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad project. Some our fondest family memories are of the time we, our children, & hopefully grand & great grand children have spent/will spend taking part & interacting in all of the activities that Camp Shaw has to offer. There are many other areas a railroad project could be built that would not interrupt the natural beauty of one of the most scenic waterways and geologically unique properties in Northern Illinois. The GLB project has real potential to adversely impact the creek, the entire watershed and the camp environment. I strongly urge you to look elsewhere for completion of your railroad project!!!Streamwood, Illinois
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24567Carson CrossDear Mr. Navecky, I write to you in regards to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad project that is currently up for proposal. While I have much I would like to say, I will keep my commentary brief as I am sure you are receiving messages of disdain from many individuals. The proposed railway poses an immediate threat to the ecological and environmental tranquility of the Kankakee Valley River region. Many times we forget that this land is not ours. It is our four legged friends who roamed this land way before man came in and disrupted the tranquility, nature, and ecological habitats. Please listen to the people. Do not let man rear his disruptive and corruptible hand on this peaceful land. Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See Youth Camp is seventy year old camp that is nestled in the heart of the Kankakee River State Park. This 110 acre camp ground serves thousands of participants on a yearly basis. The proposed railway will interfere tremendously with noise pollution. A once tranquil destination is in danger of the potential railway. Yet another natural escape from the horrors of the world will be taken away. I implore you to advocate for the people. I thank you for your time. --Carson CrossManteno, Illinois
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24563Catherine JewellPlease do not move forward with the Great Lakes Basin railroad project. My children attend a wonderful camp that will be adversely affected by the implementation of this plan. I have a son with special needs. We had tried numerous other camps to no success. The facilities that Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See offers combined with the phenomenal staffing allowed him to partake and enjoy the camp experience for the first time. The introduction of loud trains would severely impact his ability to attend camp. We are willing to drive several hours each way to attend this camp and allow him a week off" from his disabilities. Please, do not approve this project! I implore you to turn down this project. Thank you."Charleston, IL
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24562Philip BurkhartWimberley, Texas (TX)
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24561Laura SchepplerA bypass takes train away from an area. The Great Lakes Railroad does not do this, you need to deny this proposal as it does not bypass the greater Chicagoland region. Please also explain why the line costs 8 billion dollars when Canadian National bought the E,J and E line for just 300 million. Why does GLB not simply purchase and expand an existing set of tracks, this would be environmentally safer and less expensive for the company. If you can buy an entire existing bypass for just 300 million why spend 8 billion to build a new one? Please explain this.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/12/2016)CommentEI-24560Virginia GawPleas explain why the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line claims it will cost 8 billion to build their 248 mile line when Warren Buffet purchase the entire BNSF company with over 32,000 miles of track form just 44 billion. The cost of this line would make it the most expensive line in the world, how is it going to be aid for? Who is going to finance it, especially when 2 of the 6 class one railroads say they wont use the line? Add to this Canadian National purchased the entire Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Bypass for just 300 million.How is GLB going to recoop their expenses with this over priced project. There is no way they can finance this line and make a profit given the huge cost of the project. For this reason alone the STB needs to deny this route. This line is unneeded and if the GLB team really wanted to help solve freight traffic in Chicago they would simply buy an existing railroad and make it into a bypass or rent it like a toll road to other lines.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-25250Illinois General Assembly[see attached letter]John M. Cabello, State Representative, 68th District
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(printed as 7/11/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-25192Judith Connolly[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-25191Conrad Raczkowski[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)Comment[See attached letter]Lyle Coffman George Grosso Steven Schultz · Kankakee, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-25004USEPA, Region 5Kenneth Westlake
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentBlock GLB · Belvidere, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)Comment[See attached petitions batch 2 of 4]Block GLB · Belvidere, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/11/2016)Comment[See attached petitions batch 1 of 4]Block GLB · Belvidere, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24623Marjorie Ekhoff[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24611Delbert Dummer[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24610Scott Dummer[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24609Jeff Brown[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24608Al and Fran Vinik[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24607Elton Gerber[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24606Marlene A Larsen[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24605Jan Lape Austgen[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24604Jacque McNall[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24603Bill Mitchell[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24602Tim and Cindy Gerber[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24601John Richard Dunn[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24600David K Wollgast[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/11/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24559Abe HenkerPlease follow the link here, when reviewing my last comment regarding taking trains from Sterling Illinois to Princeville to Streator to Jasper County Indiana, this is a much better alternative route. http://www.idot.illinois.gov/Assets/uploads/files/Transportation-System/Maps-&-C harts/RailRoad-Maps/2015_RR_MAP_CHICAGO_STLOUIS_AREA.pdfMount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24558Ken DaggettI am asking you to deny Mr. Patton a permit to operate a railroad because of the affect it will have on thousands of people every day 24-7. It is a threat to our environment, our safety, our way of life, our investment in our homes and property, our means of support from lose of valuable farmland and our general health and well being!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24557Abe HenkerPlease explain why the GLB rail line is not bypassing the crowded Chicago area. A bypass takes trains away from an area, it prevents trains from going there to start with. I think the GLB line should utilize the existing Union Pacific line that runs from Sterling Illinois south to Princeville Illinois where it can connect with the existing BNSF line. From there it can use the existing BNSF line an run to Streator Illinois. From Streator IL it can run on the Norfolk Southern line east to jasper County Indiana. This takes the train further away from the heavily populated far suburbs that the current GLB line seeks to run through, it also keeps all trains from the South and many from the West from needing to go through the crowded Chicago market. Add to this many of the trains come from the south to Chicago as they are carrying freight from the Gulf of Mexico ports north and freight from the southern east coast north. This would be a bypass. GLB can purchase land along the existing railroads and this would not disrupt as many people as the current plan does, it would also be in areas already impacted environmentally by their existing trains.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24556Richard SulzbergerThe problem with the Great Lakes Basin Transportation plan is that it inflicts the very problem it is trying to alleviate for the railroad on all the farms and communities that the 278-mile rail line travels thru. With todays technology I have to believe there is better solution for the railroads, than destroying all the farmland, and creating such a burden on all the communities the GLBT touches. Please remember the people on the farms and in these old established communities are part of the environment. Their feelings should be taken into consideration, because the GLBT will change all their lives! Thank You!Verona, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24555Dennis SchepplerThe map at the following link http://www.cmap.illinois.gov/documents/10180/19427/Chicago-region-freight-trains perday_20120917_draft.pdf/0668884b-02c3-4b77-93ec-12f0dd232c05 from the Illinois Department of Transportation indicates freight train traffic in the Chicagoland region. The Illinois Department of Transportation shows there are only 5 rail lines that have over 60 cars per day on them. Two of the lines are not in the City of Chicago. The other 3 lines in the City of Chicago service existing rail yards. Please explain why then the rural areas of Illinois should be subjected to 110 trains per day, when that volume is sustainably higher than the rails in the rest of the area. It is not appropriate to basically force rural Illinois to bear the brunt of the rail traffic and have a disproportionally higher rail volume than the rest of the state. Please also note this map indicates there are 17 main rail lines feeding into the City of Chicago from rural Illinois. The STB needs to account for the existing rail traffic on these lines in these rural areas before approving more train traffic to disrupt life in the affected areas. Of these 17 lines 7 are owned by Union Pacific which has stated they will not use the Great Lakes basin line. 3 of the 17 lines are run by Canadian National, which already has the old Elgin, Joliet and Eastern line as its bypass of the city. With 10 of the 17 lines, or 59% of the lines, having no desire or need to use the new Great Lakes Basin line, please explain how this line is feasible as a bypass. Please also explain why this “bypass” is located where it is proposed to be. Their goal should be to prevent trains from reaching the 7 county Chicagoland region, not simply to stop trains from reaching the city of Chicago proper. The City of Chicago proper has a plan to ease rail congestion and the GLB plan interferes and potentially takes funding away from CREATE. CREATE is supported by the railroads, the City and the State of Illinois. CREATE and not GLB has the solutions needed for rail traffic in the City. Please explain why this bypass is not being built past the 7 county Chicagoland region, so that it will prevent trains from coming near the region, thus making it a true bypass. As it is, all this line does is move existing trains to a new area in the already crowded Chicagoland region. The link that follows from the State of Illinois Department of Transportation indicates the location of existing intermodal and freight yards in the Chicagoland region. http://www.cmap.illinois.gov/documents/10180/19427/Chicago-Area-Rail-Intermodal- Terminal-Map_20120430_final.pdf/478e0efb-029e-402a-8194-e3845d920e20 Please explain why the Great Lakes basin plan does not connect to these existing intermodal and freight yards. Their plan to build their own yard is ludicrous as the existing train companies have their own yards which they currently own. Why would they move their operations to the GLB yard? Any of these railroads could purchase a yard along one of their feeder lines into the city, if they wanted a new yard, why would they want to deal with paying GLB to Access their yard? Why would they use GLB people to repair their trains, they have their own trained crews? This rail year proposal from GLB is unneeded. Please also explain why it is 5 times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The largest yard is actually owned by a railroad and it repairs their trains and is owned by them. Please explain in detail why any company with their own facilities already in place would choose to pay rent to use someone else’s facilities and employees. Please also explain why GLB does not service the existing rail yards, as right now the only explanation is that the existing railroads do not want or support the GLB proposal. Please also address the question of size, why does tis yard need to be so big? The link that follows from the State of Illinois Department of transportation indicates traffic volumes on Illinois roads. http://www.gettingaroundillinois.com/gai.htm?mt=aadt# Please explain why the Towns of Serena and Sheridan Illinois with over 2,600 vehicles using County Road 2 outside of Serena, Il and over 2,100 vehicles using county road 1, the road to the Sheridan Correctional Center a day, should be subjected to 110 trains per day slowing their traffic down, considering in Dolton Illinois, one of the worst towns for trains with 120 per day, has some roads with just 2,100 cars using them a day? Serena and Sheridan have huge traffic volumes, and towns outside of Chicago have less traffic crossing the tracks, and more alternative around the tracks. Please also explain why GLB is tooting this line as a Chicago bypass, when the vehicle traffic mainly affected by trains is not in Chicago proper, but the immediate suburbs of Chicago. The GLB line is not a bypass, it simple moves trains from suburbs attached directly to the City of Chicago and pushes them onto a new area. This line needs to be denied as the plan does not serve as a bypass, a bypass takes trains out of an area, this plan does not do this.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24554Laurie FleishmanJuly 11, 2016 GLBT -FD 35952 would be Life Threatening To Our Sons Health Land owners are entitled to quiet enjoyment of their land; a right to undisturbed use and enjoyment of their property. The common law tort of private nuisance provides a basic for liability when an activity interferes with a landowners use and enjoyment of their land. An interference may be found if it constitutes a private nuisance and it create SIGNIFICANT HARM! The GLBT is proposed to pass behind our house and would be life threatening to our son! Two years ago he had spontaneous pneumothorax which is bubbles forming on top of his lungs breaking and causing them to collapse. In his case, he had both lungs collapse and therefore he ended up having 2 major lung surgeries in which titanium staples were placed across the tops of both lungs. He will lead a full long life as long as long he never smokes, not exposed to 2nd hand smoke, or any other damaging pollution for the rest of his life or bubbles could form again. This would be life threatening should this happen and there is nothing more medically they could do! His doctors have advised him to avoid being exposed to any pollution to his lung so this will not happen! This is impossible if the train passes in our backyard! The pollution of the 110 trains would cause SIGNIFICANT HARM to our son and we would be forced to move from our historic home and farm in which we own and have raised our family their entire lives by the GLBT to save our sons life! We live in the country to have clean Fresh Air!! If you want doctors written statements, please contact me - Laurie Fleishman 815-287-2280. Please note we fight all the way up to the the Supreme Court to deny the GLBT from destroying our family's way of life... please deny the GLBT!!!Verona, Il
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24553Barbara MandelMy family is opposed to this land-grab scheme that would take valuable farmland, our church property, and friends' homes and businesses. Since there are no railroad companies interested in utilizing this proposed facility, why are you even considering enabling land grabbers this opportunity? We vehemently oppose the GLB Railroad project. This is another scheme like the proposed Peotone airport aimed at acquiring real estate without producing any actual community benefit.Beecher, IL - Illinois
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24552Porter County CouncilPlease see attached comments submitted by Porter County Council member Sylvia Graham.Sylvia Graham · Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24551James R Savage Farms, Inc.I oppose the building of the Great Lakes Basin Transportation railroad. Three generations of our family own 8 parcels of land, all of them impacted by this railroad at mile markers 149-151. There are 2 parcels directly bisected by the proposed railroad and 6 parcels all within 1/2 mile or less from the GLB route, for a total of approximately 700 acres. The farmland owned by our family has been appraised as excellent farmland with a high productivity indices ranging from 135-143/tillable acre. Corn production averages >200 bushels/acre. In the bisected parcels there is a major waterway and tiling throughout the land to facilitate drainage, maximize production, and lessen soil erosion which will be destroyed with the building of this railroad. Air pollution of diesel exhaust will negatively affect grain quality and production. Values of our land will be significantly reduced, as will the income from our farmland for decades to come. There will be a railroad crossing for our farm equipment to navigate on north/south Earlville Rd and a few hundred yards away another crossing to get across a bisected parcel of our land. As the railroad goes through our 2nd parcel of land it leaves an uneconomical remnant of land. Twenty thousand dollars/ acre as proposed by the GLBT to purchase our land does not come close to the losses we will see over decades from having a railroad go through our land or within such close proximity. There will be contamination of soil, water, and air just with the railroad operating 110 trains per day going up to 70 miles/hour. Vibration from this many trains going this fast will certainly be harmful to our computerized grain drying system we have as well as the concrete foundations of our storage bins. There is great concern with the probability, not possibility, but probability that there will be a derailment, spill, or explosion and the risks associated with that to the people, land, aquifers, animals, and the environment. Certainly the easy way for the GLB railroad is to go west with less population density. But lets go the environmental way. We can be engineering visionaries. We can find a solution using existing railroad routes where the environment and population have already been impacted for decades. Why take excellent farmland to repeat the same process, and have the same destruction.Susan Savage · Geneva, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24549Citizen of Boone CountyMr. Dave Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket # FD#35952 Dear Mr. Navecky, I am a 43 year resident of Boone County, IL and was the first to speak at the scoping meeting held April 19, 2016 in our Belvidere Community Building. I OPPOSE THE GLBRR. I have done extensive reading about Mr. Patton's proposed railroad that he wishes to bring through our community and what he feels is the purpose of this project. Much of this information is news releases through his website or information released from public appearances. NOWHERE have I been able to find either a formal application certified with Mr. Patton signature to the STB or a STATEMENT OF LAND USE certifying his stating his intended use of the property he is saying this rail line will cross; farms, homes, business and nature conservatives. WHEN NO SIGNED AND CERTIFIED APPLICATIONS OR LAND USE PERMIT CAN BE FOUND ON RECORD, IT OPENS THE QUESTION, HOW LEGITIMATE AND LEGAL IS THIS PROJECT MR. PATTON IS PROPOSING? IF these documents exist, can you please tell me where I may obtain a copy of them? For a project this enormous size, there should be certified applications somewhere on file! So far, NO ONE, who has been looking and requesting information, has been helped by your department. After learning that Mr. Patton and his legal council requested and GOT a waiver for the usual mandatory 6 months notification period, which would have been the proper and decent approach in notifying those potential business, residents and landowners who's lives and livelihood would be forever changed, Mr. Patton was allowed to skip this avenue of professional protocol and to verbally bulldoze ahead with his project making many statement he now refutes as a misunderstanding of his comments. Where is the truth in his information? Regarding his PRIVATE" funding, now he says, he will apply for GRANTS. That's OUR money not his! Solving congestion around Chicago, there is no local infrastructure to safely support his rail line and adding it would be too costly for the local communities. CREATE has been working responsibly on this project with the railroads who use the BCR and implementing safe and viable alternatives to the congestion problem. Mr. Patton would create more congestion and endanger more citizens with his route. Has he explained the use of 25 square miles of land???? What is Mr. Patton's REAL intent on obtaining such a large section of land??? Refinery, oil storage yard or quick of property to sell later for a profit at the current owners expense? Who knows……NO ONE! It is about time the OEA request pertinent and specific information from Mr. Patton and his proposed GLBRR. Maybe then everyone will know what his plans really are! WHAT will the GLBT LLC do to protect the people from hazardous spills of chemicals or destructive explosions the Bakken Crude Oil this RR will most certainly carry?????? How will they protect our clean aquifers from their TOXIC spills? We don’t need anymore “speedways” to move HHFT’s (Highly Hazardous Flammable Trains) faster along the tracks. There are still many people who slowly learning about the possibility of loose everything they own and cherish from local newscasts or printed news articles. Originally, those wishing to respond to the STB where given just 10 weeks before the deadline. Now the notification period is extended to July 15, 2016, that's only 4 & 1/2 months to notify and explain to landowners what is scheduled to happen to them, still short of the 6 months normally required. Are you helping to FAST TRACK these citizens out of all they own? WE THE PEOPLE, as those being IMPACTED, would like to know that our United States Government, is acting properly and not giving Mr. Patton and his GLBT a free ride outside the RULES, REGULATIONS and PROTOCOL a project of this size DEMANDS. Respectfully, Toria Funderburg, Belvidere/Boone County, IL"Toria Funderburg
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24548Catherine WilliamsThis concerns the proposed rail line through La Porte and Porter Counties in Indiana. I live within a quarter mile of where the line is proposed to split into two branches with one extending east and the other northwest. This is planned in Marsh Land. Often it is under water. Also the line is proposed to extend east along a ditch and the north side of Hwy 6 which contains swamp land. If this is built it will cut farms up with some farmers left with land they are unable to farm because it is either too small for todays equipment or is landlocked. There are no crossings listed In fields. Also, the rail line crosses north of the town of Westville and again on the south end of town. I know there are overpasses listed over Hwy 421........but who will build these? Actually much of the land the rail line will go through in Porter County is drained marsh land. The rail line will cut through ditches thus interrupting drainage. Besides 80 to 100 trains a day is just too much for the ears of both humans and farm animals. We do have rail lines nearby and I grew up with rail lines nearby; however these did not have as many trains running on them. I do not believe this line is needed. Thank you for listening.Westville, Indiana
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24547Donald BrunnerI am currently in a rent-to-own situation. If this I will abandon the house I'm in and move. This will create the owner to foreclose on his home in which I miss you much more residents will follow in suit. I am extremely opposed this rail Depot.Beecher, Illinois
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24546Jan BierDear Mr. Navecky, Thank you for the extensions you granted us. I appreciate that. You and your committee have a lot of work ahead of you, and I trust that you will seriously consider the points that the farming community has brought up. With an ever-expanding world population, the stewardship of our land needs to be a priority for our country. Valuable farmland must be preserved. What will happen when we aren't able to grow enough food to feed our nation? Once this valuable soil is lost, we can't get it back. Whom will we turn to for our food? I've attached a document that shows the importance of maintaining the farmland that we currently have. Thank you.Janesville, WI
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24545Roberta Sue RadovichThe proposed GLB Railroad Project majorly affects my farm. The proposed route severs my land in two. The route enters/exits the northeast portion of my farm, winds around behind my farm buildings and horse pastures, and enters/exits the southwest portion, traveling very close to my buildings and new house. As far as I can tell, it's around 1/10th of a mile from my house! Extensive field tiling has been done where the proposed route runs. Once the tile is severed or crushed, I will again likely have water issues in my basement, as will the older farm house also on my property. In addition, excessive rain water will not be able to flow naturally to the waterway, which is located on the opposite side of the proposed track. Areas of farmland could be rendered useless for agricultural production due to increased flooding. Stagnant water would be a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Northern Illinois has some of the most fertile, productive farm land in the world. The amount of acres that would be destroyed would not only prove harmful for us landowners, but to the public as well, as valuable ag production is diminished. As you must be aware, our property values will plummet, and our way of life forever destroyed. I also have serious concerns about the safety issues of high speed freight trains carrying toxic substances! My concerns are also for possible contamination of my land and private well, not to mention toxic gas release into the air in the event of a derailment. I have 6 horses (2 of them show horses) and other animals on my farm. I am also very concerned how the presence of the trains, along with the noise, vibrations, and air pollution, would adversely affect them and me and my family! STRESS! The plan calls for our road to be stubbed". The time for emergency vehicles to reach my farm will be extended. In emergencies, time is precious and can mean the difference between life and death! Farm machinery will have to travel on busier roads, and the additional time and expense to get from one parcel of land to the other parcel due to the severed farm is certainly another great concern. THE GLB RAILROAD PROJECT IS NOT NEEDED! There are many under utilized and abandoned railroad tracks in northern Illinois. Also Chicago's CREATE PROGRAM has been working on the railroad congestion issue."
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24544Kevin SnookI live next to a farm that is going to be cut in half by the GLB railroad. This farmer will now have to go around several roads that the rail road is closing to get to the other half of his fields. That means he will have to go 5 miles each way to get to the other half of his fields. This is gong to contribute air pollution that is already a problem in Porter county. It also takes a great deal of his time and costs him a lot in fuel. Figuring 10 miles extra a trip and with him having to go over his fields at least 4 times that is adding 40 road traveled miles a year for him per field. Considering that he can travel at most about 15 miles an hour it is going to add three hours to the farming of each field he has cut in two. This is in no way good for the farmer or anyone who lives in Porter county. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Kevin SnookValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24543Kevin SnookI live about 500 feet from where the proposed railroad is going to go through. It is also according to the drawing going to have a spur go off next to me. There is an animal wetland preserve across the road from me. It has deer and in the last few years we have seen wild turkeys and pheasants there. Wild turkeys and pheasants have not been around here in the last 37 years that I have lived here. The farmer that donated the land for this preserve did not do this to have the wild life driven out by a railroad that not only will create an enormous amount of noise but also pollute the air. I know that this railroad is supposed to be quiet but the tracks are not the only noise producer. If you have ever listened to a train passing you will find that the bad bearings on some of the cars and a brake dragging here and there create a lot of the noise involved with the train passing. This noise is not something that will do the nature preserve any good. Thanks for your consideration on this matter. Sincerely, Kevin SnookValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24542Lisa J. GlombDear Mr. Navecky, Please block the GLB railroad project. I ask this as a concerned resident of Manteno and parent of children who attend Camp Shaw Was Nas See. The train traffic is already crazy in our area. We have already had one derailment this year right on the edge of town. Now they want to add more tracks and more trains?! This is not acceptable. More tracks and more trains will destroy our peaceful town and ruin Camp Shaw Was Nas See. This GLB track will delay our first responders ability to render aid. Living in a rural area, every second counts!!! This project will bring danger the and additional noise to our little town and Camp Shaw Was Nas See. Camp Shaw is one of the few remaining 4H camps. This project will RUIN Camp Shaw! This project will bring toxic cargo within a half mile of the camp. It will destroy Rock Creek, run off wild life and take away the serenity and peacefulness that is Camp Shaw. Please, I beg of you, do nor support the GBL railroad project. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Lisa J. Glomb Manteno Resident and Parent of Camp Shaw Was Nas See campers.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24541Kevin SnookI am writing about the GLB. I drive a bus in Morgan Township in Porter County Indiana. The railroad is going through my route. Three of the roads on my route are going to be closed. That means I will have to go to the dead end then turn around and go back to the other end and come from that way and once again turn around and go to the next closed road. This will take a route that takes about an hour and add around 45 minutes to it. This not only will put kids on the bus another hour and a half a day but take extra gas and add to the air pollution in the county that already has so much that it has emissions testing for all vehicles licensed in the county. None of these things are good for our county. I really can't see how Mr. Patton is being a good neighbor as he claims. Sincerely, Kevin SnookValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24540JoAnne YoungerOur family is standing behind Camp Shaw-Wa-Na-See in their belief that a train line would negatively impact the community and the environment. The local area should be protected from possible contaminants and enjoyed as it is today. NO TRAIN LINE!!!Marengo, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24529Jennifer GrayMr. Navecky-- My children have been attending Camp Shaw in Manteno for the past six years, and we have family members who grew up attending and working there back in the 1980s and '90s. In addition to the noise and vibration, not to mention the dangers of hazardous materials transportation, the introduction of a new rail line through the area will have a seriously adverse impact on the camp. Rock Creek flows through Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See in a deep canyon with a series of natural caves originally used by the Native Americans that once inhabited our land. It is one of the most scenic waterways and geologically unique properties in northern Illinois. The GLB project has real potential to adversely impact the creek, the entire watershed and the camp environment. We need to do everything in our power to protect this irreplaceable natural resource for the enjoyment of future generations. I beg you to reconsider developing this area. Thank you for your time. Jennifer GrayLansing, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24528Lynn KloosThe proposed route crossing Calumet Ave in Lowell, IN between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. is no longer farm fields. They are brand new individual family homes. The route literally goes between my neighbors home and his garage. I realize the route was proposed prior to the building of our homes, but I'm writing to inform you of the recent construction. If you are considering allowing this railroad to continue I implore you to reroute the train away from this area. We have all just built brand new homes and have children and animals and would not be able to live there with trains coming at 70mph 50 feet from our homesLowell, IN
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24527Lynn KloosThe proposed route crossing Calumet Ave in Lowell, IN between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. is no longer farm fields. They are brand new individual family homes. The route literally goes between my neighbors home and his garage. I realize the route was proposed prior to the building of our homes, but I'm writing to inform you of the recent construction. If you are considering allowing this railroad to continue I implore you to reroute the train away from this area. We have all just built brand new homes and have children and animals and would not be able to live there with trains coming at 70mph 50 feet from our homesLowell, IN
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24526Lynn KloosThe proposed route crossing Calumet Ave in Lowell, IN between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. is no longer farm fields. They are brand new individual family homes. The route literally goes between my neighbors home and his garage. I realize the route was proposed prior to the building of our homes, but I'm writing to inform you of the recent construction. If you are considering allowing this railroad to continue I implore you to reroute the train away from this area. We have all just built brand new homes and have children and animals and would not be able to live there with trains coming at 70mph 50 feet from our homesLowell, IN
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(printed as 7/11/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24520R.A.I.L.E.D. memberTo the members of the STB: Please read my attached letter and the article that follows my letter to learn about how newly designed rail cars still explode and ignite fires when carrying flammable liquids. Thank you. Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24519Kathleen HartkePlease do not allow the train to be built near Camp Shaw. This is a wonderful camp that many youth utilize for summer activities. This camp allows youth the chance to get in the great outdoors instead of sitting on electronics or in front of TVs. The trains would be a determinant to this wonderful experience.Channahon, Illinois
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24518R.A.I.L.E.D. memberFD 35952 Environmental Comment To all members of the STB, please read carefully the attached article provided by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada. It shows how dangerous and inadequate the new safety requirements are for the transporting of oil and other flammable liquids. To authorize the GLBT project and allow it to go forward would end life as we know it for thousands of residents along the proposed rail line and will forever change the environment in a very negative way. For the sake of everyone, please deny this project. Thank you Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24517R.A.I.L.E.D. member[note from STB: no file was attached. Please resubmit] RE: FD 35952 To the STB, the attached news report shows just how dangerous shipping the explosive crude oil by rail really is. If the GLBT project Frank Patton is proposing is allowed to go forward so many more lives will be endangered and the environment as we know it, will be forever changed. Now we know that the new safety standards for the rail cars still aren't safe and they will be breached by derailment or explosions. To knowingly approve something so dangerous would be a terrible thing. Please deny this rail line for the safety of all things that would be so negatively impacted. Thank you. Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24516April GerstungRe: Docket No. FD 35952 - Great Lakes Basin Transportation. Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky, I wrote and e-filed a letter to you dated July 10, 2016, in which was written that we live within a 25-mile radius of three nuclear power plants and a facility that stores irritated fuel and for all the reasons noted in that letter, we stated that allowing Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. to construct their proposed project through La Salle and Grundy County, Illinois, should not even be a consideration and should be terminated. The Byron Nuclear Generating Station is located in Ogle County, Illinois, and was inadvertently left out of the July 10, 2016, letter. If a breach occurs at any of these plants, created form within the industry itself or by terrorism, a massive area would be involved that would require evacuation. There is no room for encumbrances of any kind in a county that houses a nuclear facility. Because of the seriousness of this concern we ask again that you refuse Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc.'s request to construct this rail line. Regards, April GerstungMorris, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24514Lana RippentropAfter reviewing all of the information about the Great Lakes Basin Railroad please say no to the proposal. Thank you.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24513Julie KulakThe proposition of a rail line adjacent to Camp Shaw Waw Nas See has been brought to my attention, and Im writing to declare my opposition to it. My sons have attended Camp Shaw for over 8 years now. It is a quiet, safe, and beautiful escape from suburbia. The creek that runs through it is a source of beauty, history, and fun for the kids. I am concerned about the noise and safety issues that would come with the rail line. Kids need a place to "get away" and be kids. The consistent rumbling of a nearby trail would definitely disrupt that, as would the real possibility of a derailment introducing toxic chemicals into the air or water. Please, this area is very special to us and many other families in northeast Illinois. there must be alternatives to this rail line. Please consider them. Thank you for your attention."
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(printed as 7/11/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24511Camp Shaw Wah Nas SeeCamp Shaw Wah Nas See is a historic American Indian site. The GLB project has the potential to adversely impact the creek, the entire watershed and the camp environment. Our children are learning about the past through this camp. I attended camp for eight years as a child and I am hoping that future generations in my family can attend the camp with it's pristine beauty. The prospect of having trains moving near the property all night and all day will ruin the atmosphere and peace and make it impossible to convey the Native American history to future generations. Please deny the Great Lakes Basin railroad project.Janet Sible · Burr Ridge, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24510Steven BryantThe proposed construction of the railroad line will have severe negative effects to the local environment to the area. The noise pollution and transport of oil cars on the train are the main factors to the damage in the area. Please do not let this rail line construction happen. Thank youSt Charles, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24509Keisha SmithI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. Please do not allow this project to continue. It will destroy the few beautiful places we have in Kankakee county. Our children will lose a campsite where they can explore caves, hike trails and study nature alongside a flowing creek. Please stop the construction of this railroad. There are too many natural treasures that surround the proposed railway that will be destroyed.Kankakee, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24508Renee MarskiTo Whom This May Concern, I am writing in opposition to the proposed GLB Rail Project located very closely to Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See near Manteno, Illinois. As the parent of a child that attends Camp Shaw multiple times per year for Boy Scout of America camping events and Camp Shaw's summer camps, I implore you to stop this rail project from happening. In a day and age when so many of our children are connected to electronic devices, it is imperative that places such as Camp Shaw remain to give children the opportunity to connect with nature, build personal independence, meet new people, and develop skills in perseverence. As an middle school principal, and an educator for 27 years, I see the impact that getting children involved has. I have witnessed that children who are active in such places as Camp Shaw perform better in school and become productive, caring citizens. My 11 year old son comes home from Camp Shaw and asks when he can return. It is always marked on our calendar. And, believe you me, he loves his electronics as much as any other 11 year old. Being outdoors connects his generation with the outdoors. As the wife of a railroad employee, I also see on a daily basis what the noise and pollution these trains can cause. The type of hazardous materials that would be carried by the trains is dangerous to the environment and the children and staff at Camp Shaw. Once again, I beg of you to stop this project. It is what is in the best interest of our children and future generations, not big business.Channahon, Illinois
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24507Amy GomezIf approved, this railroad is likely to introduce significant noise pollution to Camp Shaw which has been at this location for 70 years, delay response of emergency vehicles from Manteno Fire Department to campers and negatively impact the quality of Rock Creek. If approved, projected train traffic is up to 110 trains per day or one every 20 minutes. Noise and vibrations from this project would be less than half a mile from Camp Shaw. Train traffic, noise and vibration day and night will render the camp much less desirable and affect the quality of camp programming. Rock Creek flows through Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See in a deep canyon with a series of natural caves originally used by the Native Americans that once inhabited our land. It is one of the most scenic waterways and geologically unique properties in northern Illinois. The GLB project has real potential to adversely impact the creek, the entire watershed and the camp environment. We need to do everything in our power to protect this irreplaceable natural resource for the enjoyment of future generations.Channahon, IL
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(printed as 7/11/2016)CommentEI-24506Camp ShawI don't see how having a new train line in the area of such lush and lovely land would be advantageous for anyone but big business. The whole point of going to the area of Camp Shaw, is because of it's unique area, wildlife, and quiet. Silence with only the sounds of nature are what we all seek for our children when we send them to summer camp at Camp Shaw. I don't see how that tradition can continue with a train line being implemented in the environment. Surely there must be other means of transportation and other means of entertainment available. The Byrne family strongly opposes the introduction of a train line.Colleen Byrne · Naperville, IL
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24505Michelle SiegelDo NOT pass the train project! Too many homes,lives & good health are at stake! BLOCK GLBMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24504Wesley MilnerI am writing on behalf of my mother, Ruth Milner, who resides on our 5th generation 150+ year old farm located at 8303 East B-C Townline Road, Clinton, WI. My mother is 83 years old, in poor health, still lives on the farm and wishes to remain there for the rest of her life. The proposed route for the proposed GLB rail will go right through the middle of our family farm, cutting it in half with no access to the other side. The purpose of this letter is to advise you that we are vehemently and strenuously opposed to this proposed rail without reservation. My mother depends on the income from some portions of this property for her well being and we, as a family, are concerned about the destruction of this property and its value if this proposed rail goes through. The proposed route will go through sensitive wetland areas and a spring creek that feeds the Turtle Creek watershed. Our family has always worked hard to diligently protect these areas to prevent erosion and preserve wildlife habitat, reptilian habitat and avian habitat. The introduction of this rail through our property would destroy a delicate ecosystem. This would also affect the hunting opportunities on this property as well as the positive economic impact hunting has for the State of Wisconsin. Please consider all of my above comments and it is my hope that this proposal will be denied in its entirety. It would be a tragedy to all concerned if this proceeds.Fontana, WI
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24503R.A.I.L.E.D. memberPlease read the attached information about the dangers of Tar sands oil AND Bakken crude oil and when you finish I hope you deny the GLBT project going forward and put an end to endangering more people and more land. Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24502R.A.I.L.E.D. memberPlease read the attached comment and the statistics included from the STB. And the GLBR trains will be up to 1 mile long going 70 mph. Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24501Robert BernhardI am writing out of concern for the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I am a farmer and resident in the surrounding area of the railroad and my concern is that the environment is going to be drastically changed if the railroad is to go through. Not only will drainage issues arise from the railroad being built, but that if a derailment is to occur, then contaminants will pollute the ground water and render the land useless for farming or wreck neighboring woodlands. Also emergency management personal will not be able to contain the spill because the local fire department is all volunteer. If roads are closed then more travel time will be needed to respond to emergencies and my time on the road with farm equipment will be lengthened. More time on the road with equipment is dangerous because people drive erratic around equipment. Also more tracks to cross is not good either because more accidents could happen. A solution to the supposed problem of rail congestion is using abandon or other underutilized routes to bypass trains. These routes would be cheaper to upgrade than to build a whole new railroad. These are some of my concerns.Mazon, ILlinois
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24500April GerstungRe: Docket No. FD 35952 - Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky, On 9/11, as the second plane crashed into the Twin Towers, and we began to grasp what was happening in our country, the concern that we live within a 25-mile radius of 3 nuclear power plants and a facility that stores irradiated fuel necessitated a call to the Emergency Management office of the county that we live in to ask about the permeability of those buildings. Please do not make the mistake of thinking that that's simply a good question. The seriousness of that concern should be one of your highest priorities affecting the proposed project of Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc, constructing a railroad through Grundy and La Salle County. Every year, the nuclear industry is required to send to those who live within a certain distance of any nuclear plant a brochure outlining safety information for a plant's host community. It is doubtful that the majority of citizens would follow the instructions to evacuate as written and if a breach of any plant occurs, created from within the industry itself or terrorism, a massive area would be involved. The evacuation area would depend on the direction that the plume would travel and as in any preparedness plan, the decisions for evacuation would be at that moment". I could spend a lot of time giving you the names of the roads that surround Dresden, Braidwood and the La Salle nuclear power plants in Illinois, give you the number of vehicles that already travel those roads on a daily basis and I could remind you that GLBT has suggested that many roads would be closed in building the rail but I'm going to rely on your common sense to know that a nightmare would be in the making. There would be citizens fleeing one way on as many roads as they could access and emergency response equipment and teams that would pass them going the other way towards the plant on already narrow and limited roadways. Residents of other counties would also be part of the evacuees increasing the number of cars and trucks. The possibility of any trains traveling through these areas, not to mention GLBT, Inc's. narrative of the possibility of 110 trains (stated on their web site) within a 24 hour period traveling 70 MPH (again stated by Mr Patton) and preventing the evacuation of people and the emergency teams in a timely fashion because everyone would be stopped at a rail crossing for a train passing through is incomprehensible. There is no room for any encumbrances of any kind in a county that houses a nuclear facility. Allowing Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc, to construct their proposed project through La Salle and Grundy County should not even be a consideration and should be terminated. Regards, April Gerstung"
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24499Scarlett DelyaI am opposed to the GLB railroad going in. It will be destructive to wildlife, land and things such as Camp Shaw and being able to utilize as it was before.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24498Doug ElstonRegarding the GLB plans, my request is to consider the environmental impact on residents. The train line will create noise, convert useful farmland to private use, and partition properties into less useful sections. The GLB project should be stopped now. Humans have environmental rights and concerns, too.Serena, IL
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24497Lana RippentropI oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Please look at it from the rural community point of view. Many people will be effected with the new proposal. Think of a railroad only 25 to 30 feet from your house and the noise and up to over a hundred trains a day. The rural community is a quiet place and people love seeing their crops grow. All of their lives have been invested in providing food for our country. Lots of acres will be no longer in use. Consider using the exisiting railroads and saying no to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. Thank you for your time.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24496Lana RippentropPlease say no to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad after reviewing all of the data provided for your decision. Thank you.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24495Jeff StoutAs a dad of a Camp Shaw camper, who loves going every year, I ask you to please stop the GLB trains from coming through Manteno. It will also affect the natural habitat of Rock Creek which has Native American ties and is a beautiful natural place. There are few places like Camp Shaw. I'm sure there is another location you can find with less impact to the people and natural habitats. Please, please make a different choice of a location.Alsip, IL
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24494Jodi StoutI am begging you to stop the GLB project. Not only will it affect my daughter who is a yearly camper at Camp Shaw, but it will affect Rock Creek with Native American ties that future generations deserve to enjoy. Why disrupt this beautiful place.Alsip, IL
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24492Brian D. HallWhy move trains from areas that have trained and full time emergency responders, to areas that are mostly volunteer, and unequipped to handle these type of emergencies. The counties are already strapped for money and can not afford to take on this added responsibility. It is almost insane to risk public safety for a few extra hours train ride.Monroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24491Brian D. HallIn regards to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project. In the Northern Illinois area, there are little used railways going East & West less than 4 miles away and a barely used railway going from Rockford to Rochelle less than 5 miles away. I was told that the project does not want to take another railroad property. This is exactly what will happen to thousands of tax paying citizens with their unneeded rail project. Think of the citizens of this nation that have strived to reach the American Dream, that this project wants to steal away.Monroe Center, IL
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24490April GerstungRe: Docket No. FD 35952 - Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky, In a letter signed and dated July 5, 2016, by Victoria Rutson and sent to Jay Johnson, Venable LLP representing Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. requests are make to provide additional alternatives to the proposed route that could minimize some of the protection environmental impacts of GLBT's proposed rail line. The information that the Surface Transportation Board has requested from GLBT is required by August 29, 2016. The letter states that this request has been made because, as of the date of the letter, more than 3500 scoping comments had been received that brought this particular element to your attention. When Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. responds to your requests, it will be the public who is not only knowledgeable but also has the right to comment once again on any alternatives and revisions. We ask that the same formality be offered to the public as it is to GLBT, inc. and the comment period for the public be extended. Regards, April GerstungMorris, IL
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(printed as 7/10/2016)CommentEI-24489Ken DaggettMr. Patton has no more right or knowledge about running a railroad than I know about running the Chicago Cubs baseball team, it would be a disaster in either case!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-25326David and Trish BranzFrom: David & Trish Branz [mailto:dtbranz@litewire.net] Sent: Saturday, July 09, 2016 6:31 PM To: rcpa@stb.dot.gov Subject: Great lakes basin railway utilities 200 ft easement proposal Hello, I’m very concerned about taking up so much good farm land here in southern Wisconsin for the railroad also increasing the chance of accidents. Docket # FD3592. My dad, Donald Branz owns land just to the west of the path in Rock County by Johnstown Center Can you forward this on to Dave Navecky. Sincerely, David Branz 5609 W Plymouth Church Rd. Beloit, WI 53511-9325
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-25139David Branz
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24906David Branz
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24493Garry JunkerWhat happens if a drainage problem occurs on the railroad property? Will the railroad fix it? Will the railroad let the landowner access railroad property to fix it? Why is it that this railroad is avoiding towns and cities? I think it is because Mr. Patton wishes to haul hazardous materials on this line. Other railroads find it necessary to go through towns and cities with their products. I attended a meeting in Morris, Illinois where Mr. Patton was asked if hazardous materials would be hauled. His response was a railroad cannot refuse to haul anything." This project will cross 16 roads in Kankakee County. An immediate concern is the increased time for first responders to get to an emergency. Additional road crossings for this project also create additional time needed to get to work, school, church, shopping areas, hospitals, etc. The town of Grant Park in Kankakee County will be decimated by this project. Over 15,000 acres will be taken from one of its two townships for the railport. In addition 24 acres of land per mile will be taken for the railroad in Grant Park. Additionally in Grant Park one newer subdivision will be eliminated by the railroad route. These people will not stay in Grant Park. Taxes will be lost for schools due to decreased enrollment maybe forcing schools to close. Mr. Patton claims this railroad will enhance property values. Ask any real estate agent and they will tell you the cheapest land and homes are near a railroad. Mr. Patton claims his railroad will create jobs. He did not say any jobs would go to the unemployed. I think not because these people lack the skills to build a railroad. Railroads tend to bring their own crews. Mr. Patton said his railroad will take 1 million trucks off the road. He indicated his railroad could bring 250,000 jobs in the future. This would still leave 750,000 people looking for jobs if those trucks are in deed removed. As the population continues to increase, how can farmers continue to meet the need for food if the best land is taken out of production? Flooding due to altered flow of water could eliminate additional land from agricultural production. Spills would penetrate into water both on the surface and below the surface. This would penetrate wells, etc. used for drinking. Spills would eliminate even more land from production due to lack of containment. In the event of spills who is responsible for cleanup and containment? Rural fire departments may not be qualified to handle such disasters. Spills would require additional for cleanup and containment. Who pays for this? Noise levels from trains will cause farm animals to be less productive for things such as milk and eggs. Having more track crossings in an ares such as Kankakee County creates the possibility of more vehicle-train and farm equipment-train accidents. Hauling hazardous materials and chemicals can endanger the lives and health of people due to leaks, spills, etc. The stubbing and closing of roads will put more farm equipment onto major highways causing more accidents, deaths, etc, due to differences in speed of farm equipment and vehicles such as cars and trucks. Splitting of farm fields will cause even more compaction because farmers will have to make more turns when planting and harvesting. Why not send in a technology team such as Google to see if it can develop ways to solve the congestion problem in Chicago? This could protect the environment as well as preserve precious farm land. The CREATE project is already working on the congestion traffic in Chicago and having success. Why is another project needed such as the GLB railroad for the same purpose? Plus railroad traffic is decreasing. Farming is a $1.5 billion dollar business in Kankakee County. It is estimated the yearly loss due to this railroad project will be $69 million dollars. Kankakee County cannot stand this annual loss. Plus I think the estimate is low. Land is a limited resource--once it is destroyed it cannot be recreated. Increased time will be required to farm divided fields due to having to cross railroad tracks and having to farm smaller parcels making it necessary to make more turns when planting and harvesting."
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24488Susan ParksPlease don't let this railroad go though it would ruin the area and the parks and a camp that is dear to all that have been there.Bradley, IL
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24487Camp Shaw ParentPlease carefully review and understand the irreversible impact that the approval of the Great Lakes Basin railroad (GLB) project will have on the thousands of people who utilize the natural resources at Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See in Manteno, IL. My three children have been camping at Camp Shaw each summer for the past five years. We have appreciated Camp Shaw as adults that moved to the hectic suburbs of Chicago and recognize that sometimes we just need to unplug and go back to nature. Since my entire family's first visit, our lives have been impacted and changed for the better. Camp Shaw provides my children and countless other children an escape to a place where there are no televisions, cell phones, video games and the noise and stimulus that is so often overpowering in their lives. Children are given the opportunity to play in the river, hike in the forest and sleep under the stars, all without the noise and light pollution they live with every day. If there is any doubt as to the value of this in the children and adults who attend Camp Shaw's lives, you must visit the camp for yourself. I truly believe that as adults it is our job to protect our children and what is integral to their development as good, productive, and mindful human beings. Providing places such as Camp Shaw is one of the ways we can do that. Please do not approve the railroad adjacent the Camp Shaw property.Lisa Zink · Winfield, IL
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24486Melissa RubikPlease reconsider the Great Plains Railroad project. My son has greatly enjoyed his time at Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See. It, and the Rock Creek that flows through it, are a natural treasure that should be preserved. The camp provides a rare opportunity for kids to learn about nature and the Native American history of the area. The proposed project threatens the land and creek, makes learning more difficult with the noise, and endangers the children as it could significantly delay emergency responders.Plainfield, Illinois
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(printed as 7/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24483Camp Shaw-waw-nas-seeI am begging you to not build these destructive train tracks by Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see. The tracks would deteriorate the beauty of the camp, bringing polluting noise and bomb trains near children at play. I work here as a camp counselor and I was even a camper here, and I promise you that it will destroy it all. I can meet you in person if you'd like. You can come to the camp and I can personally give you a tour of the beautiful camp you risk deteriorating.Phynix Huhn-Simmons · Matteson, IL
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24482camp shaw was naw see[no comment or attachment received, please resubmit]Lina amro · wheaton, illinois
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24481Alisa SchaeferAs a patron of camp Shaw-waw-nas-see and concerned parent, I must ask you to deny the GLB railroad project as proposed. As a parent who has been sending children to this camp for over 16 years, I know I would likely refrain from sending my young children to a summer camp where a train runs within a 1/2 mile of the facility, likely carrying hazardous materials. God forbid something tragic were to happen. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Alisa SchaeferMcHenry, Illinois
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24480Donna HallPlease consider all of the people living in the area of the proposed railroad. We bought and paid for the land with our hard earned money We paid the bank high interest rates. We paid people to tile, fix fencing, cut trees, and dig out existing waterways. We pay taxes on the land, then we raise a crop and pay taxes on the money we earn. If the GLB Railroad were to go through the state would not be receiving any of the money we pay and will continue to pay. We have done everything we can to keep the land fertile and productive, yet someone can come in pay us a portion of the land value then sell it off to investors for a profit. We should be entitled to sell the land for that profit if we wish or keep farming in peace. Thank you for your time, Donna HallMonroe Center, Il
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24479Stephanie CallawayPlease reconsider the route, since the railroad would negatively impact Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see, a quiet nature heaven for young and old campers. My children have been going to the Camp for years, a wonderful, quiet place without pollution, without traffic and a place that has a beautiful creek, flowing through a canyon with natural caves, once used by Native Americans. It is one of the most scenic waterways and geologically unique properties in northern Illinois. My children are planning on becoming counselors at the Camp, (one already is) and I'm sure they will bring their children to Camp Shaw. Camp Shaw was founded 70 years ago and dedicated to veterans of WWII. It is a place of peace and serenity in a world of noise pollution. Please don't change that.Lombard, Illinois
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24478Samuel ClarkTo whom it may concern, The railroad that is thinking about being place into camp Shaw-Waw-nas-see is a bad idea for many reasons. One of those reasons is and probably the most important is the safety of all the Staff, Campers and environment around the area. The train would run every 20 minutes and would run through what I think is on of the best activities that our campers do at camp. It the High Adventure Course where the campers learn how to use leadership skills and teamwork that can carry on to the real world, but with that train running there wouldn't be that course anymore. The environment would be damaged completely because if that train is carrying oil and such like that and it explodes that will be devastating for the environment. This is my 1st year at Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See and I want it never to end. I love it so much. The people and the campers are always happy. I say this all the time, but when people come to camp they leave their real world" mask at the gate and become themselves. If that railroad gets put in Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See will never be the same. I beg you not to put in that railroad. Sincerely, Samuel Clark"
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24477Film ProducerPlease don't ruin the communities in the path of the proposed GLB Railroad. Tanker trains are notoriously dangerous, unreliable, loud and obnoxious. We beg you. Our children beg you. Let GLB Railroad solve their problems without taking advantage of common people. This is unjust for 1 person (corporation) to ruin the experience and properties of 10s of 1000s of people for their profit. No compensation. No recourse. Please don't let them do this.Brian Litteral · Saint Charles, Illinois
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24476JoAnn MarshallPlease reconsider the GLB project. Rock Creek flows through Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See in a deep canyon with a series of natural caves originally used by the Native Americans that once inhabited our land. It is one of the most scenic waterways and geologically unique properties in northern Illinois. The GLB project has real potential to adversely impact the creek, the entire watershed and the camp environment. We need to do everything in our power to protect this irreplaceable natural resource for the enjoyment of future generations. Our girls and many of their friends attend the camp which a haven for them and allows them to truly become well rounded individuals. It allows them to grow and gain responsibility for themseleves, something this country of ours is sadly lacking in too many individuals right now.Manhattan, IL
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24475Vicki ForquerPlease reconsider the GLB rail project. My daughter attends Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See every year. It means the world to her. This camp gives her great confidence that she sometimes can lack at school. She can really be herself there. She plans on being a counselor there in the coming years. I would hate to see Rock Creek and Camp Shaw compromised by this proposal. It seems to me like there aren't many places like this and we should take care of it for future generations. Thank you.Kankakee, IL
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24474Camp Shaw Waw Nas SeeCamp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See has been around for many many years and has such rich cultural history. Why would anyone want to mess with that? As you may or may not know camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See is and should always be able to be a safe haven to those who need one. Its beautiful, peaceful, and everyone there has so much respect for the land. Not only if this railroad is approved not only will that damage some of the beautiful land it will damage part of rock creek. Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See is an irreplaceable camp and it holds memories that will last a life time. You come to camp to leave the busy world of everyday life; and you replace it with magic, camp magic. We are the outsiders. We do not need anything to distract from our own distraction from whats going on in the world. While we are at camp we have our own news, who's going to the dance, who beat who in magic, and of course or night activities and big news. The railroads will most likely handle oil trains or Bomb Trains" and that cannot happen it will pollute the air terribly contaminating the air we breathe and hurting the natural forest we have. Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See is a safe haven a beautiful place for weddings and receptions, picnics, hiking; But with a railroad it will become a place where you cant just sit and think because every twenty minutes or so you hear a train and loose what you were thinking. A train doesn't belong in such a place of serenity and peace if you want to add something add a tree because the world needs more of those. As it can anywhere emergency's can happen at camp shaw. Now without the railroad an emergency vehicle can get there much quicker which is very beneficial if a camper or anyone is hurt but if a railroad gets put in there will be a delay response of emergency vehicles and every minute counts. Please think about everything i have said in this message i hope it can make you rethink your decision i would greatly appreciate it as would many many others."Jordyn Ward
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24473Camp Shaw-Waw_Nas-SeeHi My daughter has attended camp Shaw for the last few years. The experience for her has been life changing. She looks forward all year long to her few weeks out at camp, one with nature. The proposed rail line would destroy her experience, There are so few places left like the camp and it would destroy not only my child's but other children's ability to escape for a few days or weeks and enjoy the tranquil camp. Thanks, Tricia SmithPatricia Smith · plainfield, il
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(printed as 7/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24471Tara KosingI am writing this in opposition of the Great Lakes Basin Project . This project directly threatens Rock Creek and the summer camp located beside it. There are far too many untouched and unspoiled places in our country. Rock Creek and Camp Shaw-Waw-Nassee are one of the few such places remaining to us. Our children and our children's children need and deserve such places to grow and learn. Don't allow such a valuable resource to be tarnished.Round Lake Beach, Illinois
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(printed as 7/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24469Dr Martin O'Neill[no text or attachment provided, please resubmit your comment]Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24468James R Fleishman Real EstateJuly 9, 2016 To the members of STB and to whomever else it may concern: I am writing in regards to the Great Lakes Basin Train - FD35952. I have been watching quietly to the developments, and have finally decided to speak up for my own piece of mind. Quiet honestly, I'm surprised it has gotten this far. The proposal put forward by Frank Patton and his undisclosed investors speaks volumes as to the current sad state of affairs in our once great country, the U.S.A. As I follow it, it seems a couple of software guys playing golf one day were bored and decided they want to loot the government and the landowners of a bunch of money so they can play in the railroad business. If I can get three people called the STB to play along, then it won't matter if the railroads don't want it, the people don't want it, the landowners don't want it, I can go raid the piggy bank and go play. Simple common sense would say the railroads should be the ones deciding these matters, or at least have a huge say in it. Also, whatever happened to improving what we have or even expanding it. Just because there exists a government slush fund doesn't mean we have to waste it on some far -fetched project when there are practical useful alternatives. Lets fix what we have and upgrade it instead of abandoning it and leaving it to rot away for the next generation to clean up. Worst of all, if this is a sound business's plan run by private individuals why on earth would you ask for eminent domain at a ridiculously low price, up front? Eminent domain has its place, but this definitely is not how it was supposed to be used. Go out and negotiate with the landowners on the route, then if you can get 80 or 90% of them to go along with you, then apply for it (I still don't believe that's how it was intended by our forefathers) but at least you will have some justification for it. As it stands now, it is outright theft by private individuals and nothing more than a huge land grab and a scam proposed by the next Bernie Madoff. I've been involved almost first hand in several projects scattered throughout the area concerning private landowners and commercial ventures. Prices have ranged from $40,000 per acre for farmland in the middle of no where, $75,000 per acre for large tracts of farm ground to be used for warehouses near the intermodal , to $3.50 a square foot for large tracts of farm land ( which is $152,460.00 per acre) within a few miles of town. These where projects that were far less destructive to the land and communities than the proposed rail line. The rail is nothing more than a wall, traveled by hazardous materials, dividing counties and farms. The railroads as they exist today,came first. The towns came second, as the people made the choice back then to be connected to them. They didn't draw a line on a piece of paper to amuse themselves and tell everybody in their way to get used to it and there is nothing stopping us and its going to happen, and the government is going to give us the power to steal it from you. STB and other government officials please do the right thing and go at this whole project with a fresh approach. One that involves common sense, respect for property rights, and the major railroad companies approval. Lately I haven't been feeling very proud about the country I was born and raised in. Please show me somebody in government understands simple right from wrong. That business ventures must make sense, and just because we have a slush fund we don't blow it on wasteful projects when our existing infrastructure is falling apart. Show me that common sense has more clout than a bag full of lobbyist money! If you would like to be provided documentation to above sales please contact me - James R Fleishman Real Estate, James R. Fleishman, managing broker - 815-287-2280.James Fleishman · Verona, Illinois
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24467R.A.I.L.E.D. memberMy comments on dangers to farmers and others is attached, please read these as they are important. Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24466R.A.I.L.E.D. membersMr. Navecky and STB board please read my comments on the negative impacts GLBT will have on schools and others. Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24465Camp Shaw waw Nas seeI have been told about the proposed railroad. I have been going to this camp my whole life. It is a genuine piece of history that needs to be preserved. We want everyone, whether it be the youth, rental groups, or anyone else looking to enjoy the natural land to be able to enjoy it and have the great experience I've always had there. If the railroad is built it will cause noise pollution, will impact emergency vehicles, and can be harmful to the land. This camp would never be the same it this is built, people would never be able to enjoy the peacefulness of the natural history that has been enjoyed for centuries.Kaylea Fortuna · Alsip, Il
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24464R.A.I.L.E.D. memberTo the STB Boaard and David Navecky, I have attached my comments concerning the negative impacts GLBT will have on Farmers.Patricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24463R.A.I.L.E.D. memberMr. Navecky, and STB board, please read my attached comment. Thank you, Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24462Range Line Presbyterian ChurchOur church is opposed to this proposed rail road. See attached fileRev. Jeff Deardorff · Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24461Laurie FleishmanJuly 9th, 2016 I am writing as to an environmental/safety concern on GLBT - FD35952 in the NW 1/4 of section 13, Vienna Twp, Grundy County, IL. The proposed rail would pass directly behind our home and split our 157 acre farm into 2 triangles. On the south quarter of the farm there is over a 4% grade rolling down from the top of the ridge where the train tracks are proposed to split the pasture, 2 small fields, drainage ditch, and cross the creek in the timber and back up 30 plus feet on the south creek wall. This topography is unsuitable at over a 4% grade drop and rise in a 1/4 mile for a 70 mile an hour train! Graded tracks would not be applicable as that little drainage ditch though it may seem small now can turn into a roaring white water rafting flow in a flash flood. It took out our cattle crossing culvert and all gravel etc around it and moved it to the top of the ridge in a flash flood. What would it do to a rail? Not to mention you have the creek also doing the same! There is a reason the tracks some 70 years ago DID NOT pick this spot!!!!! As purposed with no large spanned bridge they would be building a DAM!!! Would it Breach and take out the tracks? Severe water drainage/flooding problems would occur! The GLB did not do their homework and all they did was draw a line. I am asking the Surface Transportation Board to deny the GLB project. Laurie Fleishman 815-287-2280.Verona, Illinois
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24460Martin HoffmanFrank Patton's claims for farms to have siding to load grain is impossible.Farmers would not benefit for delivering their products, he also wants to take trucks off the roads, so this is taking more jobs away. This would hinder all conservation practices,that farmers and government have spent large amount of money on. This proposal is a few will get rich at the expense of many.Hebron, IA
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(printed as 7/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24458Martin HoffmanAll along this corridor proposed GLBT railroad there is much frustration . Why did OEA,directer, Victoria Rutson, grant their request for a waiver. Frank Patton does not have accurate,specific and consistent details for OEA to assume ANYTHING and that Rutson cannot have adequate information and to grant this request.. What is going to happen to Rutson, is she still in this position?Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 7/9/2016)CommentEI-24457RAILED memberAs I sat on my back porch last night I enjoyed the sounds of nature around me - birds, waterfall, wind, frogs and insects buzzing. I could also hear the farm machinery of neighboring farmers working in their fields. But what struck me the most was the sounds of children playing on their farm OVER A HALF MILE AWAY! Sound travels across these flat fields in a way joining neighbor to neighbor despite living some distance apart. You never feel alone because you hear them and see them in quiet subtle ways. I can't imagine the only sound I will hear is the irritating roar of constant freight trains moving across our fields. The isolation will be immense. The proposed railway will be 150 yards from my door. I'm sure I will feel the vibration also. Why wouldn't I? I am totally opposed to the GLTB destroying Porter County in Indiana.Jacki Stutzman · Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 7/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24905Harvey Mabis
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24904Dawn Zur
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24903Linda Cosgrove
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24902Julie Kokos
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24800Melin{See 45 attached form letters]
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24634Joann Eike[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24599Gene O'Connor[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24598Karen Gill[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24524Virginia GawSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24523Mary SchepplerSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Serena, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24522Laura SchepplerSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24521Fred SchepplerSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Serena, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24455Edna HoffmanGLBT'S chief promoter Frank Patton has no experience with the most complex transportation system in the world. They have chosen a curious route, by passing DeKalb county in Illinois and Will county, where he lives. How can STB hold legitimate hearings when there is no real plan? HOW CAN STB ALLOW THE APPROVAL PROCESS TO BEGIN? Isn't STB held accountable for Victoria Rutson's approval? Does GLBT have lack of understanding,incompetence or outright fraud? The STB exist specifically to protect the environment, the public, the transportation industry, and investors from these types of boondoggles, so I ask you to deny this proposal to protect our area.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24454Dennis SchepplerSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24453Abe HenkerSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24452Virginia GawSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24451Mary SchepplerSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Serena, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24450Laura SchepplerSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24449Fred SchepplerSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Serena, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24448Dennis SchepplerSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24447Abe HenkerSince the STB is allowing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company until August 29, 2016 to revise their proposal, the comment period needs extended indefinitely for the public. It is not fair that Great Lakes Basin can alter plans or further clarify plans as well as submit new rationales to the STB and the public is not allowed to comment on the revisions. I am asking for the review to be extended so the public has an opportunity to comment on the new route narratives the STB has requested from the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24445Eagle Rock FarmPlease see the attached which I presented at our comment meeting in Lake County IndianaSusan Hayden · Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 7/8/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24443Tracy McBrideGLBT - NO NO NO NO NO! It is time that the voices of the people get heard. Do NOT proceed with this farce. This is nothing but a MASSIVE land grab for private profit. It disgusts me as a taxpayer that private profits trumps the average hard working tax payer! It is DISPICABLE. NO NO NO NO to GLBT!!!!!Monee, IL
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(printed as 7/8/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/8/2016)Comment[see attached letter and petition]Kate Cloonen, Representative, 79th Legislative District · Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24440julie kokosDear Mr Navecky, I don't know what other environmental concern I can point out.....they've all been researched and posted. This proposal would be a definate disaster to the environment on many many levels. Let me reference though, a letter dated July 6th by Lisa Hillman. We are all human and I know that at the end of the day, you are just like us. You work hard for what you have and you want to be proud of the life you have made for yourself and your family. I have read through many of the scoping comments, and it breaks my heart to hear how this project will permanently scare so many lives. Every time I hear a train, I can’t help but picture in my mind the GLB railway plowing through the farm ground and homesteads much like a tornado, destructing the fertile farmground, beautiful properties and permanently scaring the lives and hearts of many hard-working Americans. The only difference is that you have a choice in this situation, a choice not to destroy these god-given creations. Please listen to the cries of these people as you read through the scoping comments. These are real people, much like yourself, that just want to get back to living their lives. You can make that happen. Our future is in the hands of your Surface Transportation Board. I beg you to please abolish this project. I believe this is one of the times in our lives when “less is more”. Lisa Hillman" Can you hear the heartache in this letter? Can you hear the worry and frustration of her voice saying, how can this even be considered? Destroying peoples lives, homes, livelihoods, way of life, etc... should never be allowed!!! Making Americans sick with worry should also not be allowed!!! PLEASE REJECT ANY APPLICATION FROM GLB, TAKE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE AND CEASE ANY AND ALL FURTHER STUDIES ON THIS PROPOSAL! Please, for the sake of all of these people who would be so gravely impacted. Thank you, Julie Kokos 708-426-4180"
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24439Rock Against the Rail memberTo the Surface Transportation Board RE: Docket No. FD 35952 Great Lakes Basin Rail Line Project I hereby request that the Surface Transportation Board require GLBR to file a Formal Construction Application for authority for the track construction, not a petition for exemption. The safety, necessity, usage, financial and other information in this document will be critical for the STB to have in considering whether to approve the proposed construction and operation. It will be impossible for the Board to make an informed decision without this information. Respectfully Submitted, Gary Tagtmeier W9602 State Line Rd. Sharon, WI. 262-736-4746Gary Tagtmeier · Sharon, WI
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24424Save Our Farmland, LLCPlease see attached comments on behalf of Save Our Farmland, LLC regarding the proposed scope of the EIS for Docket No. FD 35952.Attorney Jordan Lamb · Madison, WI
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(printed as 7/8/2016)CommentEI-24422Ken DaggettMr. Pattons railroad is not needed because C.R.E.A.T.E is already in place and cutting rail time substantially and will cut it even more with further plans. None of the major rail lines show interest in using this new route, so where will he get his customers and what will happen if the line goes belly up? Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24907Anita Johnson
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24901James Marshall
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24900James Marshall
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24899Patricia Mussman
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24620John Enright[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24619Ty Bollerud[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24423Garry JunkerWhat happens if this railroad is built and abandoned? This line will run through a portion of Kankakee River State Park. Species such as bald eagles, deer, etc will most likely relocate or worse yet be harmed by trains moving through this area.The Kankakee River and three others will be crossed by this railroad. Concerning the Kankakee River efforts have been made to keep it clean.Having 110 trains cross it daily certainly creates a potential pollution problem.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24421Joan M WaiteClinton, WI
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24420Marshall & Julie NewhouseCapron, IL
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24419Garry JunkerSince no railroads have committed to using Mr. Patton's line. why built it and disrupt so many lives and property?grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24418Garry JunkerSince Mr. Patton wants his trains to travel at 70 miles per hour I doubt they will stop at individual farms to pick up cars. This would slow his time which he claims is a reason for the railroad to start with---speed things up.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24417Miranda & Richard Serleticsee attached comments regarding socioeconomicsVALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24416GarryMr. Patton claims land owners will get free use of his railroad. He forgets to mention that a spur line and switch would have to be paid for by the land owner.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24415Garry JunkerMr. Patton with his questionable proposed taking of an additional 50 feet of property for utilities claims free electricity will be provided. He forgets to mention that land owners have to pay to have a line brought to their property.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24414Garry JunkerMore crossings and stubbed and closed roads will make it more dangerous to move farm equipment. Farmers will have to travel farther as well as well as travel on busier roads thus creating the possibility of more accidents.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24413Sandy LindenJuly 7, 2016 Docket #FD 35952 Dave Navecky, Phillis Johnson-Ball, Victoria Rutson; Frank Patton is boasting that the proposed GLBT freight rail line “will be the largest U.S. rail project in the last 125 years”. He says “eminent domain for railroads goes back to Abraham Lincoln.” “If you didn't have that possibility, there would be no railroad or interstate highways or schools, because at one point everything was farmland.” THAT'S NOT TRUE. It was not farmland. It was vacant, underutilized, unattended, uncultivated land with no people or towns for hundreds of miles. That was 100 years ago. Today...let's take away the existing nation wide bus transportation, airline travel industry, short sea and intercontinental shipping and current trucking industry. Let's take away the existing 70 mph highways with improved high speed on and off ramps. That's over 164,000 miles of highways in the National Highway System that form the backbone of our 4 million mile public road network. Take away all the existing paved roads, even asphalt roads. Let's take away all the air conditioned cars that cruise at 80mph. Let's take away the 140,000 miles of rail line that already exist with diesel powered train engines. Let's take away all the farmers that have been producing food and grain on the limited irreplaceable cultivated farm land that is left after 100 years of eminent domain. Let's replace all this with horse and buggies, stagecoaches, steam ships, horse drawn wagons, dirt roads, gravel roads, cars that went 20mph. Let's bring back Charles Lindbergh and the Wright brothers. Unfortunately it is impossible to put back all the acres of actual open land with no people and no farming that once existed 100 years ago. That irreplaceable land is gone forever. The effect of eminent domain is different now than it was 100 years ago. Eminent domain was needed 50, 60, 100 years ago to improve shipping and transportation mobility in a newly developing country. Eminent domain 100 years ago took actual vacant land that had no towns, farms people or drinking wells. Eminent domain and proposed new freight railroad criteria should not be the same today as it was 100 years ago. Hopefully people making decisions today are not relying on 100 year old thinking. An overwhelming need for this new privately owned toll rail line has not been proven. It is hard to argue the point that this GLBT freight rail line and subsequent eminent domain is necessary when several class I rail lines have said they don't want it and won't use it. Unneeded existing railroad track has been abandoned or given over to bike paths just within the last 30 years. Millions of dollars have already been spent on “CREATE” with positive results and improvements in relieving rail road congestion in the Chicago area. There are existing rail lines available. If not available, why can't eminent domain take the already existing rail lines thereby drastically lessening the negative environmental and community impact in other areas?? This is not 100 years ago. An overwhelming need and benefit to society, not to a private company, should be addressed before personal property, farm land, communities, water sources and overall environment is negatively, irreparably impacted. I do not believe there is a valid beneficial need and strongly recommend this project not move forward and be denied. Respectfully, Sandy Linden, Cedar Creek Township, Lowell, IndianaLowell, IN
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24412Garry JunkerThere is already an abandoned railroad on my farm in Grant Park, Illinois. This abandoned property now is home to deer, heron, pheasants, rabbits, and a variety of other animals. The GLB railroad would cross this property.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24411Garry JunkerA train going through an area every thirteen minutes definitely creates travel problems as well as the potential for more accidents, leaks, spills, derailments, etc.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24410Miranda & Richard SerleticSee attached comments regarding Environmental Justice.VALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24409Garry JunkerAdditional noise from trains will destroy the reason why people moved to rural areas--for the quieter life. Also trains traveling at 70 miles per hour increase the likelihood of derailments.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24408Garry JunkerAdditional crossings increase the possibility of accidents and deaths. Some roads will be closed or stubbed creating problems to move from one location to another.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24407Miranda & Richard SerleticSee attached comments regarding Cultural & Historic Resources.VALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24406Eric AugspurgerThis project will irreparably damage the way of life in this area, remove a significant portion of the farmland and related jobs from the local economy, and destroy the existing infrastructure in and around Manteno. Furthermore, no major railroad has publicly supported this project or stated it will use the railroad, while two of the six major railroads have publicly stated they have no intention of ever using it.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24405Miranda & Richard SerleticSee attached comments about energy resources.VALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24404Miranda & Richard SerleticSee attached comment regarding Geology and Soils, Air Quality and Climate, and Noise and Vibration. Train impact study attached too.VALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24403Miranda & Richard SerleticSee attached letter regarding biological resources.VALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24402sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, please take the no action alternative on the glb proposal. No action starting now! this preposterous proposal has taken up far too much of the STBs and the publics' time thus far. People and land owners and farmers and municipalities and school boards and fire departments and state senators and businesses and environmental groups, etc... have all stated that this so called proposal is not only NOT viable but if it were allowed, it would take land, homes, churches, schools, farms, cemeteries, etc and destroy them with the unjust, illegal use of eminent domain! It is time to tell Frank Patton & the GLB and their law firm to take a hike"! Take a hike through the beautiful countryside and wetlands and wildlife areas and homes and small communities, they would destroy! This is AMERICA!!! There shall be no threat of eminent domain by private investors wanting to take what is not theirs for themselves!!!! I emplore you!!! NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE!!! THANK YOU , Julie Kokos 708-426-4180 Sumner Township Kankakee County IL"julie kokos
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24401Village of ClintonAttached is a resolution from the Village of Clinton Wisconsin statin we do not support the GLBT railroad because of negative economic impact, public safety hazard and environmentalDavid Hooker · Clinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24400Julie NewhouseCapron, IL
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24399KurtzATTN: Docket # FD 35952 July 7, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Sherry and Scott KurtzBonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24398Anita JohnsonHello Mr Navecky, I am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin railroad. I do not feel that the loss of farmland and the changes this railway will cause is worth the small benefit the rail way may provide. It seems to me that CREATE is working to take care of some of the conjestion and I believe this railway will cause more conjestion NOT less. Put me down as a NO. Thank-you. Mrs. Anita Johnson 62 Timmy trail, Somonauk, IL 60552Somonauk, Illinois [IL]
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24397Anita JohnsonHello Mr. Navecky. I would appreciate you taking a look at the attached letter I am sending you concerning the GLB Railroad. Thank-you. Mrs. Anita JohnsonSomonauk, Illinois [IL]
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24396Daniel KloosWe have been told by Mr. Patton that he plans on running 110 trains per day at speeds up to 70 miles per hour. I will assume that you have at some time in your life seen what happens when trucks on the road get off an expressway and have to use the cloverleaf and make the turn too fast maybe 30 MPH and tip over and lose their load That will be nothing compared to what will happen when one of these trains jumps the tracks on a curve. The information from Mr. Patton is that he plans on using this line to haul hazardous material what do you think will happen to anything in the path of this train when it loses its load in a derailment? The areas where MR. Patton has proposed to put this train will be destroyed. Shallow wells will be contaminated, creeks and streams will transfer that water to other areas and effecting people miles away from a crash site. These locations (farm fields)have very intricate underground storm water systems that can carry water to locations that no one would ever think of setting up spill containment. Please deny the request for this unnecessary railroad.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24395Daniel KloosI work in Alsip IL and there is a railroad that travels through the town and my office is 1/4mile from the tracks and on days that the line is busy and trains are moving through at a speed of maybe 30 mph I can hear them like they are right outside my window. My house that is being completed is only 200 feet from this proposed rail line and doesn't have buildings, trees, green areas to block or absorb the sound from this proposed train that will be traveling at 70 miles per hour 24 hours a day with up to 110 trains. How will this not impact the environment negatively? This railroad is not for the good of all, it is for the profit of a few so I ask that you deny the request to construct this railroad.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24394Daniel KloosI am in the process of completing a new home that I started prior to being informed of this proposed railroad. I am 200 north of the proposed track and just completed drilling my well and this well is only 60' below the surface and is the only water source I will have. With the weight, vibrations and material that will be coming from this proposed railroad there is a very possible chance that this and all the other private and public wells will be contaminated or collapsed. It's seems odd to me to think that with what happened in Detroit and their water system that anyone would be willing to put their name on the line allowing something like this to move forward knowing that that its not if but when these wells will be contaminated and people will develop illnesses or worse die from it. To date I have not seen a report that will show that this railroad will have a positive impact on the environment but we as land and home owners are being forced to prove that this will negatively impact our environment. There is something wrong with that. Please deny this request for the construction of this railroad.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24393Dave TishkowskiHello Mr. Navecky, I am writing to convey my serious concern and opposition to the proposed construction of the Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail line. I believe that the magnitude of environmental risks eclipse the supposed benefits shared by Mr. Patton. A large portion of the proposed construction of the rail line will run within Southeastern Wisconsin’s Rock Prairie. This specific area is well known by Famers, Geologists and Conservationists alike as an area rich in soil nutrients for the bountiful production of crops such as corn, wheat, and soy. Chemical spills by derailment could easily contaminate the soil and render much of the prairie agriculturally idle. Conversely, I believe that current vacated rail lines within the proposed areas in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin could be a possible viable alternative to the GLB rail line. Using vacated rail lines would minimize environmental risk to the soil-rich prairie by re-routing existing rail lines away from the Rock Prairie. Utilizing unused rail infrastructure would also promote environmental sustainability initiatives by limiting the disruption of agriculture and wildlife caused by new construction and rail operations on the Rock Prairie. Thank you for your time and consideration on this important environmental review. Sincerely, Dave TishkowskiDarien, Wisconsin
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24392Matt BoomsmaMr Navecky, I am submitting my concerns to the proposed GLBT rail line. I am in the construction industry, and even though I see this as an opportunity to bring work to the area, I need to stand against the proposed GLBT Rail Line. The work that would come to the area would only be that of specialized work forces, and it would be at a tremendous cost to current land owners. Property values will diminish, and farms will be destroyed. When a farm is divided, whether it's crops or livestock, the amount of work and costs to continue to sustain the farm are increased significantly. Combine that with decreased property value and the farms will not be able to sustain themselves. Land will be destroyed and families will loose their family business (the farm). This is both a negative environmental impact and economic impact. It is a significant loss for many for a gain for only a few.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24391Ken DaggettHow can someone like Frank Patton work on a project for 7 years and not know who his investors are, where the line will run, why he needs 15,000 acres for a rail yard, where he will get his money if the investors back out, what the environmental impact will be, how much of an impact it will have on the affected area, the safety of tank cars that will transport crude oil,(which he says will be 110 trains a day, if they carry 100 cars per train that is 11,000 tank cars of crude oil a day, the laws of average says there will be a train wreck), the training of emergency personnel to deal with every form of disaster that would come with the railroad, and the hundred other questions he refuses to answer or deal with!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24388Laura WenzelmanThe STB should not allow the permanet destruction of land that GLB is trying to take. There is only so much land and when it's gone there's no getting it back.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24387R.A.I.L.E.D. memberAttached is a letter of concern over procedures used that waived an application by Frank Patton and GLBTPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24386R.A.I.L.E.D. memberWith additional scrutiny we are learning more about the negative impacts of this proposed rail line. Please read the following attachment. Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/7/2016)CommentEI-24385Daniel KloosThis proposed railroad has no merit or value to anyone other than to Mr. Patton and his investors". I to date still have not heard from any railroads say that they are going to use this railroad, it is the complete opposite they are saying that they will never use it. They have spent hundreds of millions of dollars to improve their own systems. I am not sure how this project has gotten as far as it has and how he was able to skip standard requirements for the application. We are all being lied to by Patton, this is not about a railroad or Patton leaving a legacy or a railroad not being built in a hundred years it is about a private company using the government to allow them to steal our land and homes. There is no need for this so you should stop this process and spend this time and money on things that protect our environment not destroy it. Please deny this request."
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24633Herman and Bertha Reis[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24617Alan and Velma Blachford[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/6/2016)Comment[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24356Garry JunkerNumerous health hazards can occur as a result of the materials being hauled, leaked, spilled, or worse.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24355Garry JunkerGood soil is a limited commodity, once land is destroyed, it cannot be replaced.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24354GarryFarmers cannot continually produce more especially when the best land is taken out of production.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24353GarryThis railroad would disrupt a way of life that many people depend on for food, livelihood, etc.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24352GarrySince no railroads have committed to using it what happens if it is built and then abandoned?grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24351GarryFlooding caused by altered flow of water will eliminate even more farmland from production.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24350Garry JunkerPotential derailment problem--chemical spills will be harmful to surface water and water below ground level, also to wells. Possible ruination of more farmland due to lack of containment of spills, etc.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24349Garry JunkerSome of the best producing farmland in Illinois will be lost to the railroad. Also 15,000 acres of such land will be lost to the railport.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24347Garry JunkerFirst responder time of ambulances, police, and firemen will be increased due to extra crossings and trains.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24346Garry JunkerSoil compaction will occur due to construction and use and this will make farming more difficult.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24344GarrySince the flow of water across fields will be changed and ponding will occur, this will produce more insects.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24343GarryThe flow of water across land will be changed causing ponding or standing water.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24342Garry JunkerDrainage tile will be crushed when the tracks are built and from the weight of the trains if this project is allowed.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24341Garry JunkerValuable topsoil will be lost when the tracks are built up to grade.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24340Martin HoffmanGLBT will have a devastating impact on all farm fields, damage to existing field tile lines, natural grade of the land will be altered and the risk of permanent damage to soil with the transport of oil and chemicals. Large farm field will be divided into small pieces, and have increase of compaction of soil and difficulty managing big equipment.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24339Justin kokosSave our rivers. Save our land. Save our world class farmland. Save our animals. Save our communities. Save our safety.... By stopping this project. GLBR = Eminent Domain Abusekankakee, IL
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24338Edna HoffmanThis rail line proposal is not progress, it is devastation to thousands of people in its path. How will land and water be protected, when there will be a train derailed, and from every day pollution.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24337Edna HoffmanThe GLBT has said they want 15,000 acres for a rail yard, when the largest railroads have 2,800 acres.Do they have other plans for the rest.? Can they be trusted? There are 4 large creeks in this area, which flows into the Kankakee River, then into the Illinois River and into the Mississippi,this could be devastating to millions of people.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24336Jason & Lindsay kokosDear Surface Transportation Board, Thank you for accepting my concern. My concern is a valid one considering the fact that my home and livelihood stands in the footprint of a 15,000 acre proposed railport in Sumner Township. Please provide a response to this message. 1. Why does GLBT require such a footprint, equal to that of 5 of the largest railyard/railports in this country? See the attached link https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bailey_Yard The Bailey yard owned by Union Pacific is the largest at under 2,900 acres. 2. GLBT should have to provide a plan and detailed proposal for the use of this land for anything of the like to be granted. Farmland should be forever, and not sold to the highest bidder. This is where the American people get their meals. 3. An environmental study should be procured for the negative effects on this 15,000 acre area alone. Including but not limited to the following: impacts to underground drainage systems, impacts to underground pipelines, impacts to native wildlife, impacts to ground water, impacts to Kankakee River due to run off/spills/contamination, impacts to local safety, impacts to quality of life, impacts to existing infrastructure upon notification of proposed usage. 4. Please explain to me the law in which a private entity deemed a transportation company" can utilize federal eminent domain laws that exist for and were created for Class 1 railroads. GLBT is not a Class 1 railroad, and also lacks the support of the Class 1 railroads. Your response is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time. Jason & Lindsay Kokos American Taxpayers 10831 Prairie Farm Rd. Grant Park, IL 60940 708-259-5250"
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24335Lisa HillmanJuly 6, 2016 Docket No. FD35952 Mr. Navecky, please read this letter, as I speak from my heart. We are all human and I know that at the end of the day, you are just like us. You work hard for what you have and you want to be proud of the life you have made for yourself and your family. I have read through many of the scoping comments, and it breaks my heart to hear how this project will permanently scare so many lives. Every time I hear a train, I can’t help but picture in my mind the GLB railway plowing through the farm ground and homesteads much like a tornado, destructing the fertile farmground, beautiful properties and permanently scaring the lives and hearts of many hard-working Americans. The only difference is that you have a choice in this situation, a choice not to destroy these god-given creations. Please listen to the cries of these people as you read through the scoping comments. These are real people, much like yourself, that just want to get back to living their lives. You can make that happen. Our future is in the hands of your Surface Transportation Board. I beg you to please abolish this project. I believe this is one of the times in our lives when “less is more”. Lisa HillmanGardner, IL
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24334Brett HillmanGardner, IL
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24333Robin SlackHello Sir, I sent a comment today already, but later saw you might be the appropriate person to direct my question to. I live in the small town of Herbert, my neighbor is already selling his house and I'm getting ready to put my house up for sale as I'm getting ready to retire. My concern comes in with how property values are going to be affected by this railroad project - if approved. This proposed railroad would be less than a mile from my home and I'm greatly concerned about noise level and how this will affect my property value. Is STB planning to office folks like myself FMV? Thanks Robin SlackHerbert, IL
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24332Robin SlackAttention Board: I am writing this comment in regards to property value for homes very close to the proposed railroad. The question I have is in regards to my specific property. I am in the process of getting my home ready to sell. My husband and I have lived here for 20+ years and want to retire. Although I'm support alternative routes, if this railroad project is approved, I believe this will affect my property value. I would like to know if STB is planning to offer FMV to property owners like myself, who's property is less than a mile from the proposed track.Herbert, IL
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24331Fran KrasAs a resident of Westville in Porter county, I have grave concerns about the viability and necessity of the proposed GLB rail line. For my family and neighbors, it would create a tremendous detrement to our way of life. 1) Access to Emergency services. The proposed route comes within a half-mile of my home and cuts us off from direct access of local emergency services. Volunteer fire departments are a vital and necessary part of rural life, but this rail line would create delays in not only the personnel getting to the equipment but then also in getting that equipment to our homes. 2) Bus safety and length of rides. Children in the area already have lengthy rides to and from school. Long waits at crossings would only increase that time as well as increase the danger of accidents. And again, an accident in our area would mean lengthy wait times for emergency services. 3) Impact on wetlands. The 2 marshes on our property are among the many in the area which serve as way stations for the migration of assorted bird species as well as the Sandhill cranes that make their way through here twice a year. To disrupt this natural habitat without concern for the greater environment would be short-sighted. 4) Impact on water resources Interuption to the natural flow of water down to the Kankakee river could cause damage to the local agricultural economy as well as create unforeseen problems down the way. Water is a critical resource for any community. Managing it is a difficult and immense task. A project like this could have devastating consequences that local communities are not financially prepared to deal with and won’t be compensated for when a crisis does occur in the future. 5) Rich farmland Some of the finest farmland is in this area and cutting it up by cutting across it changes the course of not only families but of potential usage far into the future. Properties cut in half or thirds have already had major investments made in equipment specifically designed to work this land as well as drainage tiles and other upgrades. If these investments are rendered useless the value of the property plummets especially for agricultural use. 6) Noise I moved out here to live and work. As a writer, a distant train whistle is a nice addition but constant freight trains in my backyard are a constant distraction. I don’t have the resources to rent office space in another location. This location was chosen for it’s serenity and is an ideal writing environment. 7) Unnecessary The CREATE rail project has already had a lot of positive impact on the problem of rail congestion. It has major railroads (freight and passenger) signed on and has and is continuing to make a valuable contribution to greater good. Resources should be put towards this project, not towards an unproven, unsupported one. Thank you, Fran krasWestville, IN
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24330Lana J RippentropPlease block the Great Lakes Railroad. I believe it is a rail corridor through rural communities to push hazardous materials, The high speeds of trains and cut off roads will inpack so many rural people which are having hard times already. Please do a review of all the data that is submitted and make the best decision. Thank you for all you are doing. Remember to BLOCK this plan,Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24329Linda NeeringLeave OUR land alone. We will not cease to have OUR concerns considered. The last think we want or need in this three state area is more trains, which means more trucks, or noise, or pollution, threat of accident, losing our family homes, losing our RIGHT to a peaceful environment....we no longer trust what we are too old.Cedar Lake, Indiana
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24328Lori PepperDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing concerning the proposal of the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line which is now under review of the Transportation Surface Board, Docket Number FD 35952. As I have written previously I am concerned with the environmental and economical impact that this rail line would have on those whose land lies in the path of this rail line. I own a farm that will be divided by the GLBRR should it be built in southern Boone County, Illinois. Over and over Mr. Frank Patton, partner in GLBRR, has stated he will be compensating land taken for his project at the sum of $20,000 per acre. He has also stated repeatedly that he will be using the authority of eminent domain to obtain the acreage needed for this rail line. Laura Harmon, Illinois Farm Bureau Senior Counsel, explains the compensation of eminent domain as follows, It is the general legal rule that officials are forbidden to pay above fair market value for purchases. Fair market value means value set by the market. Thus negotiated sales at above fair market value are legally problematic." As you are likely aware the fair market value along this route for farmland is far less than $20,000 per acre. Fair market value is not viable compensation for all the many added expenses farmers will incur due to water flow change, broken tile, loss of CRP acreage, movement of highly fertile soils, constant risk of derailment and time wasted in transporting equipment around rail line during construction and once completed. Mr. Patton's promise of compensation is a hollow statement not based in fact. This is one sole example of Great Lake Basin Rail exaggerating the truth. How can State Governments, County officials, landowners or the Surface Transportation Board trust GLBRR's other statements concerning care of our environment, noise abatement, public need for more rail line, and most importantly, safety? I urge the Surface Transportation Board to deny this proposal outright. The Great Lakes Basin Rail should be given no shortcuts but should be forced to back up the sum of their plans and statements with detailed data showing absolute due diligence. The Surface Transportation Board and the thousands of citizens across three states and their descendants who would be negatively effected by this rail project deserve nothing less. Sincerely, Lori Pepper Flora Township, Boone County, IL"
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24327Julie NewhouseCapron, IL
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24326sumner township residentDear Mr Navecky & the STB, please choose the no-action alternative" on this trainwreck of a proposal!!!!!! We have proven the negative environmental and social impacts and we, the public should never have been made responsible for this task! The GLB proposal is a scam!!! For profit of a few individuals that want to disguise this as a huge benefit to all! it is not!!! not in any way shape or form! PLEASE TAKE THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE AND STOP ANY FURTHER EIS AND THROW OUT ANY APPLICATION FROM GLB, it's not worth the paper it's written on!!! Thank you, Julie Kokos"julie kokos
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24325Martin FayeMomence, Illinois
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(printed as 7/6/2016)CommentEI-24324Ken DaggettI am insisting that you deny Mr. Patton a permit to build a railroad on the grounds that he cannot back up any of his wild, boastful, and self-serving claims with documentable facts. This alone should be the end of GLBT!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentMarilyn Weiss
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentElgie Sims
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24615Dawn Beach[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24614Joe and Sandy Harrop[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24613Richard Loitz[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24430Abe HenkerThe attached article shows on page 4 a map of Illinois and the major population centers, the Great Lakes Basin line runs through key micropolitan areas, areas that are rapidly growing. This line is not going through sparsely populated areas and it need to be denied.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24429Virginia GawI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin railroad, because of the impact it will have on the Little Indian Creek Valley in Illinois, near Serena and Earlville. This valley is a stretch of old growth trees in the heart of farm country. The valley is full of bio-diversity and recreational opportunities. This valley does not need a bridge and a 250 foot swath cut from it for no reason other than GLB feels they want to build a rail line. GLB has not shown a need for this line or the ability to finance the line. But everyone knows the line will harm the waterways like the Little Indian Creek Valley and its surrounding woodlands. Please explain how GLB is going to protect the Little Indian Creek Valley and why building in this valley should be allowed. Please also investigate the historic nature of the valley, home to Chief Shabbona, leader of the Ottawa tribe of Native Americans.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24428Abe HenkerI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad and would like to know how the STB will minimize the 110 trains per day’s impact on the Illinois Lincoln Highway Scenic Byway. This Byway was designated this distinction in order to celebrate and honor President Lincoln. This honor will be diminished by the proposed GLB rail line crossing the Byway. The Lincoln Byway allows visitors to explore Lincoln’s life and the rural areas of Illinois, this line will harm the visitor’s ability to experience Illinois as Lincoln did. The train will harm the historical nature of the Byway and many of the communities surrounding the byway. The STB must account for the many Lincoln sites, including the Lincoln Byway in its exploration of the GLB line.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24427Virginia GawThe Great Lakes transportation Company, needs to submit a formal application to the Surface Transportation Board asking for their proposal to be considered. Until they do this project needs to be rejected.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24323Christine PitterleI am writing to state my extreme opposition to the rail line for the Great Lakes Basin plan. This plan takes a rail line through Rock County/Wisconsin. This is prime agriculture land, needed to supply food to the United States, and to export. Once this land is lost/used for a rail line, it is lost for use as agriculture. It is imperative that no more agriculture land is used/abused for transportation purposes. We can only produce so much for ourselves -- and the world. Do Not Destroy this land. Alternative routes must be available on current rail lines. Also, this cannot be acquired by eminent domain. The impact is too great to squander our precious agriculture land. This also takes a livelihood from many established farm families. What would replace that?Beloit, Wi
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24322Garry JunkerLand is a limited resource--why take some of the best land in the state of Illinois for the railport?grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24321Garry JunkerWildlife in wooded areas and the Kankakee River State Park would be adversely affected by this railroad.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24320Garry JunkerWildlife in wooded areas and the Kankakee River State Park would be advweesely affected by this railroad.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24319Garry Junker80,000 people in Kankakee County get their drinking water from the Kankakee River. In the event of a leak, spill, or worse this would be a major problem.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24318Garry JunkerThere are two cemeteries in the footprint of the railyard for the GLB railroad.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24317Dennis SchepplerI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad, this line will affect the cultural and historical environment surrounding Shabbona Park outside of Harding Illinois. Chief Shabbona was the chief of the Ottawa tribe and traveled extensively in this area of Illinois. This rail line will hinder how future generations interpret and enjoy the lands he traveled. This line needs to be denied as it affects many historical places in the Chicagoland area.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24316Laura SchepplerThe Great Lakes Basin line needs to be denied. They plan on building their line near the Norwegian Settlers Memorial in Norway, Illinois. This line will harm tourists and visitor’s abilities to experience the historic town of Norway. The rumble of trains and the difficulty crossing the tracks to arrive in Norway will harm this historic site. Additionally, the tracks have the potential to adversely harm the oldest family owned business in Illinois, for over 100 years the Norway Store has been owned by one family and has served the community faithfully. This GLB line has the potential to make travel to the historic Norway Store difficult and some customers will be lost as they will refuse to cross the tracks, as the train delays on traffic will be enormous, given there will be 110 trains per day using the line.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24315Dennis SchepplerThe link below will take you to the Illinois Department of Transportation website which indicates traffic volumes in the state. http://www.gettingaroundillinois.com/gai.htm?mt=aadt# This map indicates that along mile marker 130 to 134 for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad the traffic volume for East 2351st Road, also know as the Somonauk Blacktop or Hoxsey Road, is 1,950 to 2,600 vehicles per day. Additionally, North 40th road has 175 per day going west and 125 per day going east. The Great Lakes Basin line will require almost 3,000 cars per day to cross their line at the point where their track meets North 40th Road and East 2351st Road. . This is not acceptable. E2351st road is the major north/south road for this area, transporting more vehicles than US Route 52 and US Route 23. Additionally E2603rd Road leading into the Sheridan Correctional Facility and the town of Sheridan transports 2,050 to 2,150 vehicles per day, also more than US Route 52 and US Route 23. Just in this small area over 5,000 cars daily will need to cross this line. This is not a sparsely populated area and traffic volumes rival many urban streets. The STB must also take into account the large volume of traffic 650 to 700 vehicles a day on North 42nd Road, which the line must also cross. The STB must take into account the huge traffic volumes in this area and seek ways to mediate the transportation delays that this line will bring to the Serena and Sheridan areas. This line needs moved further south of Serena, as south of US Route 52 traffic volumes do slightly decline and the line can cross less heavily traveled side roads. The line has an alternative crossing for the Fox River in it’s plans and this crossing needs to be utilized to reduce the traffic congestion in the Serena and Sheridan area. The STB must also take into account the Serena and Sheridan Fire Departments service a huge area and delays due to the train will endanger lives. Traffic back-ups will be massive as 5,000 cars a day wait for 110 trains a day to cross. The STB must consider maximum traffic volume for this route, as stated in the GLB’s original proposal, and not the “new” volumes projected in public comments by GLB. Speaking of train volume the STB needs to find out why Frank Patton, managing partner now claims in public only 10-20 trains a day will use the line and the 110 number is not accurate. If this line only generates 10-20 trains per day, the project needs automatically denied as this volume is not sufficient to make an impact on Chicagoland train traffic, especially considering the huge environment destruction the route will cause.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24314Mary SchepplerThe Great Lakes transportation Company, needs to submit a formal application to the Surface Transportation Board asking for their proposal to be considered. Until they do this project needs to be rejected.Serena, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24313Fred SchepplerThe Great Lakes transportation Company, needs to submit a formal application to the Surface Transportation Board asking for their proposal to be considered. Until they do this project needs to be rejected.Serena, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24312Laura SchepplerThe Great Lakes transportation Company, needs to submit a formal application to the Surface Transportation Board asking for their proposal to be considered. Until they do this project needs to be rejected.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24311Dennis SchepplerThe Great Lakes transportation Company, needs to submit a formal application to the Surface Transportation Board asking for their proposal to be considered. Until they do this project needs to be rejected.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24310Abe HenkerThe Great Lakes transportation Company, needs to submit a formal application to the Surface Transportation Board asking for their proposal to be considered. Until they do this project needs to be rejected.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24309Jason & Lindsay kokosNO RAILROAD NEEDED. DOES NOT SERVE THE PUBLIC. IS DETRIMENTAL TO THE ENVIRONMENT. IS DETRIMENTAL TO THE SAFETY OF SURROUNDING TOWNS, HOMES, SCHOOL BUSES, MOTORISTS. TAKES VALUABLE FARMLAND FROM THOSE THAT PROVIDE FOOD ON YOUR TABLE 3 TIMES A DAY. IS AN UNJUST USE OF EMINENT DOMAIN. WHERE WAS THE APPLICATION FILED TO CONSTRUCT? CHOOSE THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE AND TELL GREAT LAKES TRANSPORTATION THAT THEY ARE NOT A CLASS 1 RAILROAD AND WILL NOT BE GRANTED THE USE OF EMINENT DOMAIN TO DESTROY FARMS, HOMES, AND COMMUNITIES FOR PRIVATE PROFIT.grant park, il
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentMichael Perrott · Gardner, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24307Louise TurnerI believe it is totally WRONG for this railway to proceed. There were tracks already established (through Hebron,IN), going north and east. They were torn out. Now, you propose to come in and TAKE land (eminent domain...criminally wrong) from those whose lives will be impacted the greatest. Take your money and go elsewhere. Preferably far away.DeMotte, IN
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24306Business OwnerStacey Knight · Westville, IN
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24305Michael & Claudette HenrysWestville, IN
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24304Luther & Stacey KnightWestville, IN
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24303LaPorte County BicyclistLaPorte County, IN has a great network of bicyle trails marked on county roads. The GLBT proposes to change the intersection of Route 2 and Holmesville Road. Holmesville Road is an important route for two of the LaPorte County Bike trains. These trails must be protected when the intersection is changed. Attached are files stating the problem and two possible solutions to maintain the safety of the bike routes.Charles Allen · Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24302James A. JohnsonWhen dealing with the need for drainage tiles to cross the railroad right-of-way, the railroad company needs to provide an oversized, very long lasting tile or other drainage structure that extends from one side of the right-of-way to the other with a catch basin centered on each of the two right-of-way lines. This design will allow access to those two catch basins from both the railroad property and the adjoining land owner's property. These tiles that cross the railroad right-of-way should be sized via engineering calculation to be a minimum of 50% (preferably 100%) larger than the size that is required for a one hundred year rain event. Personal experience has shown that getting broken tiles repaired on railroad right-of-way is not possible due to the railroad company being non-responsive to requests for such repairs and because no other financially viable options are available to the adjoining land owner. This leaves the adjoining land owner with crop and property damage caused by the unnatural introduction of water from the broken tiles into what was a naturally well-drained area prior to the construction of the railroad track bed.Shabbona, IL
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEI-24301Ken DaggettThe more we find out about this project that Mr. Patton is trying to shove down our throats, the more we realize why he is wanting to fast track this project. He has not been honest and forward with anyone he is dealing with, including land owners, government officials, YOU INCLUDED, the corpse of engineers, emergency services agencies, local fire districts, farmers organizations, the general public or any agency dealing with land value or zoning requirements. HE IS TRING TO PUT ONE OVER ON EVERYONE AND SHOULD BE STOPPED BEFORE HE GOES ANY FURTHER!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/5/2016)CommentEO-2809Venable LLPJay Johnson
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(printed as 7/4/2016)CommentEI-24300Laura SchepplerPlease explain why if there are over 700 railroad companies in the United States, all of varying sizes, not one has proposed a scheme like the Great Lakes Basin Railroad has? Obviously with over 700 for profit railroads in the US, if this was a good idea one of them would have asked to build the line themselves, or they would be partners with the GLB team. Please also explain why this line is needed focusing on the fact it is the biggest proposed line in over 100 years in the nation. No one else has done this or supported this, because it is not needed. There is no other explanation and I urge the STB to deny the GLB request or provide in great detail why this company knows more about railroads than the 700 other lines in the nation.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/4/2016)CommentEI-24299Dennis SchepplerAll over the nation rail lines are being closed, many need the STB approval to be repurposed and closed. Most of the repurposing involves making trails out of the lines. Amazing how we want to put the wilderness and nature habitat back in place. If people like trains like the GLB spokespeople claim, why are they not wanting to live by old tracks? They could run their own trains on them and everything. The reason is people do not like trains and they, unlike the GLB claims, do not own their own trains. The STB is looking into many rail abandonments and there are hundreds of abandoned lines in existence. This lines have permanently ruined the land under them, so that they are only good for trails. Do not let more Prime Farmland be taken and forever ruined by this line. Please explain why if so many lines are closing we need another one, especially one owned by a private company.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/4/2016)CommentEI-24298Virginia GawPlease explain why the Great Lakes Basin Railroad is a better plan than CREATE? Please also explain why GLB can use Chicagoland statistics regarding rail volumes, and imply they are City of Chicago specific. GLB is always stating this line is to act as a bypass for Chicago trains, but uses statistics from the Chicagoland region. Please explain why this is ok for them to do. They are not using City of Chicago information. Please also explain why moving this line to the far suburbs of Chicagoland is a bypass" f Chicago. Granted they trains won't go through the City itself, but most that GLB cites currently won't either, add to this the proposed areas are part of Chicagoland. This line needs move much further from the city, it is just moving trains from one part of Chicagoland to another part that is populated and growing. This is not sparsely populated areas."
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(printed as 7/4/2016)CommentEI-24297Laura SchepplerPlease explain why one company can seek eminent domain for private gain? Eminent domain is meant for projects of public importance. Pease explain how this projects fulfills the public importance criteria. Especially when 2 of the 6 class one railroads are opposed to this line. Please also explain why this line that will probably use federal railroad loans, taking money away from other projects, as they only have so much money to lend, is a better project for the public than the CREATE project, which has proven it can reduce travel times and increase rail safety. CREATE will have fewer funds available for the great work they do if this line is approved. Please explain why this line is better than the CREATE plans, as CREATE says it harms their plans and overall rail safety in Chicagoland.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/4/2016)CommentEI-24296Abe HenkerPlease explain how this line is needed, when no major railroad company has proposed it? In fact two class one railroads out of the 6 in Illinois have opposed this line. A third line Canadian Nation was already given STB approval to purchaser the old Elgin. Joliet and Eastern line to use as their bypass. If three of the 6 line either don't want or don't need this line, then the line needs stopped. If this line was needed a major railroad would have proposed it and they would be on board with it. it is obvious GLB railroad does not have accurate information as to the need for this proposed line. Please explain why this line is needed when two of the 6 railroads say it is not needed.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 7/3/2016)CommentEI-24292Ken DaggettExtending the Phase 1 comment period doesn't make this process legitimate!!!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 7/2/2016)CommentEI-24896Linda Cosgrove
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(printed as 7/2/2016)CommentEI-24288Christian GreyI was recently informed about the GLB railroad through my grandmother, Linda Mertens. (starbaby1031@gmail.com) I am 12 and have loved coming out to my grandmother's country house since the first time I visited. I have countless memories of happy moments, fun times, sad times, scary times, and the views of the country side. If this GLB nonsense comes through, every new memory made here will include the annoying noise of a train less than 2.5 miles away. I would not be happy. Also, I have a friend in Grant Park. According to this foolish plan, Grant Park goes bye bye along with Summer Township (according to the email my grandmother forwarded to me) and gets replaced by a 15,000 acre rail yard. First of all, the idea of replacing an area where a decent amount of people live with a rail yard is crazy. A 15,000 acre rail yard is outrageous! After poking around some more in the email, I realized a statement relating this project to the Taxation of Railroads, Other Transportation Companies, and Other Businesses" (State Board of Equalization and Assessment) Somehow, (don't know how due to my short attention span) the GLB railroad would be paying a whopping total of ZERO! in taxes, leaving us to pay for something most people either don't know of yet or don't want. Yes, the email says that the people who would be affected by this nincompoop project HAVEN'T BEEN NOTIFIED! Say you're so excited because you finally can afford a new kitchen remodel! It's been 8 years since your last one. Then you check your mail and it's been decided that a rail road track is running through your house and you will need to move. Outrageous! Also in the email, the Kankakee County would make an average of agricultural income would be DECREASED BY 4.58%! In the long term, that'a a lot. 5 years would be A 22.9% DECREASE from without this stupid railroad. According to a letter my grandmother recieved noting a few discussion points, Frank Patton started a software company. WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO START A RAILROAD IF YOU HAVE NO EXPERIENCE IN RAILROADS OF LEGAL STUFF OF RAILROADS!!!!??? Idiotic if you ask me. Building this railroad could interfere with this area's state park. "Oh my! A train derailed because it ran over a deer!" This whole thing is a long shot and nobody wants it, so why are we still discussing it? Just call the whole thing off! This will do NOTHING to benefit the people living in Kankakee County, and I hope my point is clear."Bourbonais, IL
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(printed as 7/2/2016)CommentEI-24287Dennis RosengardRoute Selection: 1. Proposed route in Lake County, IN between Mile Post 43.5 abd 47.5 takes a lot of productive farm land out of use where a more direct route would conserve acreage. 2. An alternative route has already been surveyed and acquisition of land started for the Illiana Corridor project from Interstate 65 near Mile Marker 241. Several months ago in 2015, Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner removed the Illiana Corridor project from the state budget. (Please note, the Illiana Corridor has been talked about for over 50 years that I know of and may not get off the ground for another 50 years.) Using the surveyed plat the GLBT right of way would be changed from the vicinity of MP 36 to go straight West and link up in the vicinity of MP 56 in Illinois. This proposal will decrease the amount of tillable acreage taken out of Lake County, IN. Energy Usage: • The entire route should be electrified. This will minimize carbon emissions used in connecting trunk lines with GLBT. If the projected growth anticipated is what the petitioners believe, then this accommodation should not be a problem. Rail Line Orientation: • For the most part, the designated route should be elevated to avoid grade crossings with highway traffic. Viaducts should be wide enough to accommodate not less than four lanes of traffic and high enough to comply with Interstate Highway design standards. . If the projected growth anticipated is what the petitioners believe, then this accommodation should not be a problem.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 7/2/2016)CommentEI-24286Maureen DeFioreplease block the GLB Railroad. Don't take away valuable farm land and jobs for the families and homes it will impact.South Chicago Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 7/2/2016)CommentEI-24285Diane HiblerWe attended a meeting a few weeks back where as Mr Pattons comments were I have this dream". Does he not think that so does everyone else. Does not our farm ground make up the environment where we live. It should be preserved for the future of farming.we maybe don't have endangered species on our ground but what about the deer, birds, ducks, geese and any other animals that live around us.How would city people like a railroad running thru their front yard? I think not.Please take into consideration what is going to happen to this beautiful farm ground if a railroad is allowed to be built on it. Thank You!"
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(printed as 7/2/2016)CommentEI-24284Verna auchstetterApproval with mitigation means full approval. GLBT will be built, our farm business, our soil will be perpetually disrupted and in some cases destroyed. People will be forced to move ( with no compensation) small towns cut off, materials too hazardous to be shipped in urban area can derail and explore in areas where rural people live. Stipulations means nothing to GLBT, they just want to track build so they can start to collect fees. Mitigation means land owners lawyers have to sort through layers of shell companies, layers of subcontractors,(as with pipelines no one will take responsibility for damages), The land is still destroyed, the hundred trains per day still block the road crossings, the danger of hazardous derailment is still there. There is no logic to approval with mitigations.Peru, Ill
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(printed as 7/2/2016)CommentEI-24283Lou HalkiasIt is my request that GLB not be allowed to build the rail line for the sake of protecting the water shed as well as farmlands and wild life. We have more than enough train lines and existing pipelines to move oil. The other issue would be building a 1500 acre rail yard. The scope and size of that is beyond belief. So my question would be why 5 times larger than Union Pacifics largest yard? What are the true reasons? Please donot allow this to happen. Thank youvalparaiso, in
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(printed as 7/2/2016)CommentEI-24282mary auchstetterIt takes years of sacrifice to buy farm land. Landowners are at your mercy for protection from the invasion of wealthy investors on a hypothetical projects. You are in position that decides our fate, how we are to live, to farm, the value of our land, the relationship with neighbors, the future expensive of lawyers . Are the thousand of statements to EIS just an avenue to vent frustrations? Sounds like the decision has been made , STB is just checking if they missed something on route. The power of so few people over so many. It is easy to take and destroy when you are not one sacrificing. U.S.A. is not a land of freedom, to work hard to own a business as farm property.Peru, Ill
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(printed as 7/2/2016)CommentEI-24281Brian D. HallI am writing in regards to the Great Lakes Basin Rail project. Apparently the managers of this project just drew lines on the map in disregard of terrain issues, which shows their lack of knowledge and empathy for the environment. An example of this is from mile 183 to mile 178. After connecting to the Canadian Pacific off Rte 72, the rail line crosses several waterways to mile 182, then comes down a hill and curves to run along a drainage ditch from mile 181 to mile 178. There is a reason there are no houses built around that section of Base Line road, because the water table is only 18 to 24 inches deep, and the county will not permit housing. Without the drainage ditches, which will be eliminated at mile 179 where the rail expands to 6 tracks, which is also where about 4 drainage ditches combine to go into Kilbuck creek. The drainage for thousands of acres, from Il highway 39 to about 5 miles east, will be eliminated, and will cause profound problems, not just for the farms but also the railway itself.Monroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 7/2/2016)CommentEI-24280Brian HallI am writing in regards to the Great Lakes Basin Rail Project. The path that is proposed is already in place just a few miles away. The Wisconsin & Southern R.R. Company runs from Janesville to Beloit WI which turns into the Canadian Pacific from Beloit to Rockford. It then meets up with the Illinois Railway from Rockford to Rochelle IL, then the BNSF from Rochelle to Peoria IL. The Great Lakes Basin Project map runs parallel to these lines which are less then 4 miles away or closer in many cases. I feel to continue this project is a great waste of good farmland and natural resources that is unwarranted. Thank you, Brian HallMonroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 7/2/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/1/2016)CommentEI-25266Michael Sklavos[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/1/2016)CommentEI-24597Dennis Schlepper[See attached letter]
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(printed as 7/1/2016)CommentEI-24277Randall MauI have environmental and safety concerns regarding the proposed route crossing at the Kankakee River. Please see attached letter.BONFIELD, Illinois
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(printed as 7/1/2016)CommentEI-24276sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, I would like to state my complete and total opposition to the GLB Transportation proposal. The environmental impact would be devastating, with thousands of homes, business, schools and communities being destroyed. That is not even to mention the dire safety hazards involved. Frank Pattons' claims of secret, private investors warrants concern of whether there are enough funds for project completion. I find two things he has said very disturbing. One is his quote that the RRIF currently has a balance of $30 billion and the federal government is aggressive to use it". My take-away from this is that the government just wants to spend money...without concern for the welfare of the people in this railway's path. Also, when asked how much of the $8 billion will come from foreign investors, Patton said he could not say. I don't find this transparent at all. I implore the STB to remove this proposal in it's entirety. The American people should not live in this fear of having our land taken from us and our earning ability taken from us and our way of life forever changed. Please reject, deny, refuse and throw out this proposal now and cease all current EIS process. Thank you, Julie Kokos 708-426-4180"julie kokos
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(printed as 7/1/2016)CommentEI-24275jason kokosDear STB, It's me again, Jason Kokos. I write to you a lot because I'm not only very concerned about losing my home to an unjust use of eminent domain, but have great concern for the negative effects this will have on the environment. I hope that you will seriously consider and take into account the nearly 11 pages of concerns the ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES has put together. If these issues are not reason enough to choose a no action alternative, then something is truly wrong and corrupt in our federal government. After all, isn't this current regime/Democratic party very concerned about global warming and the environment? If so, these environmental concerns should surely stop this project dead in its tracks (no pun intended). As I've written many letters to you, I expect a formal response to some of them. I'm a law abiding, tax paying citizen, one of which this country needs more of. Please don't choose to disregard the little man" in this proposal! It is wrong. Thank You Jason Kokos"
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(printed as 7/1/2016)CommentEI-24274julie auchWhy are land owners, the people of the small towns treated so poorly. I can understand by greedy investors, but our government? Why are you transporting hazardous materials in the first place? Is the destruction of food growing land worth the greed of few. WHo has to give, health, quality of life? You can pick and choose? what kind nation we have become?peru, ill
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(printed as 7/1/2016)CommentEI-24273Indian Trail GrangeLowell, IN
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(printed as 7/1/2016)CommentEI-24272Cheryl HendricksonWhy can't Great Lakes Basin use existing railway? I don't understand why existing tracks cannot be reconstructed to accommodate faster trains. It doesn't seem fair that citizens will loose their land through eminent domain for something that if the existing tracks were used everyone would win. In our county, Boone, the majority of the land GLB wants is for farm animals and crops, their livelihood and means of income. Please consider this in your decision. Thank YouPoplar Grove, IL
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(printed as 7/1/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/1/2016)Comment
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(printed as 7/1/2016)CommentEI-24217Ken DaggettI insist that the reviewing process be halted and the notification waiver be withdrawn on the grounds that Victoria Rutson could not possibly have adequate information to grant a notification waiver. Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-25242Dan Kane[see attached comment and map]
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-25132Sharon Hargarten[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24895David Vlasaty
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24894Julie Kokos
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24893Julie Kokos
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24594Karen Gill[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24216Dennis SchepplerPlease explain why the Great Lakes Basin Railroad can spend years researching a new rail line, but the public is only allowed 4 months? Please also explain why if the GLB team had so long to develop this plan the plan has so many serious flaws? This company has no rail experience and owns no trains they are not qualifed to run a line like this.Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24215sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, As a single, widowed female business owner I am vehemently objecting to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. This would violate federal guidelines that prohibit discrimination for minorities and the poor in the construction of transportation projects. The project would take my land from me as I am in the proposed railyard" which is being referred to as the Manteno Railport. It is NOT Manteno, the map shows the railyard sitting on top of Sumner Township in Kankakee County, outside the Village limits of Grant Park, IL ! That's just another false truth from Frank Patton and the GLB. They don't even know what township they would be destroying! Or they want to call it something else for the purpose of deceiving the STB! As a minority business owner, I feel this is in direct violation of the federal guidelines that were created to protect minorities from discrimination, please explain how this line does not directly target minority business owners? Thank you, Julie Kokos 708-426-4180"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24214Daniel KloosThe need for this private toll railroad and utility easement has not been proven. The destruction to anything in its path has been. For that reason alone it is your responsibility to deny the theft of private land and not let this move forward. There is not way that an environmental study can be completed without the end result being that this or really any other project like this would negatively impact the environment.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24213Daniel KloosMr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Furthermore I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, nor collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spent millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24212sumner township residentThe proposed railroad plan is unjustifed and should be thrown out immediately as it has been pushed through the system and is an illegitimate attempt with no application. This will alter the ecosystem drastically. Massive quantities of our plants, and animals will parish which will leave an immense ecological footprint in our community. Also the noise and pollution are among many other reasons too long to list. What you plan to due to us as a town is a ghastly, heinous act as the farm land will be lost and you will be negatively changing our economy. We as a community do not support this dreadful project! Please deny any application and cease all studies and processes. We as taxpayers, land owners and American citizens have rights to own our land! thank you, Julie Kokos 708-426-4180julie kokos · grant park, IL
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24194Gary Tagtmeier
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24191R.A.I.L.E.D. memberWhy is the STB posting one of my comments 4 times. The same comment is EI 23859; EI 23860; EI 24123 and EI 24124. Two of my other comments have not been posted yet at all. This is frightening because our comments are important to us and should be posted properly so they can be accurate and so they can be viewed by others. Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/30/2016)CommentEI-24190R.A.I.L.E.D. memberThere is no attachment in this comment. You must redo the comment Transcrips from the Scoping meeting April 12, 2016 Lowell, Indiana". There was NO attachment. We cannot read our comments to see if you did them correctly. Pat Mussman, Lowell, Indiana EI-24078 TRANSCRIPTS FROM 4-12-16 PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING, LOWELL, IN ORAL COMMENTS 06/17/2016"Patricia Mussman
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(printed as 6/30/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/30/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/29/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24892Patricia Mussman
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(printed as 6/29/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24595Thomas L Lichty[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/29/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/29/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24193Gary Tagtmeier
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24187carol dollGLB railroad-NO. Hazard to environment- farmland,villages,towns,people,wildlife. pullulate Kankakee river- no drinking water. hazardous matrial shppied thro areas with no anility to contain if accident occurs.grant park, ill
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24186john dollNo glb railroad. they will cause water pollution to all residents by polluting Kankakee river, will destroy productive farmland, hazardous material brought thro area causing potential danger to everything & everyone not to mention destroy vllages,towns, people farmland & wildlife.grant park, ll
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(printed as 6/29/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/29/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24183R.A.I.L.E.D. memberSee attached comments for Dave Navecky, Phillis Johnson-Ball and Victoria RutsonPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24182jason kokosGOD IS NOT MAKING ANYMORE FARMLAND. DO NOT TAKE THIS FARMLAND AWAY, ESPECIALLY THE 15,000 ACRES IN SUMNER TOWNSHIP, FROM THE PEOPLE WHO FEED YOU DAILY TO HAND IT OVER TO PRIVATE INVESTORS AND POTENTIALLY INVESTORS IN OTHER COUNTRIES. DONT YOU SEE HOW WRONG EVEN THE THOUGHT OF THAT IS? THIS IS AMERICA! NO FARMS, NO FOOD. GOD ISN'T MAKING ANY MORE! THE MORE WE DESTROY FARMLAND THE MORE DEPENDENT ON OTHER NATIONS WE BECOME!!!grant park, il
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24181jason kokosSEE THE LIST BELOW OF TOWNS, CITIES, COUNTIES, ORGANIZATIONS, AND ENTITIES THAT OPPOSE THIS PROJECT! THIS IS REASON ENOUGH TO CHOSE A NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE, LET ALONE THE NEARLY 3,000 LETTERS OF OPPOSITION WRITTEN TO THE STB AT THIS TIME. PLEASE ADVISE AT ONCE. ILLINOIS: Boone County Agricultural Conservation Easement & Farmland Protection Commission Boone County Board Boone County: Belvidere City Council Boone County: City of Belvidere Boone County Conservation District Boone County: Flora Community Grange Boone County: Pamona Grange Boone County: Spring Township Boone County: Village of Capron Boone/Winnebago: Northern Regional Groundwater Protection Planning Committee Cook County: Chicago Botanic Garden/Chicago Wilderness Cook County Department of Transportation & Highways Cook County Farm Bureau Grundy County Board Grundy County Farm Bureau Grundy County: Norman Township Illinois Beef Association Illinois Department of Natural Resources Kankakee County: Essex Township Fire Protection District Kankakee County Farm Bureau Kankakee County: Grant Park Fire Protection District Kankakee County: Salina Township Board of Trustees Kankakee County Soil & Water Conservation District Kankakee County Republican Central Committee Kankakee County: Rockville Township Board of Trustees Kankakee County: Village of Grant Park LaSalle County: Adams Township LaSalle County Board LaSalle County: Earl Township LaSalle County: Earlville Community School District LaSalle County Farm Bureau LaSalle COunty: Miller Township LaSalle County: Serena Unit School District #2 LaSalle County: Sheridan Community Fire Protection District LaSalle County: Village of Sheridan LaSalle/Grundy: Village of Seneca Kankakee County: Manteno Fire Protection District Kankakee County: Manteno Township Lee County: Alto Township Board Lee County Board Lee County: Willow Creek Township Board Ogle, DeKalb, Lee Counties: Creston Community Consolidated School District 161 Ogle County: Dement Township Ogle County: Eswood Consolidated School District Ogle County: Girl Scouts of Illinois Ogle County: Lee Fire Protection Board Ogle County: Lynnville-Scott-White Rock Fire Protection District Ogle County: Monroe Township Ogle/Lee County: City of Rochelle SOAR Illinois - Save Our American Raptors Winnebago County: Boone Farm Bureau Winnebago County: Seward Township Board of Trustees INDIANA: Indiana State Representative Michael Aylesworth Indiana State Senator Ed Charbonneau Indiana State Senator Rick Neimeyer Kankakee River Basin Commission (8 County Board) Lake County Board of Commissioners Lake County: Calumet Astronomical Society Lake County Drainage Advisory Board Lake County Drainage Board Lake County Parks Department Lake County Plan Commission Lake County: Purdue University Northwest Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District Lake County: Town of Lowell Lake County: Tri-Creek Ambulance Board Lake County: Tri-Creek School Corporation Lake County: Cedar Creek Township Lake County: Eagle Creek Township Lake County: West Creek Township LaPorte County: Town of Westville Porter County Assessor Porter County Board of Commissioners Porter County Council Porter County Dept of Development and Storm Water Mgmt Board Porter County: Hebron Town Council Porter County: Kankakee Valley Historical Society Porter County: Metropolitan School District of Boone Township Porter County Plan Commission Porter County Soil & Water Conservation District WISCONSIN: Rock County: Bradford Township Board Rock County Board of Supervisors Rock County: Clinton Town Board Rock County: Emerald Grove Cemetery Auxiliary Rock County: Emerald Grove Cemetery Board Rock County Emerald Board Congregational Church Rock County Farm Bureau Rock County: Town of Fulton Rock County: Town of Harmony Rock County: Town of Johnstown Rock County: Milton City Council Rock County: Village of Clinton Board of Trustees Walworth County: Town of Linn Walworth County: Town of Sharon Wisconsin State Grange Wisconsin State Representative Amy Louderbeck OTHER: CMAP Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Washington, DC Norfolk Southern Railroad Northern Illinois 4-H Camp Association Union Pacific Railroad (2014)grant park, il
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24180Nancy SturmConcern for railroad behind my property. The pollution of noise and the drainage of water are of major concern. The environmental air will be polluted according to the Healthh Tisk Assessment done by California Air Resources Board which says that community near rail yard have an increase in cancer.Grant Park, Il
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(printed as 6/29/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24178Margaret BlanchetteAs a longtime member of this community, I am concerned about the numerous environmental issues that a project of this magnitude would affect. The top concern in this area would be drainage and how the pollution from this rail yard will negatively impact our local water tables. We are a rural community, this will also disturb the environmental balance, creating problems for the farmers who are still able to continue with livestock and crop production. Thank you for your consideration in this important matter. Margaret Blanchette, Sumner Township Clerk.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24177Ken DaggettAnother massive train wreck today involving a train carrying flammable liquid and causing major damage and danger to residents! Mr. Patton wants to build a railroad that would carry crude oil and hazardous material through 3 states, crossing many rivers, streams, creeks, drainage ditches and field tiles. What will happen when a wreck happens crossing one of these waterways? The water would be polluted for many miles down stream, affecting thousands of people. The water would no longer be safe to swim, fish, boat, or even to be around. Many cities along the river depend on it for drinking water and recreation. There would be untold lose of wildlife, fish, mussels, birds, beaver, muskrats, deer, ducks, geese and any other wildlife that depend on the waterway for food or water. By going through rural areas a wreck and spill would cause irreparable damage to the aquifer, which supplies drinking water to the wells of all rural residents. If that crude oil spilled into a moving body of water and caught on fire it could travel for miles, and who is responsible for putting it out? THIS PROJECT NEEDS TO BE STOPPED IN ITS TRACKS!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 6/29/2016)CommentEI-24176Ken DaggettMr Patton has been planning this project for almost 7 years and he is asking you for a permit to do so without making it public his investors, letting any government agency know ahead of time, not contacting any land owners, not contacting the corpse of engineers, any farm organization, any emergency service agency or federal disaster agency, and he expects you to give him permission to build this railroad. He has asked for and given permission to fast track" this request, why is it so secretive and what is the hurry to push this through? It seems that if this was a good and legitimate project he would be happy to get the information out to everyone involved and would not keep it a secret for 7 years and then try to "fast track" it through the necessary channels. Be VERY VERY WARY OF THIS MAN AND THIS PROJECT!!!! Ken Daggett"
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(printed as 6/28/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/28/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/28/2016)CommentEI-24175Laura SchepplerI would like to know how the STB is going to study the environmental impact of having hundreds of rail spurs built onto the GLB line. GLB states they will allow all landowners the right to access this line for private transport of goods. Each landowner will therefore need their own rail spur. In order for the STB to do a complete review of this project every parcel of land must be evaluated for future rail spur opportunities. I am requesting this be done. If the STB does not feel this is required, even tough such spurs will take hundreds more acres of land out of production, will add pollution as trains idle to load, will delay the other trains on the tracks, and will block even more roads and crossing, I would like to know why this review is not needed and not required when the STB is charged with doing a complete environmental review?Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/28/2016)CommentEI-24174Virginia GawAs a woman I am opposed to the STB allowing Great Lakes Basin Transportation company to harass innocent widows, with threats to take their land. These women like myself are minority business owners and the GLB company is targeting widows, other women and the elderly with their line. This amounts to harassment and discrimination. The STB needs to do a full review of each parcel of land affected and who is the owner of the land to determine just how harmful this line is to minority residents, this includes women, non-white residents, the poor, the handicapped and the elderly. GLB is harming our enjoyment of life and the future enjoyment of the countryside with threats of building this unneeded rail line.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 6/28/2016)CommentEI-24173Dennis SchepplerI would like to know which right our way easement has priority in regards to utility lines crossing the proposed GLB railroad line. Currently the utility companies must have their lines above ground on my land. I would like to know if this applies as well to the ones that GLB crosses/ If GLB does not have to have them above ground and crossing their line, then I want the STB to do a full review of the environmental impact of burying the utility lines where they currently are not buried. Also who is going to pay for this? Who is going to ensure the tile lines are not damaged?Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/28/2016)CommentEI-24172Josie BoickenMy husband and I have farmland in the middle of the rail port and Our church St.Peters has a cemetery there also ,which right next to our farmland. We already have our plot and my mother and father are there too.How can you destroy a cemetery ? Also ZION'S LUTHERN Church is there and there cemetery .How can u do this to us.Please stop Frank Patton !!Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/28/2016)CommentEI-24171DONALD M MAUI am 87 years old and have lived in Salina Township, Kankakee County IL for my whole life. I am now legally blind and have not been able to read for myself about the GLB Proposal, but my family has been keeping me informed about the project and I asked them to help me write a letter. I hope you will consider not allowing this railroad. My letter is attached.KANKAKEE, Illinois
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(printed as 6/28/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/28/2016)CommentEI-24169sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, Please stop this illegitimate process now. Please let me point out the negatives: A large part of the public knew nothing about the STB Scoping meetings, how could they comment and be heard if they didn't even know. The scoping meetings and the environmental impact study have been started pre-maturely. This process has been given illegal usage of the FAST act. The GLB has not been required to certify their statements. The proposal is non-transparent. etc, etc, etc......The positives: there are none. Please reject this dangerous proposal immediately, it benefits no one except for Frank Patton and the GLBT. thank you, Julie Kokos 708-2-426-4180julie kokos · Grant Park, il
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(printed as 6/28/2016)CommentEI-24168Carol WhiteI respectfully request that the STB deny the above referenced project for the safety and welfare of our community. Thank you, Carol WhiteVerona, IL
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(printed as 6/28/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/28/2016)CommentEI-24166R.A.I.L.E.D. memberAttached are my comments on the GLBR project. Patricia MussmanPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/28/2016)CommentEI-24165Ramona StormI would like to state my total opposition to the GL Basin Transportation proposal. The environmental impact would be devastating, with thousands of homes, business, schools and communities being destroyed. That is not even to mention the dire safety hazards involved. In quoting from the Morris Herald's May 3, 2016 edition, a Q&A session was held with GLB co-founder Frank Patton present. It was reported that he only answered 50% of the question put to him. I also find two things he said very disturbing. One is his quote that the RRIF currently has a balance of $30 billion and the federal government is aggressive to use it". My take-away from this is that the government just wants to spend money...without concern for the welfare of the people in this railway's path. Also, when asked how much of the $8 billion will come from foreign investors, Patton said he could not say. I don't find this very transparent. Although he did add "at the moment" he had no plans for foreign investors, but we know that could change in an instant. I implore the STB to remove this proposal in it's entirety. The American people should not live in this fear of having our land taken from us and our earning ability taken from us and our way of life forever changed."
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(printed as 6/28/2016)CommentEI-24164Mary SchepplerAs a female business owner I am objecting to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad, violating federal guidelines that prohibit dicrimination for minorities and the poor in the construction of transportation projects. The line will take land from my farm and as minority business owner, I feel this is in direct violation of the federal guidelines that were created to protect minorities from discrimination, please explain how this line does directly target minority business owners.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/28/2016)CommentEI-24163Abe HenkerEstimates are it costs over one million dollars to build a rail spur to load frieght onto a train track. The Great Lakes Basin Railroad, says they will let anyone with affected land connect onto the line. Exactly how are farmers going to pay for these connections? Also you need a commodities license to sell grain to anyplace other than a grain elevator/licensed grain production facility, you also need rail cars and th he ability to convince a train to stop and haul your product and bringthe railcar back to you, you also need some way to load the railcar. Please explain how a private farmer who has had their land ripped out from underthem going to be able to afford this expense. This proposal by the Great Lakes Basin Railroad is ludicrous. Nonemofmthe affected farms have the financial ability to do this. This delusional idea of how a farmer gets product to market is just one of the many flaws in the GLB proposal. Please explain how this portion of the plan is practical and profitable to the farmer. They can not sell their grain to just anyone, they must have an expensive commodities license to do so and they do not make millions of dollars a year to pay for a spur of their own. Please also explain where the land for these spurs will come from, oh thats right from the fields near the track right away, making the fields even smaller and less profitable.Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-25268Allen Larson, Deanna Larson[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-25264Sharon Fisher[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24830Susan Sack[See second 129 of 258 letters attached]
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24829Susan Sack[See first 129 letters of 258 attached]
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24589Barbara Parmely[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24588Todd Brandt[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24587Nicole Haas[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24586James R Carmean[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24585Scott McWilliams[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24584Brian Wietbrock[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24582Ron Kimball[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/27/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/27/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/27/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/27/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24162Kristin MorseWe are against the GLB railroad. We don't want it in Rock County. Use the existing railways we have. I foresee a negative impact on the environment.Janesville, WI
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24161Laura SchepplerPlease explain why the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad is a more preferred business than the productive farms that exist now? This line needs stopped, it has no proven resources, no formal support from any class one railroads, no history to show they know how to run a line, they own no trains or tracks themselves, but the STB feels they would use the land better and more productively than the generational farmers whom have protected and improved the land for hundreds of years. This is not undeveloped land this is developed land, that is cared for by hands on owners and not Businessmen sitting in offfices telling trains were to go. I want to know why this business is better than my family business?Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24160Dennis SchepplerFrank Patton has publically said he will use federal railroad loans to pay for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Doing this will take much needing funding from the CREATE program which is making great strides at reducing rail conjestion. Please explain why the limited available federal railroad funds be spent on a new railroad and not on projects with a proven need. CREATE'S projects have been proven to work, they need all available funding and GLB will affect their ability to improve all frieght traffic in the area. GLB does not solve problems, it creates more by simply moving existing trains into new areas, areas where the communities and environments around them will be destroyed. GLB also just moves all the existing problems CREATE is trying to fix into yet another area. This is not acceptable and the STB needs to explain why they feel it would be acceptable.Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 6/27/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentEI-24158Bob MasseyThe environmental impacts of this project should also include the cumulative effects of a number of projects that have been and are being carried out in this area including: Numerous current, ongoing and proposed windmill projects, the Third Chicago Airport, The Interstate toll connector, the Bridgeport Intermodal near I-55 and expansion of the Intermodal facilities adjacent to Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, the effects of runoff from the connected rail switching yard. The effects of the railroad on Kankakee River State Part and I & M Canal State Trail, and the break in habitat continuity. Threatened species such as Ornate Box turtle, Indiana Bat and long-eared bat. The train will directly impact hunting programs at Kankakee River SP. Also, this project, and others like it, will have a huge impact on agricultural and rural lifestyles through it's footprint. Trains coming by every 10 minutes will have a serious negative impact on rural lifestyles from, noise, visual, health and will even impact schools. With the number of proposed crossings that will be shut, every fact of rural life will become a challenge. Finally, This is not a public enterprise which will benefit all. It is a private venture that will benefit very few at the expense of everyone within miles of the project.Herscher, Il
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(printed as 6/27/2016)CommentNia Gipson
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(printed as 6/26/2016)CommentEI-25367James and Gary Dirker[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/26/2016)CommentEI-24157Sandy LindenDocket # FD 35952 Re: GLBT Rail Line Frank Patton boasts tens of thousands and hundreds of thousands of jobs would be created based on numbers from a T.V. program regarding transportation infrastructure. Frank Patton admits “I can't validate that number. I don't know where he got it”. (December 15, 2015 video) The majority of these phantom job numbers are temporary jobs. The huge decrease in permanent truck driver jobs, truck mechanic jobs, trucking companies and truck manufacturing companies will lead to less income and less income taxes, wheel taxes, fuel taxes, permit fees and license costs paid out to county, state and federal governments. Will these permanent losses caused by the GLBT rail line be figured into an economic impact analysis? Sandy Linden Cedar Creek Township Lowell, INLowell, IN
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(printed as 6/26/2016)CommentEI-24156Ken DaggettI am asking you to deny Mr. Patton from building a railroad!!! Mr. Patton has not proven a need for the project for any of the public use or well being. He also has not received any support , nor have they shown the least bit of interest in, from any major rail system!!! He has misrepresented his intentions to the public, landowners, local government agencies and the worst of all to YOU!!!! This man is corrupt and should be treated as so!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 6/25/2016)CommentEI-24155StephenI lived in the whiting , Hammond most of my life, I moved out here to get rid of all the train traffic, I do NOT want to see a train run through here,Valparaiso, In
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(printed as 6/24/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/24/2016)CommentEI-24223Mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary Twait is elderly and able to use the computer quite well. She recently had eye surgery and asked me to send this letter for her. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/24/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/24/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/24/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/24/2016)CommentEI-241531960I am involved in a cattle feeding business on Venable Farms east of Janesville WI. The proposed Great Lakes Basis Rail is projected to cut through the property on which my cattle operation is located. The proposed rail line will greatly harm this business at this location by splitting the property and causing decreased efficiencies, increased costs to operate and decreased production capability. I am opposed to this rail project in its entirety. James WillrettJames Willrett · Malta, Il
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(printed as 6/24/2016)CommentEI-24140Barb Sager
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(printed as 6/24/2016)CommentNia Gipson
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(printed as 6/24/2016)CommentAmy Loudenbeck
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(printed as 6/24/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/24/2016)CommentEI-24093Les SzewczykI am opposed to the construction of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This project would destroy valuable farmland, restrict access to farm fields, and encourage sprawl. It would disrupt the agricultural contribution to Boone County's economy. Rather than building over prime farmland whose best use is for the production of food, I believe it would be better to upgrade and expand existing rail lines. This would facilitate the movement of goods by train and yet allow the continued use of farmland for food production.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentEI-24580Alice Hunt-Lounges[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/23/2016)Comment[Note from STB: The attached letter was submitted by Jeanette Carothers on behalf of herself and the following individuals, with the following notes.] Name Notes from Ms. Carothers Ken Carothers See attached letter. Ken Carothers is elderly and does not use the computer. He has asked me to send this letter. Thanks. Jeanette Carothers Jeanette Carothers See attached letter Mary Twait See attached letter. Mary Twait is elderly and able to use the computer quite well. She recently had eye surgery and asked me to send this letter for her. Thank you. Jeanette Carothers Rod Twait See attached letter. Rod Twait is elderly and does not use a computer. He asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette Carothers Charles Wiley See attached letter. Charles Wiley has asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette Carothers Martha Wiley See attached letter. Martha Wiley is elderly and does not use a computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette Carothers Owen Johnson Thank you. See attached letter. Owen Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette Kay Johnson Thank you. See attached letter. Kay Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette John Langland See attached letter. John Langland is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Sincerely, Jeanette Carothers Roger West See attached letter. Roger West is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette Carothers Christine Meyer See attached letter. Christine Meyer is elderly and unable to use the computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, Illinois
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(printed as 6/23/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/23/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentEI-24152sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, Please take a no action" approach to the GLB proposal. It has been documented that Norfolk & Canadian National are not interested in using the proposed rail line and that railroads are already in existence. The CREATE program is working! There is no need for this railroad. Granting any further waivers or studies to this proposal would be criminal. The scoping period has been prematurely started, like putting the cart before the horse. The tremendous amount of opposition that is posted, documents the countless environmental, safety, and socioeconomic hazards and factors this would pose. These facts are so blatantly apparent to all involved! I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Thank you, Julie Kokos 708-426-4180 Sumner Township Kankakee IL"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentEI-24151Charles A. PalmerI believe that this rail line directive by the GLBT will have a adverse impact to all environmental areas in the scope of the geology, soil and drainage and overall biological and water resources in the proposed areas. This will also cause other environmental issues, such as excessive exhaust and pollution from, not only the trains themselves, but also the automobiles and trucks that will needlessly sit idle at crossings emitting exhaust, creating more greenhouse gasses than necessary. This proposed rail system will also create unnecessary noise pollution and would also have an adverse effect in property values for citizens still recuperating from an unstable housing and property market. Transportation systems in this country are part of an ongoing infrastructure issue that is not being addressed. Why isn't the priority to continue to maintain, better and raise the standards of the already crumbling rail systems in place instead of creating new systems that will not be sustainable in the future? This should be the real directive of the GLBT.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 6/23/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentEI-24149Martin FayeThe Great Lakes Basin Rail line would deteriate air quality, generate noise pollution and spoil the best farmland in IllinoisMomence, IL
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentSee attached document. Thank you for additional filing timeThomas Hartley · Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentEI-24136Stan Szewczyk
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentEI-24134Nicole
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentRick Bryant
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(printed as 6/23/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Elgie R. Sims, Jr., State Representative
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(printed as 6/23/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentEI-24044Josh AlexanderThis proposed project will have a negative impact on the entire surrounding area in terms of overall quality of life, travel backups due to the extreme increase in train traffic, increase in noise pollution, air pollution and a reduction in surrounding property values. The entire area is made up of wetlands and the future impact to our water supply/drainage issues and wildlife would be exposed to increased chance of contamination from spills, derailments and other unforeseen accidents. As a hunter, conservationist and member of Pheasants Forever Habitat Team, I feel that this project is putting efficiency" before our responsibility to our natural resources. Thank you. "Laporte, IN
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentEI-24043Clarence HardingGreetings Mr. Navecky, I'd like to let the STB know that the GLBR will run directly through the 12 acres that I purchased last year to build a personal residence on. We had NO idea of this proposed train route. I guess there is No escape for me as the proposed Illiana was to also possibly converge on my current property which is rural and very alive with nature. I will be forwarding another attachment letter expressing more concerns and thoughts on this railroad. I sincerely thank you for taking into consideration all the comments you have been receiving. Clarence Harding Lowell, IN ( Calumet Avenue)Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentEI-24031Eli CoffmanThis is a time when we should be conserving prime farmland and open spaces instead of using them for unnecessary projects. The railroads should find ways of cooperating and using existing rails instead of building additional unnecessary rail lines and destroying open spaces and farmland. Eli CoffmanGRANT PARK, IL
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(printed as 6/23/2016)CommentEI-24030Lori PepperDear Mr. Navecky, I am extremely saddened that I am again writing about the safety concerns associated with the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line as it pertains to agricultural pursuits along the proposed route. This was made very clear tonight with the loss of a farmer in nearby Union, IL. He was hit and killed when attempting to maneuver a train crossing at Olson Road on a tractor hauling a sprayer unit. This accident happened at a road crossing. This will play out over and over again on the crossings proposed in the middle of split fields where farmers will need to cross with slow-moving and very large equipment again and again during the crop year. Many tractors and other equipment now have tracks instead of tires. They are not built to maneuver over steel rails. Damage to the equipment is likely and the chance of a track sticking in rail equipment is a definite possibility. Please deny this new rail proposal that splits farms all along the route as it will force dangerous crossings daily by farmers who have no choice but to get their equipment across broken up fields and over even more road crossings making transport of equipment a daily safety concern. I can't even imagine what this Union, IL farm family is feeling tonight. We should not have to put our farm colleagues in harm's way for a private enterprise like Great Lakes Basin RR to make their stockholders and administrators wealthy. Sincerely, Lori A. Pepper Boone County, IL Farm Owner (Flora Township)Sleepy Hollow, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentDavid Albino
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24129Julie NewHouse
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentDavid Albino
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24029HOMEOWNERI am against this railroad. I live in a quiet and safe area of northwest Indiana by choice. I live outside of town limits of Lowell, and not in a town or city, as it is quiet and relaxing. If I wanted to live by a railroad, that is where I would have built my house. A rail line across the street from my house will disrupt the quiet and cause in my opinion quite a bit of noise pollution. I cannot imagine the amount of noise there would be, this will disrupt sleep for my entire family. I am also concerned how this railroad can be placed so near and in the Greater Kankakee Basin area. Safety is also an issue as a mother of 3 children who ride the bus back and forth to school, I wonder how crossing the tracks several times a day will increase the chance of a potential accident. I cannot imagine trains going along constantly at a high rate of speed and this not impacting the safety of the community. I am also concerned about the ability for ambulance and first responders, if they were needed at my home or at my neighbors home, to be able to arrive within a reasonable amount of time. As a nurse, I am well aware of how minutes can affect the outcome of any situation in a medical emergency. I would hate for an ambulance, or police officer to be stuck waiting for a train to pass. Our family is against the railroad and are concerned about how this will effect our daily lives. No railroad. Use the existing tracks.TERESE BOZAK · LOWELL, IN
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24028Brandon CrockettThe GBL railroad will cause the destruction of prime farmland that once destroyed will be unable to be used again. It will destroy over 6,700 acres.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24026Chris McSparinThis message is in regards to the proposed GLB railroad. My family and I have lived, and grown up in a rural community. The quiet, and peacefulness is now threatened by the proposed GLB railroad. Not only will the railroad ruin the serenity of a rural setting, my family will be displaced, and their land destroyed due to the path the railroad will take. Please do not build your railroad in the rural Valparaiso Indiana area, or anywhere near there.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24025Ed LindenThe proposed GLBT rail line is presented as a high speed, high volume bypass. This dramatically increases the chances of accidents and derailments leading to hazardous material spills. The rail line route in Indiana parallels the northern edge of the Kankakee River flood plain. This soil is very permeable in this area with a high water mark being only 3 to 5 feet below the surface. Being this close to the river and flood plain means there are more tributaries in this area moving higher volumes of surface water to the river. This is too high of a risk area to put this rail line. The drinking water wells in this area are shallower and therefore more vulnerable to contamination. When accidents and derailments occur in these types of areas it is much harder, and often times impossible, to contain and mitigate hazardous material spills that are lighter than water, heavier than water or water soluble. The risks are too high in this area. For these reasons I am asking the STB to deny this project. Ed Linden Unincorporated Cedar Creek Township Lowell, IndianaLowell, IN
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24024Mary MotterOur family farm is located at the corner of Verona and Grand Ridge Road in Grundy County. The proposed rail is sited to go across the East side of our family farm. To the immediate west of our farm is an abandoned coal mine. I have major concerns about this along with various other environmental impact concerns such as drainage, loss of productive PRIME farm land, hazardous spill issues, and traffic. LaSalle Nuclear Station is to the west of us also. Grand Ridge Road is very busy and I believe quick entry and exit is vital to a nuclear facility and rail traffic may slow it down.Morris, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24023Marcia HessI am not supporting the Great Lakes basin railroad due the impact on the community for the farms and the safety of our ground water. Please do not allow a private business disrupt our community.Belvidere, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24022jason and lindsay kokosDear Surface Transportation Board, I've reviewed the incoming correspondence in regard to this docket as of today, 6/22/16. Its a very good thing you've extended the comment period by a month because the amount of letters, concerns, oppositions, and resolutions continues to grow by the day. Due to all of this opposition, I truly wonder how such a proposal has gotten this far. By this far, I mean at the federal level. You may note, that nearly all of local and county Governments are opposing this project. Additionally, the State Department in Illinois, specifically representatives and the Department of Natural Resources have voiced their concerns and/or opposition. So, how could a project with this much opposition come so far? American people truly deserve an answer in this regard, and I'm sure the STB is looking out for our best interests environmentally and will provide those answers. The incoming correspondence appears to be well over 200, including 90 letters of opposition from major organizations, agencies, townships, counties, districts, etc. I ask that the STB respond to all incoming correspondence, or simply choose a no action alternative to this proposal. Thank You Jason & Lindsay Kokos 708-259-5250Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24021Laurie FleishmanI am writing to my express my concern for the environment. When I was a little girl my parents would take me fishing. We would fish off a concrete structure with a large broken concrete slab lying next to it. The water cut a path around it as the concrete had collapsed in to the creek blocking the original flow. In light of the GLB, I recently found out this was part of a railroad bridge left behind from years past after the railroad had come and gone leaving behind their messes.. Forty Five years later from being that little girl, I can still drive by and see 3 concrete dilapidated structures within a few miles of our home and no doubt in my mind there are many more! My husband also pointed out on the GLB satellite maps the old rail line footprint is still visible some 70+ years later. If this environmental impact isn't enough to say NO to the GLB railroad, I don't know what would be. Shame on all who left this destruction and footprint on our highly productive farms,scenic land, and creeks for not only my generation but our children's and their children and FOREVER generations to come!!! My question is, why does Mr. Patton and the GLB think we need a new railroad in a time when the Class 1 railroads are still abandoning existing rail? We already have CREATE and 2 bypasses and possibly more! Is this the legacy this generation wants to to leave to the next? I think NOT!!! You can STOP this from being your legacy! Please say NO to then GLB project!!!Verona, Illinois
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24020Christine MeyerSee attached letter. Christine Meyer is elderly and unable to use the computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24019Roger WestSee attached letter. Roger West is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersKankakee, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24018John LanglandSee attached letter. John Langland is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Sincerely, Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24015Owen JohnsonThank you. See attached letter. Owen Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24014platinum custom carsI DO NOT WANT THE GLB RAILROAD TO BE BUILT. I WOULD LOSE MY HOME THAT MY WIFE AND I HAVE BUILT HERE ON 6 ACRES. I WOULD ALSO LOSE MY BUSINESS WHICH I OPERATE FROM A BUILDING ON MY PROPERTY. I MOVED OUT HERE IN THE COUNTRY TO GET AWAY FROM DEVELOPMENTS SUCH AS THIS AND THE IMPACT OF THIS DEVELOPMENT WOULD BE DEVASTATING NOT ONLY TO MYSELF BUT THE ENTIRE TOWNSHIP OF SUMNER AND SURROUNDING AREAS. THE FARMS, HOMES AND WILDLIFE THAT EXISTS OUT HERE WOULD BE GONE FOREVER. THIS CAN NOT HAPPEN.michael dumas · manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24013Martha WileySee attached letter. Martha Wiley is elderly and does not use a computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24012Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles Wiley has asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24011Rod TwaitSee attached letter. Rod Twait is elderly and does not use a computer. He asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24010Mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary Twait is elderly and able to use the computer quite well. She recently had eye surgery and asked me to send this letter for her. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/22/2016)CommentEI-24006Ken CarothersSee attached letter. Ken Carothers is elderly and does not use the computer. He has asked me to send this letter. Thanks. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-24630Sharon and Rosemary Fisher[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-24629Sharon and Rosemary Fisher[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-24622Wendell Provost[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-24621Sharyn Lackey[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-24004Dennis SchepplerIn 2008 the Surface Transportation Board voted to approve Canadian National's purchase of the Elgin, Joliet, Eastern Railway. This line know as the J" is recognized as the existing rail bypass for the Chicago area. With only one spur running into Chicago proper. In announcing the decision, Board Chairman Charles D. Nottingham stated: "Approval of this important railroad merger, with the conditions we have imposed, marks a significant step forward in our nation's efforts to alleviate rail and highway congestion. I am pleased that the Board agreed, in a bipartisan and unanimous manner, after an unprecedented public involvement process, to grant the relief that this merger will provide to the many Chicago neighborhoods that have been disproportionately burdened for many decades with severe rail traffic-related roadway congestion." This decision acknowledged the severe environmental impact this acquisition would have on the local communities. If the simple purchase of an existing line caused the STB concern for the environment and resulted in the following conditions being placed on the CN operations. "The mitigation includes: •Two highway-rail grade separation projects (and requires applicants to bear 67 percent of the cost of one and 78.5 percent of the cost of the other); •Cameras to monitor highway-rail crossings to assist in the timely response of emergency providers; •School and pedestrian safety measures; •Noise reduction measures; and •A 5-year environmental reporting requirement mandating applicants to file quarterly reports on the implementation of the Board-imposed environmental mitigation. In addition, the Board imposed a 5-year, formal oversight period, with applicants required to submit monthly operational reports to the Board. Finally, the Board's decision also requires applicants to comply with mandatory labor protection, with their extensive voluntary environmental mitigation, and with the negotiated agreements that they have entered into with Amtrak and communities in Illinois and Indiana containing tailored mitigation that applicants have agreed to provide." Then please explain the many mitigations that you will impose on the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company, if you disregard the environment and approve this line. GLB 's founder has publically stated the railway will pay for all costs and this must include 100% of the cost for safety and monitoring equipment including the quiet zones, lights gates and flashers, camera monitoring and all the other safety measures needed to ensure a completely quiet line, as GLB had repeatedly stated in public they will pay for. In addition, please explain why if Canadian National has a railway bypass already that the STB approved, and Union Pacific has already stated they will not use this line, and these are the two class one railroads in Milton Wisconsin, why is this line needed? One company already has a bypass approved and praised by the STB despite huge environmental concerns, and the other company has stated they will not use the line. Please explain why this line is needed when in Indiana the area the line ends in is currently primarily served by Canadian National, which has it's own bypass, and Norfolk Southern, the other major Class One Railroad that has publically stated they do not intend to use this route? So if the Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern lines both say they will not use the line and they are at it's stopping and ending point, and Canadian National is also at these points and already has an STB approved bypass, why is this bypass needed? Who will it serve? The three major lines in these areas do not need or want this line?"
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-24003sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, I have a question, who is paying for the Environmental Impact Study?? Are the American Taxpayers paying for it? Something is just not right! How does a private investor just come along and say, I'd like to steal a massive amount of land from people who already live on it and I will call it a railroad, I don't know anything about railroads, I just had a model train set when I was little! I'll claim non-disclosure when they ask who is backing this and then when it ends up that no backing is there, I'll just tell the Federal government to pay for it. My next step is to go to the Surface Transportation Board and ask to have a study started. Then we will let a few people know, not very many though, only those that would fall for a huge land grabbing scheme when we tell them it's for the "good of the public", "public convenience and necessity" and to "create jobs" or "you're going to make millions". Next, I will somehow get around the proper requirements and get the waiting period waived so I can then proceed to threaten the good, hard working, tax paying citizens of these areas with my eventual ability to use EMINENT DOMAIN to take from them what is rightfully theirs! In the meantime, I'll destroy massive acres of farmland and the environment for my private gain. Before I do that, I will be put off by their inability to see things my way and mock them and call them NIMBYS" This may sound silly but is this what is happening? It sure sounds like it to us!!! You would think that a legitimate proposal for a project of this magnitude would be presented by someone who knows what they are talking about and is completely transparent. But, this is, by far, is the shadiest deal I have ever heard in my life!!!!"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-24002Garry JunkerThe Illinois Rail Commission does not support this project--so why even consider ruining the environment, farmland, creating the possibility of leaks and spills, pollution, etc.for this project.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-24001Garry JunkerA limestone base is not sufficient for this railroad. Rock will need to be hauled in. This will further compact the soil causing farmers even more headaches.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-24000Garry JunkerThis proposed passes close to a 4-H camp that is also a camp for other special events. It is close to Kankakee River State Park. This railroad would ruin its appeal and natural beauty.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23999Real People Realty, Inc.Dear STB Members, I'm not sure why I should write to you about the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. What I mean is, all of you have common sense and know there is no need for the three ring circus that is being proposed. I'm certain none of you want your names attached to a project that is totally misguided, to say the least. Nor is Illinois in any position as a state to be able to pick up the pieces when no railway company has a need for this project and the private entities want their money back. Because you know they will. I mean seriously, don't you think if a buck could be made, the state wouldn't do the project itself? Thank you for doing the right thing and voting no to GLB. Judy PanozzoJudy Panozzo · New Lenox, Illinois
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23998John ClelandPlease see attached letters regarding the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad.Capron, Illinois
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23997Karissa FletcherI am writing in concern with the proposed GLB in Manteno, IL. The idea of the railroad coming to Manteno will only depreciate our community immensely. We have built an amazing town that will be destroyed environmentally, safety, and deplete our agricultural if this railroad comes through. There are not enough positive reasons for this to be developed in our community!Manteno, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23996Laura SchepplerI think the STB comment period and review process for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad needs to be extended, I do not feel the STB nor GLB have demonstrated a need for a faster review, and would like an explanation for the shortened review process.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23995Virginia GawI would like the Great Lakes Basin Railroad review process to not be granted any exemptions from a standard review and would like an explanation of any exceptions they are granted.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23994Mary SchepplerI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad being granted any priority or fast rack status when it comes to the review process. I would like an explanation as to why any deviation from a standard review process is granted, if one is.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23993Fred SchepplerI would like the STB to explain why the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project is being granted a quick and shortened review process. This project needs to be held to the same standards and review that any other major project is held to.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23992Dennis SchepplerI think the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad should not be granted any exceptions or exemptions from a full and formal review of their proposed new rail line. If the STB grants any exceptions, exemptions or deviations to the standard review process I would like an explanation as to why the exception was granted.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23991Abe HenkerI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad being granted any waivers or exemptions from a full STB review of their proposed new rail line. The GLB line is not one of urgent need, nor is it one of national importance, therefore the STB needs to follow all normal processes for this project, including a full review of the proposal. If the STB grants a fast track status to this project I want an explanation as to why the project was fast-tracked from the STB.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23990sumner township residentDear Mr.. Navecky, There have been no answers given to letters written to the STB that I am aware of. Are these questions and concerns going to be answered? We all felt forced into fighting for our homes, farms and way of life since this preposterous proposal was exposed. What kind of burden is that to put on people? Make your comments and concerns known now to the STB while the GLB holds your fate in it's hands!" Are my concerns going to be stricken from the survey because they are not addressing the obvious environmental disasters this will cause? In the meantime, do you realize what an effect this is having, already to the residents that would be gravely impacted? The parents, school children, families, elderly, the homebound??? Do you realize that people are lying awake at night, worrying that this plan of destruction could come true?? Do you know what a strain this is causing to people? Do you know that in Sumner Township are home values have dropped already? But we still have to pay our rising real estate taxes!! Do you know what fear this is causing in people's lives?? I would like to ask the members of the STB how these threats would affect their daily lives if it were happening to them?? Thank you, Julie Kokos Sumner Township, Kankakee County IL 60901 708-426-4180"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23988sumner township residentDear Mr.. Navecky, I would like to reference the countless letters being written to the STB Docket #35952. The letters are composed by government agencies, townships, villages, county governments, fire protection districts, school districts, opposition groups, various business, organizations and societies, cemeteries, farmers, tax payers and residents of small town communities, etc...... A massive amount of research has been put into this proposal by all of the above mentioned. Here is what I want to know: Why is this being allowed to proceed any further with this amount of opposition? Why is the burden to provide information on alternate routes or environmental concerns, being placed on the public? Why has this process even begun and how did the GLB manage to fool anyone into granting any waivers in this process? Why does the GLB or anyone else have the right to force anyone off of their property? Why is no one understanding that this would destroy so many lives and way of life? human, plant, animal & environmental! Why does anyone think that these areas are barren wasteland just waiting for some investors" to come in and force urban development? Why in God's name would the Surface Transportation Board let this go on any further???? Why?????? Julie Kokos Sumner Township, Kankakee County IL 708-426-4180"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23987R.A.I.L.E.D. memberSee attached comments concerning soil contamination by GLBRPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23985carol dollDo not allow GLB. will ruin valuable farm land. displace people, families, villages. Disrupt wild life. Make swamp land. increase truck traffic. Totalty destroy our beautiful environment.grant park, ill
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23984john dollDo not allow GLB. Destroys valuable farm land,ruins environment,displaces people ,villages, wllmake swamp land, truck traffic will be horrible.grant park, ill
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23983Terry & Linda MeyerWe are writing these comments in regards to the proposal for the GLB Railroad project. This project will greatly impact the Salina Township and surrounding farming communities, in Kankakee County. Much of the exisiting drainage systems are from the late 1930-40s and aren't in the best condition to begin with. Many of them aren't mapped to know exactly where they are located. The heavy equipment needed for the construction will crush or damage any exisiting tiles, compromising any drainage that may be in use. This would be very costly to repair, or replace for farmers that would be impacted by this destruction. Another major concern is the contamination of surrounding underground aquaphors, used by the public for clean, safe, drinking water. Contamination will result from spillage of fuel and/or oil from the train itself, or from contents being transported in railcars, either from damaged cars, or by an accidental derailment. There would also be contamination from all the construction vehicles and machines needed to build this project. The possible ground and aquaphor contamination could also impact waterways, fisheries, and the wildlife that abounds in this area. Crops or wildlife habitat, used as feeding grounds for livestock or wildlife, could become harmful or injurious. Hunting ground could be left unuseable because of NOISE POLLUTION, SOIL CONTAMINATION, or just the fact that the railway would run through the existing areas. These concerns are all very worthy of your attention! Please take action to deny the GLB Railway project in altering this farming community and our peaceful and enjoyable lifestyle. This is where we've CHOSEN to live and to raise our families, and we do NOT need, or want ANY of the so-called improvements that have been touted with this proposed project. Thank you for your time and concideration of our comments. Terry & Linda MeyerBonfield, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23982U.S. EPAJennifer Blonn · Chicago, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23981Jason & lindsay kokosDear Surface Transportation Board, In the slightest of chances that you deem this project as necessary and viable, it should be noted that this does not serve the public by any means. It serves private investors. Since that is the case, if this project gets approved there should be no viable way to utilize eminent domain due to the reasons above. I would define eminent domain again but I'm sure you are more than aware of what it means and why it was created. Therefore, any potential approval of this project should but the sole burden of negotiating and acquiring the required land solely on Frank Patton and the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company. They should have to go through the long arduous legal process to be able to construct this monstrosity that is in no way for the PUBLIC! I trust the STB (our Government) is looking out for the people, and will do the right thing. Thank You Jason R Kokos & Lindsay M Kokosgrant park, il
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23980Christine MeyerSee attached letter. Christine Meyer is elderly and unable to use the computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23979Roger WestSee attached letter. Roger West is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersKankakee, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23978John LanglandSee attached letter. John Langland is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Sincerely, Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23977Kay JohnsonSee attached letter. Kay Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23976Owen JohnsonSee attached letter. Owen Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23975Martha WileySee attached letter. Martha Wiley is elderly and does not use a computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23974Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles Wiley has asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23973Rod TwaitSee attached letter. Rod Twait is elderly and does not use a computer. He asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23972Mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary Twait is elderly and able to use the computer quite well. She recently had eye surgery and asked me to send this letter for her. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23968Ken CarothersSee attached letter. Ken Carothers is elderly and does not use the computer. He has asked me to send this letter. Thanks. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23966April GerstungRe: Docket No. FD 35952 - Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky Allowing Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. to: Not have to sign and file an application that would include among other things, a business plan and who be financing the proposed project (and) Have the 6-month waiting period waived (and) Conducting an EIS for this project when the STB, and no one else knows what the 15,000 + acre rail port would be used for, who and what would be carried on the rails and where a definite route would be Isn't that like filing a flight plan AFTER landing? With all due respect, would you put a loved one on a plane that did that? I'm sure that you don't even have to think about it. That would be unacceptable as this process has been. I'm asking that the STB ground Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. until they submit a detailed and signed application to you and the 6-month wait is implemented. Regards, April GerstungMorris, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23965April GerstungRe: Docket No. 35952 - Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky, On the Surface Transportation Board's website posting the letters that have been sent to your agency concerning Document No. 35952, a letter that I sent numbered #EI-23685, showing letter dated 5.22.16 and received 5.31.16 there is a blank page. This was a copy of a letter that I had sent to Mr. Frank Patton in response to his asking me if I had attended the public information meeting that was held in Morris, Illinois, where he had been invited to present his proposed plan, speak to the public and answer their questions. I told Mr. Patton that I had instead gone out for a delightful burger and beer and then outlined why I had made that choice. Mr. Patton asked that I send my letter to the STB as a matter of public record and did so with a cover letter explaining his request along with his e-mail to me. Was this merely a technical difficulty on your end not having it visible as the others are and do you have the correspondence or has it disappeared and it there a need for me to resend? Please advise. Regards, April GerstungMorris, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23964Virginia GawI am 95 years old, please explain to me why a straight line is not preferable to a curved line when building this GLB route? This route meanders all over the country side, makes no sense to go to MP130 and MP140 to pick up a non class one railroad line, the Illinois Railway line, and then curve all over the place to get back on track with where they what to go. I remember Route 66, drove it many times, then they up and eliminated it and made straight roads to California, no more curves and trips through towns, why are we going backwards and building a curving rail road when throughout history we have been straightening our roads to eliminate them meandering all over? Please also explain why if this line is supposed to bypass the Chicago freight hubs the GLB people want to stop and pick up all this freight originating in the Chicago area, the route needs one on spot and one off spot to make it a true bypass, adding all these spurs and interchanges will just slow down train speed and not accomplish the goal of stopping freight from getting to the area in the first place. This plan makes no sense. Please explain why one on and one off is not preferable to a bunch of stops? The Indiana Toll Road lets you on and then you get off in only a few select spots, this route will let anyone on it and that is not a bypass, that is just another rail line and all these interchanges and letting on non class one rail lines does nothing but slow down the line, which is exactly opposite of why they are building the line. Foolish is the only word for this project. Furthermore, MR GLB states anyone along the route can build a spur and have a train stop to pick up a single railcar of freight, exactly what does he and the STB think we grow in these fields? How is a farmer going to afford a 2 million dollar spur to load one railcar a year of strawberries, as Mr. GLB stated in public they would, make any money? Do not fall for this man's lies, the farmers are not going to be able to ship one car load of anything a year to pay for a rail spur, the idea is ludicrous.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23963Virginia GawI am 95 years old, please explain to me why a straight line is not preferable to a curved line when building this GLB route? This route meanders all over the country side, makes no sense to go to MP130 and MP140 to pick up a non class one railroad line, the Illinois Railway line, and then curve all over the place to get back on track with where they what to go. I remember Route 66, drove it many times, then they up and eliminated it and made straight roads to California, no more curves and trips through towns, why are we going backwards and building a curving rail road when throughout history we have been straightening our roads to eliminate them meandering all over? Please also explain why if this line is supposed to bypass the Chicago freight hubs the GLB people want to stop and pick up all this freight originating in the Chicago area, the route needs one on spot and one off spot to make it a true bypass, adding all these spurs and interchanges will just slow down train speed and not accomplish the goal of stopping freight from getting to the area in the first place. This plan makes no sense. Please explain why one on and one off is not preferable to a bunch of stops? The Indiana Toll Road lets you on and then you get off in only a few select spots, this route will let anyone on it and that is not a bypass, that is just another rail line and all these interchanges and letting on non class one rail lines does nothing but slow down the line, which is exactly opposite of why they are building the line. Foolish is the only word for this project. Furthermore, MR GLB states anyone along the route can build a spur and have a train stop to pick up a single railcar of freight, exactly what does he and the STB think we grow in these fields? How is a farmer going to afford a 2 million dollar spur to load one railcar a year of strawberries, as Mr. GLB stated in public they would, make any money? Do not fall for this man's lies, the farmers are not going to be able to ship one car load of anything a year to pay for a rail spur, the idea is ludicrous.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 6/21/2016)CommentEI-23962Laura SchepplerPlease explain why MP130 to MP140 is the preferred route when this route contains no flyovers for LaSalle County Road 2 and LaSalle County Road 3, which for the towns of Serena and Sheridan are the two major north south roads for the area? This line forces everyone wanting to travel north or south in a very small space to cross this line. This includes all Community Unit School District Number Two High School Students and anyone in need of ambulance services south of this track, as Sheridan services these areas with their ambulance, Serena does not have an ambulance crew. The Sheridan Correctional Center is also located on LaSalle County Road 3, the majority of visitors to this center would take Route 80 and exit either before or at Ottawa Illinois and take US Route 23 to US Route 52 to LaSalle County Road 3, also called East 2603 Road. This is an extremely heavily traveled road as the facility houses over 1,700 inmates. Please explain why having thousands of visitors a month cross these tracks is a more preferred route than having the route further South in the Dayton area, as GLB has stated is an alternative less preferred" route. As you should be aware the prison system does not place inmates near their homes, for obvious security and privacy issues, therefore it is a correct assumption that the majority of the visitors would be coming from the South off Route 80 to US Route 52 to the prison. I do not think it is right to have these visitors subjected to the dangers of crossing this line at grade level, and unfortunately that is the GLB plan. I also would like to know why it is acceptable to take an area with basically only two north south roads and make everyone in the area cross them when alternative locations would alleviate this problem? Please also explain why since the Sheridan Ambulance services the area South of Sheridan until the Dayton area, it would not make sense to have the Route closer to Dayton? The route could be the Ambulance cutoff for the Sheridan crew and the Dayton/Ottawa crew, instead it places an undue burden and delay on the Sheridan Department. Please explain why moving the route to eliminate emergency response delays is not a good idea, when these delays can be reduced by using a route GLB acknowledges they could use already?"
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24694Anita Nusbaum[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24693Virginia Glickenberger[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24691Mark Daggett[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24690Robert Glickenberger[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24684Tom Cunningham[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24681Bagley Family[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24650Deborah Tarrant[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment[See attached letter]Mike Pasternak, Todd Perkins, Keith Howland
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24644Pamela Erickson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24593Philip Rietreld[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24592Kathleen Dummer[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24590Gregory D Miller[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24573Brenda H McCabe[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24572Kevin J Connolly[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24569Kathy Mueller[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24539Ronald Hagenow[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24538Loy and Bea Scurlock[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24537Nadine Spear[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24535Jeffrey P. Swanlund[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24534Janet E. Stahlheber[see attached petition]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24533Ronald and Patricia Kaufman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24532Joe and Brook Hannon[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24531Robert J Ooklund, M.S. E.S.[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24530David H. Swenson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24437Mary Jane Novak[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24436Susan Warning[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24435David R. Miller[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24434William Radovich[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24433Alice Hunt-Lounges[see attached letters]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24432Douglas Raffatti[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-24362Alan Williams[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23961Mary SchepplerAccording to the GLB narrative mp130 to mp140 needs built along the preferred route" because otherwise they could not connect to the Illinois Railway line. The Illinois railway line according to it's website is "Illinois Railway (IR) is comprised of four track segments in what is often called the “Sand Capital of the World”. Customers served include U.S. Silica, Fairmount Minerals, Techni Sand, James Hardie, Watco Reload, ADM, Behr Iron and Unimin." It is 113 miles long. This is not a Class 1 railroad, therefore please explain why GLB plans on servicing this line when doing so is a direct contradiction of their stated purpose which is to bypass Chicago and service only class one railroads? Connecting to this line does not service a class one railroad. Furthermore please explain why we should be subjected to this location to simply pick up the sand hauled by Illinois Railway. Sand is a limited resource and we must be practical, it's production in Ottawa Illinois is limited and will eventually end. But the destruction to the land by a train track is forever. Please also explain why if this track was built as GLB states it could not be by Dayton the GLB track still could hook up to the Illinois Railway track as this IR track runs north south and in this area the GLB line runs east west. The two lines could meet in the Dayton area. Dayton is also substantially closer to the Silica Sand plant in Ottawa, why carry sand out of Dayton and into Serena, when you could leave the sand in Dayton and pick it up there? Please explain why this is not more preferable from a transportation and environmental aspect. If Silica Sand really wanted to use this line as GLB seems to think, why wouldn't they want the line closer to their sand reserves? I think it is wrong to connect to a small non class one railroad that services a very limited market to this line, the other companies mentioned are also located no where near Serena and it's "preferred" interchange. Also the GLB route people will tell you Serena has a grain elevator that would use the track, please explain then why the grain elevator does not use the existing Illinois Railway track that runs through it's plant, but would use the new GLB line? Please also explain why a seasonal skydive business in Dayton, that could be relocated anywhere is a more preferred business to GLB and the STB than Prime Farmland that can never be replaced or relocated?"
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23960Fred SchepplerPlease explain this section of the proposal from GLB regarding MP130 to MP140 From MP 132.5 to MP 140.00 water may be present in the farm fields within or adjacent to the right of way after heavy rainfalls. This drainage issue could be mitigated during the grading process by channeling the water into an improved drainage arrangement." Please explain in detail what an improved drainage arrangement is. Currently this area is drained by field tiles, this railroad clearly acknowledges in this statement they do not see where these tiles will be able to handle the increase water run-off. So please explain what happens with the field tiles, which do drain more than just the field they are in but fields for miles around and any damage to them will result in field flood in places GLB has not considered. Also an "improved drainage arrangement" sounds lie a big reservoir for water which is a safety hazard when filled with flood waters. If GLB clearly acknowledges this portion of the track will flood surrounding areas, please explain why this is a "preferred alternative." This line needs to be constructed in areas where GLB knows flooding will not occur. They should not be allowed to make flooding worse in an area. If you already know of drainage problems, then this portion of the track must be scrapped."
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23959Dennis SchepplerMP130 to MP140 according to the GLB proposal would result in one road stubbing" and two private rail crossing. Please explain how this is a "preferred alternative" to one that creates no private crossings and no road stubbing? I feel this portion of the route is poorly thought out. GLB wants a smaller river crossing here for the FOX river but does not take into account the hardship a road closure and two private crossing would have on the area. Any road closure would be a hardship to emergency response crews as they use little traveled roads in the area to quickly and safely make it to an emergency faster than using the heavily traveled roads. Farmers also use these roads heavily as they are safer than the major roads. Private crossing for residential homes is a very poor plan as it places these home owners in jeopardy each time they leave their homes or come back to their homes. People should not have to rely on their own judgement of how fast a train is moving and how far away the train is, especially when there will be 110 trains per day going 70 miles per hour. Please explain how you can allow these private rail crossing for home owners and ensure their safety?"
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23958Abe HenkerI am writing regarding mp 130 to mp 140.The GLB plans in this area cut the towns of Sheridan and Serena off from each other. Sheridan and Serena share a common emergency response crew, school district and church. Cutting the two towns off from each other would create a cultural divide in the area. It would also limit response times in the event of an emergency. Please explain why this is a preferred alternative" to a more logical and safer alternative of building the line North of Sheridan or South of Serena? he current location cuts off the town of Serena from it's ambulance service and cuts Sheridan off from the combined high school and church. Placing a railroad between these two towns is placing an undue hardship on the residents and increase accident potential. All Ambulance calls for Serena come from Sheridan and all high school students from Sheridan go to Serna. This line would effectively cut the two towns that work so well together off from each other. Please explain why this is a better idea than moving the line further north or South form this area? Added to this the line is too close to the prison and moving it further South towards Serena then places it less than one mile from the Serena population center and this is against the stated GLB purpose of staying 1 to 2 miles from population centers."
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23957Miranda & Richard SerleticPlease see attached letter and related news article in opposition of the GLB.VALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23956Miranda & Richard SerleticPlease see attached letter in opposition of the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line.VALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23955Justin kokosMr. Navecky, The Kankakee River State Park should be included as a major concern. Park land should not be easily moved to other purposes. I did some research on the area and did the numbers on the proposed river crossing. It would dramatically change the landscape at the park. We need to have many voice concerns about the impact to the park and Camp Shaw. Here are my concerns in a letter to the STB: I am writing to express my concerns for the impact to the Kankakee River State Park by the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad, and to ask for an additional scoping meeting in Kankakee County. . River Crossing The proposed route would have the railroad cross though the Kankakee River State Park, and over the Kankakee River adjacent to Warner Bridge road. The proposal calls for a flyover that would cross Illinois Rt. 102, the Kankakee River, and Illinois Rt. 113. This structure and land build up around it would have a major impact on the tranquility of the park, habitat, sightlines, and wetlands. The Kankakee River has been designated a National Recreation Trail. This portion of the river is popular with canoe and kayak enthusiast, and has the potential of being a camping location on the newly designated trail. There are river-side camping facilities directly adjacent to the proposed rail route. The proposed route would be incompatible with the use of the park. . Massive Structure To create a fly over to go over a single road requires a good amount of excavation, to clear two highways and a river, the elevation would be massive and need to be 2 miles in length. According to Geological Survey, the elevation of Rt. 102 at the proposed crossing is 613 ft. above sea level. Rt. 113 is around 610 ft. above sea level. The two highways are about 3,000 ft. apart. The real challenge and major impact comes between these roads at the Kankakee River. The river sits at 550 ft. above sea level. Warner bridge sits at about 570 ft. above sea level, and has a fairly steep grade down to the bridge from both highways. To maintain the elevation of the railway a massive structure would need to be built at around 640 ft. above sea level to allow the required highway clearances at both Rt. 102 and Rt. 113. This is 90- 100 ft. above the river and surrounding valley. The structure to support this would need to be massive, and would be very wide on either side of the river impacting wetlands, nesting grounds, and fisheries. If earthen, the excavation would have to be 300 ft. wide to support the height of the track. This would completely alter the scenic and undeveloped landscape. The height of this structure would impact flight paths of nesting eagles, and migratory water fowl. The footings and support structure would impact wetlands, nesting grounds, and river flow. Construction would have significant impact to the wildlife of the area. In the event of an accidental derailment, the sheer height of the track would all but assure significant environmental impact, even with the most secure railcars. . Sound Being so high above the valley, the sound of passing trains would carry for miles along the river. The rail crossing would also be within a ½ mile of a Kankakee River State Park campground, which would destroy the serenity found there, resulting in reduced usage, and financial impact to the park. This area is cherished for it’s peaceful, serene environment and is used by thousands each year. The area is also known as a historical Indian hunting and trading grounds with artifacts and memorials. . Approach Not only does the proposed route cross through the park, it follows Rock Creek from Manteno to the River, and comes within a mile of the Rock Creek area of the park. This area is some of the most scenic in the park with waterfalls, wildlife, and Indian memorials. This is sacred ground to many, and is incongruent with a railroad. Also nestled along Rock Creek is Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See, a year round camp and retreat center. The creek runs through camp creating water sounds throughout. It is a tremendous place to camp, and is utilized by scouts, church groups, and is a popular place for weddings. A railroad less than a mile from this park would ruin the serenity and cause significant financial impact as groups seek other options. This is one of the largest areas of untouched land in the region, the proposed route is simply too close to provide the enjoyment this area has provided for hundreds of years by Native Americans and early settlers. This are has intentionally remained undeveloped. . Alternatives There are many alternatives to this proposed route. A project of this magnitude should fit a broader regional and national transportation plans. The developer has not shown how it relates to other projects such as CREATE that are already working to solve transportation issues in the area. This project is a corridor of convenience for the developers and has not been vetted by any regional transportation experts, and aligned with existing transportation plans and initiatives. The 6 -month waiver has unjustly short changed the ability to get more information from regional authorities regarding existing plans. We should not be comfortable with the developer providing a solution to a problem he defined. The impact is too great. This is not a small siding, and should have not been granted a waiver. Allowing a 6 month notice for the largest rail project in 100 years seems more than reasonable. Please revoke the waiver and require that the developer actually provide what was required by 49 CFR 1105.10, not simply a promise to hire a consultant. The public has been short changed by the waiver. . Please Hold another Scoping Meeting in Kankakee County Due to the short notice, and lack of media attention prior to the only Kankakee County Scoping meeting, I ask that you schedule another scoping meeting in Kankakee County. The lack of notice and public awareness created in part by the 6-month waiver has created a disadvantage to the people of Kankakee County by not giving many the opportunity to address you, face to face, that other communities enjoyed. The meeting here, was in no way reflective of the level of concern in the community. . Why is this justified? The impact to the Kankakee River State Park, as well as the county is to great to justify given the lack of demonstrated need. Please revoke the waiver, take no action, or share with us what you know that makes this a viable enough project to utilize the resources of your agency and hundreds of others forced into responding. Justin Kokoskankakee, IL
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23954Mark SmagaThis proposal of a railway/railyard will affect my home,property,and mini farm with animals that my wife and I worked so hard for,for our children and their families to enjoy and learn from. Please consider the hardship this will bring. Thank you.Grant Park, Il
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23953sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, Great Lakes Basin LLC is a newly formed Limited Liability Company, that has never operated as a rail carrier, yet seeks to construct the largest rail line proposed in 125 years (with an estimated $8 billion price tag) to provide a by-pass for railroad freight traffic that currently moves through Chicago by which is served by six Class 1 railroads. Frank Patton admitted all he knows about railroads is that he had a model train set as a child. Proposal by Non Railroad Venture Capitalist with no experience, no Railroad has indicated they will use GLB bypass, questionable ability to finance massive rail bypass with no commitments to use it and requests approval of utility corridor not related to railroad use. The Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. Home and land owners near the proposed rail and in the footprint of the proposed rail yard will see their home and land values reduced, this has already started to take effect but our tax bills have gone up! The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest. The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Thank you, Julie Kokos Sumner Township Kankakee County IL 708-426-4180julie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23951Jason & lindsay kokosHello Mr. Navecky, My wife and I have sent many letters to date regarding this docket. We've not received a response to our environmental concerns to date. Can you advise when we can expect a detailed and thorough response to the legitimate concerns that are threatening our environment and way of life? We are living in constant fear that this private investment may be unjustly granted the use of eminent domain. This daily fear is causing strain on our home life, relationships, and work. Thank Yougrant park, il
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23950Cheri BirkyI am strongly opposed to the proposed rail system. In addition to farming here for the past 40+ years, I also transport special needs children to and from school. One little boy who rides my bus would live only feet from the proposed rail. He has always been fascinated by trains. I can understand his parents fear and concern with their son wondering off into their backyard to see the trains. Please do not allow this proposed rail system to divide our communities and endanger our lives. It is truly unnecessary. Thank you.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23947Jason & lindsay kokosPlease see the concerns below of our beloved Kankakee River State Park. These are the words of another, but shared by many. These should all be carefully considered. The Kankakee River State Park should be included as a major concern. Park land should not be easily moved to other purposes. I did some research on the area and did the numbers on the proposed river crossing. It would dramatically change the landscape at the park. We need to have many voice concerns about the impact to the park and Camp Shaw. Here are my concerns in a letter to the STB: I am writing to express my concerns for the impact to the Kankakee River State Park by the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad, and to ask for an additional scoping meeting in Kankakee County. River Crossing The proposed route would have the railroad cross though the Kankakee River State Park, and over the Kankakee River adjacent to Warner Bridge road. The proposal calls for a flyover that would cross Illinois Rt. 102, the Kankakee River, and Illinois Rt. 113. This structure and land build up around it would have a major impact on the tranquility of the park, habitat, sightlines, and wetlands. The Kankakee River has been designated a National Recreation Trail. This portion of the river is popular with canoe and kayak enthusiast, and has the potential of being a camping location on the newly designated trail. There are river-side camping facilities directly adjacent to the proposed rail route. The proposed route would be incompatible with the use of the park. Massive Structure To create a fly over to go over a single road requires a good amount of excavation, to clear two highways and a river, the elevation would be massive and need to be 2 miles in length. According to Geological Survey, the elevation of Rt. 102 at the proposed crossing is 613 ft. above sea level. Rt. 113 is around 610 ft. above sea level. The two highways are about 3,000 ft. apart. The real challenge and major impact comes between these roads at the Kankakee River. The river sits at 550 ft. above sea level. Warner bridge sits at about 570 ft. above sea level, and has a fairly steep grade down to the bridge from both highways. To maintain the elevation of the railway a massive structure would need to be built at around 640 ft. above sea level to allow the required highway clearances at both Rt. 102 and Rt. 113. This is 90- 100 ft. above the river and surrounding valley. The structure to support this would need to be massive, and would be very wide on either side of the river impacting wetlands, nesting grounds, and fisheries. If earthen, the excavation would have to be 300 ft. wide to support the height of the track. This would completely alter the scenic and undeveloped landscape. The height of this structure would impact flight paths of nesting eagles, and migratory water fowl. The footings and support structure would impact wetlands, nesting grounds, and river flow. Construction would have significant impact to the wildlife of the area. In the event of an accidental derailment, the sheer height of the track would all but assure significant environmental impact, even with the most secure railcars. Sound Being so high above the valley, the sound of passing trains would carry for miles along the river. The rail crossing would also be within a ½ mile of a Kankakee River State Park campground, which would destroy the serenity found there, resulting in reduced usage, and financial impact to the park. This area is cherished for it’s peaceful, serene environment and is used by thousands each year. The area is also known as a historical Indian hunting and trading grounds with artifacts and memorials. Approach Not only does the proposed route cross through the park, it follows Rock Creek from Manteno to the River, and comes within a mile of the Rock Creek area of the park. This area is some of the most scenic in the park with waterfalls, wildlife, and Indian memorials. This is sacred ground to many, and is incongruent with a railroad. Also nestled along Rock Creek is Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See, a year round camp and retreat center. The creek runs through camp creating water sounds throughout. It is a tremendous place to camp, and is utilized by scouts, church groups, and is a popular place for weddings. A railroad less than a mile from this park would ruin the serenity and cause significant financial impact as groups seek other options. This is one of the largest areas of untouched land in the region, the proposed route is simply too close to provide the enjoyment this area has provided for hundreds of years by Native Americans and early settlers. This are has intentionally remained undeveloped. Alternatives There are many alternatives to this proposed route. A project of this magnitude should fit a broader regional and national transportation plans. The developer has not shown how it relates to other projects such as CREATE that are already working to solve transportation issues in the area. This project is a corridor of convenience for the developers and has not been vetted by any regional transportation experts, and aligned with existing transportation plans and initiatives. The 6 -month waiver has unjustly short changed the ability to get more information from regional authorities regarding existing plans. We should not be comfortable with the developer providing a solution to a problem he defined. The impact is too great. This is not a small siding, and should have not been granted a waiver. Allowing a 6 month notice for the largest rail project in 100 years seems more than reasonable. Please revoke the waiver and require that the developer actually provide what was required by 49 CFR 1105.10, not simply a promise to hire a consultant. The public has been short changed by the waiver. Please Hold another Scoping Meeting in Kankakee County Due to the short notice, and lack of media attention prior to the only Kankakee County Scoping meeting, I ask that you schedule another scoping meeting in Kankakee County. The lack of notice and public awareness created in part by the 6-month waiver has created a disadvantage to the people of Kankakee County by not giving many the opportunity to address you, face to face, that other communities enjoyed. The meeting here, was in no way reflective of the level of concern in the community. Why is this justified? The impact to the Kankakee River State Park, as well as the county is to great to justify given the lack of demonstrated need. Please revoke the waiver, take no action, or share with us what you know that makes this a viable enough project to utilize the resources of your agency and hundreds of others forced into responding. Thank Yougrant park, il
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23946Christine MeyerSee attached letter. Christine Meyer is elderly and unable to use the computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23945Roger WestSee attached letter. Roger West is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersKankakee, IL
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23944John LanglandSee attached letter. John Langland is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Sincerely, Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23943Kay JohnsonSee attached letter. Kay Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23942Owen JohnsonSee attached letter. Owen Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23941Martha WileySee attached letter. Martha Wiley is elderly and does not use a computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23940Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles Wiley has asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23939Rod TwaitSee attached letter. Rod Twait is elderly and does not use a computer. He asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23938Mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary Twait is elderly and able to use the computer quite well. She recently had eye surgery and asked me to send this letter for her. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/20/2016)CommentEI-23934Ken CarothersSee attached letter. Ken Carothers is elderly and does not use the computer. He has asked me to send this letter. Thanks. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-24128Matthew Hoham
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23932Michael ClarkThe Kankakee River State Park should be included as a major concern. Park land should not be easily moved to other purposes. I did some research on the area and did the numbers on the proposed river crossing. It would dramatically change the landscape at the park. We need to have many voice concerns about the impact to the park and Camp Shaw. Here are my concerns in a letter to the STB: I am writing to express my concerns for the impact to the Kankakee River State Park by the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad, and to ask for an additional scoping meeting in Kankakee County. River Crossing The proposed route would have the railroad cross though the Kankakee River State Park, and over the Kankakee River adjacent to Warner Bridge road. The proposal calls for a flyover that would cross Illinois Rt. 102, the Kankakee River, and Illinois Rt. 113. This structure and land build up around it would have a major impact on the tranquility of the park, habitat, sightlines, and wetlands. The Kankakee River has been designated a National Recreation Trail. This portion of the river is popular with canoe and kayak enthusiast, and has the potential of being a camping location on the newly designated trail. There are river-side camping facilities directly adjacent to the proposed rail route. The proposed route would be incompatible with the use of the park. Massive Structure To create a fly over to go over a single road requires a good amount of excavation, to clear two highways and a river, the elevation would be massive and need to be 2 miles in length. According to Geological Survey, the elevation of Rt. 102 at the proposed crossing is 613 ft. above sea level. Rt. 113 is around 610 ft. above sea level. The two highways are about 3,000 ft. apart. The real challenge and major impact comes between these roads at the Kankakee River. The river sits at 550 ft. above sea level. Warner bridge sits at about 570 ft. above sea level, and has a fairly steep grade down to the bridge from both highways. To maintain the elevation of the railway a massive structure would need to be built at around 640 ft. above sea level to allow the required highway clearances at both Rt. 102 and Rt. 113. This is 90- 100 ft. above the river and surrounding valley. The structure to support this would need to be massive, and would be very wide on either side of the river impacting wetlands, nesting grounds, and fisheries. If earthen, the excavation would have to be 300 ft. wide to support the height of the track. This would completely alter the scenic and undeveloped landscape. The height of this structure would impact flight paths of nesting eagles, and migratory water fowl. The footings and support structure would impact wetlands, nesting grounds, and river flow. Construction would have significant impact to the wildlife of the area. In the event of an accidental derailment, the sheer height of the track would all but assure significant environmental impact, even with the most secure railcars. Sound Being so high above the valley, the sound of passing trains would carry for miles along the river. The rail crossing would also be within a ½ mile of a Kankakee River State Park campground, which would destroy the serenity found there, resulting in reduced usage, and financial impact to the park. This area is cherished for it’s peaceful, serene environment and is used by thousands each year. The area is also known as a historical Indian hunting and trading grounds with artifacts and memorials. Approach Not only does the proposed route cross through the park, it follows Rock Creek from Manteno to the River, and comes within a mile of the Rock Creek area of the park. This area is some of the most scenic in the park with waterfalls, wildlife, and Indian memorials. This is sacred ground to many, and is incongruent with a railroad. Also nestled along Rock Creek is Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See, a year round camp and retreat center. The creek runs through camp creating water sounds throughout. It is a tremendous place to camp, and is utilized by scouts, church groups, and is a popular place for weddings. A railroad less than a mile from this park would ruin the serenity and cause significant financial impact as groups seek other options. This is one of the largest areas of untouched land in the region, the proposed route is simply too close to provide the enjoyment this area has provided for hundreds of years by Native Americans and early settlers. This are has intentionally remained undeveloped. Alternatives There are many alternatives to this proposed route. A project of this magnitude should fit a broader regional and national transportation plans. The developer has not shown how it relates to other projects such as CREATE that are already working to solve transportation issues in the area. This project is a corridor of convenience for the developers and has not been vetted by any regional transportation experts, and aligned with existing transportation plans and initiatives. The 6 -month waiver has unjustly short changed the ability to get more information from regional authorities regarding existing plans. We should not be comfortable with the developer providing a solution to a problem he defined. The impact is too great. This is not a small siding, and should have not been granted a waiver. Allowing a 6 month notice for the largest rail project in 100 years seems more than reasonable. Please revoke the waiver and require that the developer actually provide what was required by 49 CFR 1105.10, not simply a promise to hire a consultant. The public has been short changed by the waiver. Please Hold another Scoping Meeting in Kankakee County Due to the short notice, and lack of media attention prior to the only Kankakee County Scoping meeting, I ask that you schedule another scoping meeting in Kankakee County. The lack of notice and public awareness created in part by the 6-month waiver has created a disadvantage to the people of Kankakee County by not giving many the opportunity to address you, face to face, that other communities enjoyed. The meeting here, was in no way reflective of the level of concern in the community. Why is this justified? The impact to the Kankakee River State Park, as well as the county is to great to justify given the lack of demonstrated need. Please revoke the waiver, take no action, or share with us what you know that makes this a viable enough project to utilize the resources of your agency and hundreds of others forced into responding. Sincerely, Michael ClarkBourbonnais, Il
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23931William MerchantzThe Great Lakes Basin Transportation (GLBT) purposed railroad should not be approved. The amount of land that would need to be take by way of eminent domain is not only ridiculous, but it boarders on the criminal. For years the residents of southern Will county and Northern Kankakee have been fighting to prevent a toll road interstate from being constructed and built, but just as it seemed like that idea was dying, another unbelievable public interest" project has emerged. Eminent domain should not be used to remove some of the richest, best producing farmland in the country to simply benefit private rail carriers, especially at the cost of hurting and hindering the local farming communities that it would impact. The sentiments are this: do not benefit those persons who have chosen to live in Chicagoland by hurting those that live outside of it. I regularly travel between Homer Glen (where I reside) and Kankakee, Bonfield, and Manteno. If a new rail line is needed then let the rail carriers build it in the city and suburbs where they operate, not in the beautiful countryside that does not need or want a "toll railroad." Sincerely, William "Bill" Merchantz"
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23930Dan KloosWhere the proposed train route travels across Calumet Ave. between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. in Lowell, IN , this area is no longer farmland. These are brand new individual family homes.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23929Dan KloosWhere the proposed train route travels across Calumet Ave. between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. in Lowell, IN , this area is no longer farmland. These are brand new individual family homes.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23928Dan KloosWhere the proposed train route travels across Calumet Ave. between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. in Lowell, IN , this area is no longer farmland. These are brand new individual family homes.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23927Charlotte Zerbs-BarthCharlotte Zerbs-Barth 3762 W 7940 N Road Manteno, IL 60950 e-mail: czerbsbarth@aol.com Mr. Dave Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 June 19, 2016 Re: Docket No. FD 35952 Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky: I am contacting you today to voice my opposition to the proposed route of the Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. high speed rail line (hereinafter GLB). In particular I am seeking your assistance with finding a way to ensure that a particular environmental impact, a “taking”, of endangered and threatened species living within the proposed route be addressed prior to approval of this project. Section 10 of the Endangered Species Act (hereinafter the ESA) regulates activities that affect endangered and threatened plants and animals and the habitats upon which they depend. Unless specifically allowed by permit, the ESA prohibits activities that affect listed species and their habitats. A specific impact is a “taking” of the species and it can be either deliberate or incidental. The term “take” means to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct. (https://www.fws.gov) If this project is allowed, the construction and operation of this rail line can cause harm to these species by disrupting the populations through air pollution, noise, water pollution, accidents, and habitat fragmentation. (http://www.oecd.org/trade/envtrade/2386636.pdf) My research shows that several endangered and threatened species live in Kankakee county alone. As of September30, 2015, these species included the Indiana bat, the Northern long-eared bat, the Sheepnose mussel, the Rattlesnake-master borer moth, the Eastern prairie fringed orchid, and the Leafy prairie clover. (https://www.fws.gov). If you consider the other counties on the proposed route the number of species impacted by this project is considerably longer. The company purports to being “committed to being a good neighbor and a positive contributor to the economy of the counties on its route.” Isn’t part of being a good neighbor minimizing and mitigating harm to the environment? Doesn’t the GLB have to address the impact on the native species? Does GLB even plan on complying with the ESA regulations? I don’t see any mention of a plan to protect these resources despite the reality that these species provide a positive contribution to our economy. Please don’t let GLB further jeopardize the endangered and threatened species living in Kankakee county or any other county unless they receive the necessary permits prior to beginning construction. Sincerely, Charlotte Zerbs-Barth /czManteno, IL
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23926Christine MeyerSee attached letter. Christine Meyer is elderly and unable to use the computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23925Roger WestSee attached letter. Roger West is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersKankakee, IL
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23924John LanglandSee attached letter. John Langland is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Sincerely, Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23923Kay JohnsonSee attached letter. Kay Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23922Owen JohnsonSee attached letter. Owen Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23921Martha WileySee attached letter. Martha Wiley is elderly and does not use a computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23920Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles Wiley has asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, Illinois
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23919Rod TwaitSee attached letter. Rod Twait is elderly and does not use a computer. He asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23918Mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary Twait is elderly and able to use the computer quite well. She recently had eye surgery and asked me to send this letter for her. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/19/2016)CommentEI-23914Ken CarothersSee attached letter. Ken Carothers is elderly and does not use the computer. He has asked me to send this letter. Thanks. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23912Dan GehrkeI own a house and six acres that would be within a half mile of the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad project. I hope you rule against this. I have a lot of wildlife on my property, that I do not want to leave because of this project. I also do not want to hear all the noise. I also have pond on my property. I do not want it or my ground water polluted in the case of a train derailment. Thank You.Belvidere, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23911Christine MeyerSee attached letter. Christine Meyer is elderly and unable to use the computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23910Christine MeyerSee attached letter. Christine Meyer is elderly and unable to use the computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23909Roger WestSee attached letter. Roger West is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersKankakee, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23908John LanglandSee attached letter. John Langland is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Sincerely, Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23907Kay JohnsonSee attached letter. Kay Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23906Owen JohnsonSee attached letter. Owen Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23905Martha WileySee attached letter. Martha Wiley is elderly and does not use a computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23904Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles Wiley has asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23903Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles Wiley has asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23902Rod TwaitSee attached letter. Rod Twait is elderly and does not use a computer. He asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23901Mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary Twait is elderly and able to use the computer quite well. She recently had eye surgery and asked me to send this letter for her. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/18/2016)CommentEI-23897Ken CarothersSee attached letter. Ken Carothers is elderly and does not use the computer. He has asked me to send this letter. Thanks. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24612Gary Paarlberg[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24265Mary Jo Zanton[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24250Mary Auchstetter[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24227Edna Hoffman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24211Elizabeth Murphy[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24208Darron Halfacre[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24206James C. and Betty A. Austin[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24205Earl and Bonnie Hagemeyer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24204Roger and Elizabeth Clark[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24203Mary Auchstetter[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24202Jeff Waite[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24201Margaret Ekhoff[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24124Patricia Mussman
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-24123Patricia Mussman
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment[transcript to online meeting attached] Public Scoping Meeting for the EIS on the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line April 27, 2016 OnlineOnline Comments
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment[transcript attached] Public Scoping Meeting for the EIS on the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line April 21, 2016 5:00 PM Seneca High School 307 East Scott Street Seneca, ILOral Comments
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentPublic Scoping Meeting for the EIS on the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line April 20, 2016 5:00 PM Rochelle Township High School 1401 Flagg Road Rochelle, ILOral Comments
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment[transcript attached] Public Scoping Meeting for the EIS on the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line April 19, 2016 5:00 PM Ellis Academy 222 South Central Road Rockford, ILOral Comments
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment[transcript attached] Public Scoping Meeting for the EIS on the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line April 19, 2016 10:00 AM Community Building Complex of Boone County 111 West First Street Belvidere, ILOral Comments
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment[transcript attached] Public Scoping Meeting for the EIS on the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line April 18, 2016 5:00 PM Craig High School 401 South Randall Janesville, WIOral Comments
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment[transcript attached] PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING FOR THE EIS ON THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAIL LINE DATE: Thursday, April 14, 2016 TIME: 5:12 o'clock p.m. PLACE: La Porte Civic Auditorium 1001 Ridge Street La Porte, IndianaOral Comments
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment[transcript attached] PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING FOR THE EIS ON THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAIL LINE Date: Wednesday, April 13, 2016 Time: 6:00 p.m. Place: American Legion Banquet Hall 203 South Washington Street Wanatah, Indiana 46390Oral Comments
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment[transcript attached] PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING FOR THE EIS ON THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAIL LINE Date: Tuesday, April 12, 2016 Time: 5:31 p.m. Place: Veterans of Foreign Wars 17401 Morse Street Lowell, Indiana 46356Oral Comments
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment[transcript attached] PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING FOR THE EIS ON THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAIL LINE Date: Tuesday, April 12, 2016 Time: 10:48 a.m. Place: Aberdeen Manor Ballroom 216 Ballantrae Street Valparaiso, IllinoisOral Comments
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment[transcript attached] PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING FOR THE EIS ON THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAIL LINE Date: Monday, April 11, 2016 Time: 6:29 p.m. Place: Manteno Sportsmen's Club Banquet Hall 851 North Main Street Manteno, IllinoisOral Comments
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23895sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, Please reject the GLB proposal now. Please do not wait for or accept any further application from them. The EIS process has been started illegally, somehow by Frank Patton. It should be thrown out immediately. It is clear to see, there is a staggering amount of opposition to this proposal. All one needs to do is look at the site where all of the postings of environmental comments and opposition letters are being posted. With this staggering amount of opposition, I have to ask myself, how in God's name could any government agency allow this to proceed??? How could anyone see the negative environmental facts and the hurt and destruction to these US citizens lives and way of life, the farmland, the churches, schools, cemeteries, the jobs and businesses, etc etc etc that this would cause and not stop this immediately???? What about the stress and hardship it is already causing? A whole township of residents will be forced off of their property! And all the others along the proposed rail line!! Do you think they are sleeping well at night?? We are not! I am asking you to do what is right and throw this piece of garbage proposal to the curb just like Frank Patton and the GLB have made us to feel, like we are nothing!! We are SOMETHING!!! Thank you, Julie Kokos 708-426-4180 8454 E 11000 N RD SUMNER TOWNSHIP IN GRANT PARK IN KANKAKEE COUNTY ILjulie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23894Christine MeyerSee attached letter. Christine Meyer is elderly and unable to use the computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23893Christine MeyerSee attached letter. Christine Meyer is elderly and unable to use the computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23892Roger WestSee attached letter. Roger West is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersKankakee, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23891John LanglandSee attached letter. John Langland is elderly and unable to use the computer. He asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Sincerely, Jeanette CarothersGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23890Kay JohnsonSee attached letter. Kay Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, Illinois
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23889Owen JohnsonSee attached letter. Owen Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23888Martha WileySee attached letter. Martha Wiley is elderly and does not use a computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23887Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles Wiley has asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23886Rod TwaitSee attached letter. Rod Twait is elderly and does not use a computer. He asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23885Mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary Twait is elderly and able to use the computer quite well. She recently had eye surgery and asked me to send this letter for her. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23881Ken CarothersSee attached letter. Ken Carothers is elderly and does not use the computer. He has asked me to send this letter. Thanks. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/17/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23878Mark O'ConnorWe are worried about Farmland Protection, once it is lost to another use it will never be brought back to crop production. The natural grade of land will be altered and potentially cause wetlands making stagnant water that lead to issues with wildlife and mosquitoes.Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23877thomas conroyJune 17, 2016 This letter is in regards to my disapproval of the proposed railroad bypass of Chicago. I own land in the proposed area for the project. This land is used to grow agricultural products. I think this project would cause huge environmental destruction to the pristine land that has been growing agricultural products for hundreds of years. I am absolutely opposed to any project that will disturb this environment. Please vote NO on this proposal and support the farmers in your community.Chicago, Illinois
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23876Gwen LappieWater drainage would be a huge problem as it would go through the lowest part of our field causing flooding north of the rail. Also, I have a Beauty Shop business in my home. Already having the CXS rail to my west and trains blocking the road this would also block the road for my customers. Advise.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23875luke rhodaI oppose the ideas of the GLB railroad project. I believe it is an unneeded boondoggle that will ruin many communities, create numerous safety and environmental hazards.laporte, Indiana
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23874Lori WoodsIf this goes thru, it would be devastating to a local camp, Camp Shaw. Also, it would impact in reducing farm income, loss of farm jobs, impact on local road patterns and drainage systems and potential spills from hazardous materials. Plus the noise and pollution involved. THE RESIDENTS OF THIS COMMUNITY DO NOT WANT THIS HERE!Manteno, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23873Dan FletcherThe proposed railroad toll way with GLB is in no way necessary or beneficial to the communities that it would go through. The environmental concerns alone should stop this proposal dead, not to mention the concerns for first responders trying to victims. I personally have never seen anything clean with a railroad or switch yard or a thriving community that wasn't riddled with crime. The fact that only one company wants this and that they wish to use eminent domain for private use through public land that the taxpayers help maintain is not the definition of it. Eminent Domain: the right of a government or its agent to expropriate private property for PUBLIC use, with payment of compensation. I have seen over the years railroad tracks taken out. Why? If the problem is trains waiting, to me, the problem is in scheduling that the train companies need to figure out. This is an all around terrible idea that will impact thousands of lives and ruin communities! Manteno is a beautiful town that people move to for a better way of living to raise there families, this proposal will ruin it and communities around it.I have said for years that Manteno needed a way for first responders to get across the tracks for emergencies with no brides, and now they want to put in more tracks with a switch yard! I am all for progress but this is not the answer!Manteno, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23872Sonya WileyGLBT staff, I’m sorry about your friends in Orlando. Your attachment link does not work. Which person on your staff was so naïve as to say that ”the land is undeveloped?” It is primarily developed farmland that provides our food that you are destroying. Family farms being split into pieces and rendering some parts inaccessible. Quiet family farms with a proposed train right next to the house. I already can only sleep 2-4 hours/night due to loud obnoxious trains and you want to add another, Presumably, due to the ridiculous federal “final rule” blowing the horn at 96-110 decibels, The equivalent of a motorized hand saw 3 feet from your head, or if they do as some and set it at the highest setting, just below the sound of a rock concert. Oh Joy!!! People really need to hear yet another train from 3 miles away. It’s not like sleep is a basic need for people, or is it? I’ve seen these forums and am aware that they are usually a mandated formality, done after you have already decided to steal and ruin people’s land and lives to get what you want. If you proceed with this plan, I hope your project is a colossal disaster, for which you lose funding and gain national shame.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23871Sonya WileyGLBT staff, I’m sorry about your friends in Orlando. Your attachment link does not work. Which person on your staff was so naïve as to say that ”the land is undeveloped?” It is primarily developed farmland that provides our food that you are destroying. Family farms being split into pieces and rendering some parts inaccessible. Quiet family farms with a proposed train right next to the house. I already can only sleep 2-4 hours/night due to loud obnoxious trains and you want to add another, Presumably, due to the ridiculous federal “final rule” blowing the horn at 96-110 decibels, The equivalent of a motorized hand saw 3 feet from your head, or if they do as some and set it at the highest setting, just below the sound of a rock concert. Oh Joy!!! People really need to hear yet another train from 3 miles away. It’s not like sleep is a basic need for people, or is it? I’ve seen these forums and am aware that they are usually a mandated formality, done after you have already decided to steal and ruin people’s land and lives to get what you want. If you proceed with this plan, I hope your project is a colossal disaster, for which you lose funding and gain national shame.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23870Sonya WileyGLBT staff, I’m sorry about your friends in Orlando. Your attachment link does not work. Which person on your staff was so naïve as to say that ”the land is undeveloped?” It is primarily developed farmland that provides our food that you are destroying. Family farms being split into pieces and rendering some parts inaccessible. Quiet family farms with a proposed train right next to the house. I already can only sleep 2-4 hours/night due to loud obnoxious trains and you want to add another, Presumably, due to the ridiculous federal “final rule” blowing the horn at 96-110 decibels, The equivalent of a motorized hand saw 3 feet from your head, or if they do as some and set it at the highest setting, just below the sound of a rock concert. Oh Joy!!! People really need to hear yet another train from 3 miles away. It’s not like sleep is a basic need for people, or is it? I’ve seen these forums and am aware that they are usually a mandated formality, done after you have already decided to steal and ruin people’s land and lives to get what you want. If you proceed with this plan, I hope your project is a colossal disaster, for which you lose funding and gain national shame.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23869Sonya WileyGLBT staff, I’m sorry about your friends in Orlando. Your attachment link does not work. Which person on your staff was so naïve as to say that ”the land is undeveloped?” It is primarily developed farmland that provides our food that you are destroying. Family farms being split into pieces and rendering some parts inaccessible. Quiet family farms with a proposed train right next to the house. I already can only sleep 2-4 hours/night due to loud obnoxious trains and you want to add another, Presumably, due to the ridiculous federal “final rule” blowing the horn at 96-110 decibels, The equivalent of a motorized hand saw 3 feet from your head, or if they do as some and set it at the highest setting, just below the sound of a rock concert. Oh Joy!!! People really need to hear yet another train from 3 miles away. It’s not like sleep is a basic need for people, or is it? I’ve seen these forums and am aware that they are usually a mandated formality, done after you have already decided to steal and ruin people’s land and lives to get what you want. If you proceed with this plan, I hope your project is a colossal disaster, for which you lose funding and gain national shame.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23868Sonya WileyGLBT staff, I’m sorry about your friends in Orlando. Your attachment link does not work. Which person on your staff was so naïve as to say that ”the land is undeveloped?” It is primarily developed farmland that provides our food that you are destroying. Family farms being split into pieces and rendering some parts inaccessible. Quiet family farms with a proposed train right next to the house. I already can only sleep 2-4 hours/night due to loud obnoxious trains and you want to add another, Presumably, due to the ridiculous federal “final rule” blowing the horn at 96-110 decibels, The equivalent of a motorized hand saw 3 feet from your head, or if they do as some and set it at the highest setting, just below the sound of a rock concert. Oh Joy!!! People really need to hear yet another train from 3 miles away. It’s not like sleep is a basic need for people, or is it? I’ve seen these forums and am aware that they are usually a mandated formality, done after you have already decided to steal and ruin people’s land and lives to get what you want. If you proceed with this plan, I hope your project is a colossal disaster, for which you lose funding and gain national shame.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23867Sonya WileyGLBT staff, I’m sorry about your friends in Orlando. Your attachment link does not work. Which person on your staff was so naïve as to say that ”the land is undeveloped?” It is primarily developed farmland that provides our food that you are destroying. Family farms being split into pieces and rendering some parts inaccessible. Quiet family farms with a proposed train right next to the house. I already can only sleep 2-4 hours/night due to loud obnoxious trains and you want to add another, Presumably, due to the ridiculous federal “final rule” blowing the horn at 96-110 decibels, The equivalent of a motorized hand saw 3 feet from your head, or if they do as some and set it at the highest setting, just below the sound of a rock concert. Oh Joy!!! People really need to hear yet another train from 3 miles away. It’s not like sleep is a basic need for people, or is it? I’ve seen these forums and am aware that they are usually a mandated formality, done after you have already decided to steal and ruin people’s land and lives to get what you want. If you proceed with this plan, I hope your project is a colossal disaster, for which you lose funding and gain national shame.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23866Sonya WileyGLBT staff, I’m sorry about your friends in Orlando. Your attachment link does not work. Which person on your staff was so naïve as to say that ”the land is undeveloped?” It is primarily developed farmland that provides our food that you are destroying. Family farms being split into pieces and rendering some parts inaccessible. Quiet family farms with a proposed train right next to the house. I already can only sleep 2-4 hours/night due to loud obnoxious trains and you want to add another, Presumably, due to the ridiculous federal “final rule” blowing the horn at 96-110 decibels, The equivalent of a motorized hand saw 3 feet from your head, or if they do as some and set it at the highest setting, just below the sound of a rock concert. Oh Joy!!! People really need to hear yet another train from 3 miles away. It’s not like sleep is a basic need for people, or is it? I’ve seen these forums and am aware that they are usually a mandated formality, done after you have already decided to steal and ruin people’s land and lives to get what you want. If you proceed with this plan, I hope your project is a colossal disaster, for which you lose funding and gain national shame.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23865Sonya WileyGLBT staff, I’m sorry about your friends in Orlando. Your attachment link does not work. Which person on your staff was so naïve as to say that ”the land is undeveloped?” It is primarily developed farmland that provides our food that you are destroying. Family farms being split into pieces and rendering some parts inaccessible. Quiet family farms with a proposed train right next to the house. I already can only sleep 2-4 hours/night due to loud obnoxious trains and you want to add another, Presumably, due to the ridiculous federal “final rule” blowing the horn at 96-110 decibels, The equivalent of a motorized hand saw 3 feet from your head, or if they do as some and set it at the highest setting, just below the sound of a rock concert. Oh Joy!!! People really need to hear yet another train from 3 miles away. It’s not like sleep is a basic need for people, or is it? I’ve seen these forums and am aware that they are usually a mandated formality, done after you have already decided to steal and ruin people’s land and lives to get what you want. If you proceed with this plan, I hope your project is a colossal disaster, for which you lose funding and gain national shame.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23864Sonya WileyGLBT staff, I’m sorry about your friends in Orlando. Your attachment link does not work. Which person on your staff was so naïve as to say that ”the land is undeveloped?” It is primarily developed farmland that provides our food that you are destroying. Family farms being split into pieces and rendering some parts inaccessible. Quiet family farms with a proposed train right next to the house. I already can only sleep 2-4 hours/night due to loud obnoxious trains and you want to add another, Presumably, due to the ridiculous federal “final rule” blowing the horn at 96-110 decibels, The equivalent of a motorized hand saw 3 feet from your head, or if they do as some and set it at the highest setting, just below the sound of a rock concert. Oh Joy!!! People really need to hear yet another train from 3 miles away. It’s not like sleep is a basic need for people, or is it? I’ve seen these forums and am aware that they are usually a mandated formality, done after you have already decided to steal and ruin people’s land and lives to get what you want. If you proceed with this plan, I hope your project is a colossal disaster, for which you lose funding and gain national shame.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23863Sonya WileyFD 35952 Sonya Wiley 515 N. Main St. Rochelle 61068 815-218-1752 815-218-1752 coyotecamping@yahoo.com GLBT staff, I’m sorry about your friends in Orlando. Which person on your staff was so naïve as to say that ”the land is undeveloped?” It is primarily developed farmland that provides our food that you are destroying. Family farms being split into pieces and rendering some parts inaccessible. Quiet family farms with a proposed train right next to the house. I already can only sleep 2-4 hours/night due to loud obnoxious trains and you want to add another, Presumably, due to the ridiculous federal “final rule” blowing the horn at 96-110 decibels, The equivalent of a motorized hand saw 3 feet from your head, or if they do as some and set it at the highest setting, just below the sound of a rock concert. Oh Joy!!! People really need to hear yet another train from 3 miles away. It’s not like sleep is a basic need for people, or is it? I’ve seen these forums and am aware that they are usually a mandated formality, done after you have already decided to steal and ruin people’s land and lives to get what you want. If you proceed with this plan, I hope your project is a colossal disaster, for which you lose funding and gain national shame.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/17/2016)CommentEI-23862Sonya WileyFD 35952 Sonya Wiley 515 N. Main St. Rochelle 61068 815-218-1752 815-218-1752 coyotecamping@yahoo.com GLBT staff, I’m sorry about your friends in Orlando. Which person on your staff was so naïve as to say that ”the land is undeveloped?” It is primarily developed farmland that provides our food that you are destroying. Family farms being split into pieces and rendering some parts inaccessible. Quiet family farms with a proposed train right next to the house. I already can only sleep 2-4 hours/night due to loud obnoxious trains and you want to add another, Presumably, due to the ridiculous federal “final rule” blowing the horn at 96-110 decibels, The equivalent of a motorized hand saw 3 feet from your head, or if they do as some and set it at the highest setting, just below the sound of a rock concert. Oh Joy!!! People really need to hear yet another train from 3 miles away. It’s not like sleep is a basic need for people, or is it? I’ve seen these forums and am aware that they are usually a mandated formality, done after you have already decided to steal and ruin people’s land and lives to get what you want. If you proceed with this plan, I hope your project is a colossal disaster, for which you lose funding and gain national shame.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24695William Blinstrub[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24689Sharon Vivian[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24688Lois Broege[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24687Carol Smith[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24686Charles Franson[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24685Ralph Paarlberg[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24683Ralph Paarlberg[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24682Karen Jenson[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24680Barbara Bowen[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24679Gene Isham[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24677Barbara Bowen[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24676Paula Schoonover[See attached letters dated 6/10/16]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24675Citizens of Rock County[see attached petition]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)Comment[See attached letter]Larry Kirchner, Stan Wenzelman, Daniel Riegel
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(printed as 6/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-24244Margaret Ekhoff[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-23861Brenda BOGUSCHThis rail system will cross our school district #2, Herscher School District which covers 200 square miles of rural roads which these trains will cross. Our students, our children WILL be killed by these trains. Our community WILL be contaminated by the fracking oil when these trains derail as they have in North Dakota. There isn't a system in place that has the kind infrastructure needed to address the spills, including North Dakota. Our small county roads can't take on the semi traffic that uses IL State roads 17 or 113 WHEN traffic must be rerouted due to an accident or spill. As a parent who's son was killed in an auto accident on the way to school in 2008 PLEASE don't let this rail system take ONE life, contaminate ONE acre, or ruin our community.Kankakee, IL
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-23860R.A.I.L.E.D. memberThe attached letter is addressed to Victoria Rutson. These questions for Director Rutson need to be answered. She needs to tell the STB the answers and all of the individuals impacted by her decision. Read the submitted attached letter.Patricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-23857VaLinda KingATTN: Docket # FD 35952 June 16, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. VaLinda King VaLinda King 15501 W. 1500N Road Reddick, IL 60961 815-426-6143 jskings03@aol.comReddick, Illinois
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentI am writing on behalf of the La Porte County Park Foundation Board of Directors regarding the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line proposal. Our Park Foundation is a 501 (c)3 organization that supports the La Porte County Parks Department in Indiana. We are very concerned about the current proposed route of the GLB, especially in the area near Westville, IN. That route runs within 100 yards of the Bluhm County Park, a gem of a park which our foundation played a key role in establishing. The property has been developed into a popular location for family outings, hiking, birding, horseback and bike riding, and other leisure activities. It features a dog park, playgrounds, spectacular wildflowers, and trails. A busy high-speed rail line in near proximity to this park would be a major detriment to all these amenities and the quiet beauty of the environment. We are asking for further consideration when it comes to this route near the park. Our Foundation is not taking a stand about the problems or benefits of the rail line, however we do ask that a different route be considered in the Westville area, especially in regards to Bluhm County Park. Thanks for your consideration of our concerns. Jim Jessup, President of the Board La Porte County Park Foundation, Inc. PO Box 108 Hanna, IN 46340 219-797-4407 jimjessup@frontier.comJim Jessup · Hanna, IN
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-23855Conroy Properties LLCJune 16, 2016 This letter is to express my unhappiness with the project to build railroads around Chicago in order to bypass Chicago and allow railroad cars to decrease the amount of time it takes them to get through Chicago I own farm land that is in the footprint of the area where it is proposed that 16000 square acres of prime farmland be condemmed and changed into railroad yards. It seems to me that this is and example of “taking a piece of paradise and putting up a parking lot.” The farmland is part of the bread basket of the United States of America. The main products are corn, soybeans, and wheat. My family has been working farmland in this area for over 150 years. We are proud and happy to provide for the needs of our nation. If you take this land, many other lands near will bear the terrible brunt of your project. 1. The flow of water in the creeks and the underground tiles will be disrupted and possibly cause flooding and loss of crops. 2. The trip between farmers and their farmland may end up taking many more miles because of the closing of roads that now are one mile apart. A one mile trip could become a ten mile trip. 3. Farmers will be forced to re-locate. Will they be able to replace their current farms with the same wonderful soil and location to Chicago? Please consider that your project will cause a complete disruption of the community of Kankakee County, Illinois. Please do not continue with this project. Regards, Marianne Yock conroymarianne@yahoo.comMarianne Yock · Naperville, Illinois
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-23854Janet GliddenI object to the proposed GLB railroad link to loop around Chicago. This project would extend the use of fossil fuels, rather than continuing to enhance use of renewables. We need to do more to protect our environment, and this project has great potential to destroy it!St. Anne, IL
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-23853April GerstungRe: Docket No 35952 - Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky, Because of the extension that you have granted, I find myself again looking for the right words so that I don't take a piece of white paper and in bright red pen write: REALLY? I just read the last letter posed on your website written by Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) James R. Carmean. He doesn't site any environmental issues so it will probably not count but he does address the fact that no major railroad has endorsed this project and two of the 6 Class I railroads in this area will not be using this proposed project, one of which you are familiar with. Letter marked E1-22974 dated 5/23/16, submitted by Norfolk Southern states that they have a robust route network" and its own by-pass route and the letter continues correcting statements from GLBT concerning Norfolk Southern not having a non disclosure or any other agreement with them. How embarrassing that must be for Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. to not only be caught not telling the truth but having that displayed so publicly and to the agency that you're trying to get to do something for you. I don't know Mr. Carmean or his wife who also served with the United States Army but Mr. Carmean hasn't told any untruths to me so I'm going to publicly thank Lt. Col. Carmean and his wife for defending our country so that I have the freedom to write this, as Mr. Patton has the freedom to want this and you have the freedom to say NO! on behalf of all the Mr. and Mrs. Carmean's. Also on behalf of Lt. Col. Carmean and his wife I'm going to offer some environmental issues that I'm sure that they would be concerned about that would affect their home on 4 acres. Grant Park is surrounded by prime farmland and the construction and the operation of the trains will affect the drain tiles in their area and lead to potential flooding that they have never had on their property. The noise and vibrations from the continual use of trains on the tracks would cause unnecessary stress not only to them but to the livestock, birds and other animals that keep our balance of nature. I'm sure that they are worried about the effects of the potential pollution from the trains and their cargo on the trees and the flora disrupting the CO2. And I'm sure that they are worried about any HAZMAT, crude oil or any accidents or spills from any concerning cargo being carried. If anyone would know first hand the incredible unkindness of what any of these products can do it would be Mr. and Mrs. Carmean. "It is an unnecessary project" Mr. Carmean writes. "It is harmful to the private property rights of individual citizens." he states in his final paragraph. I agree and I ask that you stop this proposed project from going any further. Regards, April Gerstung"
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-23852William FrederickAS a Farm land owner I am concerned about the environmental ramifications but most importantly the possibility of Eminent Domain being used to seize property and farm land that might be used or taken if the proposed new Rail Road Great Lakes Basin builds a new rail line from Milton, Wi to LaPorte, IN bypassing Chicago.Michigan City, IN
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-23851Rose SoliPLEASE DO NOT PUT IN THE RAILWAY near or house. We LOVE the country and moved here for the peace and quiet and we LOVE the wildlife. (Eagles, ducks, geese, deer, wild turkeys, frogs, woodpeckers....and many , many other beautiful sights and sounds of NATURE. We do not want this environment disturbed and the home to these animals to be destroyed! We love it her and would HATE to see and hear trains all day! Please reconsider!!!!Sheridan, Il.
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-23757Daphne Holterman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-23756Lori A. Pepper[see attached comment]
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(printed as 6/16/2016)CommentEI-23754Hugh C. McAuley[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-25267Gerald Knarr, Mary Knarr[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-25257Jan Austgen[see attached letters]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24678Ronald Rundquist[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24576Margaret R. Hannon[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24575Gordon L. Von Qualen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24574Gary S. Leitner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24384Ken, Kathy, and Todd Daggett[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24383Jane Maxwell[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24382Martin Hoffman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24381Janice Mize[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24380Margaret Ekhoff[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24379Alan Charter & Benita Charter[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24261Larry Hamann[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24260William Mitchell[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24259Margaret and Roy Viel[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24258Lawrence G Ekhoff[see attached file]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24257Ronald Rundquist[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24256Sharon Foreman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24255David A Pals[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24254Evlynn Broom[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24253Charles and Jane Stevenson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24252Jack Brouwers[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Greg LaPlante, Executive Director
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24209K. Eugene[see attached card]
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24121Nancy Haas
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-24120David Lantz
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23849Erin WaspiTo Whom It May Concern: As a lifelong resident of Northwest Indiana, I am writing to express my concern for the proposed railway. The railway will negatively affect the residents, wildlife, and environment of Northwest Indiana. The livelihood of farmers will be cut off. Historical sites, such as Buckley Homestead, which houses animals, will be decimated. In addition, emergency vehicles will experience delays in responding to incidences in rural areas that are already miles outside of a hospital. I ask you to consider the negative effects such a railway will cause to the area and its residents before reaching a decision on the matter. Thank youCrown Point, Indiana
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23848Calumet Astronomical SocietyIn reference to the Thomas Conway Observatory located at 19100 Chase St in Lowell, I am an officer of the Calumet Astronomical Society. I object to the proposed GLBT railroad right of way because it would very negatively impact the use of the observatory for astronomical observing. The passing of trains in the near proximity of the observatory will create vibrations that would make the observatory unusable. In addition, the light pollution will negatively affect the ability to use the observatory. Thank you.Steve Backe · Dyer, IN
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23847Chuck BarrieI am against the GLB Railroad Project in regards to Transportation Systems as I am a School Bus driver for Grant Park for last 30 years. This Railroad would close some township roads impacting rural school bus routes, emergency responders, commute times, businesses. Grant Park would cease to exist. Please hear our voices to block the GLB Rail Line for Private Profit!! Thank you.GRANT PARK, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23846Cyndy BarrieI am against the GLB Railroad Project because it would risk permanent damage to surrounding soil with the transport of oil and chemicals. It would also disturb 23 acres, of mostly farmland, per mile of railroad track. We are a 3rd generation Farmer in Sumner Township & would like to continue this. Please hear our Voices to Block the GLB rail line for Private, Unnecessary Profit! Thank You!GRANT PARK, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23845Lisa ClarkPlease do not put the railway thru Manteno and grant park. It goes right thru my parents land and livelihood! One train every 15 minutes is absurd. Not to mention you will ruin camp shawanasee! A historical landmark. Take your train line/yard somewhere else. You're not welcome here!!!!!!Bourbonnais, Illinois
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23844Pat SchwartzDear Dave, We have lived in Emerald Grove for 12 years and have had 3 floods. Emerald Grove is very low lying ground and the water run off from the neighboring fields and hills is tremendous. The worst flooding occurred in 2008 and FEMA declared us a disaster area. We had over 2 feet of water in our basement and lost our furnace, freezer, refrigerator, washer, dryer and hot water heater not to mention personal belongings that were irreplaceable. Our neighbors were not as fortunate as us and had water in their basements up to the rafters, well over 6 feet. The other 2 times of flooding also caused destruction to our property was due to the vast amount of rain that the ditches and creek could not handle. It is with great concern that I write to you about the GLB'S proposed route that is within feet of the creek that is responsible for our water flow. There is a natural spring about 200 feet from our property that is the start of what is commonly called Blackhawk Creek in Rock County. This creek runs directly along the same route that is proposed by GLB. Any disruption to that creek would have dire consequences for the citizens of Emerald Grove. We were told by the UW Extension Office that under Emerald Grove is the largest water shed in Rock County. Of course we are also concerned about any contamination that might affect our well water. Right next to the proposed route is Emerald Grove Cemetery at the end of our road. How are people going to visit the graves of their loved ones with the noise and pollution emitted by the high speed rail line that is proposed? This rail line appears to be less than 100 feet from the cemetery that was created in 1850. This will turn a quaint, historical cemetery into a place that no one will ever want to go to. My husband and I moved out into the country to get away from the hectic traffic and noise of city life. This proposed rail line would greatly impact our quality of life and cancel any plans for retiring in a peaceful country setting. Thank you for taking the time to read this, and please check into the matters I have mention. Sincerely, Pat SchwartzJanesville, WI
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23843John WolgemuthI feel that the Great Lakes Basin rail project is environmentally, economically and socially unacceptable. Canadian National has already addressed this purported problem with its purchase of the EJ&E. I feel it would be better to improve Chicago rail infrastructure and rules rather than destroy and imperil the rural Indiana and Illinois environment.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23842Lana J RippentropI believe The Great Lakes Basin Railroad will be a bad idea because of the effect it will have on numerous people.It will be used for hazardous waste and only for the investors advantage. Please study the alternative of using the existing railroads and not allowing this to go thorough. My family farm is a three generation farm and it would effect the farm land in so many ways. It is my son that farms it and loves the farming life as all the other farmers effected. Please say no to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. Thank You.Rockford, Illinois
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23841Sheila CanmannJune 15, 2016 This letter is to express my unhappiness with the project to build railroads around Chicago in order to bypass Chicago and allow railroad cars to decrease the amount of time it takes them to get through Chicago I own farm land that is in the footprint of the area where it is proposed that 16000 square acres of prime farmland be condemmed and changed into railroad yards. The farmland is part of the bread basket of the United States of America. The main products are corn, soybeans, and wheat. My family has been working farmland in this area for over 150 years. We are proud and happy to provide for the needs of our nation. If you take this land, many other lands near will bear the terrible brunt of your project. 1. The flow of water in the creeks and the underground tiles will be disrupted and possibly cause flooding and loss of crops. 2. The trip between farmers and their farmland may end up taking many more miles because of the closing of roads that now are one mile apart. A one mile trip could become a ten mile trip. 3. Farmers will be forced to re-locate. Will they be able to replace their current farms with the same wonderful soil and location to Chicago? Please consider that your project will cause a complete disruption of the community of Kankakee County, Illinois. Please do not continue with this project.Winnetka, Il
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23840RIch KemielThis railroad will not be well for the environment and will destroy a loved community of the area. We want this area to be safe for families and children. Having a railroad will implicate danger and hazards to the public.LaPorte, IN
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23839Jan Von Qualen[note from OEA: no attachment was received. please resubmit comment] My comments are in the attached file.Springfield, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23838Michael F. ConroyJune 15, 2016 This letter is to express my unhappiness with the project to build railroads around Chicago in order to bypass Chicago and allow railroad cars to decrease the amount of time it takes them to get through Chicago I own farm land that is in the footprint of the area where it is proposed that 16000 square acres of prime farmland be condemned and changed into railroad yards. It seems to me that this is and example of “taking a piece of paradise and putting up a parking lot.” The farmland is part of the bread basket of the United States of America. The main products are corn, soybeans, and wheat. My family has been working farmland in this area for over 150 years. We are proud and happy to provide for the needs of our nation. If you take this land, many other lands near will bear the terrible brunt of your project. 1. The flow of water in the creeks and the underground tiles will be disrupted and possibly cause flooding and loss of crops. 2.The trip between farmers and their farmland may end up taking many more miles because of the closing of roads that now are one mile apart. A one mile trip could become a ten mile trip. 3.Farmers will be forced to re-locate. Will they be able to replace their current farms with the same wonderful soil and location to Chicago? Please consider that your project will cause a complete disruption of the community of Kankakee County, Illinois. Please do not continue with this project.Chicago, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23836Cliff DavisI oppose and object to the construction of the rail line proposed by GLBT. I urge and request the STB pursue the no-action alternative" of denying the petition or application of GLBT due to the negative environmental, safety, social, and economic impact the rail line would have on me and all citizens that own property and/or reside near the proposed path of the rail line. The claimed (but unproven and unspecified) efficiencies possibly gained from the rail line are far outweighed by the loss of prime farmland, impact on the safety of local residents, and signifcant changes to the local environment and landscape. I request and call upon the STB to ensure the scope of the Environmental Impact Study associated with the project be as broad and stringent as possible, and include investigation of and weighing the relative impact of the proposed rail line's claimed economic efficiencies against the enormous tangible and intangible costs that would be imposed on the residents and owners of property that fall on or near the path of the rail line. I further request and call upon the STB to deny any exemption from GLBT filing a formal application to ensure additional public comment is allowed prior to any approval of rail line construction."
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23835Martin P ConroyDocket # FD 35952 June 15, 2016 This letter is to express my unhappiness with the project to build railroads around Chicago in order to bypass Chicago and allow railroad cars to decrease the amount of time it takes them to get through Chicago. I own farm land that is in the footprint of the area where it is proposed that 16000 square acres of prime farmland be condemmed and changed into railroad yards. The farmland is part of the bread basket of the United States of America. The main products are corn, soybeans, and wheat. My family has been working farmland in this area for over 150 years. We are proud and happy to provide for the food needs of our nation. If you take this land, many other lands near will bear the terrible brunt of your project. 1. The flow of water in the creeks and the underground tiles will be disrupted and possibly cause flooding and loss of crops. 2. The trip between farmers and their farmland may end up taking many more miles because of the closing of roads that now are one mile apart. A one mile trip could become a ten mile trip. 3. Farmers will be forced to re-locate. Will they be able to replace their current farms with the same wonderful soil and location to Chicago? Please consider that your project will cause a complete disruption of the community of Kankakee County, Illinois. Please do not continue with this project. Best Regards, Martin ConroySaint John, Indiana
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23834Donna HallThis was in the Rockford Paper a few weeks ago, Boone County voted to oppose the Railroad. The farmer pays taxes for the land he owns and the crops he raises. There is no guarantee that the same amount of tax money would come from this proposed railroad. Where would this leave the cities and counties in its path? They would either cut services or raise taxes on everyone to cover the added expense for emergency responders and equipment, flood control measures, road crossings and repairs, noise abatement, waterway pollution from the rail construction, and if a toxic spill occurred and polluted the aquifer, the need to dig deeper wells for city water as well as private wells for livestock, irrigation and human consumption. By losing farmland, you loose a guaranteed tax base. By running tankers filled with toxic chemicals across the rich loamy soil, you risk pollution to our pure aquifer, which in several years Chicago will want to share. There is no substitute for clean water or abundant food. Look to the future. Making money isn't always what is most valuable in life! Please consider opposing the GLB project. They are going to take the land by eminent domain for private gain. Any money to be made is going to the private investors not back into the communities we live in. Thank you for your consideration, Donna HallMonroe Center, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23833Francis PrusanskyI have lived in this area my entire life. My main concern is the loss of precious farm land. I am in agreement with all concerns in the attached letter.Janesville, WI
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23832Rosann G. ConroyJune 15, 2016 This letter is to express my unhappiness with the project to build railroads around Chicago in order to bypass Chicago and allow railroad cars to decrease the amount of time it takes them to get through Chicago I own farm land that is in the footprint of the area where it is proposed that 16000 square acres of prime farmland be condemmed and changed into railroad yards. It seems to me that this is and example of “taking a piece of paradise and putting up a parking lot.” The farmland is part of the bread basket of the United States of America. The main products are corn, soybeans, and wheat. My family has been working farmland in this area for over 150 years. We are proud and happy to provide for the needs of our nation. If you take this land, many other lands near will bear the terrible brunt of your project. 1. The flow of water in the creeks and the underground tiles will be disrupted and possibly cause flooding and loss of crops. 2. The trip between farmers and their farmland may end up taking many more miles because of the closing of roads that now are one mile apart. A one mile trip could become a ten mile trip. 3. Farmers will be forced to re-locate. Will they be able to replace their current farms with the same wonderful soil and location to Chicago? Please consider that your project will cause a complete disruption of the community of Kankakee County, Illinois. Please do not continue with this project.Naples, FLorida
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23831Matthew McLaughlinI have recently moved here from the east and have been informed of the STB's plans to develop a freight train in my neighborhood. This is very discouraging to me. One of the things I love about my new residence in Indiana is the relative quiet and safety of the area, particularly compared to my previous home in New Jersey. In addition, I admire the hard work that my friends and neighbors put into their farms, many of whom have had family here for generations. They take great pride in their farms and homes and it is disheartening to see them forced to give up part of their part property. I understand the need for progress, but not at the expense of the residents. Such a plan would expose them to hazards which could be avoided by considering an alternative. The people here have devoted their lives to their land, and I urge you to consider this when developing a plan for a railroad. Sincerely, Matthew McLaughlinHebron, Indiana
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23830Justin kokosThis railroad would be extremely detrimental to Camp Shaw-wa-nasee. This camp has been serving children for 70+ years and would effectively be destroyed by the railway that passes right through it. This camp is in a beautiful wilderness area on Rock Creek and would no longer have the beauty and pristine sanctuary it has when a train is passing through every 15 mins. Imagine the destruction an oil spill or train derailment would cause to Rock Creek.kankakee, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23829sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, It was announced June 10 that the Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the Great Lakes Basin Transportation (GLB) Environmental Impact Study (EIS)comment period . The new comment period deadline in July 15. This is a step in the right direction as it gives more people time to research and attempt to learn about the proposed rail line and submit EIS comments but it does not mitigate the fact the approximately 40,000 Illinois residents or landowners with property in the affected study corridor have never been notified by GLB or the STB conducting the EIS scoping. How are these landowners and residents suppose to know to comment by July 15? Furthermore the extension does not correct the fact the STB waived the 6 month period and did not require GLB to file an application before the EIS scoping study began. Without an application to hold GLB accountable we are finding GLB representatives are putting forth conflicting information to the public and we have no way to hold them accountable or know what is true. Frank Patton has said they have investors but cannot reveal them due to non disclosures . He went on to say 2 of the investors could pay for the entire project that would cost $8 billion dollars. We have read in an article regarding Baikken Oil transportation that 90% of the funding for GLB will come from Federal Railroad loans, yet GLB’s Frank Patton claims they are privately funded and will offer a compensation package of $20,000 per acre. If GLB were to be funded by Federal Railroad Loans which Frank Patton later admitted they would be seeking -at the Grundy County, Morris High School public question session, Federal loans would limit compensation to the appraised value of the land. Basically GLB representatives can tell potential investors, the media, landowners, and even the STB different things about the “plan”. A signed and filed application would help provide important information that would outline the business plan, financing, type of freight GLB plans to move and who its customers would be. An application would have to include information regarding financing and the business plan In order to determine if GLB fills a “need”, this info is necessary. I also would hope the application to the STB would explain GLBT’s request for a 15,056 acre rail port in Kankakee County IL. At this point no need has been determined. Frank Patton has explained it by saying he was told to prepare for the future. Please contact the STB (FD 35952) and request people in the scoping study corridor are notified by the STB or GLB. Also ask the STB deny GLB further consideration until GLB submits an application. How can an environmental study be conducted when the STB does not know who would be using the rails, what would be carried on the trains and what the 15,056 acre rail port would be used for? Why has no needs assessment been determined before launching into an environmental study? Please respond letting us know how and why this is going on. Thank you, Julie Kokos Sumner Township Resident 708-426-4180julie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23828Wm. HemphillSince this project has private rather than public benefit, eminent domain should not be invoked.Momence, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23827Laurie FleishmanI am writing to express the safety concerns at the intersection of Verona and Waupecan roads NW 1/4 Section 13, Vienna Twp, Grundy county,il. This intersection with current east west stops signs and 2 proposed rail crossings within close proximity will make this intersection a nightmare to navigate for all vehicles and impossible for school buses and large farm equipment to clear stop signs/tracks. On top of being on a diagonal making it hard to see oncoming trains, the North east side of this intersection is lined with evergreen trees the entire length of the field making it also impossible to see trains. Waupecan Road is a major farm traveled road for farm equipment to stay off the main road (Grand ridge Road ) a mile to the south. Waupecan is not abandoned as Mr Patton says most of our country roads are! Our country roads are well maintained and used. The only road to the north that runs a complete east west route is 4 miles north which is also a main road.(Dupont road). Waupecan would need to stay open or it would take us multiple trips of 6 miles each way out on the main road Grand Ridge just to get to the back of our field. These trips would include moving a tractor and planter,tractor and anhydrous tool bar,sprayer, combines, tractor and field cultivator,tractor and disk, tractor and wagons therefore causing more safety issues by taking this equipment on major traveled roads! If Mr Patton actually would have done his research or even sent people to inspect route he would of also noticed his maps are incorrect. Ward road doesn't exist from Grand Ridge Road to Waupecan road. That is a field! There has never been a road there! I am asking the STB to say No to Mr. Patton. It is hard to believe is has gotten this far with the lack of knowledge and no experience Mr Patton has regarding a railroad! Mr Patton drew a line and we are all,jumping through hoops to,say why not to build it!!! It is hard to believe that this can happen in the U..S.A and it shouldn't be allowed!!! Say NO to the GLB!!!!Verona, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23825Robert L.FloresMany crops will be lost,and families will be uprooted that have lived on the land for generations.Also safety is a big issue.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23824Elizabeth FloresI feel this rail yard would be detrimental to our community.It would cause safety issues,loss of homes,and a church and cemetery.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23823Jason and Lindsay KokosDear Mr. Navecky and Surface Transportation Board, I have a few questions this morning that I would appreciate a response to. These questions are very important in regard to Docket #FD35952. 1. In the case a railroad of this magnitude is constructed, where will all of the dirt and soil be taken from to raise the grade of the tracks and the adjacent easements? 2. Who will fund the quiet zones" where tracks pass by or through schools/churches/towns? 3. What steps will be taken to ensure the adequacy and proper training of first responders in these small town communities in the case of spills, derailments, contamination, etc. 4. At the county level, should resources and public safety be utilized for rural areas as in Sumner Township who relies solely on the County for emergency services, who will bear the financial burden of adding these necessary individuals? 4. Loss of farmland will could be a potentially 1.5 billion dollar revenue loss for Kankakee County in regard to a 15,000 acre rail yard. If that is the case, will additional funding be provided to Kankakee County to maintain infrastructure and provide a budget to allow the addition of public safety that would be required? Please vet all of these questions and provide a detailed response for the public's knowledge. Thank You Jason & Lindsay Kokos 10831 Prairie Farm rd. Grant Park, IL 60940 708-259-5250"
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23822Kay JohnsonSee attached letter. Kay Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23821Owen JohnsonSee attached letter. Owen Johnson is elderly and does not use a computer. He has asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23820Martha WileySee attached letter. Martha Wiley is elderly and does not use a computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23819Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles Wiley has asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23818Rod TwaitSee attached letter. Rod Twait is elderly and does not use a computer. He asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23817Mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary Twait is elderly and able to use the computer quite well. She recently had eye surgery and asked me to send this letter for her. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23814Ken CarothersSee attached letter. Ken Carothers is elderly and does not use the computer. He has asked me to send this letter. Thanks. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23812AnonymousHaving grown up on a small dairy farm in Rock County, WI I am appalled that one man could potentially be allowed to destroy the lives, livelihoods, and investments in the future of the hardworking people in the area, for his dream." My parents are still on the family farm (58 years, after purchasing it from my grandparents.) The lives and potentially their livelihoods along with many of their neighbors will be forever changed, (and not for the good,) should this railway go through. My prayer is that God will watch over and protect our nation's farmland and give you, and all who are in charge of over-seeing this decision, the common sense needed to see what a travesty this project is. Thank you for your time and God bless you."Menomonee Falls, WI
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23811Becky Hoffman-NorrisThe proposed great lakes rail road will have a horrific in pact on the environment in our region. Please don't allow this to happen.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 6/15/2016)CommentEI-23810Jonathan D. SlackAs a long time resident of the area impacted by the GLB railroad project I need to go on record as being categorically and unequivocally opposed to this project. The increase in noise and the disruption of normal traffic flows due to numerous grade crossings in the area can only have a detrimental effect of the rural lifestyle this area enjoys. I regularly use the bike trail through the Kankakee River State Park. This project will adversely effect the enjoyment of the bike trail. I strongly urge that a full and complete environmental study be completed. We depend on the Salina Township volunteer fire department for fire protection and 911 response. The ability of first responders to get to the fire station and then to the emergency scene will be hampered due to the increase of grade crossings of the railroad, thus putting lives and property at risk. This project will adversely affect thousands of local residents while it may benefit a small group of outside investors. This would be a total misuse of eminent domain confiscation of private property. This project needs to be stopped immediately or at least be tied up in legal and bureaucratic red tape until these private investors no longer see a fast buck at the expense of my neighbors and me.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-25247Ralph Paarlberg[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24692Ruth Ehlen[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24668Rochelle Fry[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24663Judy Fleming[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24659Laurie Fleishman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24654Roger and Elizabeth Clark[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24653Ralph Paarlberg[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24652Jan Lape Austgen[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24248Donna and Friedo Hillmann[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24245Verna Auchstetter[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24243Peggy and Arthur Skoff
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24242Ken and Rita Layton[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24241Joseph and Joan Sanek[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24240Peter M Clarke[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24239Anonymous[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24237Lindsay Parkhurst[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24119Claude and Sandra Dasch
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-24109WI Department of TransportationKathleen Chung and Bennett Conard
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(printed as 6/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23809Dan BockelmannI oppose this railroad for the environmental impact on the dozens of generational farms. The noise level alone will cause irreparable damage to the farm animals and have an effect on the local farming economy. I am located near the proposed rail yard by Grant Park. This would create around the clock noise levels to effectively change the agricultural makeup of the entire local area. Please do not allow this rail line to pass through the area for these environmental reasons.Beecher, Il
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(printed as 6/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/14/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Larry Kirchner Trustee · Bonfield, IL
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(printed as 6/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23805Joanna PacochaMr. Navecky......Please understand all the reasons for NOT allowing the GLB Railroad! Thank you. The GLB railroad would ruin lives, homes, beautiful farmland, and cause many environmental problems.Bourbonnais, IL
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23804Margaret WaiteI do not have a personal email address so am using my Mother's email addressClinton, WI
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23803Sharon LarsonThe motivation for this request seems clear - increased profits for the railroad owners. What is absent to us area residents is the clear explanation of how the loss of productively farmed privately owned agricultural land (at a time when our nation is approaching food shortages due to dependency on imported food and high rate of food-borne illnesses connected to factory farms)can possibly be beneficial to us citizens. The impact of up to 110 trains per day through this area is beyond comprehension. A single such train causes significant traffic disruptions, such as I experienced twice in the same hour last week. How could anyone (or any livestock) live near such frequent exposure to noise and vibration? So essentially, the proposal is to take away productive farmland, family homes and the peaceful countryside, which gives pleasure to most of us, in exchange for the disruption by up to 110 trains coming from Chicago to abruptly end in Milton, WI? This makes no sense so therefore I can only deduct that this proposed insult to the rural environment must be expected to make cents, as in dollars and cents, to those involved in thoughtlessly pushing through this ruinous plan. Prove me wrong!South Beloit, IL
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23802mary minichMY LIFE MATTERS!!! AND SO DO ALL THAT WILL BE AFFECTED NEGATIVELY BY THE GLBRR. I was at two of the scoping meeting their were plenty of informed people with alternatives. People had statistics of environmental destruction. We will have a train pass by every 11 minutes! The noise, pollution (in LaPorte Co. we already suffer from the mills and the agricultural areal spraying). Is this a fulfillment of Agenda 21. Are we to be sacrificed while others profit?? Do the right thing - use brown space - lines that already exist. Don't sacrifice the environment, and the lives and well-being of so many. Very concerned and I don't want to suffer the devastation to my life, property and the environment.LaPorte, IN
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23801Edward W. GormanBlock GLB Railroad. I'm a landowner in Manteno, Il. Section 14 of the Manteno Plat.Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23800Edward W. GormanBlock GLB Railroad. I'm a landowner in Manteno, Ill.section 9 of Manteno Plat. The suggested route goes thru my farm.Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-237991964Thank you for taking the time to read my concerns regarding the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. I tried to stay to bullet points. I'm sure you've received many concerns. I respectfully ask that you read through to the end. Thank you again.Deb McGregor · Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23798Village of Paw Paw ILAs Village President I have a number of concerns about the GLBT project that passes to the west of our village.The area west of Paw Paw and east of I-39 has been designated as a growth area by our comprehensive plan created in 2006. Having a rail line dissecting this area would be a logistical and costly prospect. Also our sewage treatment plant is located within a .25 mile of this project. The impact on our S.T.P. due to the vibration of 50-60 trains per day is unknown to us, but some problems are possible. Lastly, is there any mechanism for compensating property owners for loss of value once a rail line becomes their neighbor? Many homes west of Paw Paw are within a few hundred feet of the proposed rail line. There seems to be many more questions than answers about this project. It feels like the burden to find solutions to prospective problems is being placed on the public rather than GLBT. It seem premature to move ahead with such a project until the public is satisfied with GLBT's answers.Jared A Nicholson · Paw Paw, IL
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23743James R. CarmeanI have attached my letter of opposition regarding the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23742Andrew HunterI oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. It would take up farmland and be unsightly. It would be better to spend money to improve existing tail tracks.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23741RAILED, memberI am sending this letter in concern to the railroad planning. we live 250ft from the tracks and my parents live next door to us and they are 175ft from the tracks. I take care of my parents and their bedroom is on the side of the tracks and the crossing. Both my parents have health issues, my father has heart issues and has had a triple bypass my mother has multiple myeloma (a cancer of the blood and bones)... my concern for them is the toxins and the train whistle that will be blowing before the train crosses the road. the railroad crossing on route 2 will be right next to our driveway and we will be waiting every 10 minutes for a train to cross. the crossing will be difficult for the emergency vehicles that will be traveling on route 2...from what I understand is that none of the buses, ambulances, and fire trucks are equipped for this type of crossing? How will that work with route 2 being a main road for many of these emergency vehicles. We have 4 kids, one of which just graduated from high school and plans to commute to Valparaiso University everyday. she will have to wait for at least 2 crossings for her trip to college everyday. to time out 110 trains daily will be very difficult and unsafe. my other 3 kids attend Hebron schools and will also have to be making stops at railroad crossings. My children raise animals for 4H. all the money they have put into the animals will be for nothing because of the toxins and noise that will come from these trains. the same toxins and fumes and noises from these trains will affect all of us here at home and our livestock. we have well points and the ground soaking up all of the waste we cant drink, bathe in, wash our clothes and dishes.. let alone all I have talked of but we are farmers...not just all the land they will be taking but all the crops that will be damaged from the toxins. how does my family make a living if our potential crops and livestock will be destroyed from these trains.Andrea Donovan · Hebron, IN
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23740RAILED, memberI am sending these comments in protest of the railroad. We live 250ft from where the railroad is planned to be placed and where it will cross on route 2. my protest is this...we have 4 kids. our oldest just graduated and will be commuting to Valparaiso university everyday. any way she goes she will have to cross a railroad crossing and will more than likely be late to classes if she doesn't time each crossing just right. she will have to cross at least 2 each morning. not to mention my other 3 attend Hebron school and drive everyday to school and with the crossing right in front of our driveway what will that do to their drive time...plus the danger of getting on the road to go to school because there will be a line of cars there waiting. I am to understand that 110 trains will be going by all day every day? what will that do to traffic on route 2. it's already a busy dangerous road especially with the quarry with all the bigger trucks. my in laws live next door to us and they are 175ft from the tracks and my father in law has heart issues and just recently had a triple bypass and my mother in law has multiple myeloma this railroad will just make them worse with the trains going every 10 minutes and you know they will have to blow horns because the crossing is right next to their house. what will the toxins coming from the trains do to our water since we have well water and the air pollution will not be good either. we raise farm animals here at our house. these trains will only harm our egg production from our hens and our pigs will get just as sick from the toxins as we will. the crossing here at our house is not equipped for buses, fire trucks, and emergency vehicles such as ambulances and such. we have many of these emergency vehicles come by our house everyday for many emergencies because route 2 is a direct route for many towns. this railroad will be a hindrance in all perspectives. the danger of these trains is my concern because the crossing is right here.Ryan Donovan · Hebron, IN
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23739Jason & Lindsay KokosMr. Navecky, Please see the growing list of opposition to this proposal. A list this long raises numerous questions. Was this project fully vetted before going to the STB? Is this project needed or warranted? Does this proposal consider the damage to surrounding communities, lives, wildlife, and environment? No answers have been provided by these many questions. Too many unanswered questions for a project of this magnitude to already be at the federal level. These issues should be of great concern to the federal government. Our federal government is concerned about global warming and the environment, yes? If that is the case then the addition of this rail yard would be extremely detrimental to those things. Please see the list below. I expect that these organizations, counties, townships, etc will have all of their questions/concerns fully answered prior to any proceedings of this proposal. Additionally, that all local governing bodies including their planning and zoning departments have and will be part of the proposed route. Thank You ILLINOIS: Boone County Agricultural Conservation Easement & Farmland Protection Commission Boone County Board Boone County: Belvidere City Council Boone County: Flora Community Grange Boone County: Pamona Grange Boone County: Spring Township Boone County: Village of Capron Boone/Winnebago: Northern Regional Groundwater Protection Planning Committee Cook County: Chicago Botanic Garden/Chicago Wilderness Cook County: Department of Transportation & Highways Cook County: Farm Bureau Grundy County Board Grundy County: Norman Township Illinois Beef Association Kankakee County: Farm Bureau Kankakee County: Salina Township Board of Trustees Kankakee County Soil & Water Conservation District Kankakee County Republican Central Committee Kankakee County: Village of Grant Park LaSalle County: Adams Township LaSalle County Board LaSalle County: Earl Township LaSalle County: Earlville Community School District LaSalle County Farm Bureau LaSalle County: Serena Unit School District #2 LaSalle County: Village of Sheridan LaSalle/Grundy: Village of Seneca Lee County Board Lee County: Willow Creek Township Board Ogle, DeKalb, Lee Counties: Creston Community Consolidated School District 161 Ogle County: Dement Township Ogle County: Eswood Consolidated School District Ogle County: Girl Scouts of Illinois Ogle County: Lee Fire Protection Board Ogle County: Lynnville-Scott-White Rock Fire Protection District Ogle/Lee County: City of Rochelle SOAR Illinois - Save Our American Raptors Winnebago County: Boone Farm Bureau Winnebago County: Seward Township Board of Trustees INDIANA: Kankakee River Basin Commission (8 county board) Lake County Board of Commissioners Lake County: Calumet Astonomical Society Lake County: Drainage Advisory Board Lake County: Drainage Board Lake County: Parks Department Lake County: Plan Commission Lake County: Purdue University Northwest Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District Lake County: Tri-Creek Ambulance Board Lake County: Tri-Creek School Corporation Lake County: Cedar Creek Township Lake County: Eagle Creek Township Lake County: West Creek Township LaPorte County: Town of Westville Porter County: Assessor Porter County: Board of Commissioners Porter County: Council Porter County: Dept of Development and Storm Water Mgmt Board Porter County: Hebron Town Council Porter County: Kankakee Valley Historical Society Porter County: Metropolitan School District of Boone Township Porter County: Plan Commission Porter County: Soil & Water Conservation District WISCONSIN: Rock County: Bradford Township Board Rock County Board of Supervisors Rock County: Clinton Town Board Rock County: Emerald Grove Cemetery Auxiliary Rock County: Emerald Grove Cemetery Board Rock County Emerald Board Congregational Church Rock County Farm Bureau Rock County: Town of Harmony Rock County: Town of Johnstown Rock County: Milton City Council Rock County: Village of Clinton Board of Trustees Walworth County: Town of Linn Walworth County: Town of Sharon OTHER: National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Washington, DC Norfolk Southern Railroad Union Pacific Railroad (2014) This list will be updated as more entities provide their resolution and opposition.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23737john dollNo GLB railroad. Will destroy valuable farm lands,homes,people & totally ruin environment, make useless wet lands destroying wild creatures homesites.grant park, ill
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23736Deborah HerroldI am writing to oppose the Great Lakes Basin Transportation plan. If you Google the existing railroads in northern Indiana you will see that we have plenty of trains already. The what we used to call the Grand Trunk railroad runs almost exactly where they are proposing this Great Lakes train to run. Why destroy good fertile farm ground? Why close & block our existing roads? Why hinder our emergency services (fire, EMS)? Why dam our watershed to the Kankakee River? ect., etc,when the existing tracks can do the same thing the new proposed train can do. There can only be one reason, money, some investor stands to make money. Does one company have the right to steal the land and livelihood of others to line their pockets? I hope you will thoroughly look into this project and do what is best for all. Thank you Deb Herrold. LaPorte Co.Westville, Indiana
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(printed as 6/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23733Rose MitchellRodent populations follow rail lines and bring pestilence and disease to infested areas according to the Illinois Department of Public Health data. Farmland would be lost FOREVER. ANd when green space is lost, it often cannot be replaced. That would be the case if GLB's proposal is approved. While that may not be the primary concern of the STB, it is to residents of Kankakee County. It is not just about individuals losing the property they've worked to hold on to over years, but destroying too many rural areas in our community. The noise pollution and debris that follow railroads already exist in many areas of Kankakee County with the current rail traffic; please do not further burden our area with more pollution, waste and pestilence.Kankakee, IL
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23732sumner township residentDear Mr Navecky, Please deny the GLBT proposal. Thank you for extending the scoping period but this process is illegitimate since Frank Patton & the GLB have sidestepped the requirements to have an EIS process started. Therefore, this needs to be stopped now. This proposal is an inappropriate, greedy, wasteful, frivolous, ego-driven plan for the Great Lakes Basin Transport. One of the environmental impacts to consider is the water supply, what happens when whatever they are moving by rail, starts to leak, explode or derail?? We don't know because they are hiding what they want to transport by rail. They also are hiding behind investors". This is already not a legally followed process by the GLB. Please read the massive number of letters of opposition, Please deny and reject this proposal. Thank you, Julie Kokos 708-426-4180"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23730Justin KokosGood morning. It's a beautiful day in the heartland of Illinois. The sun is shining, birds are chirping and the sound of peaceful silence can be heard for miles..... OH WAIT, here comes a train. Not something ANYONE can say they enjoy. The beautiful sound of a freight train engine bellowing throughout the land. STOP THIS PROJECT AND ITS ABUSE OF EMINENT DOMAIN.Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23729Stephanie KoernerPlease read my attached letter of concern and submit it with the other letters of concern to be reviewed by the Surface Transportation board. Thank you!Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentEI-23728Ken DaggettWouldn't Mr Pattons 8 billion dollars be put to better use if he was to develop a much safer tank railcar? It would benefit every mile of rails in the country and make it much safer for every city, town and portion of the country that they go thru. It would also be a much better legacy to leave his grandchildren. But we all think that he has an ulterior motive behind what he is saying he wants to do, and he will not give out any info until after he gets approval, what is he trying to hide? Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentGerald Benge
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(printed as 6/14/2016)CommentKurt Tirevold
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(printed as 6/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-25261Lance Rosenbrock[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-25205Carol Wander[Note from STB: the original scan cut off some text. Letter rescanned and attached.]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-25145Allen Fischer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-25142Robert Hussey[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24747Stanley Schneider[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24583Ronald Muskina[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24378Ruth Ehlen[see two attached letters]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24377Matt Olson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24376Jeff Olson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24375Sylvan Olson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24374Ruth E Wood[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24269Block GLB Railroad - Petition[Petition is large and needed to be divided into four separate uploads. See attachment 4 of 4.]Susan Sack
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24268Block GLB Railroad - Petition[Petition is large and needed to be divided into four separate uploads. See attachment 3 of 4.]Susan Sack
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24267Block GLB Railroad - Petition[Petition is large and needed to be divided into four separate uploads. See attachment 2 of 4.]Susan Sack
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24266Block GLB Railroad - Petition[Petition is large and needed to be divided into four separate uploads. See attachment 1 of 4.]Susan Sack
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Scott Pelath, House Minority Leader
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24236Karen Gill[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24235Carolyn Sime[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24233Shirley Anderson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24232Mary Govert[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24231Thomas Armstrong Jr[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24230Laura and Dennis Scheppler[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24229William Radovich[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24228Richard Lorenz[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24210Amy Wancho[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24200Robin Rios[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24199Ruth Ehlen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24198Michael Crawford[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24197William Vose[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24196Larry and Kathleen Zimmerman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24195T. Blinstrub[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentLaGena Crawford
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Jeffrey M. O'Connor, District Board Chairman
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Gerald Benge, Trustee President
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentTrustees
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24106Linda Cosgrove
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-24046Cheryl Webster[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23726Harry L. Savage Jr.We oppose strongly the building of the new rail-road company(GLBT), and their plans for the Laporte Area.Eminent Domain being unethically used,environmental impact,underlying cost to taxpayers,traffic impact,Quality of life!Laporte, Indiana
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23725Rudolph NetzerThis proposed rail line will cause hardship for a great number of people in Laporte county, especially the adjoining land owners and farmers. IF you remember THIRTY YEARS AGO THE LOCAL RAIL LINES TORE up MANY MILES OF ROADWAY and the right-of-ways were surrendered to other uses.hamlet, indiana
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Shawn Cirtom · Chicago, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23723Debbie KlebanNone of the material I have read about this proposed project convinces me that this is in the best interest of the public at large nor is it the least environmentally intrusion option to improve freight service through the Chicagoland area. Instead of destroying additional pristine land, particularly in NW Indiana, where so much of the natural beauty there has already been replaced by large steel industry, why not instead focus on ways to improve the existing rail system in ways that improves rail travel on those existing lines (e.g. the CREATE program in Illinois; www.createprogram.org).Chicago, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23722Louis DickmanI am a concerned individual about the purpose,economic, and environmental impact of the GLB Railroad. Please consider the farm land that would be taken out of production. The world was only given a limited area of fertile soil on flat land,with proper rainfall,and with proper temperatures to grow food. That is what the GLB wants to use, taking away natural food producing acres. Economically I've heard that the Rail Lines in Chicago has no interest in a bypass rail line. If they don't need it why should we take land out of production.Environmentally consider the land that will be lost,the chemicals that would be used in the construction, the drainage issues, the maintenance of the right of way,and the movement of plant species seeds by the trains. I think we lose more than we gain Thank YouHerscher, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23721Bruce NiemanI am filing my comments regarding the proposed GLB railroad project. Noise pollution- Based on their website they claimed up to 110 trains per day. That means a train every 13 minutes all day long. We already have a train line in town with limited activity(10-15 trains) which a creates noise pollution that can heard from a far distance. Road Infrastructure- We live in a rural with limited road access so bringing 15,000 acre train facility which would cause safety issues. There is no way the current roads can handle a high volume of truck traffic. Emergency vehicles- On a good day there will be a train every 13 minutes. We all know trains stop and block important intersections. This already happens in town. It is only matter of time when an emergency vehicle won’t be able to get where it needs because of a train. Minutes\seconds matter in an emergency What will happen when there is a spill which is bound to happen? This will pollute the local water table and potentially all the way to the Kankakee river which supplies water to thousands of residents in the area.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Thomas G. Kotarac · Chicago, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23717Rock Prairie GrangeI do not support Docket No. FD-35952. Please do not build this railroad for the sake of our community. The railroad will be being built really close to my parents' farm that they have run for decades with the help of my grandparents, my siblings, and my nieces & nephews. Many of our neighbors would be losing their land, and this would be a disruption to the community of Johnstown and surrounding area. I do not support Docket No. FD-35952. Please reconsider. This appears to be in the best interest of one private citizen and not the community as a whole. Farmland is NOT wasted land. It is being used not only by people but abundant wildlife. This is not acceptable.Jennifer S Mood · Madison, WI
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23715Jason KokosMr. Navecky, Thank you for expanding the comment period for this docket #. With the enormity of responses, letters, concerns, oppositions, and resolutions sent I assume this is one of the most controversial proposals that the STB has ever seen. For good reason, certainly. That's likely because this is an unfounded, unnecessary, and absolutely corrupt proposal that completely disregards the environment, the lives of taxpaying citizens, businesses, schools, emergency respondents, counties, farms, churches, cemeteries and entire towns. Public use, and for the good" of the public were two established goals for the governmental use of eminent domain. This proposal is neither. This is a proposal that will line the pockets of others while hurting the public in its path. Does that sound like a reasonable and just use of eminent domain to you? It doesn't to me. Please, I urge the STB to choose the no action alternative regarding this proposal. Thank You"
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23714Lynn KloosI contacted Jim Wilson about this area no longer being farmland and he requested I send the information to you so you can explore alternative routes in this area. The proposed route crossing Calumet Ave in Lowell, IN between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. is no longer farm fields. They are brand new individual family homes. The route literally goes between my neighbors home and his garage. I realize the route was proposed prior to the building of our homes, but I'm writing to inform you of the recent construction. If you are considering allowing this railroad to continue I implore you to reroute the train away from this area. We have all just built brand new homes and have children and animals and would not be able to live there with trains coming at 70mph 50 feet from our homes.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23713Lynn KloosI contacted Jim Wilson about this area no longer being farmland and he requested I send the information to you so you can explore alternative routes in this area. The proposed route crossing Calumet Ave in Lowell, IN between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. is no longer farm fields. They are brand new individual family homes. The route literally goes between my neighbors home and his garage. I realize the route was proposed prior to the building of our homes, but I'm writing to inform you of the recent construction. If you are considering allowing this railroad to continue I implore you to reroute the train away from this area. We have all just built brand new homes and have children and animals and would not be able to live there with trains coming at 70mph 50 feet from our homes.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23712Lynn KloosI contacted Jim Wilson about this area no longer being farmland and he requested I send the information to you so you can explore alternative routes in this area. The proposed route crossing Calumet Ave in Lowell, IN between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. is no longer farm fields. They are brand new individual family homes. The route literally goes between my neighbors home and his garage. I realize the route was proposed prior to the building of our homes, but I'm writing to inform you of the recent construction. If you are considering allowing this railroad to continue I implore you to reroute the train away from this area. We have all just built brand new homes and have children and animals and would not be able to live there with trains coming at 70mph 50 feet from our homes.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23711.My comment re:Great Lakes Basin and the proposed rail line. I DO NOT want this to be approved. This railway would ruin the quality of life for thousands of people including me and my husband. This railway would be about 1/4 mile from my home. We already have a train one mile from my home and we hear it day and night and it RATTLES our windows all day long. I cannot tolerate this constant noise, pollution and mess. The quality of life here, and in Union Mills, Valparaiso, etc. would be terrible. If this railway is approved we would have to sell our home to escape it, but who would want to buy our home and live with this mess? The negative effects of this railway would greatly outweigh any benefit in terms of jobs etc., not to mention destroying even more of our natural environment.Mrs. Diane Barr · laporte, Indiana
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23710Block GLB, memberThis was mailed to Illinois Representatives, 6/13/2016 It was announced June 10 that the Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the Great Lakes Basin Transportation (GLB) Environmental Impact Study (EIS)comment period . The new comment period deadline in July 15. This is a step in the right direction as it gives more people time to research and attempt to learn about the proposed rail line and submit EIS comments but it does not mitigate the fact the approximately 40,000 Illinois residents or landowners with property in the affected study corridor have never been notified by GLB or the STB conducting the EIS scoping. How are these landowners and residents suppose to know to comment by July 15? Furthermore the extension does not correct the fact the STB waived the 6 month period and did not require GLB to file an application before the EIS scoping study began. Without an application to hold GLB accountable we are finding GLB representatives are putting forth conflicting information to the public and we have no way to hold them accountable or know what is true. Frank Patton has said they have investors but cannot reveal them due to non disclosures . He went on to say 2 of the investors could pay for the entire project that would cost $8 billion dollars. We have read in an article regarding Baikken Oil transportation that 90% of the funding for GLB will come from Federal Railroad loans, yet GLB’s Frank Patton claims they are privately funded and will offer a compensation package of $20,000 per acre. If GLB were to be funded by Federal Railroad Loans which Frank Patton later admitted they would be seeking -at the Grundy County, Morris High School public question session, Federal loans would limit compensation to the appraised value of the land. Basically GLB representatives can tell potential investors, the media, landowners, and even the STB different things about the “plan”. A signed and filed application would help provide important information that would outline the business plan, financing, type of freight GLB plans to move and who its customers would be. An application would have to include information regarding financing and the business plan In order to determine if GLB fills a “need”, this info is necessary. I also would hope the application to the STB would explain GLBT’s request for a 15,056 acre rail port in Kankakee County IL. At this point no need has been determined. Frank Patton has explained it by saying he was told to prepare for the future. Please contact the STB (FD 35952) and request people in the scoping study corridor are notified by the STB or GLB. Also ask the STB deny GLB further consideration until GLB submits an application. How can an environmental study be conducted when the STB does not know who would be using the rails, what would be carried on the trains and what the 15,056 acre rail port would be used for? Why has no needs assessment been determined before launching into an environmental study? Sincerely, Susan Sack 3799 East 7th RD, Mendota IL 61342 phone 815-910-9064 sack_susan@yahoo.com BlockGLBrailroad@gmail.comSusan Sack · Mendota, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23709Erica HansonThese comments concern the proposed Chicago by-pass rail line slated to pass along the Buckley Homestead County Park in Lowell. While northern Lake County Indiana offers various natural resources for citizens to enjoy such as the Dunes Parks and Lakeshore, there are more limited options of quality located in Southern Lake County, and Buckley Homestead is one of the few. The park is unique in terms of history and conservation in the commutable area to our home. Our family regularly attends historic reenactments, educational events, and festivals on the property. We have learned about the heritage or our region and generations past in a hands on experiential way that is impossible to learn from books, lectures, or television programming. The natural beauty and tranquility of the grounds possess a truly special quality, that transports a person to another time. The educational value of the homestead in terms of history is truly invaluable. It would be so short-sighted to deprive future generations of this unique resource by disrupting the peaceful, rural, remote, and authentic feeling present in the park with the noise and intrusion of a modern freight rail line. Please consider these comments when determining the final route of the project. Thank you.Schererville, IN
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentJeffrey M. O'Connor
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23701Rock County Board of SupervisorsJ. Russel Podzilni
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23698Rockville TownshipRichard Moran
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23672Pat Robisky[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23668Lawrence MastersDear Dave, Please consider rejecting the proposed GLB Railroad Expansion Project. The land in our area is rich fertile farmland that needs to remain as farmland.The railroad right-of-way would fragment the farms into un-workable plots that will devastate the local community. I and my wife Frances are against this project and hope you will vote against this expansion. Sincerely, Lawrence MastersRockford, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23667Betty ButchartI am a homeowner along the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I have a question which I have not seen addressed in regards to liability if a train derails and contaminates or destroys our property. Do I as a homeowner have to carry railroad insurance just like you would flood insurance? And is there even such a thing? I would not trust that the railroad would be able to cover our loss or others in the event there was a major derailment.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23665Kay JohsonSee attached letter. Kay Johnson is elderly and does not use the computer. she has asked that I send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23664sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, please reject the GLBT proposal now. Besides being an environmental disaster, destroying prime farmland, polluting our drinking water, destroying our air quality, killing wildlife and native species of plants and trees, and all of the safety hazards, there is this reason: The scoping and approval process that has begun is not legitimate. Frank Patton has been allowed to sidestep many requirements to have any process started, even an EIS. Please, reject this proposal now. Thank you, Julie Kokos 708-426-4180julie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23663Owen JohnsonSee attached letter. Owen Johnson is elderly and does not use the computer. He has asked me to send this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23662char orndorffwill this rail line greatly reduce the # of semis on the roads? Permanently removing prime farmland out of production should not be undertaken lightly. This may seem an underpopulated area but 70 trains a day will impact our lives with noise and delays. for example, the train whistles drive us crazy blasting at every rr crossing thru Morris several times a night. My friends living on farms that will be impacted are afraid about the potential losses of their farming rights, livelihood and quality of life. CO 6/13/16morris, il
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23661Mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary Twait is elderly and has asked me to write this letter to you. She is in her late 80's and can do a lot on the computer. She is having health issues right now and requested that I write this letter for her. Thanks. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23660Rod TwaitSee attached letter. Rod Twait is elderly, does not use the computer, and has asked me to write this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23659Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles Wiley has asked me to write this letter for him. He does not use the computer. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23658Martha WileySee attached letter. Martha Wiley is elderly and does not use a computer. She has asked me to send this letter for her. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23657Ronald HerroldDear Sirs: I am very concerned about the proposed Great Lake Basin Railroad project FD 35952 . The facts aren't clear for the need for this additional bypass around Chicago. The impact to the safety to the community, to the environment, to the existing roadways and to class A railways it will cross is of great concern. I am sure as you gather the facts you will be able to discern this project lack funds, lacks merit, lacks true planning for the 21 century. I am a farmer and very thankful for transportion systems. But I feel this project isn't in the best interest of the American people. Thank you for your diligence in this matter. Ronald HerroldWestville, Indiana
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23653Ken CarothersSee attached letter. Ken Carothers asked me to send this letter to you. He is elderly and does not use the computer. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23650Steve BatesMr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. - The GLB proposed project subverts the CREATE program which is in the process of relieving the rail congestion in the Chicagoland area. - The GLB proposed project is not collaborative with any other federal, state, or local strategic rail plan. - The GLB proposed project negatively impacts thousands of peoples lives and property values by dividing up prime farmland into small parcels and running past peoples homes to as close as 50 feet. - The GLB proposed project negatively impacts community and personal safety by creating more railroad crossings, emergency vehicle access, creates unprotected rails near homes where children play, and creates potential for derailment. - The GLB proposed project negatively impacts the local environment with the potential of hazardous material spills due to trailer leakage and/or derailment, added noise pollution (especially if trains run 50 to 500 ft. near homes), water pollution/erosion/flooding by digging up creek beds and building large walls of rock / dirt for main thoroughfare crossings. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland will have a long term effect in the ability to feed future generations. - The GLB company is a for-profit company and will have their own self-interest in mind and will not be responsive to community impacts needs once the railroad is built. I just listed a few of the concerns with the GLB proposed project. I suggest the STB reject the GLB proposed plan and re-evaluate a plan that coincides with the CREATE strategy. I would suggest that the STB have more public hearings and include input from communities for congestion resolution versus one-way communication if this proposed project is still considered. I would also suggest that current abandoned rail systems and track be evaluated for use. Perception of Mr. Patton's presentation was short term" versus "long term" community impact and small town economic and employment opportunities seem naïve. Mr. Patton's perceived "talking down" to the public and short timeframe communication were negatively received; seemed like "pulling a fast one over the people" so they could not organize. Thank you for your consideration. Steve Bates *My family's property and land will be directly impacted by proposed GLB project."
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23649Lynn KloosThe proposed route crossing Calumet Ave in Lowell, IN between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. is no longer farm fields. They are brand new individual family homes. The route literally goes between my neighbors home and his garage. I realize the route was proposed prior to the building of our homes, but I'm writing to inform you of the recent construction. If you are considering allowing this railroad to continue I implore you to reroute the train through this area. We have all just built brand new homes and have children and animals and would not be able to live there with trains coming at 70mph 50 feet from our homes.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23648Lynn KloosThe proposed route crossing Calumet Ave in Lowell, IN between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. is no longer farm fields. They are brand new individual family homes. The route literally goes between my neighbors home and his garage. I realize the route was proposed prior to the building of our homes, but I'm writing to inform you of the recent construction. If you are considering allowing this railroad to continue I implore you to reroute the train through this area. We have all just built brand new homes and have children and animals and would not be able to live there with trains coming at 70mph 50 feet from our homes.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/13/2016)CommentEI-23647Lynn KloosThe proposed route crossing Calumet Ave in Lowell, IN between 185th Ave. and 197th Ave. is no longer farm fields. They are brand new individual family homes. The route literally goes between my neighbors home and his garage. I realize the route was proposed prior to the building of our homes, but I'm writing to inform you of the recent construction. If you are considering allowing this railroad to continue I implore you to reroute the train through this area. We have all just built brand new homes and have children and animals and would not be able to live there with trains coming at 70mph 50 feet from our homes.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23646Daniel F BartonThe owners of the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line is trying to take over all of the property in question to build and expand their railroad. Is using eminent domain to claim all and make payment for this expansion for nothing else but capitol gain. NOT for the betterment of the people. Eminent Domain is to claim blighted property that has been abandoned, left unattended, etc. All of the property in question here in Kankakee county have families, farms, businesses, houses. There is no Blight. The kankakee county board members should vote against this.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23645Daniel F BartonThe owners of the railroad trying to take over all of the property in question to build and expand their railroad. Is using eminent domain to claim all and make payment for this expansion for nothing else but capitol gain. NOT for the betterment of the people. Eminent Domain is to claim blighted property that has been abandoned, left unattended, etc. All of the property in question here in Kankakee county have families, farms, businesses, houses. There is no Blight. The kankakee county board members should vote against this.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23644Laurie FleishmanI would like to express my concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin,LLC rail line project. Docket # 35952. I oppose the project and ask the Surface Board Transportation Board to deny the proposal. My concern is about safety/environmental issues regarding mines in areas of sections 13 & 24,vienna twp,grundy county, il. ,We have the Verona mine shaft opening 1&1/2 miles away and the grand ridge mineshaft opening is under 1 mile away from our home located in the NW 160 acres of section 13 in which the proposed GLB project is to run through. Reported by a local retied well driller that the original mine maps were burnt when they closed the mines as they encroached and mined in spots they had no rights to mine in. The maps on the ISGS site does provided disclosers that the maps aren't accurate and that an additional approximate 30 acres were mined that maps don't show and 2 unmarked test runs that we're abandoned due to unstable soil conditions. The stories passed down from a neighbors parents of a tractor dropping in a sink hole with the farmer standing on the seat yelling for help, a 1/4 mile of the road just disappeared and collapsed in in the middle of the night, his father dropping a unlit candle down the air shaft as the mines got shallower as they came east and they weren't supposed to cross Verona road but they did and then told the next one would be lit, and the railroad that is now operated by BNSF only allowing one tunnel under the tracks for the mine and being built with 14inch oak side by side pillars with a width of only 2 inches to spare on each side of a coal cart for fear of a collapse. The BNSF is 2&3/4 miles from us so we don't feel that vibration from the BNSFrail however we would feel vibrations from the GLB and so would any mines in the area if the GLB is allowed to pass through our farm. This has the potential to cause more sink holes in our area that haven't been exposed to train vibration. Could we loose a house in a sink hole with a new vibration in our area? Or lives? Or the GLB train? We asking you to say NO to the GLB proposal but in case you don't please put the rail a further distant out from the mines and give a buffer zone for safety reasons! If a tractor or road can collapse in, so can a train!!! Ignorance isn't bliss on this matter as all parties have been told in public information & scoping meeting about this potential catastrophe! If you need supporting information please contact meVerona, Il
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23643James FleishmanIf this project is for the good of ALL,why is Frank Patton hiding investors identities and refusing to file a application for all to see? If a proposed project is great, everything is out front for all to see as investors want their names/projects out there for recognition. But, if the project is hiding specifics and rushed through with investors hiding their identities behind one, then the project is NOT for the good of all and Crooked! Why was Frank Patton waived out of a 6 month notification period? How does a proposal with no specifics or even stated land uses warrant an environmental study? I am asking the STB application process be stopped until Frank Patton files a application and discloses specifics and stated land uses for all to see!!! How do we submit environmental/safety issues when we don't even know exactly what for or who is involved? WE NEED ALL THE FACTS!!!!!Verona, IL
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23642james orourkeThis rail line is not needed or wanted. the area we live in currently has a NS line running southeast to northwest. With the fire department to the west across the tracks, when there's a stopped train the fire dept. cannot respond. Westville FD assists, usually getting here first and this line would cut off Westville from our area. The line would cross route 6 near county line and then cross 421 on the north side of Westville. We already have rail lines running on that angle not too many miles east of there. Finally, we were surprised while driving in In Illinois to Kankakee State Park (NW of Kankakee, Il.), to find that the planned route would cut through that park. My final question would be where does a group have the right to decide they want to build a rail line through peoples farms, homes, and state parks, with little regard to public safety or congestion, to provide a service to rail companies who have either already stated that they won't use the line or won't commit to using the line. These are rural areas that people have moved into to escape the congestion of being closer to the larger cities. Thank you, Jim O'Rourke.chesterton, in
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(printed as 6/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23640Christopher TebbensI'm a concerned resident who lives by Hebron Indiana but in Lake county. I have some serious concerns about Great Lakes Basin Transportation's plan for their toll railway. No.1 The environmental impact to the surrounding areas. This includes several aspects. The loss of valuable top soil, field tile being crushed or torn out which will affect subsoil drainage. In our area, drainage runs from the north of Lake county to the south. Building a at grade level rail system would be like building a dam. Flooding would increase to the north and very productive and fertile farm fields would dry up to the south. With the natural water ways being disrupted, erosion would occur which could affect the rail bed. Who would be responsible for drainage control. Would we the citizens have to pay more in taxes to fix/maintain drainage issues? Water contamination is another huge problem. If a rail accident occurs and tank cars ruptures, what happens? We rely on wells for water resources whether for our homes, irrigation of farm fields and watering of livestock. We cannot get water from Lake Michigan. What about air pollution from the exhaust of up to 110 trains a day. Extra air pollution from farm vehicles having to commute on local roads so that they can get to their fields which the have been cut off from with the railway. 2. Safety is another concern. There a lot of rail tank cars that being used that are hazardous. Who will respond to a rail accident? We have volunteer fire departments in a lot of our communities. They are not prepared or qualified to respond to a rail accident with spilled tank cars. Who is responsible for the clean up. Again what about contamination? Fertile soil cannot easily be replaced. Who loses? The farmer and we do that's who. We saw what happened to to the town up in Canada and the loss of life there. The proposed railway passes very near some quiet and peaceful towns. 3. the at grade crossings will disrupt school bus routes, emergency vehicles(police, fire ambulance) mail deliveries,etc. 4. I frankly do not trust Mr. Frank Patton. He been evasive about this project from the start. He's changed his mind on several issues and is not open with the people who this will affect. Why does he want to take 15,000 acres for a rail terminal when the largest railroad(Union Pacific)uses only 2,850 acres. Mr. Patton has no railroad experience. Thank you for your time in reading this. Christopher TebbensHebron, Indiana
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23639Nancy LasleySince we already have one railroad that carries hazardous materials, the proposed GLBRR would be all town affected into the path of a double potential crises with hazardous waste.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23638Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles Wiley asked me to send this letter to you. thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23637Martha WileySee attached letter. Martha Wiley is elderly and asked me to send this letter to you. Thank youEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23636mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary Twait is elderly and asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23635Rod TwaitSee attached letter. Rod Twait asked me to send this letter to you. He is elderly and does not use the computer. Thanks Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/12/2016)CommentEI-23629Ken CarothersSee attached letter. Ken Carothers asked me to send this letter to you. He does not use the computer. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/11/2016)CommentEI-24625Kenneth McCormick[Batch of letters dated 6/11/16 to 7/5/16]
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(printed as 6/11/2016)CommentEI-24624Helen McCormick[See attached letters from Helen McCormick dated 6-11-16 to 7-5-16]
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(printed as 6/11/2016)CommentEI-24107Brian Broski
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(printed as 6/11/2016)CommentEI-23652Stop GLB Railroad, memberIn our country we speak of environmental impact. We talk about the changes in quality of water, the soil, wildlife, and plant life. I’m advocating today for the quality of life for the bipeds—the humans. I want my needs to be as important as those of a fish or bug. Others have been more eloquent and more factual, so I won’t waste your time with redundancy. I won’t speak for others, only myself. I want clean water, clean air, peace and quiet, and our farmland. In the years I’ve lived here, there have been two earthquakes. And if I recall correctly, my home is about five miles from the epicenter. There has been movement of structures here at my house after the earthquakes. With the tremendous amount of fracking done here in LaSalle County, we are very likely to have more earthquakes. I fear a disruption of the tracks resulting in a spill of something hazardous such as oil, chlorine, or ethanol. Two underground natural gas pipelines run within about a mile of my house. One is 13 inches and the other is 30 inches. I am very concerned about the rail traffic compromising the pipelines and putting me and mine in peril. One of the environmental impacts to consider is the water supply. My water table would be about 25 feet under their trains. If there is a spill and they contaminate my water-- the water I drink, bathe in, use to wash my clothes and water my livestock, I have no doubt they’ll pay a fine. But they don’t pay the real consequences. I do. Forever. I have no confidence in their corporate doublespeak about mitigation. I don’t believe them. I believe they’ll lay their track and run their trains and always grab for more. More land, more noise, more pollution, more intrusion. I don’t believe they care at all about my needs. Mitigation means to reduce the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something. Over and over in their proposal I see the words “as appropriate.” I have no confidence in their estimate of the appropriateness of my needs. When it comes to precious resources such as pure water, clean air, and fertile farmland, there is no possible mitigation; only elimination. Their versions of aesthetics differ too from what they want to see in my backyard and what they want to see in their own. I doubt they run freight through their neighborhoods. One of the differences between city life and country life is population density. Many of us move out here to avoid the traffic, noise, pollution, and lead a simpler life. We buy fewer goods and services and do all we can to keep local. City life is consumptive of both goods and services. They use more and throw away more. Just like Lee County is being turned into a Chicago dump, with truckload after truckload of city garbage going west on US 30 to dispose of suburban waste, our land is being threatened to turn into a giant road to get more junk IN. We don’t want to be their dump or their highway. We want our peace and quiet. When we moved out here in 1983, the old-timers would speak of a time before the fields were tiled, when, as children, they could ice skate from one little town to the other. These fields in LaSalle County cannot be farmed without tiling. This is prime farmland, some of the richest in the world, and is a finite resource. Damage to the tiles, many of which the location is long forgotten, causes flooding and crop loss. Our soil here is mainly silty loam, supremely fertile, but always in need of careful stewardship. I don’t often mess in the business of others. I concern myself mainly with my corner of the world. In order to minimize pollution and decrease my carbon footprint, I’m driving my third Prius; and in it I combine trips to decrease the impact further. If you look on Google maps, unless they’ve been updated, you’ll see the first of my two solar installations. I don’t use coal, gas, or oil for electricity; I use sunshine for 120% of my electric needs. I garden here organically as I have for 33 years, raising clean meats, fruits, and vegetables for my family’s use. I don’t just talk the talk, I walk the walk; and I do it in a place where the water comes out of the ground clean and the air is fresh. I can see the Milky Way at night. I can hear birds in the morning, ride my horses into the woods and see wild deer, red foxes, red tail hawks, owls, bald eagles, and turkeys. These tracks would lie directly between my home and these woods, making it difficult if not impossible to ever enjoy them again. I beg you to stop this greedy, wasteful, frivolous, ego-driven plan for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad.Mary Ann Waits · Earlville, IL
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(printed as 6/11/2016)CommentEI-23631Justin KokosThank You for extending the comment period. I think it is understood that this project that was kept in secret for so long by Frank Patton, is now becoming more apparent to everyone it affects. And those that it affects, DO NOT WANT IT. Please, do not let this EMINENT DOMAIN ABUSE go forward. Frank Patton is NOT federal government, therefore he and his railroad proposal have NO RIGHT to OUR land. Besides..... he'll be dead before his project even starts anyways.Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/11/2016)CommentEI-23628Lana RippentropPlease stop this railroad. The railroad is not a good idea and will effect lots of rich farmland and many families. It will be transportating hazardous materials and the GLBT is not up front with the public on this issue. Please say no to this project. Thank YouRockford, Illinois
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(printed as 6/11/2016)CommentEI-23627Ken DaggettOne of, if not the, largest railroads in the world has a rail yard of only 2,800 acres, Mr. Patton wants a rail yard of over 15,000 acres. When he was asked about this in Morris he said, they told me to go big, next question". End of discussion!!! This man has far greater plans for this 15,000 acres than a rail yard and will not say what they are. He should not be trusted. Ken Daggett"
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served (printed as 6/10/2016)DecisionPROVIDED NOTICE OF AN EXTENSION OF TIME FOR THE DRAFT SCOPE OF STUDY COMMENT PERIOD.
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-24651Jan Lape Austgen[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-24626Ruth McCormick[Batch of letters submitted from 6/10/16]
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-24112Robert J. Ross[see three attached letters]
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-24105John C. Nelson
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-24104Linda Cosgrove
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-24103COBS Preservation PartnershipIrwin Berger
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-24102Trustee, Grant Park, ILDebra L. Morgan
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-24037Joan Waite[see attached petition with approximately 1100 signatures]
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23707Jeanette Carothers
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23706Monroe TownshipThomas Lichty
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23626Diana TrubachThis is not a company with a proven track record building railroads.What happens if they run out of money? What happens if the company is not profitable?Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23625Bruce TrubachDecreased land values for surrounding properties resulting in lower tax base and less real estate taxesGrant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23624Chuck BarrieI am against the GLB Railroad Project being a 3rd generation farmer and the impact on Agricultural Activities (Biological Resources). The RR will cause land locked fields & pastures. It will cause damage to existing field tile lines and decrease the production of crops & livestock. Please hear our voices to block the GLB Rail line for Private Profit!! We do not want this! Thank you.GRANT PARK, Illinois
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23623CyndyI am against the GLB Railroad Project being a 3rd generation farmer and the Concerns regarding Safety Concerns. There will be an increased possibility of spills and derailments with this high speed rail. Grant Park will need for Fire department in extensive training & equipment to deal with large spills & derailments. Please hear our voices to block the GLB Rail line for Private Profit!! We do not want this. Thank you!!GRANT PARK, IL
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(printed as 6/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23621Doris OConnorI am writing to express my concerns about the environmental impact of the Great Lakes Basin Rail Project. This project should not proceed without a thorough and complete impact study done by a third party. These are the concerns that have not been addressed by this project: 1. A great deal of surface soil and trees will be needed to build the track and fly-over grades which will destroy the habitat of much wildlife and plant life. 2. Underground field tile lines which drain excess water from the farm land and conservation areas would be disturbed or crushed under the weight of the construction equipment, track and trains. This will cause flooding which could again drastically change the surrounding farm fields. Will their be sufficient escrow funds to cover such circumstances? 3. The grade on the track will disrupt surface water flow, too, which will cause flooding, ponding and erosion in the nearby fields, rendering them unusable to the land owner. These stagnant pools will be breeding grounds for mosquitos and rodents. 4. The safety of the population will be at risk if one of the many chemical and oil tankers derails. Will local fire departments be given training and equipment to handle these kind of spills? Ground and water contamination would likely result from such a derailment. 5. The proposed path of the tracks goes close to the town of Bonfield. Just 3 miles south of Bonfield is a huge underground dome that stores millions of cubic feet of natural gas. Could the impact of a large train explosion rupture the numerous pipelines going into the dome or cause an explosion in the dome itself? If that happens the entire county will be leveled due to the size of the facility and the number of pipelines that are close to towns. There is also an oil tank farm 2 miles from the gas dome. What will happen to those tanks if rail cars start exploding? 6. Vibration and noise from all the trains will disrupt animal and plant life as well as be harmful to people. Since the route is less than a mile from Bonfield grade school, how will the project control these 2 factors so that there is not a negative impact on the children @ that school. 7. The proposed areas of this rail project are the home of several endangered species and plants. For example, bald eagles, northern long eared bats, Sheepnose mussels, eastern Prairie Fringed Orchid, and Leafy Prairie Clover. My overall impression of this project is that there has been insufficient studies of the feasibility, economic and environmental impacts done. Many incorrect assumptions have been made as opposed to thorough research. As a result this project will end up costing a lot more than what the development company has predicted and the chance of the project becoming bankrupt before it is even completed is very real. So what happens then? The land, water, animals and human lives will be irrevocably changed for nothing. There will be no benefit for them, the investors, or the surrounding communities. This project should not go forward.Bourbonnais, IL
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23620Wisconsin State GrangeAttached is the opposition letter from my organization to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. (FD 35952) Thank you for your consideration on this matter.Duane Scott · Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin
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(printed as 6/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23617Tom ForburgerDeny the GLB railroad. Deny the GLB railroad yard. If the GLB constructs a 15,000 acre rail yard how will they handle the rainwater runoff? 1 inch of rain on 1 acre is just over 27,000 gallons of water. On 15,000 acres that's over 407 million gallons per 1 inch of rain. Last June we received over 30 inches of rain. That's more than 1.2 BILLION gallons of water. Will they have to test, treat and retest all water leaving site? Will holding lakes need to be lined? How many wells will they drill to test ground water? What if they contaminate the ground water? What about existing drainage ditches and tile lines? How will they handle dust blowing from site? How will they handle hazardous spills? The list goes on and on. I see nothing but a potential environmental disaster. Deny the GLB. Thank you, Tom.Momence, IL
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23616sumner township tax payerDear Mr. Navecky, Please tell Frank Patton and the GLBT to withdraw any offers, please tell the STB to reject any offers from them! Stop this process now! They have somehow disguised this proposal as something that should have the attention of the STB! It is NOT something that should have your attention or your time or government or tax payer money! Please understand the devastation this proposal this would cause, the devastating environmental impacts are too many to mention. Is the EPA aware of this proposal"??? This situation has already caused a great deal of stress and fear in many people's lives. This should not be happening for any reason. Anything that benefits a chosen few at the cost of destroying other people's way of life and the environment should be considered unthinkable! If Frank Patton wants to "help" relieve congestion in the Chicago rail system, let him invest in CREATE! I am sure they would welcome some "private investor" money!!! That would tell you that he is a phony and he and the GLBT are interested in their own profits! Am I going to turn over my house and land to him??? NO!!!!!! I will not!! thank you, Julie Kokos"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23615Block RICL/Block GBEDear STB, I stumbled across news of the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation rail line and the STB scoping quite by accident. As a teacher with a MS in curriculum and instruction I had been volunteering my skill set to help inform communities of the eminent domain for private gain case of Clean Line Energy Partners, LLC (CLEP). CLEP is proposing a multistate HVDC electrical transmission lines. I have nested 4 years of my life researching and sharing information with the Missouri Public Service Commission Iowa Utility Board, DOE and Illinois Commerce Commission. I view my efforts as protecting land owner rights from precedent setting LLC threats. It has become a full time unpaid job. My husband and I farm a few hundred acres and rent most of it but I am looking toward the future of my children and neighbors in the farming community, many landowners of which are quite elderly. Mid March 2015 I received a text asking me about GLB. A landowner in a neighboring community was aware I’d been involved with eminent domain and reached out to me. The last three months I have devoted hours into gathering and disseminating information. I have done my due diligence in trying to protect the land entrusted to my family during my life time. None of the land we farm is on the preferred route as designated by the GLB website but we do farm within the 60 mile corridor being scoped. I stumbled across the GLB proposal but many hundreds of thousands of people in the EIS study corridor are unaware of the proposal. I submit the landowners, many of which make their living and pay taxes from their land have not been provided with necessary information. The landowners are the ones who best know where the environmental challenges are located. They know their soil and its drainage issues. Doing an EIS without directly notifying each landowner and including them makes no sense. Might I also add that the potentially impacted landowners have not been afforded due process and even if they stumbled across the GLB proposal can not get reliable information regarding a determination of need and use. Who determined a private group of investors yet to be disclosed have the right to build a rail way when there is no proof of need or financial means? I have done my due diligence and yet feel the frustration in the lack of information. How is it my job and the job of those potentially impacted who bear the burden of risk? Where are the answers we seek? Please deny GBL. GLB should never have been given a waiver of the 6 months and should have had to submit an application which would hold them accountable for the contradictory information they have been putting forth.Susan Sack · Mendota, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23614Village of Grant Park, TrusteeRegarding Environmental concerns related to the planning of the GLB Railroad Project, I do not support continuation of planning due to the interference, disruption and risk of contamination of the Trim Creek tributary, located within the site plan for the Railport, leading to the Kankakee River:The Trim Creek Watershed functions as a living, continuous landscape that directs and alters water from where rain falls, all the way to where it flows into the Kankakee River. For purposes of planning, it is important to realize that Trim Creek starts: Trim Creek is a high-quality but underappreciated tributary of the Kankakee River. The health of Trim Creek (and the river’s many other tributaries) is critical to sustaining the Kankakee, a “Class A” Illinois river. Trim Creek’s 38- square-mile drainage area — the watershed — evolved from a vast tallgrass prairie with wetlands and woodlands to today’s agricultural landscape, which includes the agriculturally based communities of Beecher and Grant Park, Ill. Here ... and here ... and here ... and here ... and here. Nearly every action taken on the landscape has a potential effect on the health of Trim Creek, as well as on the quality of all the landscape where water flows. THE WATERSHED AND ITS GROWTH WHY TAKE A WATERSHED APPROACH? The Trim Creek Watershed functions as a living, continuous landscape that directs and alters water from where rain falls, all the way to where it flows into the Kankakee River. For purposes of planning, it is important to realize that Trim Creek starts: Trim Creek is a high-quality but underappreciated tributary of the Kankakee River. The health of Trim Creek (and the river’s many other tributaries) is critical to sustaining the Kankakee, a “Class A” Illinois river. Trim Creek’s 38- square-mile drainage area — the watershed — evolved from a vast tallgrass prairie with wetlands and woodlands to today’s agricultural landscape, which includes the agriculturally based communities of Beecher and Grant Park, Ill. This landscape poses few obstacles to major development, and Beecher alone is expected to grow from 2,970 to 20,029 people between 2005 and 2030.* If such growth is not properly planned and agricultural lands not carefully managed, Trim Creek and the Kankakee River will be degraded: • New construction will increase impervious surface area, causing damaging floods and water pollution; • Lawn and agricultural chemicals will pollute water; • Soil erosion will cause silt deposits in Trim Creek and the Kankakee River; • There will be no guiding vision for restoring Trim Creek to be a community and regional asset that provides high quality habitat, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities; • Local regulations will be inadequate for protecting water and habitat; and • Lack of awareness of problems and potentials will discourage watershed stewardship and stream improvements This watershed plan has been developed by public officials who want to avoid these problems and establish a positive course for the future. They welcome economic development, but they also value a high quality of life, natural resources, and agriculture. They want Trim Creek to be protected and enhanced. The watershed planning participants have created this plan as a guide for promoting environmental, community and economic vitality. Local governments are central to watershed planning because they have authority for managing growth and providing community services. This Trim Creek Watershed Plan is a tool to guide local governments, property owners, and concerned citizens toward achieving watershed goals. * Source: Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission Watershed Planning Project is the third phase of a joint initiative of the Metropolitan Planning Council, Openlands, and Campaign for Sensible Growth called “Water Resources and Sustainable Growth.” The project’s research reports, Changing Course and Troubled Waters, stressed the importance of local governments in effective watershed planning and plan implementation. The Joyce Foundation and Lumpkin Family Foundation funded pilot watershed planning projects in growth areas containing important water resources — the Trim Creek Watershed in Will and Kankakee counties, and the Greater Marengo-Union Area in McHenry County — in order to support local government involvement in watershed planning. The Trim Creek project was also funded by the Village of Beecher, Village of Grant Park, Will County, Kankakee County, Washington Township, and Washington Township Drainage District #3. The development of the watershed plan was guided by a steering committee representing local units of government and key stakeholders.Laura Veldhuizen · Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23610Debra MorganRe:fd35952 As the Grant Part Trustee in charge of sewers, I can assure you that any construction that will break or remove field tile from surrounding farm areas will wreak havoc on the village sewer system. We are city septic and our primary treatment for sanitary disposal is septic tanks at each home and business. Much damage can be done to these systems with an influx or water during torrential rain events. This is becoming more frequent due to climate change. If you cannot see that construction on this (proposed) scale would destroy a delicate water management system, let me assure you that it absolutely would. The EPA would become involved immediaely. I'm sure the GLB RR has not researched this impact fully. It would be a devastating mistake to allow this project to continue. While I personally have many more concerns, this one is directly related to the environment on my village. Rest assured, you will be hearing about those should this misguided project continue.Grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23609VaLinda KingWe would like to 100% contest the proposed GLBT railroad running from Indiana to Wisconsin. Our house and farm ground are directly impacted by this rail. It would be 400 feet from our yard. It would run through our field cutting the field in half making farming very difficult. It would impact drainage drastically. We have approximately $120,000 in field tile that we have had installed and $30,000 in water mains that would be impacted also. . We would be losing considerable acreage for farming which is our livelihood and also feeds the world. We are very concerned about the contents that this rail would be carrying also since it is so close to our home and through our farm ground. This would impact police and emergency response times and township roads, as well as bus routes. As this is a rural area, our environment will be violated by air quality and noise and vibration effects. Wildlife and creek habitat would be greatly impacted. Along with the 200 foot easement, a 50 foot utility easement is also added to this easement. This could allow any type of utility to use this which causes other environmental concerns. Please consider all the above concerns when conducting your environmental study of the proposed railroad. Thank you. Jeff and VaLinda King 15501 W. 1500N RoadReddick, Illinois
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23608Laura WenzelmanDear STB, I am requesting you to discontinue any further work on the GLB railway. The impact on our local nesting American Bald Eagles and enviroment would be at grave risk of being polluted for eternity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23607Glenn HeilizerIn strong opposition to the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Inc. application: For 23 years my wife and have owned and resided on a 10-acre parcel in Illinois, roughly 1000 feet south of the Wisconsin border, on a road (Manchester Road) that runs southwest from the State Line Road. The proposed rail line will come over the horizon on our east neighbor's farm, run northwest towards our property, cross Manchester Road approximately 1000 feet east of our property, then continue another 600 feet and cross State Line Road. Although the constant railroad traffic virtually in our back yard will in large measure ruin our use and enjoyment of the property, this communication addresses SAFETY, which is an enumerated Impact Area Category in the STB's March 18, 2016 Notice. Specifically, all emergency services for our property and the surrounding area are provided by Sharon Wisconsin fire department and paramedic personnel, which are the closest providers by far. Sharon Wisconsin is approximately 2.5 miles east of our property (and parenthetically has an existing rail line). As can be seen from the attached close-up of the satellite map of the proposed railroad route, the continuous rail traffic will prevent fire or medical personnel from reaching our property or the surrounding area. There is no other access to our property from the east, without traveling miles out of the way, in order to access our property from the west. In the event of a fire, medical emergency, or serious accident, therefore, the presence of rail traffic on the proposed line, in the Manchester Road/State Line Road area, would likely lead to the substantial loss of property, serious injury, or death. This is not a theoretical concern, as there have been fires, medical emergencies, and serious traffic accidents in our immediate area over the years. We respectfully request that the STB consider these concerns in connection with the subject application. Thank you.Capron, IL
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(printed as 6/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23605Julia McDonladI am very worried about the potential for the building of the GLB Railroad. As a farmer, I am concerned about the large fields being divided into small pieces. This will increase compaction of the soil and difficulty managing with big equipment. The beauty of the Kankakee State Park, the area's pride and joy, will be diminished. I am also concerned about the impact of artificial pond creation and the management of large unused portions of easement. Contamination due to spills and derailments is of course a huge risk to our rich land and water. Our farm, where we live, will be affected by noise, a pollutant intolerable to those of us that have chosen a rural lifestyle. In closing, I ask those in power to protect Illinois farmers, their lands and lives, by voting down the building of an unnecessary railroad by this mysterious company.Manteno, il
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23604Carol MischJust wanted to give a little background on part of this article. The 90 acres along US Hwy 30 that Purdue purchased 10 years ago was the farm I grew up on. It was owned by Richard & Marjorie Grass, Mabel & Oscar Grass before that and Edward & Mabel Thineman prior to that. A farm now in the fourth generation. My dad, Richard Grass, sold the majority of his farm to Pinney-Purdue for the sole reason he wanted it to stay in agricultural land. Now that is being threatened. Even though we don't own the 90 acres any more it is still a very big part of my family. My dad was a farmer in every sense of the word. It wasn't easy, he didn't get rich from it, but it was who he was and was happy doing. Frank Patton has been quoted as saying he is doing this rail line as a legacy for his children and grandchildren. My dad was an unassuming man who wanted the same thing for his family. Only difference is he did it the right way, making sure the land he loved kept giving into the future without taking away someone else's legacy. Richard & Marjorie Grass, Phillip Grass, John Grass, Patricia Grass Evans, Diane Grass Matthys, Carol Grass Misch, Shane Grass, Amber Grass Barnes, Michael Evans, Katie Evans Pottle, Adam Matthys, Joel Mathys, David Matthys, Nick Misch, and Lexi Misch these are names you may not remember after you finish reading this but they are my parents legacy. As are thousands of other names of each farmer's legacy. Share this to stop Great Lakes Basin Railroad project. And with this being Mother's Day I would be negligent in not pointing out my mother, Marjorie Grass, who was by my father's side for nearly 50 years on this very farm. Citizens against The Great Lakes Basin Railroad" project"Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 6/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23601Save Our Farmland, memberMr. Navecky; Two ravines that run through my property and continue to the west where the rail line will cross them were unable to be planted in 2009. The water table was so high that year that water flowed into July. Over the years depending on snow melt and rainfall accumulations I have seen flowing water in these ravines many times. Sometimes the water flow is a couple hundred feet wide across the ravine. Road way culverts at times are insufficient to handle the volume of water. When the water is slowed it swirls and it is the swirling action that causes the most erosion and damage to the soil. The water drainage must not be impeded with this project or significant soil erosion and damage will occur.Brad Mair · Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23600Save Our FarmlandMr. Navecky; PLANO SILT LOAM. A highly productive soil structure. A natural resource. This soil can never be replaced if destroyed. There is no mitigation possible to address this concern. I ask that you deny Great Lakes Basin Transportation a permit to build based on this concern alone.Brad Mair · Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23599Save Our Farmland, memberMr. Navecky: The State of Wisconsin provides Woodland and Farmland Preservation Programs to land owners. These programs are designed in part to prevent development by providing tax credits. Please evaluate these programs as they pertain to the proposed route. Please provide a calculation of the cumulative affect on land owners losing these tax credits going forward if the project is approved.Brad Mair · Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 6/10/2016)CommentEI-23598Nancy LasleyTransportation systems will be greatly impacted re. rural school bus routes, emergency responders, commute times and businesses. The possibility of spills and derailments will be our town in a hazardous situation.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24579Sharon Garey[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24578Karen Vlasaty[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentBen Brancel and Lacey Cochart
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24146Robert and Joyce Koselke[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24145Lindsay Koselke[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24126Jennifer Zellers[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24122Mr. and Mrs. Donald Waller[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24118David Schultz[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24117Dan Hahn[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24101Jan Marie Paulus
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24100Sherry Branson
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24099COBS Preservation PartnershipIrwin Berger
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24055Marjorie Millus[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24054David Schelling, PE[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-24040Mr. and Mrs. Roger Smith[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23704Grant Park Fire District
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23597sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, Please do whatever you can, send this to whomever needs to see it, get someone at the STB to understand, THIS PROPOSAL NEEDS TO BE THROWN OUT!!! You know all of the facts, the environmental consequences, the safety hazards, the thousands of homes, farms, churches, cemeteries, businesses, schools, townships this would destroy. No further EIS is needed. The GLBT has improperly worked the system and sidestepped the process with corporate lawyers. Who do we have to stand for us?? The citizens, the land owners, the farmers, the elderly, the children??? We don't have big money corporate lawyers to protect us from the threat of loosing everything we have worked for! How would any of you like to live with that threat?? Have you read through ALL of the incoming comments & letters being posted to the STB? I have!!! Every one of them!! The citizens do not want this proposal to advance any further! This proposal should be revoked by the GLBT and rejected by the STB! It is unsafe, unjustified, unwarranted and impractical. We are not saying not in my back yard". We are saying "NOT AT ALL"! This proposal is not a way of creating jobs and economic growth, this is a massive land grab for private profit, taking from citizens who rightfully own property and pay their taxes. Even if it were a viable project, at what cost?? At a cost of destroying people's lives and their way of life?? How is that right?? What about the people that already live here or are wanting to live here? The younger generation of families is talking about getting out of here!!! And others that were talking about buying a house here so they can put their children through an excellent school system are changing their minds!! Is that what you want? to chase people away from here????? It's having a negative impact already! Sumner Township & Grant Park are now being referred to as "Ground Zero"! I ask you, I implore you, please reject this proposal! Now, before it goes any further. No American citizen should have to live with the threat of being forced off their property by any private or government body, no matter who it benefits! This is unconstitutional and un-American. Please.... thank you, Julie Kokos"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23596Amanda DummerI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project due to what I consider the selfish ambition of big money." This railroad will not only destroy irreplaceable natural resources such as farmland, but also parts/all of the livelihood of many rural residents who cannot easily change their circumstances. Farmers are raised and trained almost from birth and often inherit the land that they work. To take their heritage and years of dedicated hard labor right out from under their noses, is like the Antichrist of the "American Dream." In addition to those who's land is directly affected, this rail line will significantly inconvenience/degrade the lifestyles of those in the vicinity with its noise and air pollution and road interruptions. Please consider upgrading/expanding the current lines. In today's world of technology and knowledge, there must be a way to improve on what we already have instead of devastating new territory for the sake of the railroad's and its investor's convenience only."
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23595Jan Lape AustgenDear Board, I would like to address the safety issue, the land issue, and the economic issue. All would be detrimental as stated in the following: RAILROAD VS. FARMERS A man has an idea of a railroad track around the cities and towns. It will be his own and it will carry hazardous material as the freight. In order to be built, he needs the land from farmers. He does not understand--farmers love their land! WHO CARES, THEY ARE JUST FARMERS. The beauty of the day, with the birds singing to God's glory awakens the farmers to start their chores. There are cows to milk, animals to feed, land to till and plant, and children to care and feed. All is done without complaint, only smiles and pride--for it is their land. WHO CARES, THEY ARE JUST FARMERS. The railroad running through their land would destroy their pastoral way of life. The tracks would split their land in half, the weight of the trains would break the drainage tile, the diesel particulates would cause air pollution, and the animals would be frightened by the trains' blaring whistle. WHO CARES, THEY ARE JUST FARMERS. If, God forbid, the train derailed--even if just once--the hazardous material could contaminate the soil, the water, and air. People and animals would be at risk! WHO CARES, THEY ARE JUST FARMERS. There is hope in that the railroad could be denied and the farmers could keep their land and way of life. The hope lies with the Surface Transportation Board. Maybe the Board will care enough about the farmers. When they eat their meals, they will thank God and the farmers who raised the animals and planted the crops for them to enjoy. Who cares about farmers? God does and hopefully, the Board for their decision will determine the farmers fate! Please, deny the railroad's petition! Thank you!Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23594Daniel DummerI am opposed to the Great Basin Railroad proposed expansion. Other than the obvious loss of productive farmland, the quality of life for those living in the area will be greatly impacted. The person / persons responsible for the proposal are likely thinking they could just move". What they don't understand is this is THEIR HOME and moving is out of the question. That is the type of life people in rural America lead. This type of person is not swayed or impressed by the almighty dollar and moving is out of the question. For those who are forced to move may be considered "lucky" because at least they will be compensated. What about the "fortunate" ones who live just outside the planned site who will not be financially compensated (not that it matters) and would get to put up with the constant noise pollution, eyesores, and all other wonderful things associated with constantly moving trains. I guess we can all take comfort in the beautiful graffiti artwork that will be continually rolling through "Gods Country". I know this proposal runs through at least one state park. I'm surprised this is even possible or allowable but it causes me to wonder about displacement and or effects of wildlife, fish, native plants and such. In the spirit of trying to keep this simple, much like the rural lifestyle SHOULD be, I will keep my points to a minimum but strongly URGE you to vote against this proposal."
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23592Lisa RiegelThis railroad is going within 200 feet our fourth generation home. It does a diagonal cross over the road in front of our house and on the side. We have heard of the silent zones. We also know that silent zones cause deaths on country roads. How is my family suppose to sleep, better yet, survive next to a railroad track? My husband and I have lived in the country all our lives. That is what we know. We have 500 acres that our being impacted by this railroad and our home. The foundation of this old house will not be able to stand 110 trains per day. My husband and I have completely remodeled this home and love the rick history of his grandparents having lived here. Is it fair to put a track right next to it with no consideration of the home? How are we suppose to sleep with a train right next to us?Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23591Lisa RiegelIn Kankakee County is a 15,000 acre railyard. How can we fill out an STB if we don't know what exactly is in that railyard? Don't you have to know what the land is being used for before you can write an environmental statement trying to protect it? This process is so unfair and unjust! To waive the six months from the people so all better understand how we are being impacted would have been so much fairer! In that railyard are 4 large creeks. Those creeks all flow into the Kankakee River. That is the drinking water to all the people in Kankakee, Bourbonnais, and Bradley. There can not be any contaminates in that railyard because of the horrid effects it would have on the drinking water for thousands! The Kankakee River flows into the Illinois River which flows into the Mississippi River. This could be devastating to millions of people. If you place some type of pavement in that railyard and try to reroute the water, then you will flood the farmer on the other side. Water must move in its natural direction! We can try to control it, but we always lose!Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23590Lisa RiegelNear Bonfield is a creek called Horse Creek. In that creek is the only Red Horse Fish in the world. The track is to go over that creek. How are you going to ensure the safety of those endangered fish?Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23589lisa RiegelHow are you going to prepare our fourth generation farm from water issues? The tiles on this farm were laid many years ago. If you place a train track in the middle of the field, the water will have no place to go. Is Frank Patton going to retile our fields? What happens to the farmer next to us that is now getting flooded with our water? If the train leaks, and we know trains leak, that contaminate will go into our water source. In the country that is our only means of water. If the water in our area is contaminated, that means the school's water is contaminated. That also means the Kankakee River will be contaminated, which flows into the Illinois River, which flows into the Mississippi River. How is Frank Patton going to protect our water source? Better yet, how are you going to protect our water source?Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23587lisa RiegelThe Northern Pacific disclosed that Frank Patton has not certified anything. How can the process be taking place then? There are no nondisclosure agreements. I feel the STB needs to change their agreement and follow the legal course correctly. This is unfair and unjust. This train will probably carry crude oil or ethanol. How are the communities prepared for such contaminates? If the train derails or is hit by a car, how are you going to ensure the people and the firefighters of the area the proper safety procedures? You and I both know that the official federal response is to evacuate. There is a grade school with small children less than a half mile from this railroad. How are you going to ensure their safety? Especially since the oil just has to burn up, better yet explode!Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23586Nancy Lasleypermanent destruction of farmland, natural grade of land will permanently be altered, possible water contamination, risk to surrounding soil with transport of oil and chemicals.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23585Ryan katsHi mr navecky, I'm writing to voice my opposition of the Great Lakes basin railroad proposed project for the following reasons. Drainage issues as discussed in the meetings we attended Environmental impacts of hundreds of trains a day Environmental impacts of the hazardous material these trains will carry Thank you for your timeHebron, Indiana
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23584Jim CaldwellWill this Rail Line increase traffic of Rail Cars with fuel oil coming through Whitewater Rail system? If so I would object to this line.Whitewater, WI
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23582sumner townshipDear Mr. Navecky, the GLBT needs to revoke any proposal and the STB needs to reject any proposal or application! It is being revealed that procedures are not being followed in this process. The first thing I ask is how can the EIS be started and in progress before a formal application has been submitted?? Frank Patton is full of lies and is interested only in his own greed. Frank Patton has refused to submit an application, which should not surprise anyone as he constantly changes the GLBT narrative. Is it privately or publicly funded. Will there be quiet zones" or not? Does he have "nondisclosure agreements" with any railroad? Where is he going to get 25% of Chicago freight from? Who are the silent partners/backers? Are oil interests involved? Are other railroads involved? We demand that the approval process is stopped until Frank Patton submits an application and certifies the representations he is making. Even if this were a viable proposal, THOU SHALL NOT STEAL! IN NO WAY SHOULD CITIZENS FEAR BEING FORCED OFF THEIR LAND BY ANY PRIVATE OR GOVERNMENT BODY NO MATTER WHO IT BENEFITS! WE RIGHTFULLY OWN OUR LAND AND PAY PROPERTY TAXES. THIS IS UNJUST AND UN-AMERICAN AND IS EMINENT DOMAIN ABUSE!!! Thank you!"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23581Joe AlexaThis will have a devastating impact on all of the farm fields: damage to existing field tile lines, natural grade of the land will be altered and the risk of permanent damage to soil with the transport of oil and chemicalsManteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23580Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-SeeThe Great Lakes Basin project proposal would run Bomb Trains" within a quarter mile of up to 2,300 campers during music festivals. Please deny GLB's request or at least conduct a full review of the project."Greg LaPlante · Mateno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23579Mary A AlexaThis project will permanently destroy some of the best farmland in Illinois, therefore decreasing productivityManteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23578Bruce KillianI have lived in Yorkville since 1960 more and more people, traffic and noise. I don't go east because of this. I go to church A fox River Lutheran in Sheridan and when I do go anywhere it is usually west to get peace and quiet. We have been thinking about moving to this area. Why do we have to keep ruining peace full places for the love of money. Stop this before it turns a great area bad. Thanks BruceYorkville, Il.
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23575Leo mulloolyAs safety officer for the Clinton Fire Dept. in Clinton, Wi I would like to ask that you consider several issues before eventually considering approval of the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad. Several weeks ago, the Clinton Fire Dept. was dispatched to a tanker rail car that was reported to be leaking product into Turtle Creek, by passing kayakers. The rail car was on an bridge over the creek on the Wisconsin and Southern line. Access to the car was impossible until the train was backed up. The resolution of this incident was that no leak was detected, however with limited manpower available an incident like this involving an actual hazardous spill is very concerning for our small department. I am quite sure that I could easily speak for most small fire departments along the proposed route for the GLB, that we all are concerned about the potential for increased incidents of spills or traffic accidents that could results from a drastic increase in the amount of higher speed trains that could be traveling through our emergency response areas. Even if the DOT ( or any other government agency) were to allot funding to provide additional training and equipment to prepare for the increase in potential incidents, most volunteer departments are already strapped to provide the manpower to properly implement the response necessary for such incidents. Also, the proposal as we understand it, class for at grade crossings at most of the roads in our response area. Most are described to have signals and arms installed at each crossing, but with no audible signal from the train as it approaches. Yet there is an area in the proposal that seems to state that some intersections of the rail line and roads could result in road closings. Such happenings would then greatly affect our response times and residents safety. We are very concerned that if this proposal is approved by the Surface Transpotation Board, that this proposed rail line could then do many things that are not now known to the thousands of residents that could be affected. Please consider the multitude of negative issues that this proposal would undoubtably impose on the residents along this proposed route (or any other proposed route) and vote to reject it.Clinton, Wi
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23574Tom ForburgerDeny the GLB railroad. Pollution in the form of noise, dust, chemical, and water contamination are all possible. What kind of water testing and treating will a 15,000 acre rail yard have to do? What if they contaminate the ground water?Momence, IL
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23573R.A.I.L.E.D. member# 15 Docket No. FD 35952 Environmental Comment If this proposed rail line is approved by your board, allowing two thousand (2000) different hazardous chemicals and materials to travel the rails, everyone in the affected areas will live the rest of their lives in fear of a derailment or move away from homes, farms and businesses that they have worked hard to own and in some cases, pass on to their children and grandchildren. The horrible affects of a derailment can destroy the atmosphere, ground water, contaminate rivers and streams and has the potential to kill innocent people. It is only fair that Frank Patton tell us truthfully what he plans to ship over his proposed rail line. We have a right to know and you have a duty to tell us before you decide whether you will or won’t approve it. I have attached two files showing what a Union Pacific train derailment near Mosier, Oregon and the Columbia River has done. It is something that could have been avoided if these explosive material were banned from rail transport. For these and many other reasons I am requesting that you deny this proposed rail line. Thank you, Patricia Mussman Unincorporated West Creek Township Lowell, IndianaPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23571Carol PacochaGreat Lake Basin Environmental concerns for the Greater Kankakee Valley area with many concerns, but major concern for the streams leading to the Kankakee River that feeds drinking water to the area and the water tables that keep our wells supplied.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23570Justin KokosMr. Navecky, As the final days close in on the acceptance of environmental comments, I hope you'll realize the severity beyond environmental concerns. People's land. People's farms. People's homes. People's entire lives.... If a proposal to destroy your home and your way of life was in the hands of the federal government, i'm sure you'd want the right decision made. Well, that is where we're at. And we're hoping and praying the STB is human, and can understand how much this proposal will effect and hurt thousands upon thousands of good people. Please stop this eminent domain abuse. Justin KokosKankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23569Andrew Corbus[Kankakee River State Park Concerns] Please See Attached Letter of Concern regarding the Kankakee River State Park and surrounding area.BOURBONNAIS, IL
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23568Richard PacochaEnvironmental Concerns for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23565Jason KokosA list of all officials opposed or voicing their legitimate reasons for concern. All should be individually responded to. ILLINOIS: Boone County Board Boone County: City of Belvidere Boone County: Spring Township Boone County: Village of Capron Cook County: Department of Transportation & Highways Cook County: Farm Bureau Grundy County Board Grundy County: Norman Township Illinois Beef Association Kankakee County Farm Bureau Kankakee County Soil & Water Conservation District LaSalle County Board LaSalle County: Earl Township LaSalle County: Earlville Community School District LaSalle County Farm Bureau LaSalle County: Village of Sheridan Lee County Board Ogle, DeKalb, Lee Counties: Creston Community Consolidated School District 161 Ogle County: Dement Township Ogle County: Eswood Consolidated School District Ogle County: Lee Fire Protection Board Ogle County: Lynnville-Scott-White Rock Fire Protection District SOAR Illinois - Save Our American Raptors Winnebago County: Boone Farm Bureau Winnebago County: Seward Township Board of Trustees INDIANA: Kankakee River Basin Commission Lake County Board of Commissioners Lake County Drainage Advisory Board Lake County Drainage Board Lake County Parks Department Lake County Plan Commission Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District Lake County: Tri-Creek Ambulance Board Lake County: Tri-Creek School Corporation Lake County: Cedar Creek Township Lake County: Eagle Creek Township Lake County: West Creek Township LaPorte County: Town of Westville Porter County Assessor Porter County Board of Commissioners Porter County Council Porter County Dept of Development and Storm Water Mgmt Board Porter County: Hebron Town Council Porter County: Kankakee Valley Historical Society Porter County: Metropolitan School District of Boone Township Porter County Plan Commission WISCONSIN: Rock County: Bradford Township Board Rock County Board of Supervisors Rock County Farm Bureau Rock County: Milton City Council Rock County: Village of Clinton Board of Trustees Walworth County: Town of Sharon OTHER: National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Washington, DC Norfolk Southern Railroad Union Pacific Railroad (2014)Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23564Douglas B GravesWith regard to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railway, I am expressing my opposition to the project. I am a resident of Grant Park, Illinois, with a home about one mile south of the proposed Rail Port site. The removal from production of 15,000 acres of prime farm land would be detrimental to the health of, not only the local population, but the population in general. Although the exact description of the workings of a Rail Port are unclear to me, I envision an industrial environment with air and water pollutants. Any economic benefit derived by the siting are far outweighed by the harm to the environment. At what point do we stop paving paradise to put up a Rail Port?Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23563Tom ForburgerI live and Farm in Yellowhead Township. I also own land in Sumner Township inside the footprint of the 15,000 acre rail yard site. I am 100% against the GLB railroad. A 15,000 acre rail yard will have massive water runoff. One inch of rain on one acre is around 27,000 gallons. Multiply that by 15,000 acres and you have of 400 million gallons of water, per inch of rain. Will all runoff water be required to be treated and tested? How many test wells will they be required to drill and maintain? What will they do if contamination is found? The Kankakee river is less than 10 miles south of site and is the source of drinking water for over 80,000 people in Kankakee County. Water flows from site directly to the river. I boat and swim in the Kankakee river and do not want it to become another Flint Michigan river. I urge you to deny the GLB railroad. A 15,000 acre rail yard will be the biggest environmental disaster in over a 100 years.Momence, Illinois
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23562Helen HeisnerConstruction of GLB Railroad, and especially the proposed railroad yard between Manteno and Grant Park, IL would have a huge negative impact on land values. The surrounding properties would suffer a big loss in property values, resulting in a lower tax base. That would strain local school district budgets, fire protection districts, and other taxing bodies. No, no, no to this senseless, disruptive project!Beecher, IL
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23561Laura YohnkaMr. Navecky, As a resident of Kankakee County in Illinois, I urge you and your colleagues to conduct a full review of the GLB rail project and to avoid granting an exemption if requested. This proposed rail line and the proposed rail yards would significantly negatively impact Kankakee County in many ways. A few examples of this negative impact include: destroying valuable farm land which is essential for one farmer to feed approximately 160 people – taking that much land for a railroad would significantly reduce the economy of our area; damaging precious ecosystems for turtles, birds, fish, and wild game in our county; disruption of transportation routes for children to attend school and for First Responders to quickly and efficiently provide medical care to already difficult areas to service; depletion of the county's natural resources of farm land and water ways; significant reduction of water and outdoor recreational areas; an extremely increased amount of air, water, soil, and noise pollution; and finally, Union Pacific has publicly stated they will not utilize the GLB railroad. These are just a handful of the reasons the GLB railroad would negatively impact the Kankakee County area. Please conduct a full review of this proposal before coming to a decision. Thank you for your time. Laura YohnkaMomence, IL
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23560Nicole SandersI want to express my concern regarding the GLB Railroad. As a Realtor and Broker and resident in Morgan Township, Porter County Indiana, I am very concerned about the railroad's possible effect on the housing market in Porter County. Until railroad wad purposed Morgan, Porter, Washington, and Boone Townships were very desirable areas for buyers. We have already seen houses not selling as quickly due to the concern. Homeowners are already having to lower prices. Concerns stated are noise, pollution, hazardous materials, and the proximity to several schools within the townships. I urge you to not allow this railroad to be built as the majority of residents are against it and sone of the railroad companies ate not even interested in the railway. Sincerely, Nicole L. SandersValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23559Josh zimnyAlthough I am not directly opposed to the railed, I would prefer not to have this line built. I AM directly opposed any theft of property through eminent domain. Although I do believe that since the Great Lakes basin railroad is a for profit private corporation they would not be eligible to legally steal property through eminent domain. The only greater good" created through this project would be for the owners of the railroad, and not for the citizens of which it will affect. And it will have major negative impacts on many people."
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(printed as 6/9/2016)CommentEI-23558Amy VoseDear Mr. David Navecky, My apologies if this is a repetition of a letter I thought I submitted yesterday, but apparently neglected to fill in the complete docket number. It has been almost 30 years since we moved to the outskirts of the small rural town of Paw Paw. We moved to a small farmette to partake of a quiet rural lifestyle where we could grow organic fruits and vegetables and rear our animals, currently dogs, cats, chickens, and geese, in a healthy environment. We planted hundreds of trees, including nut trees which are just beginning to bear crops. Never could we have imagined that this relatively peaceful home and nearby community could be disrupted by the possibly perpetual intrusion of noise pollution, vibration, and potentially accidental spills from accidents from the proposed Great Lakes Basin RR, which would run very close to our property and include THREE RR road crossings within a very short distance of each other and us. These additional RR crossings would naturally impact the timely arrival of emergency responders as well as affect timely transport to any hospital, which are 15-22 miles away from our home With the recent accident of the Union Pacific line in the Northwest uppermost in my mind, I am also concerned about the impact of an accident that could occur anywhere along this proposed line, especially since there is a major porous aquifer sited beneath it. Many of the rural fire departments around here rely on volunteers, who may require additional training and equipment to deal with any potential accident along a track that has as many potential trains as touted by some of the information available. Who would bear the burden of these costs? Many of these rural communities are already financially stretched. What I find just as appalling and distressing as the many negative impacts upon the agriculture, environment, and community life so eloquently and passionately presented by concerned citizens at the informational meeting we attended in Belvidere, is that many who would be affected by this proposed rail line were totally unaware of its possible existence. We found out about it through word-of-mouth because of friend's sister would lose several acres of land far north of us. Most people I spoke with in our community were uninformed and shocked. Many could not attend the meetings in the area due to work schedules, lack of timely notification, or lack of transportation. I have yet to speak with anyone who has anything favorable to say about the GLB RR. All those at the public meeting we attended were adamantly opposed. The notion that a private company can use eminent domain to covet someone else's property for their own private gain is shameful and a perversion of what I believe eminent domain was intended to accomplish. Sincerely, Amy VosePaw Paw, IL
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-25258Bill Breitsprecher[see attached email]
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-24098Julie Kokos
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-24097Sandy Linden
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23557Laura SchepplerPlease explain how pests and rodents will be controlled along this line. The railroad with its abundant supply of road kill will become a breeding ground for pests, rodents and other scavengers, who is going to control them. How also will bugs that carry illness be controlled when ponds form due to tile lines being broken? Please address this issue in your review.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23556Abe HenkerI wan tot know who will control the weeds that will be growing along this new line. Any spraying of herbicides will harm the environment, and if the weeds are not controlled crops will be harmed in neighboring fields as the weeds will spread. Farmers will have to use more herbicides to stop the spread of weeds. This will further impact the delicate ecosystems this line runs through. Weeds are a big problem and this issue needs addressed. I am oppose dot using more herbicides because this line has to control it's weeds. The line also needs to address landscaping, how will the line be shielded form view?Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23555Mary SchepplerMy best friends, who were also my in-law relatives were murdered when a train struck their car, killing them instantly. They knew these roads and they knew the crossings, but for some reason they got distracted and were killed by the train. How are you going to protect those of us who have driven these roads our entire lives from this new train. We will not be expecting the train. Much like new speed limits imposed on the out-skirts of towns that tend to act like speed traps for those of us who are used to the road having no speed limit, how are you going to help those of us set in our ways from being killed when we forget the train is in the area. All of us are naturally used to our surrounds and become complacent and even unobservant, this line will be a great danger to the thousands of older driver in the affected areas who are not used to the train being there. This is such a bad idea and this line needs stopped.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23554Fred SchepplerPlease explain how GLB railroad can say my farm, a profitable tax paying business is undeveloped. I have spent my life, as has my family for the last 120 years on this farm and it is far from undeveloped. Please explain what developed is in your opinion. We have drainage systems, we have high-tech and low tech machinery and buildings. We ship internationally and feed the world. We have boundaries and roads and use the latest technologies to plant the seed, fertilize the fields and harvest the crops. A train is quite undeveloped in comparison to knowing the right moment to plant and harvest. The right time to breed and when to be there for the birth of a new generation of livestock. All a train does is move freight mindlessly from one place to another. A train is quite undeveloped compared to a farm.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23553Virginia GawPlease explain why the GLB line is needed. The builders claim it is a bypass, but it does not move any trains out of this area. All it does is move trains to a new location. A bypass actually bypasses an area.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23552Dennis SchepplerThe proposed great Lakes Basin Railroad, has been opposed by so many groups, if the Surface Transportation Board approves this plan, I want you to explain why so many thousands of people are wrong in thinking this is a bad idea, but you think it is a good idea. Please address the specific questions of how drainage will be handled, especially seasonal and once every ten year storm temporary streams and drainage basins. How the land and water will be protected when a train derails and how it will be protected from the simple everyday pollution for over 100 trains traveling over it. How dissecting farms in may cases into tiny plots of virtually unusable land will be good for the environment. There are many parcels that will be too small to farm and no one would live near such a train line with 100 trains going by a day. How noise will be controlled as the quiet line" is a concept that will not work with so many at grade crossings. How the unsightly fly overs will be made attractive so as to not impeded the beauty of the countryside. Why this is proposed to be a Chicago bypass, but all it does is run the lines through the far southern suburbs, it does not bypass the populated areas. How can CREATE, the Farm Bureaus, the Chicago Department of Transportation and the many other government and private groups can be wrong in their environmental assessments. How the rural first responders will be trained and how they will evacuate everyone within 1 mile of the track in the event of a derailment, and that would also include the evacuation of livestock. How the line actually helps the environment at all as it will block drain tiles, slices land in half, destroy trees and scenic views, will harm the delicate river ecosystems in the places it cuts through river valleys. How the line ruining wildlife habitat, especially for the wild turkey, bald eagles, prairie grasses and orchids is an acceptable loss for a line with no clear purpose. Finally I would like to know why you would feel a private company has the right to take land away from it's rightful owners to simply make a profit, especially when 2 of the 6 railroads the line purports to service say they have no intention of using it? Please if you approve this line, and you should not approve it, explain how you can think it is a good idea and how it will not harm the environment."
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23551Rock Prairie GrangeI do not support Docket No. FD-35952. Please do not build this railroad for the sake of our community. The railroad will be being built really close to my parents' farm that they have run for decades with the help of my grandparents, my siblings, and my nieces & nephews. Many of our neighbors would be losing their land, and this would be a disruption to the community of Johnstown. I do not support Docket No. FD-35952. Please reconsider.Marie Stapleton · Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23550Joe AlexaA project of this magnitude will decrease the production of livestock, fruits and vegetables and grains.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23549Mary A AlexaA project of this nature will permanently damage and contaminate our soil with possible transportation of oils and chemicals, thus loosing some of the best soil in Illinois.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/8/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/8/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23546Lynda KruegerI'm very concerned about the fast track" the GLB project has been given. Mr Patton has not submitted an application and given a waiver of the 6 month notification period. This needs further investigation. There is already the CREATE program that is working to make physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient. This proposed project by GLB undermines the CREATE program. Please make Mr. Patton follow all the requirements and give full disclosure on who he is involved with. The Canadian National invested in their own Chicago bypass, and the Norfolk Southern is not interested in using this proposed rail. Please consider that there is no real need for this GLB rail project."
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23545martha bisacchiWho decided that a railroad hauling hazardous waste was needed? Who would possibly think having hazardous waste hauled through areas with well water was safe? What will people in the country do when their water is contaminated from a hazardous derailments. Derailments happen a couple times a day, every day from what I've heard. I wouldn[t be concerned if was just regular products carried, but I heard the major reason they want this new line is because they want to haul hazardous stuff through the country instead of through the city. I guess they figure killing people in the country is OK, but killing two many people in the city is not acceptable. Am I a environmental concern? Or just city people?Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23544martha bisacchiI am concerned about my well water quality if there is a hazardous spill. I heard there was a derailment in the northeast and that it was uncontainable. People had to leave there homes. How many derailments are there a day? What if it is near my home. Everyone that lives in the country has well water. If there is a spill in the city they have water that is tested and safe. Railroads that have catastrophic spills go bankrupt and then individual citizens are left to fend for themselves. How do I buy enough water for a house. How do I store it.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23543martha bisacchiI am extremely concerned about my drinking water quality. I live very close to the proposed route. If hazardous chemicals are spilled and seep into our well water, where will we get water and how will we store it? I understand that other railroad lines have had catastrophes and then gone bankrupt. What happens to us then?Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/8/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23541Rock Prairie GrangeI do not support Docket No. FD-35952. Please do not build this railroad for the sake of our community. The railroad will be being built really close to my parents' farm that they have run for decades with the help of my grandparents, my siblings, and my nieces & nephews. Many of our neighbors would be losing their land, and this would be a disruption to the community of Johnstown. I do not support Docket No. FD-35952. Please reconsider.Lisa Maloto · Madison, Wisconsin
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23540Daniel KloosDocket No. FD 35952- Environmental Comments What will happen when the train derails? After seeing what happened in Mosier Oregon I think it would be very prudent to make Frank Patton answer a long list of questions on what his private rail line will do when his trains fall off the rails at 70 MPH. How will a private company pay to clean up such a mess? What happens when Frank Patton and his investors realize that the cost to clean up such an accident is more than they are willing to pay for? Who gets stuck with the bill when they walk away? Who is going to provide clean drinking water for the residents that only have shallow wells that have been devastated by such a spill? This is not something that may happen, this is something that will happen. This is not a company that has anything behind them, this is a group of men that got together at Briar Ridge Country Club in Dyer Indiana and came up with this plan to start a railroad. For these and many other reasons I believe that the STB should deny this project. Thank you, Daniel Kloos Lowell, IndianaLowell, IN
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23539R.A.I.L.E.D. member# 14 Docket # FD 35952 – Environmental Comments Last week another freight train carrying Bakken crude oil derailed in Oregon near the Columbia River and Gorge. Sixteen (16) cars left the rails, four (4) caught fire, some exploded sending black smoke into the sky. This caused highways to be closed nearby and also caused evacuations. Some of the evacuated included children and faculty at a nearby school. As of Tuesday June 7, 2016 rail cars at the scene were too hot to be removed. Bakken crude oil is the most dangerous and hazardous type of oil because it is so highly flammable. The people in the area where the GLBT plans to build a rail line deserve to know what Frank Patton plans to transport on his rail line. If it is Bakken crude oil the dangers to the communities and the environment are astronomical. According to the Mosier, OR fire chief shipping Bakken crude oil by rail is insane. I am attaching two articles from an area publication. Please do not take these disastrous derailments and the dangers of shipping Bakken crude oil and other hazardous materials lightly. These endanger human life as well as wildlife and the vital resources needed to sustain life. Please deny this proposed rail line. We feel that our time for comments being limited to only sixty (60) days is unfair. At least six (6) months should be allowed for comments. The longer we research rail hauling hazardous and explosive materials the more examples of serious consequences we find. Please say “NO” to this project. Thank you for your consideration. Patricia Mussman Unincorporated West Creek Township Lowell, IndianaPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23538Sandy LindenDave Navecky; On May 19th I emailed Phillis Johnson-Ball the attached letter regarding docket # FD 35952 which she also forwarded to you. I have not had a reply as yet to whether or not the impact of pick up and delivery from every piece of property the rail accesses will be included in the environmental impact study. As Frank Patton has stated in print and on video “every piece of property on the route is going to have local rail access.” I would like to know specifically regarding this issue if it will definitely be included in the study. Also, Phillis stated that the STB is in constant contact with Frank Patton regarding his proposal. Where do I access this information regarding clarifications, changes, additions or adjustments. We, the thousands of people who have attended the STB scoping meetings, cannot submit comments regarding any changes or new information if we have no access to them. Looking forward to your reply. Respectfully, Sandy LindenLowell, IN
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23537R.A.I.L.E.D. memberRE: Docket No. FD 35952 See attached file for commentPatricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23536Burton TaylorGreat Lakes Basin Railroad is really BAD for Kankakee County and Salina Twp. It will split Salina Twp. in half. This will cause a myriad of problems and concerns for fire and ambulance response times. It will create problems for our school district with school bus travel. It endangers all residents with the possibility of derailments and possible hazardous material spills and or fire/explosions. The water aquafers will be in jeopardy which will affect our well water supplies. Big Money should not have this kind of power and should definitely not be entitled to use eminent domain to STEAL other peoples property. We do not need this railroad so please take ALL things in to consideration and not allow it to happen. Thank you for listening.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23535colette limaIs it profits for a few select non discloses ' investor that GLBT is pushing fast approval? Is it quickly getR/R loans before some other projects grab them? What is the rush to unload boxcars for the merchandise to set in warehouses? Or the rush to ship our raw oil overseas? This request for fast approval ( look at shorten comment period) emphasis the fact the land taken to build tracks will be used foolishly and ignorantly. IF EVER WAS BIG PROJECT SCAM, AT TAXPAYERS AND LANDOWNERS EXPENSE ,IT IS GLBT."
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23534sumner township tax payerMr. Navecky, This proposal should be killed now! A 15000 acre railyard proposed for Sumner Township would decimate the township and destroy the town of Grant Park, IL. How does this benefit anyone except for the GLBT?? Also, I intend to file a property tax protest with the Kankakee County Assessor’s Office. I am simply going to say as long the GLB project is on the “Drawing Board” the fair market value and marketability of my home and property has been tremendously reduced. And until the GLB project is formally rejected, my goal is to pay $0.00 in property taxes. I am sickened by the fact that many thousands of good people in the Tri-State area are dealing with “Worse Case” the GLB RR becoming a reality. And “Best Case”, this black ominous cloud potentially hanging over our heads for years. And effecting us Right Now, life decisions, health and emotions. And all Frank Patton can say is he is “Saddened by the growing opposition to his Legacy. Sincerely, Julie Kokos Sumner Township Grant Park Kankakee County 708-426-4180"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23533John PalanAs a resident and Superintendent of Schools at Grant Park School District #6, I have several concerns regarding the Grant Lakes Basis Rail Project. From an environmental perspective, we are unaware of what types of materials will be transported and stored at the proposed rail yard. I was at a meeting with Mr. Patton, manager of this project, and the question was posed. Unfortunately, the answer was very evasive with little detail. Therefore, my concerns are with the potential spill of hazardous materials that would adversely affect the drinking water of thousands of residents. In addition, my school district has a right to know what types of materials would be transported for the simple preparation of emergency planning. I find it alarming that there has been no discussion with local school superintendents on the environmental concerns that this project clearly poses.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23532Gerald ThiesenThere are many environmental concerns regarding the Great Lakes Basin Rail line/yard. My environmental concern is farmland fragmentation. The access to my crop fields on both sides of the corridor and the current efficient farmland equipment is made for bigger fields; hence, smaller fields and the current farmland equipment will not work together.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23531Jennifer ThiesenThe affects of the Great Lakes Basin railroad will have on our environmental justice including the wetlands, subsurface drainage, wildlife habitat (eagles' nests), forestry, farmland protection - once farmland is lost to another land use, it will NEVER be brought back to production which is the livelihood of most everyone is the area where either the rail line is to be placed or where the unnecessary massive proposed rail yard is to be placed.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23530Ken LaytonPlease see attached regarding our comments about the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. Thank you!La Porte, IN
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23529Christine SytsmaI am expressing my opposition to the railroad. The factors of public safety, noise, vibration, impact on biological resources, impact on our waterways and water resources, impact on our soils and land use, impact on air quality, and impact on the existing transpiration systems, especially on the school buses, the safety of our students. The volunteer fire department, all of the emergency departments will be impacted severely. Please oppose the GLB Railroad. Thank you, Christine SytsmaValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23528Vail SytsmaI am expressing my opposition to the railroad. The factors of public safety, noise, vibration, impact on biological resources, impact on our waterways and water resources, impact on our soils and land use, impact on air quality, and impact on the existing transpiration systems, especially on the school buses, the safety of our students. The volunteer fire department, all of the emergency departments will be impacted severely. Please oppose the GLB Railroad. Thank you, Vail SytsmaValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 6/8/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/8/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23525Maureen DeFioreplease block the GLB Railroad! It is not needed and not wantedSouth Chicago Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23524Save Our Farmland, memberMr. Navecky; Recently, Mr. Frank Patton the founder of the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company stated publicly that property values would not decrease and probably increase once the rail line is constructed. When speaking to local real estate agents their consensus is that selling property near rail lines is one of the toughest sells they experience. Noise and vibration are the top complaints. It is unreasonable to think that the value of farms and residences along the path would increase in value. Consider the negative aspects of a rail line, noise, vibration, inconvenience, air quality etc.. I ask that the STB do a property value analysis of all properties within a mile of the proposed path of this rail line and that GLBT should be held monetarily responsible for any potential/future decrease in value for the property owner.Brad Mair · Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23523Nancy LasleyImpact of an additional railroad will no doubt lead to the destruction of agricultural activities. Please hear the voices of the people.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23522Nancy LasleyPeople in this township are living here because of the rural environment. Please don't destroy their dreams.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/8/2016)CommentEI-23521Ken DaggettI am asking you to deny Mr Patton the permit to build a railroad!!!! You are probably tired of hearing the thousands of reasons, many repeats, why the railroad should not be built, or you should not give them the permit to do so. You do not want to hear not in my back yard" but that is the reason a large amount of these comments are sent to you. I cannot find the words to express to you how deeply these people, that are being affected, feel about the land that Mr. Patton wants to take from them with your approval. They and their families have owned and worked their land, some for many generations. There are many others of us who have moved to this environment to avoid what Patton wants to force on us. We love and cherish the peace and quiet and have invested many years of hard work to live in and enjoy our retirement and possibly LEAVE A LEGACY for our families for generations to come. I can't help but feel that Mr. Patton has an ulterior motive behind what he has told everyone he is wanting to do, you do not plan on something for 7 years, make a public announcement out of the blue and instead of the 6 month comment period, have it reduced to 2 months (we were given an extra month, whippy-do) without trying to hide what your real intentions are. If he gets the o.k. for 15,000 acre rail yard and changes his mind and wants to build something else on it what is to stop him? He wants 250 ft. for what ever he wants to add to the right of way, making huge amounts of money for himself at our expense and we get nothing but grief. THIS PROJECT NEEDS TO BE TURNED DOWN IF NOT ONLY FOR THE REASONS YOU HAVE ALREADY HEARD ABOUT BUT FOR NO OTHER REASON THAN THE WAY MR. PATTON IS TRYING TO SNEEK THIS BY ALL OF US AND HIS SHAKEY WAY OF DOING BUSSINESS!!!!!!!! Ken Daggett"
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-24127Connie McCarthy
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-24085Connie McCarthy
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-24082Town of Fulton, WisconsinTown Board
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-24081David St. Peter
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-24080Village of Grant ParkBoard of Trustees
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-24077John Reiniche
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-24076Beth Birky
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-24033Ronald Hoffman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23796Sharon and Rosemary Fisher[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23795Lori A. Pepper[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23794Russel Smith[see attached comment]
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23793Linda Grenawalt[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23792Robert and Donna Gohde[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23791John K. Funderburg[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23705Kankakee River Basin CommissionChris Knochel
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23703Tobin & RamonLois Cannell Ramon
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23520Chuck BarrieI am against the GLB Railroad Project being a 3rd generation farmer in the Sumner Township and concerned about the impact on our Water Resources because of this project. Just 4 days ago, the U.S. Dept. of the Interior has designated the entire length of Kankakee River (133 miles in both Illinois & Indiana) as a National Recreational Trail--to develop it as a Tourist destination. Why would you disrupt this to have non-necessary train run through this. Please hear our voice to block ths GLB rail line for private profit!!! Thank you!!!GRANT PARK, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23519Darren AugustsonIn regards to the enviormental impact the GLB railroad would have on the Kankakee County area, I list the following concerns: The farmland which this proposal would affect is documented as some of most productive farmland in the country. The stated claim of acerage required is in no means corrct as it does not take into account farmland that would be destroyed during the railroads construction. Soil compaction to fields to gain access in order to build such a project. The amount of farm ground lost due to the construction of overpasses and grade crossings. The farmland that would be rendered un-tillable due to lost access or would be economically un-feesable to farm. Our resource is the land and the farmers who work it, and in case you are unaware please check the current U.S. population growth figures and hopefully you will realize the resource you are bound to protect is the land. It has been estimated that the loss of revenue to Kankakee County Agriculture would be around $68,000,000 per year. Do you honestly think the jobs for one 278 mile privately owned railroad would offset this loss? I think not. It has been brought to my attention that this railway could haul oil and hazardous materials from the oil shale fields. If this is true, the risk of a spill would pose huge risks to not only the land but the Kankakee river. The propossed route would not only cross the river near the Warner Bridge road but would also cross several creeks and tributaries which also drain into the river. The risk of a hazardous chemical spill would endanger the approximate 80,000 people who recieve thier drinking water from the river. It would also affect the areas economic income from the river in the form of fishing and recreational use. In conclusion: When all of the known facts and risks associated with this proposal are taken into account, it is clear to see that its construction will surley do much more harm than good to the economy and valuable resources which this area provides.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23518Carol WickershamAttn: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 June 7, 2016 Dear Mr. Naveky: I am writing to express my concerns about the high-speed freight rail project proposed by Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. I live in the Village of Clinton, Rock County, Wisconsin. My concerns have to do with the economic and environmental cost/benefit trade-offs for the taxpayers. Because the project relies on public funding, the benefits of the project should accrue to the public and offset the costs and risks; therefore, I am asking for a public accounting of what would be transported; who would profit, by how much and in what ways? Additionally, who would face financial loss if this plan goes through? I also ask that this accounting be compared with other options, including: maintaining the status quo, upgrading current rail lines and the CREATE proposal currently under consideration in Chicago. Similarly, I request an accounting of the various costs to citizens and the environment, including the cost to tax payers of the process of eminent domain; the loss of income and environmental degradation of farmland, watersheds and habitat; economic costs to towns and villages resulting from changes to roads; and both risk and cost analysis of potential derailments for increased numbers of high-speed trains carrying hazardous cargo. I ask that this analysis be short-term, long-term and cumulative. In other words, I am requesting that you demonstrate whether or not this proposal is “inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity,” as is your charge under 49 U.S. Code, Section 10901. Respectfully, Carol WickerhamClinton, WI
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23517CyndyI am against the GLB Railroad Project being a 3rd generation farmer and disruption of the water resources of this area. The Natural grade of the land will be altered disrupting the natural flow of surface water, potentially creating artificial ponds & wetlands. This stagnant water will lead to issues with mosquitos, wildlife, and access to areas. Please hear our voices to Block the GLB Rail line for Private Profit!!! Thank you!!!GRANT PARK, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23515Bruce TrubachClosing of Township roads will impact rural school bus routes , emergency responder times which will put lives in dangerGrant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23513Jan BierWhat will the proposed rail line do to our house/property values? No one wanting a rural lifestyle will want to buy a home close to a rail line running dozens of trains a day. Our home is also close to the proposed sidings which will add to the noise and congestion. We know there are things we have to put up with when dealing with country living (machinery on the roadways, manure spread in fields) but 100 car trains running 70 mph day and night is not something I anticipated. Thank you.Janesville, WI
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23512Jan BierI have concerns about the anticipated derailment/accident/catastrophe that Mr. Patton envisions. (Definitely in the realm of probability since there were two in the past couple of weeks.) What happens when human lives are lost? What about livestock (and the farmers' opportunity to make a livelihood)? Who is held responsible? Who will make restitution? What if it contaminates our ground water, which supplies the wells to our homes and animals? What if the soil is contaminated and can no longer be used to raise crops? Will we be left hanging? Thank you.Janesville, WI
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23511Jan BierWhat effect will the vibrations, noise, pollution, and lose of habitat that will be brought by the proposed rail line have on livestock in the area? Will it affect milk production? What effect will the above have on the wildlife in the area? The proposed rail will cut through the Johnstown woods which are home to (but not limited to) deer, fox, wild turkey, and cougar. The prairie is home to coyotes and badgers. Thank you.Janesville, WI
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment[see attached file]Ruth Roth · Belvidere, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23509Judy LangeConcerns: Permanent destruction of prime farmland. This soil is the richest on planet earth. The natural grade of the land will be altered disrupting the natural flow of surface water. People in this township are living here because of the rural environment. Destroy that and people might be forced to go elsewhere. RR will cause land locked fields and pastures. Closing of township roads impacting rural school bus routes, emergency responders, commute times, business/ Possible ground water contamination due to spills and/or derailments. Risk permanent damage to surrounding soil with the transport of oil and chemicals. 24 acres per mile of railroad will be taken out of production FOREVER, causing loss of farm income and all future farm owners. Over 6,000 acres of easements land taken. Decreased land values for surrounding properties resulting in a lower tax base and less real estate taxes. This is not a company with a proven track record building railroads. What happens if they run out of money? What happens if the company is not profitable? Once farmland is lost to another land use, it will NEVER be brought back into crop production. Current efficient farmland equipment is made for bigger fields, hence, smaller fields and the current farmland equipment won't work together.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23508GeraldThe Great Lakes Basin is an environmental concern with Grant Park in that it will impact the Socioeconomic of the area by taking up 24 acres per mile of railroad which cannot be produced forever causing a loss of farm income for us current farmers and all future farm owners.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23507JenniferThe Great Lakes Basin is an environmental concern with Grant Park in that it will impact delays at crossings for farm machinery and equipment which will affect production and profits.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23506Amy VoseDear Mr. David Navecky, My husband and I are citizens who have lived in the rural Paw Paw area for almost 30 years, lovingly tending and restoring a small farmette very close to the proposed siting of the GLB RR. We chose to live here for closeness to nature that we could encourage, realizing that we would not necessarily have convenient access to some amenities. Never would we have imagined that our hard work to realize a dream of a country life could be overturned by a private corporation coveting somebody else's property for corporate profit. That being said, the proposed prospect of THREE railroad crossings very close together with the possibility of 110 trains/day coming through would definitely raise the decibel levels around here as well as the vibration and air pollution from idling cars or farm machinery!!! Moreover, that many railroad crossings would definitely affect emergency response times and other safety issues when hospitals are already 15-22 miles away and our local fire department depends upon volunteers. In light of the current oil spill and fires due to the Union Pacific accident in the Northwest, the possibility of an accident along this proposed route becomes more prominent in my mind, especially since a major porous aquifer in north central Illinois is along this route as well as valuable farmland, forest preserves, rivers, small communities, etc. Many of our rural towns depend upon volunteer firefighters, who may need extra training to deal with any hazardous materials accident. Who would be responsible for this additional burden in a time when many in rural areas are already economically stretched? Who would be responsible for the clean-up after an accident? Since it seems that this company has no prior experience running a railroad, taking on such a large venture seems presumptuous and disdainful of those who live and work on this land and love it. That I just found out about it accidentally, I find appalling. The feelings expressed by others at one of the community meetings in Belvidere (ALL against the GLB RR) are echoed by me. I have yet to meet anyone in this area who supports this boondoggle or feels the community would find any benefit from it. Sincerely, Amy VosePaw Paw, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23505James SimpsonI believe that trains traveling near my home would be a great risk to my well water. My air quality. And noise pollution. This will lower the value of our home.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23504sumner township tax payerDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing to convey my concerns about the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. Some of my concerns are, the permanent loss of prime agricultural land, the loss of farm income, the decrease in property values, the loss wildlife and rural landscape. There is no need for this project and even if there was some type of need, it does not outweigh the importance of life and livelihood in the areas that would be negatively impacted. How can a project that would destroy so many people's way of life even be considered?? For the good of the people? What people? Why don't the people that live & work in these area matter?? If none of that matters, then what about the natural grade of the land, being altered disrupting the natural flow of surface water creating artificial ponds and wetlands. Areas holding water will become stagnant leading to issues with wildlife, mosquitoes and other maladies. Trees would be cut down. Creeks, ditches and rivers would be negatively impacted. There are erosion issues, fields would become useless for agriculture production, ground water contamination due to spills or leakage, etc.....the list is endless! Please kill this proposal, stop this process and reject any further application from the GLBT. Thank you, Julie Kokos Sumner Township, Kankakee County ILjulie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23503Daniel KloosTo date I still have not heard Mr. Patton tell anyone how his toll railroad is going to impact the environment in a positive manner. I have heard and seen a tremendous amount of information and hard facts as to how it will most definitely negatively impact the environment. I also have not heard anyone tell us why a private person knows what is best for our land. I also have not heard anyone step up and explain why this group of “investors” were able to bypass so much of the standard process. It appears that none of the railroads are interested in this railroad it looks like it is being built to fail so that another corporation can come in after it fails and buy it for pennies on the dollar and use it for whatever they want. This entire toll railroad is being fed to the landowner’s one lie at a time by Mr. Patton and his group of “investors”. For the simple fact that Mr. Patton cannot provide any information on how this is a good thing for the environment or for the people that live and make a living off this land you should deny his request.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23501Michael C. BryantDear Mr. Navecky: I voice my opposition to the proposed GLBT railroad for the following reasons (among others): * There already exist unused or under-used rights-of-way through the region that could alleviate the congestion of freight rail traffic going through Chicago; * The CREATE partnership between U.S. DOT, the State of Illinois, City of Chicago, Metra, Amtrak, and the nation's freight railroads ($3.8 billion estimated cost in 2013 dollars) to increase the efficiency of freight and passenger rail service throughout the region already has - 20 completed projects, - 9 projects under construction, - 6 projects in final design, - 13 projects in environmental review, and - 22 projects awaiting funding which together are estimated to yield $28.3 billion in benefits over 30 years; and * The proposed route of the railroad will negatively affect the ability of emergency responders such as ambulances and fire departments to timely respond to residents living south of the proposed route, and negatively affect residents' drive time to hospitals in cases of emergency. In my case, roads to the two closest area hospitals (in Valparaiso and Crown Point) are crossed by the proposed GLBT route (on Indiana State Road 2). Please do not allow GLBT to proceed. Its negative effects are not wanted by the majority of residents and politicians in the areas that will be affected by this unneeded project. Kind regards, Michael C. BryantHebron, IN
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23499Shaun GormanGreat Lakes Basin Project. Concern: As a farmer with 400 acres being affected by this proposal, I am concern about the large areas of fields that would be rendered useless for agricultural production due to increased flooding from the disruption and movement of soil and natural water sources, and broken field tiles.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23498Diane GormanRegarding Great Lakes Basin Project. Concern: How much of our precious top soil will need to be removed/ disrupted to build,to grade and for all the proposed flyovers of highways, bridges and other rail lines?Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23497Helen HeisnerMy adult sons are 5th generation family farmers. The construction of GLB Railroad would bring about the loss of some of the best soil in the world; soil which many more generations will rely upon to feed the world. Not only would the soil beneath the railroad be lost forever, but a wide area around the project would suffer many years of damage from compaction that would take place during construction. A project such as this would cause many more problems than it would solve.Beecher, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23495Charles W. JensenI commute from Bonfield, IL to Chicago, IL daily as do many of my family members living in the area. We would suffer a greatly from the increased travel times having to cross over this commercial rail line 4 times per day.Bonfield, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23493Justin KokosMr. Navecky, I'm to the point where myself and many others are sounding like broken records. But the broken record will continue to play, as we are going to do everything in our power to stop this catastrophe of a proposal. NO EMINENT DOMAIN FOR PRIVATE GAIN!!!! STOP THIS PROPOSAL NOW!!!!!!!!! YOU HAVE THE POWER TO SAVE HOMES, LAND, FARMS, AND PEOPLE'S LIVES!Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23492Randall MauATTN: Docket # FD 35952 June 7, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 I am concerned about the noise pollution that will be created by the Proposed GLB Railroad, and it's negative impact on my property value as well as many others along the proposed route. Attached is a scientific study by The Official Journal of the Southern Regional Science Association. The title is Silence is Golden: Railroad Noise Pollution and Property Values* Jay K. Walker Department of Economics and Finance, Niagara University, USA The Conclusion (in part) says; “The central estimates show a range of between a 14 to 18 percent decrease in property value for residential properties for being located within the 65 decibel contour across the six crossings studied in the greater Memphis area. While the economic impact of noise on property values has been discussed at length, it may understate the value to society if the health impacts are considered.” This study was in the Memphis, TN. In the area studied during the 30-day monitoring period, 465 trains were reported to have traversed the corridor, averaging 15.5 per day with a single-day minimum of 10 trains and a single-day maximum of 40 trains. The average train length in rail cars is 87.7, with average passing speeds of 22.3 cars per minute, or 15.2 miles per hour, along the corridor. My home is less than one quarter mile from two crossings on the proposed route well within a 65 decibel contour as described in the study. The decrease of my property would be even greater than 14 to 18 percent since the GLB proposal calls for up to 110 trains per day at speeds up to 70 MPH. I reviewed STB detail maps of the proposed route. There are many other residential properties that would be impacted in the same way. Along the proposed path, which could likely change, there are thousands of homes and farms that will see their home and land values reduced because of noise pollution and other impacts of the GLB Railroad. This proposal is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. I request the STB to ensure the scope of the Environmental Impact Study associated with the project be as broad and stringent as possible, and include investigation of and weighing the relative impact of the proposed rail line's claimed economic efficiencies against the enormous tangible and intangible costs that would be imposed on residents and owners of property that fall on or near the path of the rail line and that ultimately the proposed GLBT Project be denied. Randall Mau 4048N 8000W Rd Bonfield, IL 60913BONFIELD, Illinois
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23491Elaine NiemeyerConcerns Regarding the GLB Railroad: Closing of township roads impacting rural school bus routes, emergency responders, commute times, businesses. Increased possibility of spills and derailments with high speed rail. Spills that could contaminate the Kankakee River, drinking water for thousands of people. Impact on current farmland because of land locked fields. Damage to field tiles. Disrupting natural flow of surface water creating wetlands, stagnant water, also water contamination. Risk permanent damage to surrounding soil with transport of oil and chemicals. Disturbing 23 acres, of mostly farmland, per mile of railroad track. This farmland is gone forever. Compacting soil during construction and the loss of prime farmland. The proposal of 110 trains a day is one train every 13 minutes. This is noise, vibration, light pollution 24/7 for anyone trying to live here. The proposal and building of this railroad does not solve problems it creates many, many more for multitudes of people.Grant Park,, Illinois
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23490Reed HarrisThese comments concern the building of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. It is my general opinion that this project should not go forward and if approved will cause many environmental and safety concerns. In addition, it is my hope that the STB will not spend taxpayer's money on any further meetings or impact studies until a formal application is received by the STB from the backers of the project. Please see my attached comments for explanation of my position.Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23489Elizabeth RittenbcherNo hazmat material wanted, or needed going through Kankakee county. What a strain! Go thru will county.BONFIELD, Illinois
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23488Brian AustinThe suggested railroad project will have awful adverse consequences on our communities’ eco footprint and safety. We need our first responders to have full access to the residents of our town and the railroad will be modifying the necessary roads to fit the nonessential rail plan.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23486Chandra AlexaThe proposed railroad plan is horrible and will alter the ecosystem drastically. Massive quantities of our plants, and animals will parish which will leave an immense ecological footprint in our community. Also the noise and pollution are amongst many other reasons too long to list. What you plan to due to us as a town is a ghastly, heinous act as the farm land will be lost and you will be negatively changing our economy. We as a community do not support this dreadful project!Manteno, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23485Susan VorgiasI am a current resident of Lowell Indiana. I recently moved here from a metro area. I came here to live in the peace and quiet, to give my family a piece of land they could live off of and preserve what I can for generations to come. I am opposed to the proposed rail line. We as a society have come to realize we have abused our planet to an almost point of no return. We have been recycing and trying to conserve energy for years. It is a different life style from the throw away" and Industral Age. Recycle, reuse, reclaim, conserve are no longer buzz words, but a way of life. Just about every show I see on TV is in full support of reclaiming and reusing materials used by our forefathers, Amerian Pickers, Barnyards Builders, DIY network shows. Yard Crashers have used goats to clear a yard of folliage, and so does Chicago, so as not to use gas powered machinery and heavy equipment. Gardens are being placed on TOP of buidlings and in empty city lots across the country. Using farming to rehabilitate neighborhoods as well as humans. Farmers Markets are more popular than ever, are in great demand and are supporting families. GMO's are no longer accepable. Old tires are shredded into rubber mulch for playgrounds. The tops of rubber fishing boots are used to make windshield wipers. We are finding new ways to use throw aways instead of putting it in landfills. We are smarter today. The Goverment has placed very strict rules and requlations on all industries to not only to reduce energy conspumtion but to reduce the air, water, land and noise pollution they create during the manufactring process, and to reduce the end comsumers energy comsumption. Things you and I use every day, recycled items such as garbage bags, energy efficient light bulbs, appliances, tools are designed to reduce everyone's energy consumption. Cars are required to use less gas, less toxic emissions, more elctric cars. The EPA requiring the redesigning of gas cans to reduce the potential of the avaerge Joe spilling ounces of gasoline. We are erecting windmills and installing solar panels at an alarming rate to further reduce energy compumtion and depenency on fossil fuels. Each person on this planet is making a contribution to reduce the depency whether they realize it or not. The negative environmental impact of this project is in direct contradiction of what our society is doing. Taking down one tree has a direct negative impact from the insects and animals that depend on it for survival to the air it puifies to the roots that naturally irragte the soil and the shade it provides. This one simple tree's eco system is destroyed. Where do they go now? The Bald and Golden Eagle, the Indiana and Long Eared Bats? The robins and cardinals, wrens, owls...the list goes on. They all perform part of the cycle of life.....for us to survive from and enjoy. The plants such as Eastern Prairie Fringed Orchid? Leafy Prairie Clover that is endangered? I need not go on, do I? The creasote from the ties will contanimate the land and will leach into the water, the air pollution will contaminate the plants the wild and farm animals and insects feed from and the air WE breathe. The noise will be above the industry standard of 85dB and subsequent vibration will dissrupt not only humans but the wild and farm aminals and plants. The natural flow of air currents and water flow will be dramatically affected as well. As rain falls and ice and snow melts, it will no longer have a natural flow into the ground where flora and fauna need it to be. It may either cause a draught, flooding or pooling of stagnent water, causing major damage to wildlife, plants and farming. Our land cannot be duplicated or replaced by humans. This project will sever farm parcels, landlock them to a point it is not longer feasible to farm or use. It will cause not only farmers, emergency personel, school buses, mail delivery, trucking supply/distrabution,and citizens to re-route resulting in more time, fuel expense but a greater use of the energy we are trying to conserve. The human time and efforts into the re-routing process is astonomical. Again, in direct contradiction to where our entire society is headed. Areas set for ecology research will be destroyed, years of valuable past and future information gone forever. Parks and personal recreation, gone. Family memories that could have been made at the parks, farms and homes will never be. Gone. Forever. Monies spent for jobs maintaining these parks, farms and investments made for homes and research, gone. Future farm revenues, gone. Land values decreased, resulting in taxes down for some, burdening others. The air, water, land and noise pollution, damage, this rail line will create speaks for itself, and is NOT where this country knows we need to be. The opposite direction WE ARE GOING. What will you be telling the country, the American Citizen along the MILES of this project, if you approve this? That all the knowledge, education, experience of the past,current, and future efforts are for not? That the parks, farms, generations of farmers, wildlife and our lives don't count? That our lives in an emergcy don't count? That our livihood doesn't count? The pollution isn't there? This project won't contaminate our environment? The windmills, solar panels, govenrment requlations protecting our environment doen't count in Northest Indiana? Illinois? Wisconsin? The air, water, land and noise pollution, damage, this rail line will create speaks fr itself. and is NOT where this country is headed. We have learned we need to live WITH the planet not adjust the planet to suit out wants. I am asking you to consider my opinion and oppose the project. Period."
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23483Daren LehnertSumner and Yellowhead Townships, Kankakee County, Illinois will lose 15,000 acres of tillable farm ground if the proposed railport is approved. We are AGAINST this land grab by wealthy developers""Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23482Nancy LasleyPlease do not try to alter the gift of land for the sake of greed. This land we live in and on is a gift to all.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23481Ed LindenIt looks like the proposed GLBT rail line will be running through farm fields and dead ending some of the county roads. This will mean that farm machinery will have to travel long distances to get to the other side of the field. Not only will farmers have to contend with farming smaller fields and forced to travel with these large pieces of equipment that take up more than one lane on the road, but they will be dealing with more traffic on the roads that are still open. As a matter of fact, the traffic that is on the roads that are still open is probably going to be in more of a hurry due to waiting for a train to pass at a grade crossing leading to more unsafe conditions.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23480Richard HeldtRailroads breed pollution & crime of which there is too much in Chicago area now. Why bring that farther out in the pure farmlands of rural Illinois. The Kankakee River basin is the purest river in the Midwest and accidents caused by increased volume of high speed trains carrying larger amounts of hazardous chemicals would surely pollute our streams and rivers beyond repair.Grant Park, Il
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23478Jason KokosHow can a railroad be responsible for moving two cemeteries in Sumner Township? There are thousands of grave sites. A grave should never be disturbed. I encourage the STB to deem this railport an over reach and unnecessary use, and to look into alternative locations to not disturb the cemeteries, church, and farms. Send it elsewhere! Do not take the land and homes in which people pride themselves in. This is WRONG, and should not even be considered at the federal level. As an American, if something like this were allowed I would consider leaving this country! This would be truly unamerican.grant park, il
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23476Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles asked me to send this letter to you. He does not have a computer. Thanks. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23475Martha WileySee attached letter. Martha is elderly and does not use a computer. She asked me to send this letter to you. Thank you.EARLVILLE, Illinois
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23472Ken CarothersSee attached letter. Ken asked me to send this letter to you as he is elderly and does not use the computer. Thanks Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23470Frank StalbaumMr. Navecky, I have a lifetime association with Northwest Indiana area farming and an additional decade fighting a multitude of Hebron's ongoing drainage issues as a member of its storm water management board. Proper areawide water drainage should be your most primary consideration. Nothing about these clay soils and their delicate drainage balances is easily corrected once the landscape has been transformed. Historically (until the ditching and straightening of the Kankakee River) this was known as the Everglades" of the north. Unfortunately (because of court decision blockages) the Kankakee is filling in and gradually returning to its original state. Into this transitional state lets build a railroad. Lets build it on high water table soils where we wouldn't even want houses. I mean what could possibly go wrong? Interview as many area drainage experts as you can. You will learn from all of them. Privately all of the Lake and Porter county drainage people will admit that this is a zero sum game i.e.. anywhere or anytime you prioritize drainage for one thing the water will then flood somewhere else until our filled in river can handle it. Keep this in mind. The Great Lakes Basin Railroad will engineer themselves to the high ground.and avoid being flooded but that water has to go somewhere as it works its way south."
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(printed as 6/7/2016)CommentEI-23469Susie's Garden PatchMr. Navecky, I am very concerned as to the intentions behind the Great Lakes Basin Rail proposal and the toll it will have in not just Boone County but all the others as well. To hear Mr. Patton has been planning this project for many years I find it woefully riddled with mistakes and poorly executed. He says they will to avoid populated areas and schools but plan to lay this railroad right next to Capron Illinois and it's grade school. While ignoring the facts of flood plains, wooded areas and a river crossing at the Nystroms properties in the corner of Ogle county. Also the endangerment of crossing over utilities like the underground gas lines of their neighbors and Aquifer replenishment for Northern Illinois shows the willful ignorance of the projects managers and planners. Mr Patton wants to take land that is not his for the betterment of the public, his legacy, and his pocketbook. If you allow Mr. Patton to become a railroad he will apply for federal grants. With the projected cost of $8 Billion dollars from at least one unknown investors, the only question remains to the average citizen is How much more will they have to pay?" At what cost to the Environment? At what cost to the Historically Rich Farmland? At what cost to the surrounding communities? I, and tens of thousands more like me, implore you to say no to Mr. Pattons' ill conceived plan that Chicago and Illinois doesn't need and noone wants. Thank you so much for your time and efforts. Kevin Brubach."Kevin Brubach
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-25263Ronald Albrecht[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-25262Margaret Henke[See attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24631Otto Heisner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24135Jocely Albrecht[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24125Connie McCarthy
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24116Anna Gull[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24115Sharon Hargarten[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24114Keith Hagen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24113Monica Ruder[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24083Connie McCarthy
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24074Block GLB RailroadAnonymous
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24073Julie Kokos
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24072Dawn Zur
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24069Dale Hoots
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24068Raymond Hoots
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24067Robert Parker
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24066Karen Gill
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-24065Kate Gill
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23788Karen Gill[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23769Brian Hall[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23767Charles S Paul[see attached file]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23766Sara Wollgast[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23765David Wollgast[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23764William Brignon[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23763Mike Garwood[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23762Garwood Orchards Inc[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23761Arlene Soucie[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23760Raymond Ruder[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23759Angela Daniels[see attached file]
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23468Flora GrangeResolution submitted by Flora Community Grange Whereas: Great Lake Basin LLC is trying to secure approval to build the largest rail line proposed in 125 years, but has never operated a rail system or realized the economic impact it would have on the communities through which it intends to pass through, and Whereas: The value of farmland ranks very high since once it is gone it can never be replaced. Farmers pay property taxes on their land to the county governments which go toward schools, roads, conservation districts and bridges. When a farm is cut up, the value is lost consequently taxes would decline and the economics of the county would be pinched. The loss of farmland with the severing of tile lines, splitting the farmland with no access to the acreage on the other side of the tracks, compaction of the soil through construction of the rail system, and acknowledgment of the economic impact as a result of unproductive land due to new wet spots will cause farmers addition hours on the roads traveling to get to their fields resulting in more stress and no desire to upgrade or even maintain their land at this time, and Whereas: The farming community has a great impact on the economics of a community for when the farming is good, purchases are made in the line of equipment, including vehicles, which makes the manufacturing industry busy and productive and will feed back to the citizens who then have more money to spend and enjoy life to the fullest, and Whereas: Boone County has a large aquafer beneath the surface which provides clean water. In the event of a derailment that aquafer would be ruined and could never be replaced, and Whereas: Emergency personnel do not reside in close proximity to this area thus the response time would be lengthen in the event of a railroad derailment or catastrophe, and Whereas: The GLB is improperly seeking approval of rail and multi-use utility corridor from the STB who has no authorization to allow construction of a utility corridor for possible use in the future by utilities, and Whereas: The Illinois Transportation Department has just rebuilt many of the overpasses along interstate 90 coming west out of Chicago. Considering the number of crossings needed for this railroad, we do not feel it to be a positive improvement to the countryside and the community. Therefore; The Flora Grange members wish to go on record of opposing the granting of this project with exemptions of any kind and to conduct a full review of the GLB project. Secretary, Laurel RatcliffeLaurel · Belvidere, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23467Boone Co. Pomona GrangeResolution submitted by Boone County Pomona Grange Whereas: Great Lake Basin LLC is a Non Railroad Capitalist with no experience with this type of venture, and has never operated as a rail carrier, yet seeks to construct the largest rail line proposed in 125 years, in an effort to provide a by-pass for rail line freight traffic that currently moves through Chicago. Their hope is that at least two railroads need to use it. Whereas: Not one rail company has stated it supports and will utilize this railroad system. March 28, 2016 Union Pacific told the Chicago Tribune that it is not interested after reviewing the project. This leaves questions of the ability to finance this massive rail bypass, and Whereas: Quality Farmland will be lost, affecting farmers who use the land for their livelihood, affecting the consumer who gains nourishment from the product provided by the farmer, and affecting the public which uses the roads to travel which now are quite congested with rail traffic at crossings, farmers transporting equipment many additional hours and miles due to their land being cut through with the rail. The loss of farmland with the severing of tile lines, splitting the farmland with no access to the acreage on the other side of the tracks, compaction of the soil through construction of the rail system, and acknowledgment of the economic impact as a result of unproductive land due to new wet spots causing farmers concerns and no desire to upgrade or even maintain their land at this time. Remember you can never replace soil and land, and Whereas: Boone County has a large aquafer beneath the surface which provides clean water. In the event of a derailment that aquafer would be ruined and could never be replaced, and Whereas: Emergency personnel do not reside in close proximity to this area thus lengthen the response time in the event of a railroad derailment or catastrophe, and Whereas: The GLB is improperly seeking approval of rail and multi-use utility corridor from the STB who has no authorization to allow construction of a utility corridor for possible use in the future by utilities. Whereas: The Illinois Transportation Department has just rebuilt many of the overpasses along interstate 90 coming West out of Chicago. Considering the number of crossings needed for this railroad, we do not feel it to be a positive improvement to the countryside and the community. Therefore; The Boone County Pomona Grange wishes to go on record of opposing the granting of this project with exemptions of any kind and to conduct a full review of the GLB project. Respectfully, Laurel RatcliffeLaurel · Belvidere, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23466Boone Co. Pomona Grange[no text or files attached - please resubmit]Laurel · Belvidere, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23465Tina FreemanI live aprox 1 mile north of the proposed railroad (2 cornfields away) directly north of marker 30 1/2. Our neighborhood is still being developed with 39 lots sold (37 with homes) and 11 lots still for sale. One of my primary concerns is water. Will the railroad deplete or contaminate the ground water we rely on to make our wells function? We have no access to city water. Also, flooding - our neighborhood has one entry point with a bridge, there is a creek that runs around it and flooding is often an issue, with the railroad make that issue worse? See attached photos of flooding issues. Air quality/pollution and noise are also a major concern. We moved out of the city to escape the noise and pollution there. With wide open fields, the wind will blow all kinds of pollutants that are hazardous to the health of all around. There is well documented evidence of sicknesses and disease brought on by being on close proximity to a train of this magnitude. It will be hazardous to our health even if there is never a derailment, which no one can say won't happen. If you look at the map picture, about 1 mile south is the town of Hebron with many more homes that will also be affected adversely. I'm sure this is the case along the entire stretch of proposed tracks. I see no benefit to destroying the way of life chosen by many in this area, not to mention the livelihood of farmers, risk to students at very nearby schools - especially considering there are many unused railroad tracks that could be used to facilitate this proposed railroad. Eminent Domain should not be allowed for personal gain. Thank you for considering our lives, health and livelihood when weighing the cost/benefit to this proposed project. Please reject it, don't make Chicago's problem our problem. Thank you.Hebron, In
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23464Jayne FrahmI have several concerns regarding the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Proposal, besides the loss of my land and home. We have a beautiful creek that runs through our property. What happens to that creek if the Rail Yard goes there? How can we so easily destroy prime farmland, never to get back? The rail yard will be within half a mile from Grant Park's schools. How can this possibly be safe for our kids and town if, in fact, they are carrying dangerous oils or chemicals as we have heard? Please reject the GLB proposal.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23463Tom HinterlongI was reading an article in the Prairie Farmer magazine, which recommended contacting you with concerns over the impact of the proposed GREAT Lakes Basin Rail project. On a personal level the rail map puts the proposed route right through the middle of a 40.11 acre parcel which my wife and I own. The impact of this would be severe on many levels, in my opinion far outweighing the proposed offer of $20,000 per acre. One concern is that LaSalle county requires 40 acres to build a house, if the rail goes through my property, I will no longer own a build-able piece of land, thus decreasing the remaining properties value. The next thing would be that my property will be split, leaving a small portion of acreage on the other side of the new rail, with no guarantee that the surrounding road will be reconnected by a crossing, and leaving me to possibly drive many miles just to continue to farm the remaining portion, thus decreasing the properties value as a farm. My other concerns are just common sense, a railroad makes noise, and nobody wants to live around that , so even if the ground was grandfathered" in to allow it to be built upon, who would want to live by a train. Basically, the proposed rail will dramatically decrease the value of the only ground that I own. The small acreage that I own will be decimated in all aspects of its present value to me, leaving me with a piece of ground that will not increase in value with time, which is part of the reason it was purchased. Thanks for taking the time to hear my concerns. Tom"
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23462Joe AlexaThis destruction of property will disrupt and poison our natural water flows and the water we drink from the Kankakee RiverManteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23460Bruce Trubachwill affect our air quality and will increase noise levels both during day and nightGrant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23459Garry JunkerWhy should we take chances on environmental harm with Mr. Patton's project when the Illinois Rail Commission does not support his project?grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23458Garry JunkerCREATE is a project working on congested rail traffic in Chicago. Why is GLBR needed for the same purpose? Let's see what CREATE can do before we destroy homes, land, farms, a state park, rivers,etc.with Mr. Patton's project.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23457Garry Junker80,000 people get their drinking water from the Kankakee River. This is one river the Great Lakes Basin Railroad intends to cross. One spill into this river could have a tremendous impact on Kankakee County.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23456Audrey LehnertWater flows through our area north to south. The proposed Railroad will disturb the natural flow of water creating ponds & wetlands.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23455Nancy LasleyThe effects of an additional RR would be insurmontable -- not only at present and for future generations. i.e. safety, impact on current land, recreation, agricultural activities, water resources, navigatioon, geology and soils, air quality and climate, noise, socioeconomic, cultural/historic resources, aesthetic, wetlands, drainage, wildlife, forestry, protection of farmland, erosion, agricultural programs are to just name a few.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23454Audrey LehnertOur drinking water comes from the Kankakee River. Trim Creek runs through the proposed railport and feeds into the Kankakee River. Any hazardous waste spills will contaminate our drinking water.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23453Cindy GoselinConcerns:Permanent destruction of prime farmland. Large fields divided into small parcels. Go over/through the KKK state park. RR will cause land locked fields & pastures. Noise & vibration levels both day & night Decreased land value. Increased possibility of spills and derailment w/high speed rail. Risk permanent damage to surrounding soil with the transport of oil & chemicals.Bourbonnais, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23451Brian CramerI believe that the GLB Railroad would be a significant environmental detriment to Kankakee County and the other counties it would be built in. The fact that the GLB wants to have a rail line go straight through the Kankakee State Park only demonstrates their complete lack of concern over the environment. The Kankakee State Park is one of the very best parts of the county and having up to 110 trains going through it every day would certainly crumble a crown jewel in this community. The rail line would certainly damage the wildlife that calls the Kankakee State Park home. Furthermore, their plan to would not only damage farmland they take over, but also surrounding farmland and waterways. Farmers have spent years cultivating their land with care to fight against erosion and drainage problems. The proposed plan by the GLB would undo years of work and create environmental issues by significantly altering the landscape. GLB plans to operate a 15,000 acre facility in Kankakee County. That is three times the size of O’Hare. That is five times larger than any other rail yard in the United States. There is no need for a rail switchyard of this magnitude. The United Pacific, the largest railroad company the US, and the Norfolk Southern, another large railroad company, have stated that they will not work with the GLB. So in essence the GLB wants to take 15,000 acres for a switchyard when it is evident that not nearly that amount of acreage is needed.That would cause a lot of damage for the environment for no reason. Of great concern is how the railroad would negatively impact the ability of emergency responders to do their jobs in an effective manner. With the amount of railroad crossings the GLB railroad would need and the amount of rail traffic they claim they will have, responders would have their response time greatly increased. It cannot be stressed enough that this increased time could lead to loss of life, significant fire damage, and other dire situations. The language used by the GLB has made it clear that the safety of the community is not a paramount point of their project. It is unclear who would pay for the needed training to keep first responders up to date on handling dangerous rail cargo. Kankakee County already has a high volume of traffic accidents and fatalities. The increased railroad crossings and the re-routing of roads would likely decrease the safety of community drivers even more. It seems that the GLB Railroad poses many threats to the environment and to the safety of the communities it traverses, only some of which I mentioned.Kankakee, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23450Dr. John CrawfordThe Kankakee River has been designated as a National Recreational Trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The Great Lakes Basin Railroad (GLBR) project proposes to pass through Kankakee River State Park in Kankakee County, IL. How absurd. The Kankakee River and Kankakee River State Park are both severely endangered by the proposed railway. The GLBR project should not be allowed to pass through Kankakee River State Park. Additionally, any proposed new railway should be routed wherever possible through already industrialized areas, not through productive farmland or residential areas. The GLBR project severely violates this principle. The GLBR project should not be allowed as proposed.Custer Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23449Trisha VolleDear Dave Navecky, Surface Transportation Board and Fred Patton: I have one new comment for all of you. In November 2011 an Intermodal Terminal was proposed in LaPorte County. The idea was shut down because of the potential loss of rural and agricultural land. The project went nowhere. They have moved east of that site to build a Logistics Port. Now with what the board is suggesting and Fred Patton; I can not see how this project can move forward at all. This was back in March 2014. Now they know that it was shut down by the people in LaPorte County in November 2011. WE DID NOT FORGET!! It benefits no one. You have railroads backing out every day. You can't be honest about one thing! That means jobs, exact products being hauled, the environment, emergency personnel, the lists goes on and on. THERE IS STILL NOT ONE GOOD THING THAT COMES OUT OF THIS. THE OLD SAYING: IF IT AIN'T BROKE DON'T FIX IT. Sincerely, Trisha VolleLaPorte, IN
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23448Randall MauNOTE: resubmital of letter concerning Manteno Rail Port to correct dates referred to in text regarding Morris, Il. correct date is May 02, 2016, not May 12, 2016. ATTN: Docket # FD 35952 June, 6, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, I am concerned about the mis-representation of the intended need and intended use of 15,000 acres of land near Manteno, Il. The proposal from GLBT suggests the need of 15,000 acres near Manteno, Il and that the land would be obtained through eminent domain. If the suggested amount of land is to be used as a rail yard for the proposed GLB Railroad, the amount is grossly inflated. Only approximately 600 acres would be required to operate a rail yard at the capacity suggested by developer Frank Patton. Union Pacific's Bailey Yard in North Platte, Nebraska is 2850 acres and is the largest railroad rail yard in the world and handles 10,000 rail cars a day. That's (.285) acres needed per car. (2850acres/10,000cars) The GLB Proposal says that it will be capable of handling 110 trains per day. Assuming that an average train has 85 cars, the GLB rail yard would need to be able to handle approximately 9350 cars a day at it's full capacity (110 trains x 85 cars), suggesting that a rail yard similar in size to Bailey Yard would be sufficient. However, at a public meeting in Morris, Il on May 02, 2016, Mr Patton stated that there would only be 20-24 trains a day on the GLB Rail. At 20-24 trains per day as stated by Mr Patton, the rail yard would only need to handle 1700 to 2040 cars per day. (20 trainsx85=1700; 24 trainsx85=2040) At .285 acre required per car this would mean that the GLB yard would require less than 600 acres. (2040 x .285 = 581 acres) There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed GLB Railroad which proves the necessity for 15,000 acres as a rail yard to operate this proposed railroad. As well, there is no publicly available business plan stating what the specific intended use of the land would be, other than a rail yard. The GLB proposal refers to this 15000 acres as a “Rail Port.” At a public meeting in Morris, Il on May 02, 2016, when asked why 15000+ acres of land is needed near Manteno, Il for the proposed “railport”, Mr Patton's answer was “They told us to plan for the future.” I researched the term “Railport” and found this definition: “Railport is a generic marketing term used by certain railroads and other entities. It implies a terminal where cargo can be transferred from one mode to another, usually rail and highway interface. It usually means a new location on the map but it could also be a site that was a former traditional rail yard, military base or industrial park. Most volumes involve trailers and domestic and marine containers but can also involve other forms of intermodalism like auto/vehicle ramps, lumber or steel transloads, and transload facilities for stuff handled in covered hopper and tank cars.” In the absence of a publicly available transparent business plan which openly and specifically explains the necessity for this much land, I can only conclude that the request is an attempt by Mr Patton and his non-disclosed group of investors to use the proposal to obtain land by eminent domain for purely speculative reasons, ie., intermodal developments, which would likely involve resale or leasing of the land to other entities. This proposal is ladened with non-transparency, is highly speculative and in my opinion has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. I believe also that the fast tracking of this project and the waiving of the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. This project should not be allowed. I am respectfully requesting that the approval of this project be denied. Randall Mau 4048N 8000W Rd Bonfield, Il 60913BONFIELD, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23446Randall MauATTN: Docket # FD 35952 June, 6, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, I am concerned about the mis-representation of the intended need and intended use of 15,000 acres of land near Manteno, Il. The proposal from GLBT suggests the need of 15,000 acres near Manteno, Il and that the land would be obtained through eminent domain. If the suggested amount of land is to be used as a rail yard for the proposed GLB Railroad, the amount is grossly inflated. Only approximately 600 acres would be required to operate a rail yard at the capacity suggested by developer Frank Patton. Union Pacific's Bailey Yard in North Platte, Nebraska is 2850 acres and is the largest railroad rail yard in the world and handles 10,000 rail cars a day. That's (.285) acres needed per car. (2850acres/10,000cars) The GLB Proposal says that it will be capable of handling 110 trains per day. Assuming that an average train has 85 cars, the GLB rail yard would need to be able to handle approximately 9350 cars a day at it's full capacity (110 trains x 85 cars), suggesting that a rail yard similar in size to Bailey Yard would be sufficient. However, at a public meeting in Morris, Il on May 12, 2016, Mr Patton stated that there would only be 20-24 trains a day on the GLB Rail. At 20-24 trains per day as stated by Mr Patton, the rail yard would only need to handle 1700 to 2040 cars per day. (20 trainsx85=1700; 24 trainsx85=2040) At .285 acre required per car this would mean that the GLB yard would require less than 600 acres. (2040 x .285 = 581 acres) There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed GLB Railroad which proves the necessity for 15,000 acres as a rail yard to operate this proposed railroad. As well, there is no publicly available business plan stating what the specific intended use of the land would be, other than a rail yard. The GLB proposal refers to this 15000 acres as a “Rail Port.” At a public meeting in Morris, Il on May 12, 2016, when asked why 15000+ acres of land is needed near Manteno, Il for the proposed “railport”, Mr Patton's answer was “They told us to plan for the future.” I researched the term “Railport” and found this definition: “Railport is a generic marketing term used by certain railroads and other entities. It implies a terminal where cargo can be transferred from one mode to another, usually rail and highway interface. It usually means a new location on the map but it could also be a site that was a former traditional rail yard, military base or industrial park. Most volumes involve trailers and domestic and marine containers but can also involve other forms of intermodalism like auto/vehicle ramps, lumber or steel transloads, and transload facilities for stuff handled in covered hopper and tank cars.” In the absence of a publicly available transparent business plan which openly and specifically explains the necessity for this much land, I can only conclude that the request is an attempt by Mr Patton and his non-disclosed group of investors to use the proposal to obtain land by eminent domain for purely speculative reasons, ie., intermodal developments, which would likely involve resale or leasing of the land to other entities. This proposal is ladened with non-transparency, is highly speculative and in my opinion has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. I believe also that the fast tracking of this project and the waiving of the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. This project should not be allowed. I am respectfully requesting that the approval of this project be denied. Randall Mau 4048N 8000W Rd Bonfield, Il 60913BONFIELD, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23445sumner township residentDear Mr Navecky, please reject the application from GLBT, Sumner Township and Grant Park IL could not withstand the negative impacts of this proposal. Also, residents and business were unaware of any of this as Kankakee County has told us that they were not notified of this proposal. Now all of our lives hang in the balance. Please kill this proposal now and do not let it waste any more of the federal governments time and money. thank you Julie Kokosjulie kokos · Grant Park, il
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23444Diane GormanThe Great Lakes Basin project will forever disturb the wildlife in Sumner Township, Grant Park, IL. Just this spring, Eagles were spotted in a tree just 1 mile east of my home in sumner township.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23443Shaun GormanI am concerned with the many environmental hazards that will surface if the great lakes basin project moves forward. The line will risk permanent damage to the surrounding soil with the transportation of oil and chemicals. This is some of the best soil and farmland in the country.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23442Nancy LasleyThis proposed railroad is riding on the backs of people. The phrase eminent domain" is taking away the rights of American people. Do not do this to the people. I base this on fact that it is not only harmful to farmland but what about the people. One railroad is not entitled to do this to our land."
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentComments of the Boone County, IL Agricultural Commission concerning the scope and content of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) relative to the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Corporation proposed new railroad, attached.Jack Ratcliffe · Belvidere, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23440Helen HeisnerConstruction of this proposed railroad and railyard will cause landlocked fields, and divisions of individually owned/farmed parcels. Large fields will be divided into smaller fields, decreasing productivity and efficiency for farmers. Some farm fields may become inaccessable to property owners, and many easements would have to be granted. This railroad project would have a HUGE NEGATIVE IMPACT on agriculture in every nearby county and township. NO to GLB Railroad and NO to eminent domain!!Beecher, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)Comment[see attached letter]M. Benson · Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23438Jason KokosSee attached. This is the creeks, waterways, ditches, and sloughs that would be effected by the railyard/railport requiring 15,000 acres in East Manteno and Sumner Township. This is an unnecessary land grab. Land taken from the people who rightfully own it, and sold off to the highest bidders for huge profits. This is NOT the AMERICAN WAY. This is wrong and the feds should stick up for the people of this country!grant park, il
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23437Nancy LasleyIt's incomprehensible by adding an unnecessary additional railroad. The effects it will cause shall be long term -- long after I'm gone. Air, climate, noise, energy, socio economic, aesthetics, precious farmland are just to name a few.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23435k.alexaThe Great Lakes Basin R.R. would be hazardous to the environment due to spills or derailments.Manteno, Il.
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23434c. alexaThe Great Lakes Basin R.R. would interfere with rural roads preventing access for first responders.Manteno, Il.
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23433Ed LindenLake and Porter counties in Indiana are both mandated Clean Air Car Check Vehicle Emissions Testing Program areas. This is to make sure vehicles registered in Lake and Porter counties do not emit more than the allowable amount of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and oxides of nitrogen. If cars are forced to wait at grade crossings for passing trains or having to drive long distances to go around roads that have been closed, this will increase the amount of emissions being released into these counties as opposed to the amount of emissions if this rail line was not built.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23432Jeanne WokurkaThis proposed railroad will completely destroyed Grant Park. The wildlife, farming, n schools will definitely take a HUGE hit. Our schools are already hurting. If this railway n yard come in, the schools or children love will be no more. People still flee the area. I see on a daily basis wild turkey and deer right in the area of a Kankakee County funded property. This too will hurt the land! If this Crete man wants this, put it in HIS front yard.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23431Nancy Lasleydemise of farmland, pollution of wells and citizen water from the Kankakee River, in the name of progress -- will change the complexity of small town values, will not enrich or add any money to the citizens of my communityManteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23430Judith FornerisI am concerned with the close proximity of the proposed GLB railroad to underground coal mining shafts in the section #30 of Essex Township section. Subsidence has occurred in this area and farmers have had issues with sink holes." The mine in Section 30 of Essex Township was called the “Oklamoma” mine, but documents also call it Gardner Wilmington Coal Company Gardner Wilmington No. 2 **1889-1893 327,036 production tons of coal Gardner Wilmington Coal Company Gardner Wilmington No. 1 1893-1895 78,171 productions of coal This mine very close to the 93 milepost of the proposed rail where it will cross from Kankakee County into Grundy County. There is another shaft mine called the Savage Mine located close to the proposed rail on the far western Grundy County border. These underground mining tunnels should be thoroughly investigated because of the unstable ground. Mining maps can be found on the Illinois State Geological Survey website. http://www.isgs.illinois.edu/sites/isgs/files/maps/coal-maps/topo-mines/essex.pdf Coal mining was very prevalent in much of the area this proposed railroad will cross. Please look into the possible hazards this could cause. My home and property is within a quarter mile of the proposed route and the Oklahoma mine is in the same section and very close. The potential of subsidence causing a derailment and a toxic spill concern me greatly. Thank you, Judith Forneris"
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(printed as 6/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23428Melissa SaathoffI am concerned about the proposed GLB corporation that is proposing to build a railroad. My concern is with the Kankakee State Park. This park is home to several types of animals. I don't think that it is right to disturb their habitat with not only taking up land, but the increase in noise, vibration and pollution that will come with the increased train traffic. I also feel that this railroad will be dangerous for animals as they will have to cross the tracks and risk being hit by a train. I also feel that these tracks will serve as a means of animals traveling from different areas, as what was once forest and greenland, will now be a cleared section of land that could act as a highway for the animals to move from one area to another. However, some of these species could become invasive to new areas.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23427kay JohsonSee attached letter. Kay asked me to send this letter as she does not use the computer. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23426Owen JohnsonSee attached letter. Owen asked me to send this letter for him. He is elderly and does not use the computer. Thank you Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, Illinois
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23425mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary has asked me to write this letter. she uses a computer for some things but thought this was too complicated. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23424mary TwaitSee attached letter. Mary has asked me to write this letter. she uses a computer for some things but thought this was too complicated. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23423Rod TwaitSee attached letter. Rod Twait asked me to send this letter. He is elderly and does not use the computer. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23422Charles Wileysee attached letter. Charles asked me to send this letter as he does not have computer access. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23421Martha WileyMartha Wiley asked me to send this letter to you. She is elderly and does not have access to a computer. Thank you Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23417Ken CarothersPlease see attached letter. Ken asked me to send this letter to you. He is elderly and doesn't use the computer. Thanks. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23308Dale Hoots
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentEI-23307Dale Hoots
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentAlicia L. Goehring
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentMitch Zoll
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(printed as 6/6/2016)CommentHeidi Brown-McCreery
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-24071Lynn Kloos
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23415Aaron FreyenbergerI oppose the GLB railroad for many reason but one major is the watershed issues it would create. In porter county the water from division rd. drains south to the Kankakee wetlands. By putting a railroad that runs east to west would cut the natural flow of water. One reason this would happen is because of the water tiles that run in these fields. These are underground pipes that drain the water table. Some of these clay tiles were put in 50 years ago by hand or small backhoes. They were not always documented and can be fragile. Attached are 2 photos of tiles that broke this spring from just equipment and age. When they broke the washed out a 8'x8' area. So by not being able to repair these lines and the continual breaking (because of the proposed tracks). It would cause flooding on the north side of porter county(mostly residential area) it would limit water to a natural wetlands. It would reverse the natural flow of ground and rain water. There would be no way of knowing we're all of these tiles exist and years to rebuild this natural watershed. On mile 25 where this photos were taken I have at least 2 tiles that drain 2,000 acres north in residential and farm areas. If there are more that were never documented it could be as high as 3,000. Thank you for your time.Kouts, In
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(printed as 6/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23413R.A.I.L.E.D.In response to our conversation you have stated that he one thing the STB would be looking for were alternate routes for this rail line. After much work and research I respectfully submit to you the attached route as an alternate to the GLRB current route. I feel it will have less impact on the environment and will keep the amount of prime farm ground loss to a very minimum. I respectfully request that you take this route in to consideration.Robert Cauffman, President · Kouts, IN
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23412Marla HeldtMy husband and I respectfully request the STB deny the above referenced project because permanent destruction of prime farmland would take place. The county would lose 5% of its farmland and be detrimental to our local economy. Along with a decline in the local economy, an approximate 200 permanent jobs would be lost. Please deny the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project!Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23411RAILED memberI am not a farmer but I live on a farm. In 2014 I built a house on 5 acres of the family farm in Boone Grove, Indiana. I used 1 and one-half acres for my home and yard. The remaining acreage which used to be a cornfield I wanted to return to nature. I dug a three-forth acre pond which I stocked with bluegill, catfish, large mouth bass and minnows. I planted nearly 500 trees of 40 different varieties, 300 shrubs of 15 different varieties, nearly 1800 perennials of 100 different varieties and 1025 bulbs of 20 varieties. Because of the clay in this area each hole for every tree, shrub, perennial and bulb had to be cleared of the clay and filled with garden soil. It took nearly 1000 cubic yards of soil for this task. To give it a natural look, I had brought in 500 tons of rock. The results are beautiful. The area is filled with birds of numerous varieties which I feed, ducks, geese and one lone crane. The bog pond off the main pond is filled with water plants, frogs and minnow nests. I have truly brought this acreage back to nature as I intended. Now I learn that a proposed rail line will run 150 yards from this natural habitat I have created. How can this be allowed??? Additionally and with a greater impact, this proposed rail line will destroy existing land use patterns and miles of tiles. Safety issues at crossings and potential train accidents to which emergency vehicles will not be able to reach are a major concern. It is hard for me to believe that the STB has even allowed this proposed rail line to reach this point. It is a pure disaster for Porter County. Please do not allow this proposal to go any farther.Jacki Stutzman · Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 6/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23409Tami SavoieATTN: Docket # FD 35952 June 5, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Tami Savoie 10808 N 5000 E Rd Manteno, IL 60950 (815)690-0189 tsavoie11@hotmailManteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23408.Good afternoon, I have been reading through the information that is available about this proposed railroad and I am wondering how it is that a waiver was given to Mr. Patton and his railroad to sidestep the standard requirements for a project like this. This waiver allowed Frank Patton to avoid responsibility for the fact that his plan is not legitimate, it is devoid of details, material facts, and he constantly misrepresents it by directly contradicting himself and others associated with GLBT. I have seen that there are now two of the largest railroads in the area that want nothing to do with this railroad bypass so is this really a proposed railroad or is this a front for something else and Mr. Patton and his “investors” are lying to you and the rest of us. I am in the final stretch of building a brand new home that I have worked very hard all my life to be able to afford and one week after I started I was blindsided with the information that this railroad will be within 200 feet of my new home. It appears to me that Mr. Patton and or his investors must have the ear, arm or bank account of someone that was able to “fast track” the project and skip all the required steps. The railroads have already told you and others involved in this that they have their own systems in place that they are upgrading and changing to relieve the congestion. These people are legitimate railroad people with many years in this industry and they have stated they will not use this bypass. Is anyone checking into this? Thank You, Lynn KloosLynn Kloos · Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23407.Good afternoon, I have been reading through the information that is available about this proposed railroad and I am wondering how it is that a waiver was given to Mr. Patton and his railroad to sidestep the standard requirements for a project like this. This waiver allowed Frank Patton to avoid responsibility for the fact that his plan is not legitimate, it is devoid of details, material facts, and he constantly misrepresents it by directly contradicting himself and others associated with GLBT. I have seen that there are now two of the largest railroads in the area that want nothing to do with this railroad bypass so is this really a proposed railroad or is this a front for something else and Mr. Patton and his “investors” are lying to you and the rest of us. I am in the final stretch of building a brand new home that I have worked very hard all my life to be able to afford and one week after I started I was blindsided with the information that this railroad will be within 200 feet of my new home. It appears to me that Mr. Patton and or his investors must have the ear, arm or bank account of someone that was able to “fast track” the project and skip all the required steps. The railroads have already told you and others involved in this that they have their own systems in place that they are upgrading and changing to relieve the congestion. These people are legitimate railroad people with many years in this industry and they have stated they will not use this bypass. Is anyone checking into this? Thank You, Lynn KloosLynn Kloos · Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23406April GerstungRe: Docket No. 35952 - Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky, One last time I'm going to ask the STB to terminate Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc.'s proposed project. Because you would only accept environmental issues and nothing else, many feel that this is already a done deal. Because you have allowed GLBT to begin the approval process with very limited consistent detail for its proposed rail line, it is felt that the FAST Act was abused to push this through quickly to avoid the least amount of resistance from the public, and so it appears that the GLBT has the upper hand and the ears of the STB and not the populace. Some question why this proposed project was even accepted by the Surface Transportation Board when other rail lines have their own highways and CREATE is in place that you were asked to host the concept. I wish I could put you and the three appointed members of the STB, who could make this life altering decision for us, in a car and take you on a tour of the route through the farmlands and rural communities that this would destroy. I'd like to take you to a community meeting so you could see the heartbreak and the devastation that this is causing Americans who live honestly, pay their taxes, vote and have hopes, dreams and aspirations. This land is NOT underdeveloped." Illinois farmlands are the leading producer of soybeans, corn and swine. According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture 2014, there are 27 million acres of farmland and about 75% of the state is agricultural. Illinois also ranks 3rd nationally in the export of agricultural commodities with $8.2 billion shipped to other countries annually. This route is not proposed to go through some god-forsaken desert but through America's Heartland. This is America where we thought we lived securely in homes that we purchase, pay our mortgages and taxes and live the American dream without the threat of someone taking it from us. Where another private citizen who thinks they have a good idea cannot go to a government agency and ask them to approve that idea so that they can take huge amounts of land to do what with? No one seems to be able to tell us, not even them - GLBT. We wonder why that information is not being shared, when asked, with those that are being asked to sacrifice so much. So for the last time, please accept these environmental concerns: Field tiles being displaced and the altering of creeks and drainage ditches after years of federal and state agricultural bureaus and farmers working together to solve the problems of field drainage. The given grade of land being altered and changing the flow of the surface water, again after land has been worked to stabilize it. Cutting down trees and removing flora in the 200 foot easement will alter the habitat for the wildlife, remove trees that reduce and remove dangerous greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere, and induce soil erosion. Soil being compacted during the construction process would take years to repair and hopefully make it viable for crop production. Possible ground water (private wells) and soil contamination damages forever due to derailments, leaking train cars and HAZMAT spills. Noise and vibration that will impact virtually everything from livestock, raptors, our buffalo herds, nuclear power plants, abandoned mine shafts and people. People and their homes. In 1960 Henry Luce wrote, "More than anything else, the people of America are asking for a clear sense of national purpose"..."From all over the land, there is evidence that this is what American's are worrying about." Mr. Patton has stated that Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. is the "definition of the national purpose." Please demonstrate to Mr. Patton that his thought process is incorrect by telling him, thanks but no thanks, and the majority of us, clearly knowing right from wrong, will continue to debate what our national purpose is. Regards, April Gerstung"
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23405vernon smithATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Signature Donna Smith Name Address 13546 E State Rd.67 Sharon WI. 53585 262-903-4906 State and Zip Phone Email don@sharontelephone.comsharon, Wisconsin
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23404Judy M. KoprivaWe are beekeepers, and are concerned about the impact the railroad will have on our hives and the quality of our honey. Bees travel up to five miles to forage. With this railroad being 3/4 of a mile away, we are concerned not only about the loss of vegetation when they clear the land for the tracks, but the chemicals that the railroads use on their right of ways.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23403vernon smithATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Signature Donna Smith Name Address 13546 E State Rd.67 Sharon WI. 53585 262-903-4906 State and Zip Phone Email don@sharontelephone.comsharon, Wisconsin
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23402vernon smithATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Signature Vernon Smith Name Address 13546 E State Rd.67 Sharon WI. 53585 262-903-4906 State and Zip Phone Email don@sharontelephone.comsharon, Wisconsin
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23400Garwood Orchards IncMr. Navecky, It has been difficult to obtain factual information on what the true intent on GLBT. However, with the scope of the project being discussed it seems difficult to imagine anything less than undesirable environmental impacts from the project. The immoral and unconstitutional aspect of a private company using eminent domain to acquire land aside, the entire project seems unwarranted and a high risk of hazard to public and environment. A project of this size, moving untold amounts of soil and reshaping the land would result in unavoidable drainage issues. As a farmer on a 6th generation homestead farm, we understand when there is even a modest amount of soil moved even for good reason, water movement changes. With that, it would be inevitable a project of this nature would effect neighboring houses, farms, wetland, ponds etc. Slicing thru such a large amount of farmland would of course create a multitude of severed, landlocked, and uneconomically usable remnants of land. The countless additional crossings would undoubtedly create a significant emergency response issues. We cant speak to them specifically since detailed crossing plans are not available, but after speaking to some first responders its seems unavoidable. Potential derailments and hazardous material spills would go up dramatically. If the intent is to find a more efficient way to move oil, then wouldn't a pipeline be a much more efficient and environmentally responsible method of transportation? It seems to be nearly a quarterly event to see on news of yet another community suffering from a derailed train with potentially hazardous material spill. How would this project be any different? Noise pollution would obviously increase. Specifically, our land is said to be used in the proposed plan. According to what we can understand from the plan, the part of tracks going thru our land would be elevated". That would dramatically increase noise pollution. We have developed an agricultural tourist destination over the past several decades in which thousands of people come each weekend in fall to enjoy picking there own fruit and vegetables and peace of getting away from the city. With the tracks going thru our main u-pick area, the additional noise and safety concerns for children playing by tracks would certainly diminish the visits. So in closing, serious environmental considerations should be made before approving such a potentially devastating project for this region. Thank-you for your time and consideration, Mike Garwood Garwood Orchards Inc."Mike Garwood
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23399sumner township residentDear Mr. Navecky, My concerns are the safety and hazardous conditions of implementing a railyard and freight train line. I have read that new research from federal scientists has found that levels of diesel soot in residential areas near the BNSF Intermodal Facility frequently spike higher than the national average for urban areas. The study, the first of its kind in Chicago, sheds light on health hazards posed by freight yards that are concentrated in some of the area's poorest communities. Please kill this proposal now and reject any application from GLBT. Thank you, Julie Kokosjulie kokos · Grant Park, il
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23398Ed LindenThe proposed route of the GLBT railroad is less than 1/2 mile north of my home which is on a well that provides my only source of water for drinking, bathing and cooking. I am concerned about hazardous chemicals being transported that close to my only water source especially knowing that the underground aquifer for my well runs from north to south in this area and my well is only 35 feet deep. A spill of some of the chemicals these trains will carry could easily poison me and my family and make my home uninhabitable and unsellable.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23397Justin KokosATTN: Docket # FD 35952 June 5, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Justin Kokos 3013 Stone Fence Drive Kankakee, IL 60901 (708)259-2149 justin.kokos@yahoo.comKankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23396tax payerDear Mr. Navecky, In light of the recent derailment: An oil train derailment Friday in the Columbia River Gorge near Mosier sent up a massive plume of black smoke and stoked long-standing fears about the risks of hauling crude oil through one of the Pacific Northwest's most renowned landscapes." I beg the STB to reject and cease any further applications & EIS! If this can happen in established railroad systems, why in God's name should the GLBT be allowed to build a railroad/railyard??? They are not a railroad company and their lack of knowledge shows why this application should be rejected. If they have money to invest, let them invest it in CREATE! to improve existing rail, invest it in our country's infrastructure, etc. I don't believe they want to do that because their plan is a massive land grab without concern to the environment at all or the lives and livelihood of the thousands of people this will negatively impact. Their plan is a selfish attempt at "leaving a legacy" and profit for their investors in the name of economic development and threat of eminent domain. Please help the STB to see this for what it is, it is wrong, unjust, unconstitutional, illegal and should be stopped now. Thank you, Julie Kokos"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23395carol dollDisupt profitable, valuable farm land, families,cause useless wetlands, hazard to good water, Wild life & their areas ruined.grant park, ill
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23394Charles WileySee attached letter. Charles does not have computer access and asked me to send this letter for him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23393Martha WileySee attached letter. Martha is elderly and does not have computer access. She asked that I send this letter for her. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersEARLVILLE, Illinois
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23392kay JohsonPlease see attached letter. Kay Johnson is elderly and does not have computer access and asked me to send this letter to you. Thanks. Jeanette CarothersPrinceton, Illinois
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23391Owen JohnsonPlease see attached letter. Owen does not have computer access and asked me to send this letter. JeanettePrinceton, Illinois
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23390mary TwaitSee attached letter. This elderly lady asked me to send this letter to you. She does use a computer, but was apprehensive about sending a letter using this form. Thank you JeanetteLeland, IL
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23389Rod TwaitSee attached letter. I sending this letter for Rod because he does not have computer access. Thank you. He also wanted me to tell you that he has seen the red helicopters flying on multiple occasions above his property and adjacent property. He knew they saw him as they flew circles around him.....just high enough so he couldn't get the number on the helicopter. This man may be elderly but is very sharp. Can you guess who this was?Leland, IL
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(printed as 6/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23385Ken Carotherssee attached letter. I am sending this for him because he is computer illiterate. I have his permission to send this.EARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23383Jason KokosMr. Navecky, It appears through the website tracking these letters that you are one busy man. This is quite the undertaking. So much opposition to this project, wouldn't you say? It seems that this is unneccesary? Right? It seems that the general public does not want this, correct? It seems that this entire plan and proposal was not well thought out and that Great Lakes Transportation (a non railroad entity) has gone about all of this the wrong way and prematurely at best, wouldn't you agree? This is leaving people in turmoil and fear that they may lose their homes or land via eminent domain for private profit. That isn't why eminent domain was established, correct? After all, GLB is not a railroad. I know I keep mentioning that, and Im sure you're more than aware at this point. You know, that GLB is a transportation company (whatever that even means). The environmental concerns are never ending on this one. I expect years and years and years of studies before this could even be proposed again. So, who performs these studies? It certainly shouldn't be the STB with the American Tax dollar for a private company. This all is very very wrong, wouldn't you agree? I ask that the STB choose a no action alternative. Thank YouGrant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23382Susan SchepplerMr. Navecky, I'm writing in regards to the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad project. I agree with the points made in the letter attached, but also want to add my own comments. The proposed project will cause many more problems. . .for the farmers whose land is disrupted, for the emergency responders in these rural towns, for the environment. . .than it would solve(congested rail traffic through Chicago). If this is something truly needed, then why aren't the major railroads on board? Most likely, because it's being pushed and maneuvered through the system by a group who is simply in it for the profit. . .no other reason. I live in a suburb of Chicago, and have a train line going through my town. Quite frankly, I enjoy hearing the train whistle going through.. .but I'm hearing it from several miles away. The route for this project, as it's proposed, will slice through the counties in a way that suddenly will put 100+(so they say) freight trains per day going dangerously close to so many farms & homes. In some cases, on their doorsteps. At the very least, the route should be looked at VERY carefully, and perhaps could be routed next to established highways. . .this would be the safest & most logical approach. Take a visit to the Illiinois farmland this proposed railroad will slice through. Take time to listen, and think about all the care the farmers have given to this land through the years. Feel the heritage of the area, see the people who enjoy the recreational aspects of the area(such as canoeing the Fox River). This railroad would take away a great deal from the livelihoods and enjoyment of the people in rural Illinois. We must find a different solution to the congestion issue, one that is more acceptable to all the citizens. . .not just a few businessmen out for a quick dollar. Please look closely at this issue, and make wise decisions!! Thank you! Susan SchepplerLaGrange, IL
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23381Jason KokosMr. Navecky, Please see the list below of organizations, townships, county officials, and others opposed to this project. A project with stark opposition begs the question, why is this even being discussed. I expect that at the federal level any township or county will be responded to in earnest. Please advise. Thank You National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Washington, DC . ______WISCONSIN_________ ~~~~Rock County Board of Supervisors, WI *Lynnville-Scott-White Rock Fire Protection District, WI *Village of Clinton Board of Trustees, WI *Bradford Township Board, WI *Milton, WI *Johnston, WI *Linn, WI *Harmony, WI *Town of Sharon in Walworth County, WI *Rock County Farm Bureau, WI * Emerald Grove Cemetery Board, WI * Emerald Grove Cemetery Auxiliary, WI * Emerald Grove Congregational Church, WI . ._______ILLINOIS___________ ~~~~LASALLE County Board, IL ~~~~LEE County Board, IL ~~~~GRUNDY County Board, IL ~~~~BOONE County Board, IL *COOK COUNTY Dept. of Transportation and Highways *COOK COUNTY Farm Bureau, IL *LaSalle County Farm Bureau, IL *Dement Township, IL *Creston Community Consolidated School District 161, IL *Eswood Consolidated School District, IL *Ogle - Lee Fire Protection Board, IL *Kankakee Farm Bureau, IL *SOAR Illinios - Save Our American Raptors, IL. *Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureaus, IL *Village of Capron, IL *Norman Township in Grundy County, IL *Earl Township, IL *Earlville School Dist., IL *Village of Sheridan, IL *The Illinois Beef Association *State Rep. Kate Cloonen, IL * Kankakee River Bsin Commission * Belvidere City Council Committee of the Whole, IL *Seward Township Board of Trustees, Winnebago County, IL *Willow Creek Township Board in Lee County, IL *Spring Township in Boone County, IL . __________INDIANA___________ ~~~~PORTER County Council,, IN *Lake County Plan Commission, IN *Tri-Creek Ambulance Board, Lowell IN *Lake County Drainage Board (Commissioners Gerry Scheub & Kyle Allen) & the Lake County Drainage Advisory Board, IN *Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District *Lake County Parks Dept., IN *Lake County Board of Commissioners, IN *Porter County Assessor, Jon Snyder, IN *Tri-Creek School Board, IN *Cedar Creek Township, IN *Eagle Creek Township, IN *West Creek Township, IN *Porter County Board of Commissioners, IN *Porter County's Department of Development and Storm Water Management Board, IN *Porter County Plan Commission, IN *Porter County School Board *Hebron Town Council, IN *Metropolitan School District of Boone Township (Hebron, IN. Porter County) *Town of Westville, LaPorte, INGrant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23380Melissa SaathoffI am writing in regards to the proposed GLB railroad. I have several concerns about this proposal. I live in the proposed rail yard. We are blessed to have 3 creeks running through this section of Manteno, which then runs into the Kankakee River. My concern is all the oil that will leak when the trains are hydraulically hooked and unhooked, eventually running off into the water supply. I am also concerned about possible spills that will then contaminate the water supply as well. The Kankakee River is used for drinking water, and contaminating it could lead to some serious problems. These creeks are home to several wildlife species as well, which could greatly disrupt their natural habitat. My next concern is the loss of farmland. They aren't making any new farmland ever, so taking up 15,000 acres for a railyard to me is a little overdone. The proposed size of the railyard is more than twice the size of Ohare Airport. Is he truly going to use this land for just a railyard, or trying to buy up land cheaply to then sell for more money to other industries. I truly hope that you will take these concerns into your decision making process.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 6/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23378Ken DaggettEast of Morris they have recently replaced a railroad bridge across the Illinois river because it was hit by so many barges over the years that it was no longer safe for railroad use, so we know that barges do hit the bridge abutments often and they do wear out. A few years ago barges broke away from their moorings between Seneca and Marseilles during a flood and hit the locks in Marseilles causing extensive damage to the locks, which are still being repaired, and flooding a large part of Marseilles with extensive property damage. What will happen over time to the railroad bridge over the Illinois river and what major disaster would it cause if a train full of crude oil or hazardous material should happen to become involved in a crash on or near this waterway? It would affect the whole river system all the way to the Mississippi river and beyond. It would kill all fish and a large amount of wildlife that depend on the river for food, protection, procreation and raising their young. It would kill all recreational use of the river, fishing, hunting, boating, water skiing and swimming. It would also destroy the water supply to many towns along the river, causing them to find other sources of fresh water to live on. And what would happen if that leak was crude oil and was to catch on fire in the river current? The fire would go on for days and miles and who is responsible for putting it out and paying for damages? There was another major train wreck today involving many tank cars and much environmental damage we do not need this kind of risk from a man who has never had any experience running a railroad in his life!!!! This project might be easier to swallow if he had been up front with EVERYONE and did not try to fast track it through or try to hide info. The mans dealings are immoral and bordering on illegal. BE VERY VERY WARY!!!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23306Sherry Giesecke
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23305Jason Govert
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(printed as 6/5/2016)CommentEI-23304Tom Forburger
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-24426Randal KlackleRail traffic for large U.S. railroads dropped 6.2 percent in the first quarter of this year, rail cargo fell 2.5 percent in 2015, and that most railroads responded by reducing work-forces. I do not feel that more rails makes any sense.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-24064Arthur LeDoux
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-24063Arthur LeDoux
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23377John VanWilliganThis is a very suspicious proposal with several unanswered request, ie: 25sq mile for future switch yard miles from anything near Grant Park IL. This project would tie up truck and auto traffic making it worse than it is now. And it is so bad now that they are trying to agree on a interstate bypass between I65 and Rt 57 in IL. the high way would serve more people and do more good than some private company trying to do, who knows what, with their RR right-of-way.Crown Point, IN
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23376David E. LukowskiHaving a large rail yard with potential hazardous material accidents do happen what will this do to the wells that they will polluteGrant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23375David E. LukowskiThis railroad will impact the safety of our children, there is no need to potentially have 100+ trains crossing the roads .Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23374LifeSourceI love camp shaw - for over 50 years! It will destroy the calming nature and purpose of this camp.suzanne Hammer · Woodridge, Illinois
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23373Patricia AilesThe proposed rail line cuts through the most productive acreage of my family farm. As a widow, this land provides needed retirement income for me. The railway also divides the farm and would cause difficulties with farm equipment going from one field to another during the peak of planting and harvesting seasons. In addition, there would be difficulties with cultivating and spraying the growing crops in the growing season. Environmentally, the railroad bed would create a dam in the fields preventing adequate drainage. The affected fields contain a system of agricultural drainage tiles which would be rendered useless and would prohibit the water from draining into the Kankakee River, creating a wet land or swamp in the affected fields (not to mention a breeding ground for mosquitoes.) Currently, the existing tile systems effectively provide adequate drainage, emptying flooded areas after a heavy rain in a timely manner. The rail line would take fields out of production and turn them into a swampland with no drainage. This would impact existing waterways such as the ditch bordering the fields of the proposed route. Not only is there an impact on the drainage system and fields, but a railway would affect air quality in Porter County. Currently, we have to undergo auto emission testing due to the poor air quality from the many highways cutting through Porter County and the steel mills in Lake and Porter County. What is the potential for emissions emanating from the freight trains? The train emissions spewed into the environment would increase air pollution in southern Porter County. This would spread into northern Porter County as well. Ultimately, this would cause respiratory problems in individuals with compromised systems. The proposed route is on low lying muck land which can burn or smolder if ignited by a fire or spark. This can spread to surrounding homes and fields destroying crops not already affected by the route. This would provide difficulties for the owner, as well as the renter of the fields. Rural fire departments are not prepared for fires of this magnatude. The resulting muck fire would impact the air quality resulting in respiratory distress to the people who have illnesses such as COPD and asthma. Contamination of water supply is of concern to anyone who relies on the aquifer under the county. Water in southern Porter County cannot come from Lake Michigan, water must come from groundwater. If a derailment occurs, the water source will be destroyed. Rainfall also would leech out chemicals from the rail beds into water supplies. This increased air pollution and water pollution would destroy the quality of life for residents of Porter County. My concerns are shared by the farm and land owners affected by the proposed rail line. I am strongly opposed to rail development and urge the board to deny the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. Mrs. Patricia AilesValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23372Chuck BarrieI am against the GLB Railroad Project being a 3rd generation farmer and the Impact on the Current Land Use. I currently farm 650 acres of Corn & Beans and shutter to think of the permanent destruction of prime farmland (appr. 6,700 acres: 20 per mile for 270 miles). Please hear our voices to block the GLB Rail Line for Private Profit!!! Thank you!GRANT PARK, KANKAKEE
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23371Cyndy BarrieI am against the GLB Railroad Project being a 3rd generation farmer and the Socioeconomic reprecussions of over 6,000 acres of easements land taken. This 24 acres per mile of railroad will be taken out of production forever, causing loss of farm income for current & all future farm owners. This is very productive farm ground. Please hear our voices. Thank you.GRANT PARK, KANKAKEE
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23370Alison CaarothersATTN: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.EARLVILLE, Illinois
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23369Kathleen DaughertyRE: Grundy County, Illinois DuPont Rd W1/2E1/2SE&E1/2W1/2W1/2SE (EXS150) SEC28-33-6 PER 281024 & 281025 Estate planning can be difficult. Choices have to be made for loved ones. Some are trivial while others take more consideration and thought for the future. My Grandfather, Carl Myers, thought he had left his beloved farm to his six children and their heirs as his legacy. Though some of his children have sold their portions my mother, 86 yr old Dorothy Myers Hougas has held on to hers. It consists of 40 acres of which 30 are farmed. The income from this land has supplemented her meager SS income and now has to help pay for her nursing home costs. The proposed route of the GLBRR would diagonally run through the entire 30 acre plot. This would leave 2 small triangles of farm land one of which would be completely landlocked. Any monetary value to the remaining few acres would be greatly reduced, not to mention the loss of future income from the acres taken by the GLBRR. The audacity of having your income and your heritage taken away for someone else to use as THEIR legacy is an affront to the American principle of being responsible enough to plan for your future. Should this project go forward decisions will have to be made involving the long term care of my mother and the task of explaining to her that someone has taken her land for their own children. It won't be going to hers. - Kathleen DaughertyMorris, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23368Darin CoyerATTN: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.EARLVILLE, Illinois
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23367Bob CarothersATTN: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.EARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23366Ken CarothersATTN: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.EARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23365Jeanette CarothersATTN: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.EARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23364Shaun GormanGreat Lakes Basin Project - As a farmer with 500 acres in and surrounding the proposed rail yard and line, I am concerned with the access to my fields on both sides of the corridor. How will I access? How far will I have to drive to get to my fields? This will just put more large equipment on the country roads causing increased safety hazards and increased fuel consumption leading to increased air pollution.Garnt Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23363Diane GormanI am very concerned regarding the Great Lakes Basin proposed project. What effects will this have on the surrounding prime farmland due to the compacting of soil during construction?Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23362Deb EkhoffThe proposed rail center is bordered on the east by a wetlands area. The creek floods at least once a year if not more. It is home to many species of insects, birds and animals that are already threatened by growing population areas. This rail center is not needed as CREATE is already involved in making the railway system better. Mr. Patton is only interested in land grab for his own monetary gain. Drainage of farmland will be adversely affected. Farmers and townships have spent many years and much money to create this working system. Who will fix it when,the construction destroys the existing system? Why are we ruining great agricultural land for an unneeded railway? So many jobs lost... Please put an end to this debacle that will destroy so much.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23361Helen HeisnerMy family farms in both Will and Kankakee counties, on both sides of the proposed GLB Railroad yard. The railroad and yard would have a HUGE negative impact on soil drainage in all surrounding farm fields and beyond, damaging existing field tile lines.Beecher, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23360Ed LindenOn June 3, 2016 U.S. Interior Secretary Sally Jewell designated the 133 mile Kankakee River Water Trail in northwest Indiana and northeastern Illinois as a national water trail. The proposed GLBT rail line route that would run east of Lowell, IN would be just north of the wetlands that was once known as the Grand Kankakee Marsh. All of this land was drained around 1900 when the Kankakee River channel was dug. This means that any chemical spills this close to the wetlands can migrate into the wetlands via field tiles and drainage ditches and make its way to the Kankakee River causing irreversible contamination and destruction of this newly recognized national water trail. With the already proven potential of train accidents and derailments leading to oil and chemical spills, I believe this is too great of an irreversible risk if the GLBT rail line is approved.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23359Jeannie Van HornIn May of 1850 Wyoming Township in Southeastern Lee County was layed out and surveyed. Over the course of generations fences were strung, roads laid, and bridges built to benefit the residents. I became a steward of the ground forty years ago with the first of two land purchases in the township, now totaling over 160 acres. Both parcels are hilly, with ample areas of high erosion when rainstorms occur. Since our purchase, we have taken 12 acres out of production to act as filter strips to mitigate nitrogen run off and erosion. Thousands were spent sculpting the hills with terraces to, eventually after hundreds of years, have flat portions of fields much like generations upon generations of Chinese did in the hills to feed their families. The Lee County Soil Service provided us guidance and supervised our work to improve our ground for ourselves and generations to come. And yet, our work is far from complete. We are still acquiring rock to prevent wash outs at fence lines and fixing drainage tile. The fields are not static. They are living, breathing entities that have their own personalities. We know which spots are sandy, which may have the best soil for miles around, and even those spots where we dropped a socket years ago. (and hope we can find again) The lines carved in the township may not be natural or straight today, if they be road or fence, but they were put in to benefit the people who live there, whose ancestors fill the small country cemeteries in the area. A railroad with no intention of stopping carved through our hillsides benefits us as much as plastic bag floating in the wind. It was used by somebody to buy something we didn't want, and left littering our field for us to farm around.Earlville, Illinois
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23358Allen GantzertGreat Lakes Basin RR is unnecessary and a land grab. The loss of productive farmland is greater than the proposed gain. If the number of trucks will be so greatly reduced, why not put the rail line in the 355 or 294 corridors that already exist? Proposal lacks support from 2 major railroads.Dwight, Illinos
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23357Elizabeth RittenbcherEverything seems in play in Will county, the proposed truck stop where Belmora was, the Illinia area, thru new I 57 exit, thru Elwood arsenal rd, to the new I55 exit area. That's all will county's doing. They want it & have ruined Kankakee's rural environment by those intermotal trucks using RTS 102,113,17, Warner bridge, 9,000n & 12,000n. Don't need it! I would move!BONFIELD, Illinois
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23356TAX PAYERDear Mr. Navecky, Please reject any application from the GLBT and stop any further EIS. This project would have grave impacts on so many topics, it is difficult to mention all of them. It is environmentally unsafe to our air, water, wildlife, ecosystems, and farmland. A large part of Illinois farmland would be destroyed which would lead to decreased production of grains, vegetables and livestock, people will be forced out of business. Frank Patton & the GLB want to disguise this project as an economic boon but all along the proposed rail line and rail port, people live and work there already! It does not make sense to kill jobs in order to create jobs". If the GLB has money to invest, they should invest it into our country's existing infrastructure. Improve the existing rail lines, put their money into C.R.E.A.T.E, improve our road system, bring business to the town of Gary Indiana, there are many other ways to help the economy or bring jobs to areas in NEED of jobs. Their purpose is to "leave a legacy" and to take from people who rightfully own what they have and use for their own benefit. This project needs to be rejected now, the STB needs to take a no action approach and cease further study. This proposal is already wasting tax payer money and government time and money. No third party contractor should have been hired because I don't believe the GLB would be paying those bills. This proposal should not even be at the level it is and should be rejected before an environmental review of up to 3 years is started. Any application by GLB should be denied. Please listen to the people of these 3 states that this proposal would gravely impact. Thank you, Julie Kokos"julie kokos
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23355TOM CRAVENS[no text or attachment received - please resubmit your comment]MANTENO, IL - Illinois
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23354Steven FickAs a farmer in Kankakee County,I have to strongly oppose the proposed railroad and rail yard through Kankakee County. This would destroy half of my farm land, destroy the entire Sumner Township, destroy the church I attend, and removes thehomeI live in...Consider all of the negative impact this project would have on the environment, air, soil, animals. We see Eagles, coyotes, birds, fox, etc. where do the now go? The danger set forth for any other farmer in the area to cross crossings. Consider the potential spill that could occur....are you paying attention to what happened today in Oregon?.. The evacuation and spill and fire from their derailment of oil cars. We have a system today that is working to move rail cars. Why change that for a get rich deal for a few. Take the rail system through Mr Pattons house,land, church, and his families, then talk to us again.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23353Phyllis FickI strongly oppose the proposed GLB railroad and rail yard in project. For a multitude of reasons...permanent destruction of farmland, drainage issues will be huge, eliminating much needed livestock, only to name a few. Any existing farmers in the area will have to deal with him creased liabilities including railroad crossings, compaction of soils as the rail is developed, and risking permanent damage to soil with transporting of oil and chemicals. That brings up the huge example today with the train derailment and oil spill in Oregon as the evacuate their school and town. What about the wildlife out in our Kankakee area...coyotes, Eagles, red fox to name a few. Once farmland is lost to another land use, it will never be brought back to crop production again. To use this many acres is unthinkable as the farmland is what feeds the people of the world. The people who live in this area have chosen to live in this quiet area. Two churches and their cemeteries are within these boundaries. Are you seriously considering just digging up these graves. My grandfather was a pastor at Zion Lutheran church and we grew up and were taught to respect the cemetery. We were not even allowed to run and play in the cemetery, as that was considered disrespectful...and you want to dig it up??? Really?? As I sit inmanyof the meetings including the one in Morris where Mr Patton was present, I do not see at all the need to create another railroad when what we are using is sufficient. Why are you considering thedisruptionof so many acres of farmland?Grant Park, Il
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23352Charles WyndhamRegarding the proposed Great Lakes Basic rail line: While I am generally a supporter of rail transportation, I have two concerns about the line's impact on our lives in Boone County, Illinois: 1. It has been rumored that many east-west roads would have to be blocked off, in order to limit the number of railroad crossings. This would make life very inconvenient, not to mention increasing the road traffic on those few arterial roads that would remain open. These roads are only minimally capable of handling increased traffic as it is. 2. Having grown up near a major rail line, I know from experience that the engine noise from diesel locomotives carries for many miles, and becomes a constant background distraction. In any case, it would be imperative that the entire line be a no-horn zone." Thank you for your time, and for listening to residents' concerns."
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23351Fred SchepplerPlease explain how a fly-over for this line will be environmentally sound and safe. The tracks will have to be at least 25 feet in the air to allow combines and double stack semi trailers under them. Trains traveling 70 mph 25 feet in the air are not safe. Please also explain how this fly-overs will help the scenery and peace of the area. The sounds of trains will be heard for miles form such a great distance. This line is unneeded and unsafe. Please explain why you think it is safe. Remember Illinois is home to many fault lines and just on bad quake and we have hazardous material carrying trains falling form 25 feet in the air. Do not approve this line, it is an accident waiting to happen.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23350Mary SchepplerPlease explain how this quiet line, will be safe for the community. The Serena school district and hundreds of others will have to cross this line daily and with 110, or more, trains racing through our children are being put at risk. My children would have had to cross this line 6 times one way to get to school. That is 12 crossing a day. This is not acceptable, and if the schools have to re-route buses there goes any environmental saving" this proposed and unneeded line will supposedly make. All this line does is add to the costs of schools and first responders in time and gas. And the added time will cause more pollution as buses and emergency equipment wait to cross the line."
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23349Virginia GawI am going to be 95 in July and I am outraged you plan on taking more valuable farm land and turn it into a rail line. When will enough be enough? Look at the maps of rail lines that exist already. Even at my age I can tell there are existing lines that can be expanded to bypass Chicago. Canadian National already bought the old E and J line and has a bypass of their own. Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern have said no, we will not use this line. That makes 3 of 6 rail roads with no need for the line. Do not harm the environment more by adding yet another line.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23348Abe HenkerPlease save my Grandpa's farm from this awful proposed rail line. We need to keep rural America rural and we do not need more trains running through farm land. How are my kids going to learn about farming when the area is home to 110 trains per day? This line is bad for the environment and bad for rural America. Prime farm land is important and you need to protect it.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23347Laura SchepplerThis proposed track will run through my in-laws farm. I am opposed to this line. Their farm was home to Chief Shabbona in the winter months. He would stay in the original farm house. I think it is a shame this line would run through land that was home to Native Americans, we are running the potential of disturbing history and historical items that are yet to be discovered. We need to keep areas similar to how they were in the past, so our future generations can have some idea of how rural America looked.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23346Dennis SchepplerRecent statistics have shown rail traffic in Illinois is down in 2015 and major railroads are laying off people. Why do we need yet another rail line when the rail volume is decreasing. The environmental impact is not worth the limited benefit of this unneeded rail line.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23303Arthur LeDoux
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23302James Marshall
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(printed as 6/4/2016)CommentEI-23301Ron and Renee Ochs
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-24062Julie Kokos
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23484Law Office of Tom McFarlandTom McFarland
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23344Tracy CorraoI have major environmental concerns regarding the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail project. I live within very close proximity of the proposed rail yard. I am very concerned for the welfare of my neighbors, my family and especially my young children when I think about the type of environmental impact these trains, possibly carrying hazardous materials, WILL have to the surrounding area. Since this proposed rail yard is 5-6 times larger than the largest rail yard in the U.S., and possibly the world, there is bound to be a massive increase of air and noise pollution, possible contamination of water supplies and deterioration of valuable soil on farm land. A rail yard of this size will be nothing but detrimental to the surrounding environment. The increase in truck traffic alone, coming in and out of the rail yard to load and unload materials, will increase hazardous materials into the soil and air. Both local wildlife and people will either get sick or be driven out of their homes due to the deterioration of the environment surrounding the proposed rail yard. And, do I dare even mention the possibility of a derailment or spill of hazardous materials in the area? The GLB is going to put many lives in jeopardy. Please, for the sake of our environment, as well as the health and safety of all living things, do not allow the GLB to proceed. Thank you!Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23343Donna HancockWhat's happening in Oregon right now as a result of the train derailment and resulting fire would be absolutely devastating if it occurred over our water aquifer here in Lowell, rather than near a sewage treatment plant like in Oregon. Although there's one of those where the line would run here as well. Along with a nearby middle school. Allowing a railroad to be built in a location irreparably harmed by such an occurrence is ridiculous and illogical. I implore you, therefore, to carefully consider the repercussions before allowing this project to go forward.Lowell, IN - Indiana
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23342Village of Seneca (Councilman)The Village of Seneca would like to file the following comments with the Surface Transportation Board’s OEA: 1. The existing rail line that travels from east to west through Seneca has crossings at two points, Main Street (IL Route 170) and Douglas Street. The Village often experiences traffic blockages, for as much as 40 minutes, when switching trains close these routes. Not only does this back traffic up in both the north and south directions, but it also creates a situation in which our emergency responders (police/ambulance/fire) are cut off from any situation they may need to respond to on the other side of the tracks. The new GLBR must be designed to NOT add to this already poor situation, if it would tie in with the existing rail line. 2. Following the same concept as in #1, the GLBR must be designed to allow traffic to flow, either over or under it where it intersects roads east of Seneca (US Route 6 & DuPont Road). Much of the work force in our community travels out of town to work and having a new rail line that would stop or slow this traffic flow would not be welcome. Emergency responders should not be held up either. The same goes for school buses and students. 3. Boating, fishing and waterfowl hunting are major forms of recreation in and around our Village area. A derailment and/or chemical spill into the Illinois River east of town, where the proposed GLBR would cross the Illinois, would pollute the river and shut down tourism. Four marinas sit within this area (Mariner’s/Blacks/Cunninhams/Springbrook) as well as our Village public boat launch. 4. Slow speeds over the river should help minimize loss. Ready access to the crossing on land to contain spills before they reach the waterway are a must. Berm designs to prevent or slow leaks from getting to the waterway are necessary. Keeping in mind the potential for catastrophic environmental damage if a spill occurs, there are also other ramifications such as the loss of tourism income and sales tax revenue to the Village. The loss to local business, especially the marinas. And, the loss to commercial barge traffic/commerce, both passing through and locally to our grain and shipping ports if the Marseilles pool is closed to barge traffic during clean up. 5. Our community lives with the potential threat of a nuclear disaster. We prepare for this situation and a key element is the ability to evacuate away from the release of radioactive material in the event of a plant failure. GLBR must not hinder the ability to conduct an evacuation. GLBR must therefore participate in and train for this situation with our community as well as with the Exelon Company for the safety and well-being of our community and the residents of the surrounding area. Sincerely, Randy Timmons, Commissioner of Public Property, Water and Sewer Seneca Village CouncilRandall Timmons · Seneca, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23341Joe Alexaconcerns of: additional RR/grade crossings elimination of regular crossings closing of roads impacting school bus routes, emergency teamsManteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/3/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23339Bill KohlerATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Bill KohlerKewanee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23338Cindy KohlerATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Cindy KohlerKewanee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23337Nate KohlerATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Nate KohlerKewanee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23336Bill KohlerATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Bill KohlerKewanee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23335CindyATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Cindy KohlerKewanee, Illinois
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23334Sharon GareyAs a landowner and a taxpayer in the State of Illinois I am writing to stress my opposition to the Great Lakes Basin Transportation proposed railroad, which consists of a rail line approximately 278 miles in length, from LaPorte, Indiana, through the State of Illinois to a point in the town of Lima in Rock County, Wisconsin. I urge and request the STB pursue the “no-action alternative” of denying the petition or application of GLBT due to the negative environmental, safety, social, and economic impact the rail line would have for the following reasons: I am not an environment expert, but these things I can see happening: • It will threaten Illinois and Indiana’s waterways. This railroad will dissect hundreds of streams that lead directly to our rivers, causing potential hazardous waste run-off • It will disrupt an unknown number of irrigation systems, which will cause flooding areas with increase if mold, insects and disease to the regions • It will threaten the drinking water of all the communities it passes through. o The farming communities this railroad passes through and near all rely on well water for their homeowners. The use of hundreds of thousands of railroad ties that are treated with Creosote, a known carcinogen, would seep into the ground water, risking the wells of ALL communities that it passes through, as well as any remaining wildlife. • The railroad will potentially carry hazardous materials at high speeds, causing a potential threat to the areas • It will cause a financial hardship on the communities it affects – these small communities do not have the means to provide emergency personnel in the case of catastrophic accidents. • It will destroy 14,000 acres of prime farmland in Sumner Township, Illinois alone. This farmland produces MILLIONS OF DOLLARS of food product each year. It is not just free and unused land to be exploited. Once we lose farmland, we cannot “grow” more. • The disruption of tree line windbreaks will exasperate land erosion. • It will negatively affect the wildlife that shares this land with us. (We personally have spent several years cultivating an environment for the endangered Monarch butterflies.) But this land is also home to deer, coyotes, hawks, owls, a multitude of birds and other small mammals. Their home environments will be gone forever. • It will create noise pollution for any community it is near, disrupting concentration of school children and the health of those remaining near the railroad. • It will create air pollution in the entire region. The railroad is NOT wanted, not by just the individuals it affects, but the COUNTIES it passes through and the RAILROAD COMPANIES it is supposedly for: • Six of the 11 counties which are affected by the railroad have already formally made opposition resolutions: o Rock County, WI o LaSalle County, IL o Grundy County, IL o Lake County, IN o Porter County, IN o Lee County, IN • This project is opposed by the areas it is supposedly serving o Chicago Department of Transportation is opposed o Union Pacific Railroad is opposed o Norfolk Southern Railroad is opposed o BNSF Railroad recently put 4,600 workers on furlough because of declining cargo traffic (rail cargo fell 2.5 percent in 2015) o Canadian National already purchased other railroads which, their comment being “allows us to seamlessly connect our five rail lines entering the city (Chicago), avoiding those crowded inner city rail corridors.” • Grant Park, IL (my home town) is most affected as it includes and borders the proposed rail yard. o More than 1/3 of Sumner township will be TAKEN, displacing hundreds of homeowners and taxpayers o The loss of students and taxpayers with close our award-winning schools. o Property values for hundreds of individuals will plummet o Enormous tangible and intangible costs would be imposed on residents and owners of property that fall on or near the path of the rail line. • The proposed rail yard is FOUR TIMES LARGER than the LARGEST rail yard in the WORLD. I can’t help but believe that this is a vailed way to grab land to sell off at huge profit (at the homeowners’ expense) by the speculators that would be funding this project. I know the Surface Transportation Board doesn’t care about the individuals that this project will affect, but I’m adding these comments also. You are in a position to save OR ruin the lives of thousands of people: • It will grant unfair eminent domain rights to individuals that are building the railroad for their personal gain – it is NOT a federal or state project • It will destroy the lives of thousands of residents living in the path of the project • It will put hundreds of individuals out of work – namely the farmers and their families that work the farms • It will put a financial burden on farmers losing their entire farms – they have investments in equipment that will not “go away” • It will destroy the way of life that thousands have chosen by moving to rural areas for a wholesome way of life in which to raise their children Please oppose this project. Sincerely, Sharon R. Garey Grant Park, ILGrant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23333LaPorte County RAILEDSending a correction to E1-23161, please replace with San Pierre resolution,thank youSteve Jensen · LaPorte, Indiana
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23332LaPorte County RAILED[Note from OEA; no comment or attachment received]Steve Jensen · LaPorte, Indiana
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23331Julie IurilloMy family are transplants from Illinois as of june 2013. We moved to the country for peace and quiet. We live on a culdesac with 8 houses surrounded by farm fields. The rail line will be 959 yards from my backyard oasis. The noise and vibration would be unacceptable to me. Also, the response time for the ambulance to get someone to the hospital would be greatly affected. I work for St. Anthonys hospital Heart Institute and slower response times could prove to be fatal. The higher probability for derailment or chemical spills scare me a lot. Lowell has no other water available to our community. It will also negatively affect our farmers, and the drain tiles would be damaged by the rail being built and affect drainage of our water to the Kankakee river. I do not want my kids on the school bus for hours either.They already have a long route. We believe this rail would be devastating to the community, environment and all those concerned. Sincerely, Julie IurilloLowell, Indiana
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23330Bennett YunkerThis will cause permanent destruction of prime farmland, approximately 6,700 acres, dividing large fields into small pieces thereby decreasing productivity and making much of the surrounding farmland unusable because farm implements may be too big to use on newly created smaller fieldsGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23329Brenda YunkerThis will cause permanent destruction of prime farmland, approximately 6,700 acres, dividing large fields into small pieces thereby decreasing productivity and making much of the surrounding farmland unusable because farm implements may be too big to use on newly created smaller fieldsGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23328Bennett YunkerI am concerned that the closing of township roads will impact rural school bus routes, emergency responders, commute times & businesses in a very detrimental way.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23327Brenda YunkerI am concerned that the closing of township roads will impact rural school bus routes, emergency responders, commute times & businesses in a very detrimental wayGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23317Meredith MacDougall
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23300Richard Allen
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23299George Grenchik
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23296RUSSELL WIDINGThe planned route is so close to our property the noise and vibration would be unbearable. The route is thru a lower level of farm land that when the water drains it will act as a dam and flood our yards. There is no way you should let this rail line to be built. Thank youLOWELL, Indiana
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23238Helen HeisnerConstruction of the proposed GLB Railroad, and especially the RAIL YARD would have a GREAT negative impact on many acres of farmland surrounding it. Moving farm machinery across this area would be extremely dangerous, as well as time-consuming. This would negatively affect both productivity and profits.Beecher, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23237Jason KokosHello, Please see the list of official parties opposed to this project: ILLINOIS: Boone County Board Boone County: City of Belvidere Boone County: Village of Capron Cook County: Department of Transportation & Highways Cook County: Farm Bureau Grundy County Board Grundy County: Norman Township Illinois Beef Association Kankakee County Farm Bureau LaSalle County Board LaSalle County: Earl Township LaSalle County: Earlville Community School District LaSalle County Farm Bureau Lee County Board Ogle, DeKalb, Lee Counties: Creston Community Consolidated School District 161 Ogle County: Dement Township Ogle County: Eswood Consolidated School District Ogle County: Lee Fire Protection Board Ogle County: Lynnville-Scott-White Rock Fire Protection District SOAR Illinois - Save Our American Raptors Winnebago County: Boone Farm Bureau Winnebago County: Seward Township Board of Trustees INDIANA: Kankakee River Basin Commission Lake County Board of Commissioners Lake County Drainage Advisory Board Lake County Drainage Board Lake County Parks Department Lake County Plan Commission Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District Lake County: Tri-Creek Ambulance Board Lake County: Tri-Creek School Corporation Lake County: Cedar Creek Township Lake County: Eagle Creek Township Lake County: West Creek Township LaPorte County: Town of Westville Porter County Assessor Porter County Board of Commissioners Porter County Council Porter County Dept of Development and Storm Water Mgmt Board Porter County: Hebron Town Council Porter County: Metropolitan School District of Boone Township Porter County Plan Commission WISCONSIN: Rock County: Bradford Township Board Rock County Board of Supervisors Rock County Farm Bureau Rock County: Village of Clinton Board of Trustees Walworth County: Town of Sharon OTHER: National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Washington, DC Norfolk Southern Railroad Union Pacific Railroad (2014) Thank Yougrant park, il
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23236CHARLENE SINENI-JACOBSPlease do not allow the Great Lakes Basin railroad project to go through, this would be detrimental to the whole area and only benefit a few who stand to make big dollars from it!SHERIDAN, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23235Melissa Saathoff[Manteno] I am writing in concern for the proposed GLB Railroad. I am concerned about the impact this will have on the transportation systems. This railroad will greatly impact the amount of time that students will spend on the bus, which already is close to an hour currently, this railroad and the closing of roads will greatly increase this time, which I consider asking kids to ride the bus to school longer than hour is ridiculous. With school budget problems, I don't forsee the school district being able to drastically increase the number of school buses to be able to decrease the bus ride time. I am also concerned about the railroad increasing the amount of time that it will take first responders to get to any citizens that will need their attention.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23234k. alexaOpposing Great Lakes Basin R.R. It will negatively impact our community.Manteno, Il.
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23233Merle SaltzmanThank you for taking the time to consider my concerns regarding my opposition of the GLB Railway. Landowner rights would be severely compromised if this proposal is approved. GLB is not a government agency nor is it a utility, yet they want to invoke eminent domain. I question if that is even legal. Many people who have worked hard to own their homes and property risk losing so much. The proposed 15,000 acre rail yard includes our home and property. I don’t feel that there is even the need for the railroad, and yet if approved land owners rights will not be considered.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23232Sharon SaltzmanThank you for taking the time to consider my concerns regarding my opposition of the GLB Railway. Landowner rights would be severely compromised if this proposal is approved. GLB is not a government agency nor is it a utility, yet they want to invoke eminent domain. I question if that is even legal. Many people who have worked hard to own their homes and property risk losing so much. The proposed 15,000 acre rail yard includes our home and property. I don’t feel that there is even the need for the railroad, and yet if approved land owners rights will not be considered.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23229Mark DvorscakDear Mr. Navecky: I am writing to express grave concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin rail project and its effect on bus routes in Eagle Creek township, Lake County Indiana. We are a rural area and the bus routes are long and the bus rides are lengthy. My son is on the bus for at least 60 minutes in the morning. The route for the bus (see attached) will cross over several at-grade crossings. Not only is this going to create a more lengthy bus ride, but there is a high potential of an accident. With the probability of a train every 13 minutes, basically the bus routes will be severed, with only small windows of time for crossings. I would like to ask that the Board deny this application as it will only cost lives and time in regards to busing. Thank you, Mark DvorscakHebron, IN
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23228TAX PAYERDear Mr. Navecky, Please urge the STB to reject the GLB proposal and kill this project now. The project poses grave environmental issues: hazardous waste spills, air quality, noise, pollution to water resources, the destruction of plant and animal life, etc....the environmental disasters this would create are far too many to count. These concerns are more than enough reason to stop this unnecessary project dead in it's tracks before the GLB has a chance to disguise this as a benefit and push it through for any further consideration. Please reject and kill this project now. Thank you, Julie Kokosjulie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23227john dollpollute rivers, streams definitely will effect water to people, wildlife. destroy farm land not to mention huge number of people who depend on this or their livelihood. NO GLB!!!grant park, illinois
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(printed as 6/3/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23225Gerald ThiesenMy living is made by farming. The proposed GLB would run through land that I farm. Making a cut like that in the farm ground would decrease the productivity of how I make my living. The drainage on that ground would be impacted as well. The low farm land that lies adjacent to the creek could cause poor drainage. Please stop the GLB from existing.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23224Jennifer ThiesenThe Great Lakes Basin Railroad would be detrimental to me and my family in that the land where the proposed railroad would be laid is farm ground that my husband farms. He farms for a living to support our family of four.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23223Julie LarsenAs a mother of a student at the Manteno schools, I am very concerned how this railroad will impact school bus routes and times to school, the air quality of the train yard being so close to town, and emergency services ability to move around Rockville Township effectively and with a minimum response time.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23222Elizabeth Rittenbcher[BONFIELD] I'm a regular home owner & couldn't go to or from work, during work (driving), go shop, out to eat or go to Dr's without being impacted. My husband & I are opposed!BONFIELD, Illinois
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23221Mary SchepplerI am opposed to the GB freight line and you should be too. I know this line will reduce my ability to observe wildlife from my living room and kitchen window. I am very upset this line will be within feet of my farm and will ruin the peace and tranquility of the farm lifestyle. This is an important part of the environment and our children need quiet places like farms to go to to escape the noise of the city and trains. Please do not take yet another quiet area away from future generations. We need place to decompress and no one can decompress by a train track.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23220Ken DaggettI am asking you to deny Mr. Paton a permit to build a railroad!!!! If this permit is issued it will take over 755 acres of some of the best farmland in the country out of production. With the high risk of a train going 70 miles per hour through open farmland,(crossing many rivers, streams, drainage ditches, wetlands, private ponds and private wells and borrow ponds), the risk of a serious hazardous material being leaked into our aquifer is too high to be even considered a good risk. It can affect the everyday lives of tens of thousands of people who depend on this water system for their every day enjoyment and their very lives!!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23219Fred Schepplerhttp://lasr.vanalen.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/map_freight_current.jpg I would like to know why GLB is calling this line a bypass, when all it does is move train further south in the suburbs. if you check out the map on the link above, the company need to build a line from St. Louis to Atlanta and St. louis to Cleveland, these lines would reduce freight going to Chicago and then traveling east. This would be a bypass, GLB is just adding more tracks in an already too crowded rail area.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/3/2016)CommentEI-23218Virginia GawIllinois is second to Texas in the number of rail miles in the state: 1. Texas 10,469 2. Illinois 6,986 3. California 5,295 Per the Association of American Railroads https://www.aar.org/data-center/railroads-states#state/IL With close to 2,000 more miles of track than California, a much larger state, please explain when Illinois needs more tracks than California. We do not need this line in Illinois. The line will just add more unneeded rail lines and harm the environment in the process. We have more than enough lines already.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)NoticeWisconsin Department Of Agriculture, Trade And Consumer Protection
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23758Scott Brener[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23755Melissa Black[see attached comment]
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23298Maury Collins
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentRick Bryant
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23295Steve and Chris Jhonson
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23217Abe Henkerhttp://www.idot.illinois.gov/Assets/uploads/images/Transportation-Systems/Networ k/RailSystem.jpg The link above shows a map of Illinois railroads. We do not need another railroad in the state, any one of these existing lines could be expanded to accommodate the trains GLB wants to serve. There is no need for more lines in Illinois.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23216Joe Alexa[Manteno] This project will contaminate our ground water due to possible spills, leaks and derailments. This will alter the natural grade of the land, possibly creating wetlands and artificial ponds leaving stagnant waters for mosquito issues, then viruses. This can eventually lead to our Kankakee river and contaminant the water we drink.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23215Laura SchepplerThe GLB line is not being built in unpopulated or undeveloped areas of Illinois, Indiana or Wisconsin. This line is being built in suburban Chicago. Please explain why this area is considered unpopulated when it is no. This line is dangerously close to subdivisions and towns. It need to not be built in the proposed area, because the area is very populated.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23214Dennis SchepplerWhat system is GLN railroad going to have in place when a train derails in the far southern suburbs of Chicago, where this train is proposed to run? It is over 2 hours in traffic to get from Chicago to Earlville, Il and longer to other areas. Since the emergency response companies are so far away, what is GLB going to do in the event of an emergency. Who is going to respond tot eh eminent dangers a derailment will cause. GLB seems to feel rural lives do not matter, they are wrong. The emergency response crews are TOO FAR AWAY TO MAKE THIS LINE SAFE.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23213Town of Sharon WisconsinPlease stop Great Lakes Basin Transportation from building their rail line in Wisconsin.Karen Teliszczak · Sharon, WI
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23212Mary A Alexa[Manteno] This will go through the Kankakee State Park which will have a severe impact on wildlife. This will also diminish the amount of recreational activity that is now available to all.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23211Connie PapineauSurface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/2/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23209Tracy CorraoI have major environmental concerns regarding the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. This proposed rail line will have a major negative impact on water resources, disrupting the natural flow of surface water, potentially creating artificial ponds and wetlands that are not natural to the environment. Stagnant water will lead to issues with mosquitos and wildlife. Also, there is an increased chance of ground water becoming contaninated due to train activity including spills and/or derailments. This project is a disaster for our environment!Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23208Richard BoickenIf this railroad would be allowed to proceed it would destroy our family farm and the buildings on the property. My dad worked hard for 45 years to build the buildings and work the land. I am trying to keep the farm up in honor of his name.Grant Park, I'LL.
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(printed as 6/2/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23206Jason KokosDear Mr. Navecky, Please respond to each concern individually. These concerns are valid and just and require proper planning before allowing such a project to occur. 1. Who pays for the training cost of first responders due to the added crossings, contamination spills, derailments, etc. 2. All additional crossings over a 278 mile corridor will create thousands of additional school bus stops endangering the lives of children. Has this been vetted and discussed? If so, how does GLBRR plan to alleviate these potential crossings? 3. These are farming communities with fields and pastures, what will happen in the case livestock is on train tracks while a freight train is carrying hazardous material? These are very important and require responses. Thank You, Jason R Kokosgrant park, il
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23205Jason KokosMr. Navecky, I would appreciate your detailed response on the following environmental concerns that I and others share. Please see below: 1. Whom will be responsible for the contamination cleanup and first response for these events? 2. What measures will be taken to not effect ground water in which rural dwellings and homesteads utilize via wells in the case of said contamination? 3. What studies have been and will be done to determine the additional pollution caused by freight train locomotives in this region? 4. What studies have been and will be done to determine the negative impacts on air quality? Please respond to these environmental concerns that will directly effect this town, community, and surrounding areas. Thank You, Jason R Kokos American Taxpayergrant park, il
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23204Josie Boickenour church has a cemetery right in the middle of the rail yard the Great Lakees Basin Transportation and we also own the farm right next to the cemetery .Please stop Frank Pattons and his investor from taking our land away.Grant Park, ill.
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23203Sandy LindenSurface Transportation Board RE:Environmental Impact Study Document # FD 35952 GLBT Railroad Definition of ENVIRONMENTAL; THE CIRCUMSTANCES OR CONDITIONS BY WHICH ONE IS SURROUNDED". I chose to live in a rural area. I chose to live outside of town. I chose the peaceful, quiet atmosphere. I chose an agricultural lifestyle. So did the rest of the people who live in the rural areas this proposed GLBT railroad would affect. While researching the environmental impact of this proposed railroad, our choice to be here, our choice for a quiet lifestyle, our choice to live away from possible hazardous chemical spills, contaminated wells and obtrusive train track noise and horns, should figure prominently in your research. The environmental impact on every single person within the study area whose surroundings will be changed forever matters. The environment we choose to live in is not vacant land. It is not useless, unused land. This is irreplaceable farmland. This land is a business handed down through generations. While railroads have given up their unwanted, unnecessary, unused rail tracks to bike paths just within the past 30 years, these farm businesses are still thriving within the same family for over 100 years. A private company should never be allowed to take another man's business away for private gain. This isn't just one farmer. It is a legacy handed down from fathers to sons for generations. It is their income, their children's income, it is their lifestyle, it is the environment they chose. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT; THE CIRCUMSTANCES OR CONDITIONS BY WHICH ONE IS SURROUNDED. Will the impact on each of the thousands of people who have come out against this proposed railroad hold valued importance while you calculate environmental impact? Sandy Linden"
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23202Wendy PayneTo Surface Transportation Board Members: I am writing to object to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation plan. This objection is based on many important factors that I hope will be taken in to consideration. 1) Safety a. The proposed location of the railroad has crossings that will interfere with routes to local hospitals. Only 2 routes are available from my home and both of those routes will have a railroad crossing if the proposed route is approved. I am greatly concerned about longer response times for police, fire and ambulance vehicles due to the rail road crossings and one of the routes to the hospital may even entail a road closure. Services with be delayed and lives may be in jeopardy. b. In addition, closing roads may force slow moving farm equipment to use faster more traveled roads which may cause accidents. I have personally witnessed the above scenario which did result in the end of a human life. 2) Water Resources a. My entire community is supplied by wells. I am concerned with the possibility of ground water pollution from spills, maintenance herbicides, derailments or leaking train cars. There are no other water options. b. Altering the grade of land may disrupt flow and create artificial wetlands. Leaving stagnant water left to damage wildlife and humans. 3) Economical Impact a. I run a horse boarding business. Noise and air pollution from the trains will drive my customers away and force me out of business. b. Property value WILL decrease. No one wants to live next to a railroad. 4) Wildlife impact a. Eagles have recently returned to my area. Noise will disrupt and drive them away. b. As stated above, stagnant water from land alteration will pose a threat to wildlife and humans. I am greatly concerned that approving the Great Lakes Basin Transportation plan will be detrimental to the community. Please take all of the above concerns into consideration when making your decision. Sincerely, Wendy Payne Concerned residentHebron, in
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23201mary AuchstetterNo project should be approved without transparence. What is the rush for comments when say decision may take 4-5 years? What is there to decide? The public is against it, major R/R want no part. Mr. Patton and his GLBT has been caught with too many lies and big stories.peru, ill
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(printed as 6/2/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23199Mark HannonMr Navecky, I write this letter AGAINST the Great Lakes Basin Proposed Rail Line. This proposed line runs irresponsibly through our family owned and operated farm at a 45 degree angle in New Durham Township, LaPorte County IN starting at Mile 3.9 and going to mile 3.2 and again at Mile 2.5. This proposed route is extremely invasive and runs through 5 of our 7 productive fields.This rail line is not needed and even if there was a need it could be routed along the many/underused rail lines already in our area. In addition to running through our productive Centennial Farm, It runs close behind our homestead and also runs close behind a second home we own dividing our farm and making parts difficult to access. Private crossing will likely not be available due to the Staging lines that will make 5 tracks running through our land. In Addition to losing a large percentage of productive land and income, this would create small triangle and odd shaped parcels that are inefficient and wasteful to farm and will cut the productivity of adjoining parcels due to waste of point rows and overlaps. Agricultural land is a finite commodity and feeds the world. We are losing Millions of Acres of productive farm ground every year. The Legacy we will leave our next generations is that we did not have the fore sight to plan to feed an exploding world population. Our Family for Decades has fought the loss of Farm Land to residential and commercial exploitation. We have never sold a lot even to a family member for building to preserve farm land and now we are being exploited for our efforts to protect the land. Additionally, these developers don't know the rail business and also have no right to ask to profit by selling utility easement rights that further degrade our quality of life and blemish the land we have worked and protected for generations. Please DO NOT approve this project and let your legacy be that of responsible stewardship and protection of our family Business and the future food source for a growing world. Respectfully, Mark Hannon http://www.ipsnews.net/2014/05/small-farmers-loss-land-increases-world-hunger/Michigan City, IN
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23198Bennett YunkerThe natural grade of the land will be altered disrupting the natural flow of surface water, potentially creating artificial ponds and wetlandsGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23197Brenda YunkerThe natural grade of the land will be altered disrupting the natural flow of surface water, potentially creating artificial ponds and wetlandsGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23196Dan BraunMr. Nevechy My concern should this Great Basin Railroad be approved is: Who will be responsible (PAY) for training,emergency respone equipment and materials, for the local volunteer Fire Departments in the communities effected should there be a vehicle collision or derailment/spill? I am sure these freight trains carry HAZARDOUS Materials that will need to be kept from the waterways, and water tables from local resident wells.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23195Laurie FleishmanThe GLB project as proposed would pass through our farm - Vienna Twp, 156.6 acres in the NW corner of Section 13, Grundy County,IL according to the latest maps. This will cause an environmental issue as we currently have 30.65 acres on this farm enrolled through 2026 in a federal government environmental pollinator protection program primarily payed for by the United States Department of Agriculture. As proposed the the GLB project would pass through the government pollinator environmental protection program in 3 places therefore triggering #10 in our contract - Liquid Damages which reads - (If the CRP contract is breached the CCC will SUFFER SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGES!!!) Besides the Environmental Damage we would also be fined a list of penalties as severe consequences comes with breaching the government environmental program. These programs are truly put in place for the GOOD OF ALL!!!! Google the article posted in the Illinois Agri news - May 20 - POLLINATORS VITAL FOR FOOD PRODUCTION I would hope you would show Respect and Protection for Our Environment, Our Conservation Practices, and expenses put forward in cooperation with The Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Environmental Programs and not let everything GOOD that has been done be destroyed and bulldozed!! If you need any further documentation please email me at jmmkyle@csky.net Thanks, Jim and Laurie FleishmanVerona, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23194gretta hamannThere are two active cemeteries in the proposed railway yard' If you have children, and have had a child die; I don't think you would want their place of rest to be surrounded by trains and trucks. The thought of this breaks my heart and it should yours."
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23193Shaun GormanAs a farmer with 400 acres in Sumner Township - site of proposed 15,000 acre rail yard by Great Lakes Basin Project, I am extremely concerned about the damage to existing field tiles and lines and the resulting damage to the subsoil drainage in a very large area. How will this be addressed?Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23192Diane GormanI am concerned about the proposed Great Lake Basin Project and the proposed rail yard in Sumner Township. There are several creeks within the proposed site - Exline Slough Creek & Canavan Slough. What happens with this yard on top of them? The natural grade of the land will be altered disrupting the natural flow of surface water potentially creating artificial ponds and wetlands.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23191laura conversaRuining an entire rural town for a railroad yard just because things will be shipped faster???? Frank Patton can learn something from our town....SLOW DOWN, breathe deep,smell the flowers.....Please say NO to this outrageous idea of the GLB railroad and railyard!Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23190Dennis RippeThe proposed Railroad going through Porter County will potentially delay and disrupt the education of students in the Porter Township School District. Schools would have to wait on the busses to start their day. This would also delay students arriving home in the afternoon. The noise of the train would greatly effect students who are sensitive to loud sounds. This includes our Special Education students who come from 5 neighboring districts including Boone Grove. Waiting for the train to pass or hearing it during class could cause them to do potential harm to themselves and/or others as they do not know how to deal with such noises.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23189Dennis Rippe[Valparaiso] The proposed crossing on 500 South in Porter County is between a dangerous curve and stop sign. Busses coming and going from the Boone Grove Complex would be backed up into the curve over 4 times each and every day. This includes 20 or more busses transporting children K-12 along with students with Special needs going to and from neighboring school districts. Busses cannot see directly around the curve which puts students and drivers in a dangerous situation since they have to stop for all Railroad crossings per the law.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23188Dennis RippeDrainage problems in the area forces road closings on 500 South in the same area as the proposed railroad crossing. All the water drains south to the Waterfowl USA Marsh that is approximately 2 tenths of a mile away. Any spill of hazardous materials would pollute the Marsh. The materials would also infiltrate the well systems used as the only source of drinking water for the residents in the area.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23187fitzpatrick equine field serviceI cannot comprehend how the transportation board could be even entertaining the thought of Patton and his GLB train idea. This is a private company wanting to take our land by eminent domain. The last time I checked I was living in the great U S of A! Now, I may be in Russia!!! Wait a minute, I pay my taxes, I work a full time job and I have put my blood sweat and tears into my land. Yes it is my land and I am not gonna let this railroad and railyard take it! The only legacy" that Mr.Patton will leave for his children is that he be compared to Hitler....because he will be killing us all that live in Sumner Township in Grant Park!!! Move the project to Pembroke, Im sure no one there will mind."LAURA conversa-wail
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23186RANDALL MAUBonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23185Dennis RippeThe train will run at one point just feet from a large break of Pines, Walnut, and Oak trees that dry out in Summer and Fall, making them susceptible to fire along with a small pasture. This wind break and small pasture also acts as a watershed filter for a 3 acre pond that serves as a fish and wildlife habitat.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23184TAX PAYERDear Mr. Navecky, please reject the GLB proposal. This project is a huge risk of the destruction of wetlands, wildlife, farmland etc and will cause negative issues to water resources, like ground water contamination and if there were a spill it could negatively impact our drinking water from the Kankakee River and home owners well water. The environmental concerns are innumerable and this project needs to be rejected and further studies or surveys should be discontinued. Thank you. Julie Kokosjulie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23183Judith S MauBonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23182RANDALL MAUBONFIELD, Illinois
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23181Merle SaltzmanI appreciate you taking into consideration my strong opposition of the proposed GLB railroad for the following reasons: Light pollution will adversely affect residents in the areas of the proposed rail line. Based on the information Frank Patton has provided the community, as many as 110 trains could use the tracks each day. All residents who live near the proposed tracks would potentially have the lights from the train and the crossing lights polluting their environment as often as every 13 to 15 minutes during the night. This would affect the health of all individuals in the home. I urge you to immediately put an end to this proposal. It does not serve the public interest in any way, shape or form. The CREATE program in Chicago serves the needs of the rail system. This is a private capitalistic venture that serves only those investors and hurts the communities it will run through. Thank you for your consideration.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23180Sharon SaltzmanI appreciate you taking into consideration my strong opposition of the proposed GLB railroad for the following reasons: Light pollution will adversely affect residents in the areas of the proposed rail line. Based on the information Frank Patton has provided the community, as many as 110 trains could use the tracks each day. All residents who live near the proposed tracks would potentially have the lights from the train and the crossing lights polluting their environment as often as every 13 to 15 minutes during the night. This would affect the health of all individuals in the home. I urge you to immediately put an end to this proposal. It does not serve the public interest in any way, shape or form. The CREATE program in Chicago serves the needs of the rail system. This is a private capitalistic venture that serves only those investors and hurts the communities it will run through. Thank you.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23179Merle SaltzmanI appreciate you taking into consideration my strong opposition of the proposed GLB railroad for the following reasons: Noise pollution will be a huge problem for the people living in the affected areas. The sound and ground shaking of the heavy trains and the required whistle notification at every road crossing (½ to 1 mile apart) would undoubtedly cause disruption in the lives of everyone near by. According to the information that Frank Patton has supplied, the tracks would handle up to 110 trains per day. Imagine if you were trying to sleep and every 13 minutes the loud rumble and whistles of a train could be heard. The sound of the passing train would barely be gone when another oncoming would be heard. No matter what anyone says, those of us who have chosen a rural peaceful lifestyle would never become accustomed to this awful noise pollution. I urge you to immediately put an end to this proposal. It does not serve the public interest in any way, shape or form. The CREATE program in Chicago serves the needs of the rail system. This is a private capitalistic venture that serves only those investors and hurts the communities it will run through.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23178Sharon SaltzmanI appreciate you taking into consideration my strong opposition of the proposed GLB railroad for the following reasons: Noise pollution will be a huge problem for the people living in the affected areas. The sound and ground shaking of the heavy trains and the required whistle notification at every road crossing (½ to 1 mile apart) would undoubtedly cause disruption in the lives of everyone near by. According to the information that Frank Patton has supplied, the tracks would handle up to 110 trains per day. Imagine if you were trying to sleep and every 13 minutes the loud rumble and whistles of a train could be heard. The sound of the passing train would barely be gone when another oncoming would be heard. No matter what anyone says, those of us who have chosen a rural peaceful lifestyle would never become accustomed to this awful noise pollution. I urge you to immediately put an end to this proposal. It does not serve the public interest in any way, shape or form. The CREATE program in Chicago serves the needs of the rail system. This is a private capitalistic venture that serves only those investors and hurts the communities it will run through.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23177RANDALL MAU[BONFIELD] I am concerned about the impact that the proposed GLB Railroad will have on Emergency Response capability and the insure-ability of homes and property in rural areas. The assumption is that strict safety standards and state of the art technologies would be incorporated into the project, however, accidents can not be ruled out and most rural and remote First Responders would be poorly equipped and qualified. The project would have a negative impact on Public Safety. Please see attached letter.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/2/2016)CommentEI-23176William EkhoffThe GLB railway terminal area will cover land behind my house. It contains Trim Creek with filter belts and wildlife areas and 3 ponds just on our land alone. Water birds and wildlife will be adversely affected by this aggressive private venture. This is also productive farm land. There will be noise, pollution and the disruption of water flow during floods from the train trestle that will have to cross the creek. There is a railroad 3 miles east of Grant park that went under leaving much of the railroad bed unrestored to the land's original contours. Another one 4 miles west has much of it's railroad bed unrestored to its original state. Even mining land on the Thunder Basin National Grassland is restored after the coal is taken. Why are railroads exempt from cleaning up their mess? After this railway is no longer needed, will this 15000 acre terminal area appear as an ugly brown spot on google earth? And what about the miles and miles of railroad bed? Will that ever be restored or will we just leave that mess for our children and grandchildren. Please investigate this venture!Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-24234Judy Fleming[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/1/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23783Ralph Wolter[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23782Donald Ellingson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23781Bill Vose[see attached letter]
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23669Lynda KruegerI'm concerned about the water table if there is a chemical spill from the railroad cars. We live in a rural area where our only source of water is from a well. With the recent situation in Detroit with tainted water and the drought in California, we know what a precious resource water is. The town of Valparaiso gets it's water from an aquifer that is close to proposed GLB tracks. If there was a chemical spill, the entire town would have no water and no other source! Please carefully consider this issue.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23294Carrie Langlois
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23293Bonnie Harder
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23292William Mitchell
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23291Lori Pepper
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23290Diane Gorman
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23289Michael Gordon
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23288Rebecca Gordon
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23175tax payerDear Mr Navecky, Please reject the GLB project now. The environmental concerns this project raises are innumerable. The farmland alone that this would disrupt or destroy is reason enough to reject this. I am personally affected as the farmer that has land all around my property has drainage tiles that would be destroyed, thus runoff into the creeks and ultimately the K3 River would be polluted. This is only one of many, many of the environmental hazards this project would pose. Please stop all surveys and studies for this project and reject any application from GLBT. Thank you. Julie Kokosjulie kokos · Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23174Mary SchepplerI would like to say that this line is bad for the social environment of the area, it has made many people upset. it has raised hopes of jobs we all know will not come, because trains are not new and any business wanting to be by a train would have built by one already, and it has made land owners fearful of their legacies being taken away. Our family farm has been in our family 120 years it is not right that some man can threaten to take our livelihood and our family legacy away simple to build yet another unneeded rail line, look at the maps of Illinois railroads the land is scarred enough. Say no to this line. It has ruined enough lives without even being built yet.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23173Fred SchepplerFrank Patton of the GLB railroad indicates the estimate of 110 trains is too high, yet that is what his website says and his application, he is lying and telling people it is only going to be 10-15 trains per day. You can not trust him because he lies in public about the number of trains using the line and this should void any further consideration of this line. Since the President of GLB says that it will be 10-15 trains that is not enough to warrant the destruction of prime farmland and other natural ecosystems. GLB needs to tell the truth and since they are not this line needs voided and as a board you need to believe the lower number of trains, which makes the line completely unneeded.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23172Virginia GawThis week a toddler fell into a gorilla cage and the gorilla was shot, what is going to prevent a toddler from going onto these tracks located within feet of homes and businesses. What kind of protections will be in place to keep people off the tracks, while at the same time allowing for animals to cross. What about the impact on animals as this high speed line does not give them a chance to get out of the way. This line traveling at excessive speed is dangerous and bad for the natural environment and people, especially children.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23171Abe HenkerI would like to know what will be done to prevent foreign species and weeds from being transported into the area, since they rail line will have to import thousands of loads of fill to build this line. What is going to be done to prevent non-native and invasive species from spreading into the area? What will also be done to help the area where this fill comes from as that in and of itself is harmful to the environment in the area the fill is obtained from.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23170Laura SchepplerPlease explain what will be done to reduce noise pollution and the eye pollution an ugly train will impose on a now beautiful area of the country. What kind of landscaping will be used to prevent the rail line from being an eyesore? Also who will maintain the land round the train line to prevent weeds from spreading into the surrounding yards and fields?Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23169Dennis SchepplerI would like to know how the rail line is going to replace all the trees cut down to build this line. Trees are vital to the health of the environment and cutting down them to simply build an unneeded rail line, means they should have to replace them with new trees. This is especially a concern in the wooded areas near the many rivers and streams this line will run over and through. Also how will the rail road account for season streams that only come with large rain falls? This line will block natural drainage and is a huge concern.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23168Christine MakowieckiRE: The Great Lakes Basin Railroad I live in the very northern part of unincorporated Kouts, IN, approximately 2.5-3.0 miles south of the proposed GLB Railway. My husband and I moved out to the country setting 5 years ago where we found our dream home with a little over an acre at a price that we could afford. It is a very quiet subdivision surrounded by farm fields and abundant wildlife. We absolutely love it here and the peacefulness it offers. I grew up in Northern Lake County and Porter County throughout my life. My grandparents raising their families in East Chicago, IN with multi railways at the end of their street just a few doors down from their home. My parents raised me and my siblings in Highland, IN with railway crossings spewed throughout the town. When I moved to Valparaiso, IN to raise my daughter, we had a railway 2 blocks away. Now, living in these areas with nearby railways was our choice to do so. My husband and I moved out to the country in Kouts, as that is exactly what it is, the country! There is no land nearby tarnished with unsightly, loud, hazardous, pollutant railways directly near us. That was our choice! With the proposed railway sight just north of our home, our serene surroundings will be no more. Our drive to civilization will not be the beautiful farmlands and rolling prairies. It will be tarnished with the unsightly views of hazardous freight trains covered in graffiti and the fresh air will be overtaken by locomotive fuel and other imminent pollutants. I know this as I grew up with it! If I wanted to continue to live near this, I would be. Now my husband and I and our fellow neighbors near and far affected by this railway will be forced to accept the fact and just deal with it?! We all have the fears of air and noise pollution, environmental hazards and affects, water flow issues, damage to our wildlife and live stock and overall quality of life. I understand the importance of the railroad. I have family and friends that work for the railroad but it's my understanding that there are alternatives for use of current rail lines where these areas are already designed to handle this kind of operation. The GLB Railway is NOT A NEED! It is not a life or death situation that this railway be built. The Southern Porter County area has had a welcoming population growth over the recent years with great schools and communities. This railway will be the demise of that! Our property values will decrease and taxes will be affected. Our emergency response teams, school buses, and all means of transportation routes to and from connecting towns, schools,and farms will compromised. Our property, our lives and our children lives will be compromised. These are hard working people trying to live the American Dream" who cannot be bought and whose lives and future generations they will be destroying. They need to think about that! Sometimes less is more! I highly oppose this proposed GLB railway!"
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23167Tom Hinspeter• Land use concern • Cumulative Impacts • Docket # FD 35952 C.R.E.A.T.E. is working on congestion through Chicago and is already seeing great progress and results. This is an effort of many railroads,US D.O.T. and State of Illinois. Over 70 projects on their list of improvements and 24 of them completed as of December 2015.There is no necessity for the GLBR. 24 acres per mile of railroad will be taken out of production forever, causing loss of income to current and future farm owners. Since when can eminent domain be used to generate corporate profits just to move rail shippers products faster. This railroad would be inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity therefore please deny GLBR request to construct this railroad. Tom Hinspeter Salina Township, Bonfield, Illinois generate more corporate profits just to move rail shippers products faster. C.R.E.A.T.E. is already working on moving rail shipments faster.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23166jared pendryiamconcerned about stb allowing any approval for the glbt lines and railyard.the actual true plans for the take over of private land are not clear and transparent.and obvious environmental risks and degradation of clean well water and disregard for rural living are a thorn in our communities side.many people from lasalle,dekalb,and kendall counties wont be sitting quietly by and watching yet another corruption evolve without a fightmillington, illinois
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23164Save Our FarmlandI am writing to voice my opinion against the proposed GLBT railroad project. We farm 240 acres that will be 1/2 mile across the road from the railroad. We love farming! We took over the almost 100 year old family farm about 12 years ago. My husband says he is living his dream! He lovingly nicknamed our farm his little piece of paradise". There was a very old farmhouse on the property when we moved here. We planned what kind of house to build for a couple of years. We wanted something that would fit into the landscape. We didn't want a mansion, just a one story house with a large front porch. We wanted to sit on the porch and look out across the prairie. Our builder suggested we put the house on the land at an angle, so we weren't looking straight across the road, nor out the back door at a machine shed. Now with this proposal, we would be overlooking 5 sets of train tracks to the west of us. 1 main track, 1 siding track and 3 staging tracks for rail car maintenance & storage. The thought of our quiet, peaceful country life being taken over by a railroad is very upsetting. We love the quiet & serene lifestyle. We enjoy the birds singing throughout the day. All this will be taken away with the railroad passing through. When making your decision, please consider the Aesthetic impact of the GLBT proposal."Linda Mair
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23163Rock Against the RailObjecting to significant loss of prime farmland, obstruction of prime commuter highwaysLinda M.Viney · Janesville, Wi
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23162Sandy LindenLowell, IN
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(printed as 6/1/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/1/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23142Gary TagtmeierSharon, WI
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23141Jason KokosMr. Navecky, Eminent domain is defined as the right of a government or its agent to expropriate private property for public use, with payment of compensation." The GLBRR is not a Govenrment entity, nor would this project be for public use. Please immediately cease any further impact studies at the cost of taxpayer dollars for something that is absolute abuse of eminent domain and stands against everything that is AMERICAN. No private profit company should be able to take what does not belong to them, no matter how much they're worth. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to your response. Regards, Jason R. Kokos 10831 Prairie Farm Rd Grant Park, IL 60940 708.259.5250 jason.kokos@gmail.com"
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23140Sherry GieseckeThe labor practices and political climate in Cook County and its collar counties have necessitated that an alternate route be developed to streamline the movement of commodities across this county. This is not a recent problem; however, we are now faced with a new solution. Throughout your review of the application by Great Lakes Basin Transportation I urge you to cut no corners and include in your deliberations a review of all required aspects of this application, including the socioeconomic impact this may have on Boone County. Agriculture is both a cultural heritage and a primary economic engine in Boone County. I urge you to make certain that your decision weighs the time savings and economic benefit to national and international companies attributed to the proposed rail line against the cost to the legacy and agricultural economy of Boone County. Rather than confiscate productive farm land to resolve this transportation problem, it appears that time and money would be far better spent addressing the challenges inherent in current labor practices, making improvements to capitalize on existing rail infrastructures and identifying and fixing the significant bottlenecks facing major water transportation systems. I trust that you will strictly adhere to your stated process and ensure that your deliberations will be comprehensive and include consideration of what the citizens of Boone County feel is best for them and not just what is in the best interest of big business. Respectfully Submitted By: Sherry Giesecke Boone County Board Member District One Administrative and Legislative Committee ChairPoplar Grove, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23139Tony HornI am vehementely opposed to the proposed GLB Railroad. They are trying to put a railroad through my family farm. This farm has been in my wife's family for over a hundred years. This will impact my farm in Indiana and the farm in Illinois. I will now have to live within a half mile of a train track and within 3 miles of a rail yard. My property value will decrease I will not be able to move between my fields in a timely matter because they are proposing shutting my road down at the site of the tracks. I have children that need to get to school, the buses, the police or ambulance will have no easy access to my house. I will be forced to drive tractors and farm equipment on the highways slowing traffic. The school in town will be less then a half mile from this enormous proposed rail yard. The hazards of the children driving to school, either on the bus or driving themselves, with all these trains will be enormous. It will be nearly impossible to get my grain to the Grant Park elevator because of all the trains and tracks. This proposed rail yard will destroy my family farm, my school district, my community and my livelihood.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23138Garry JunkerFarming is a $1.5 billion dollar yearly business in Kankakee County. Early estimates indicate that $69 million dollars will be lost each year due to the removal of over 16,000 acres for this project.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23137Garry JunkerThis project will greatly alter the economic environment of Kankakee County due to the removal of over 16,000 acres of farmland from production.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23136Ken RuggieroMr. Navecky, I am veteran of the United States Marine corps. Honorably serving my country for 5 years. It's with great concern that I'm writing you. After serving this great nation of ours I returned to Grant Park in hopes to raise my family in a small town community, where the crime rates are low and there are still God fearing, hard working Americans! With a railyard of that magnitude the crime will rise, and the beautiful productive farm land will be lost. The people of the town Grant Park are so deeply rooted here that their ancestors who's land is passed down from generation to generation, are resting in the very cemeteries that are being threatened by Great Lakes basin rail road. In 1880 Marry Elizabeth Lease of the farmers alliance said, raise, less corn, and more hell" which in my mind there is no doubt the farms and citizens of Grant park will stand hand in hand to " raise more hell" against this disgusting mogul that is Frank Patton who has the audacity to compare himself to the hard working people of grant park. He will destroy the rivers and creeks that are abundant to the local areas. The state officials and Epa, are already warning Illinois residents about Cyanobacteria forming on lakes, rivers and ponds. This algae causes a release of toxic chemicals that can cause vomiting, rashes, coughing, wheezing. This is with out a 15,000 acre railyard adding to the amount of pollutants that will drain into said bodies of water. Thank you for your time, God bless you, God bless America. Semper Fi Cpl Kenneth R. Ruggiero/ United States Marine corps"
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23135Garry JunkerThe town of Grant Park will be decimated by this project. Yellowhead and Sumner townships compose Grant Park. 18 of the 20 sections of land in Sumner township will be taken (640 acres/section). These people will not stay in Grant Park.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23134Dawn GrecoAttached is my letter opposing the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. Thank you.Verona, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23133TAX PAYERDear Mr Navecky, Please reject the application from GLB to build a railroad/yard in 3 states, destroying farmland, wildlife, wetlands, cemeteries, homes, churches, schools, etc. Please reject this application or proposal as these private investors are threatening to use Eminent Domain for private gain. That is unconstitutional and illegal. There is overwhelming opposition to this project and it should not progress any further. Please stop all surveys and reviews and reject and kill this proposal. Thank you, Julie Kokosjulie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23132Florence Brenner GordonATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Florence Brenner GordonSpringfield, New Jersey
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(printed as 6/1/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23130Michael GordonMr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.Jersey City, New Jersey
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23129Lindsay KokosMr. Navecky, Under 49 U.S.C. 10901(c), the STB must approve a proposal to construct or operate a rail line unless the STB finds that such activities are inconsistent with the “public convenience and necessity” (a broad public interest standard under which the STB weighs the transportation need or benefits against any kind of harm likely to result)." Thank You"
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23128John BryantI have attached an alternative route as a bypass of Chicago which, when connected with other alternatives, is less invasive to agricultural and environmentally sensitive areas. This route deals with Schneider to Kankakee route. See the final page of the attachment for advantages.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 6/1/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23126Maureen DeFioreI am opposing the GLB Raiilroad due to environment concerns. Please block the GLB RailroadSouth Chicago Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 6/1/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/1/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/1/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23122Bob CarothersATTN: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.EARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)Comment
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23120Mary SchepplerGLB railroad, only talks about the jobs" this line will create and how it will be good for the economy. I want the Surface transportation Board to explain to me how this line is helpful to the environment. You are charged with approving or disapproving the line, please explain why it would not harm the environment. Please explain why the loss of farms, the loss of woodlands, the pollution of waterways, the noise and fumes of the trains will not harm the environment. I would like to know why you think the line would be beneficial tot he environment, all GLB can say is "jobs" which how will jobs be created, railroads are not anew invention, if these companies wanted to be near a railroad, they would have built by one already. This whole plan is ridiculous. Please explain who is going to move their factory to be near this line when they did not build near our existing rail lines. This line will simply harm the environment for no reason at all, and will not create jobs because trains are not new, anybody wanting to ship by rail already has the capacity to do that, so why do we need another line?"
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23119Fred SchepplerI would like to hear from you as to why this line is not environmentally harmful. You want us to tell you why it is harmful, I want you to tell us why it is not harmful. The line will destroy prime farmland, it will block natural drainage, it will hurt animal habitats and migration, it will harm people's peaceful way of life. Please explain why this line is not harmful to the environment and why it should be approved, I do not see any environmental benefits of the line.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23118Laura SchepplerPlease explain why the GLB railroad is being proposed. It starts in Milton Wisconsin. Milton has three railroads coming out of it. The Wisconsin and Southern RR, which is a class II railroad, and thus not a focus of the GLB stated plans of servicing only class I RR, the Union Pacific RR, which has publically stated it will not use the new line, and the Canadian Pacific line which runs to Kansas City which is the fastest growing rail line area in the nation, as well as Chicago. If only 1/3 of the lines are going to be using the new tracks they are not needed and their environmental impact is so huge for such a little reduction in rail traffic the project needs to be denied. Frank Patton has even publically stated he see only 10-15 trains a day using the line, this volume is a drop in the bucket and the environmental impact is so huge, the line on those merits alone needs denied.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23117Dennis SchepplerThe map attached shows the rail lines in Illinois, the major lines in Chicago proper are Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. Both these lines have stated they will not use the GLB rail line. Since the two major sources of train traffic in Chicago proper have no intention of using this line, the line needs to be denied. The line does not serve the stated needed of it's investors. The line's impact of the environment would be huge and since it does not eliminate the majority of the train traffic, it needs denied. This line is meant to be a bypass and it does not do this. Please explain how the line helps the environment and reduces train traffic?Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23116Abe HenkerThe CREATE website mentions the impact a rail line running from the East coast to the Kansas City area, this line would bypass trains from going from the east coast to Chicago to Kansas City, please explain why then GLB Railroad claims this line bypasses Chicago when it does not, it just moves trains further south. This line does not do as it states it does, bypass Chicago. Any line that is near Chicago as this one is, is not a bypass and needs to be denied based on the fact it does not accomplish it's stated purpose. The proposed line does not bypass Chicago.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23115Virginia GawPlease explain why this line is being called a Chicago bypass, the line just moves trains further into the southern Chicago area, it does not bypass Chicagoland. This area is considered by most to be part of Chicago and to say it is bypassing Chicago is, while technically true, not really true. I think the destroying prime farmland, impacting rivers and drainage is a huge problem this line creates, especially when it does not bypass the greater Chicago area. This line needs to be built in an area that is not part of Chicagoland. The CREATE website mentions building a line from Mexico to California to prevent shipments going from Mexico to Chicago then to California, such a line would be a bypass, this line does not bypass the already congested area. Because it is not a bypass it needs to be denied, or you need to explain how it is doing anything other than moving trains from one part of Chicago to another.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23114Ken DaggettI am asking you to deny Mr. Patton to build a railroad!!!! There is already a system in place (CREATE) that is proving they will alleviate the traffic problem through the Chicago area, it is already being implemented, and has billions of dollars already invested and much more on hand to improve the system. This project by Mr. Patton is only a land grab with the blessing of the stb, it is for his own personal gain and is of no value to any of the people or residents of the affected area!!!!!Morris, Illinois
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23113Virginia GawATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23112Abe HenkerATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23111Mary SchepplerATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.Serena, IL
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(printed as 6/1/2016)CommentEI-23110Fred SchepplerATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.Serena, IL
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(printed as 5/31/2016)Comment[See attached letter]Larry McPheron · Rockford, IL
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-24672Linda Hinkston[see three attached letters, received 5/31/16, 6/1/16, and 6/7/16.]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-24132Margaret Ekhoff[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-24053Keri Perkins[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-24052Joan Maves[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-24051Jill Claussen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-24050Laurel Ratcliffe[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-24049Patricia Pedersen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-24048Douglas E. Croft[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-24047Sara Wollgast[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-24041Ken Wojcieszak[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-24039Debbie Wollgast[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23747Mel Jessup[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23686Donald Danielson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23685April Gerstung[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23684Robert and Carol Heath[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23683Linda Hinkston[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23682Anne and Bill Martin[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23681Helen McCormick[see attached file]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23678Sara J. Wollgast[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23286Mark Gordon
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23285Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23109Laura SchepplerATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. The Line is UNNEEDED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23108Dennis SchepplerATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. UNNEEDED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23107María E OrtegaMy sister , Susan Vorgias levas at Lowell. One Of the reason I love going to her house, is not have an urban city like Chicago. I do not understand how is pisible that an other state help with the problems of an other state. Chicago or Illinois are well known for been the most corrupt . So it is very unclear what it is really beyond all of this. I am opposed to the proposed rail line. We as a society have come to realize we have abused our planet to an almost point of no return. We have been recycing and trying to conserve energy for years. It is a different life style from the throw away" and Industral Age. Recycle, reuse, reclaim, conserve are no longer buzz words, but a way of life. Just about every show I see on TV is in full support of reclaiming and reusing materials used by our forefathers, Amerian Pickers, Barnyards Builders, DIY network shows. Yard Crashers have used goats to clear a yard of folliage, and so does Chicago, so as not to use gas powered machinery and heavy equipment. Gardens are being placed on TOP of buidlings and in empty city lots across the country. Using farming to rehabilitate neighborhoods as well as humans. Farmers Markets are more popular than ever, are in great demand and are supporting families. GMO's are no longer accepable. Old tires are shredded into rubber mulch for playgrounds. The tops of rubber fishing boots are used to make windshield wipers. We are finding new ways to use throw aways instead of putting it in landfills. We are smarter today. The air, water, land and noise pollution, damage, this rail line will create speaks fr itself. and is NOT where this country is headed. We have learned we need to live WITH the planet not adjust the planet to suit out wants. I am asking you to consider my opinion and oppose the project. Period."
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23106Susan VorgiasI am a current resident of Lowell Indiana. I recently moved here from a metro area. I came here to live in the peace and quiet, to give my family a piece of land they could live off of and preserve what I can for generations to come. I am opposed to the proposed rail line. We as a society have come to realize we have abused our planet to an almost point of no return. We have been recycing and trying to conserve energy for years. It is a different life style from the throw away" and Industral Age. Recycle, reuse, reclaim, conserve are no longer buzz words, but a way of life. Just about every show I see on TV is in full support of reclaiming and reusing materials used by our forefathers, Amerian Pickers, Barnyards Builders, DIY network shows. Yard Crashers have used goats to clear a yard of folliage, and so does Chicago, so as not to use gas powered machinery and heavy equipment. Gardens are being placed on TOP of buidlings and in empty city lots across the country. Using farming to rehabilitate neighborhoods as well as humans. Farmers Markets are more popular than ever, are in great demand and are supporting families. GMO's are no longer accepable. Old tires are shredded into rubber mulch for playgrounds. The tops of rubber fishing boots are used to make windshield wipers. We are finding new ways to use throw aways instead of putting it in landfills. We are smarter today. The Goverment has placed very strict rules and requlations on all industries to not only to reduce energy conspumtion but to reduce the air, water, land and noise pollution they create during the manufactring process, and to reduce the end comsumers energy comsumption. Things you and I use every day, recycled items such as garbage bags, energy efficient light bulbs, appliances, tools are designed to reduce everyone's energy consumption. Cars are required to use less gas, less toxic emissions, more elctric cars. The EPA requiring the redesigning of gas cans to reduce the potential of the avaerge Joe spilling ounces of gasoline. We are erecting windmills and installing solar panels at an alarming rate to further reduce energy compumtion and depenency on fossil fuels. Each person on this planet is making a contribution to reduce the depency whether they realize it or not. The negative environmental impact of this project is in direct contradiction of what our society is doing. Taking down one tree has a direct negative impact from the insects and animals that depend on it for survival to the air it puifies to the roots that naturally irragte the soil and the shade it provides. This one simple tree's eco system is destroyed. Where do they go now? The Bald and Golden Eagle, the Indiana and Long Eared Bats? The robins and cardinals, wrens, owls...the list goes on. They all perform part of the cycle of life.....for us to survive from and enjoy. The plants such as Eastern Prairie Fringed Orchid? Leafy Prairie Clover that is endangered? I need not go on, do I? The creasote from the ties will contanimate the land and will leach into the water, the air pollution will contaminate the plants the wild and farm animals and insects feed from and the air WE breathe. The noise will be above the industry standard of 85dB and subsequent vibration will dissrupt not only humans but the wild and farm aminals and plants. The natural flow of air currents and water flow will be dramatically affected as well. As rain falls and ice and snow melts, it will no longer have a natural flow into the ground where flora and fauna need it to be. It may either cause a draught, flooding or pooling of stagnent water, causing major damage to wildlife, plants and farming. Our land cannot be duplicated or replaced by humans. This project will sever farm parcels, landlock them to a point it is not longer feasible to farm or use. It will cause not only farmers, emergency personel, school buses, mail delivery, trucking supply/distrabution,and citizens to re-route resulting in more time, fuel expense but a greater use of the energy we are trying to conserve. The human time and efforts into the re-routing process is astonomical. Again, in direct contradiction to where our entire society is headed. Areas set for ecology research will be destroyed, years of valuable past and future information gone forever. Parks and personal recreation, gone. Family memories that could have been made at the parks, farms and homes will never be. Gone. Forever. Monies spent for jobs maintaining these parks, farms and investments made for homes and research, gone. Future farm revenues, gone. Land values decreased, resulting in taxes down for some, burdening others. The air, water, land and noise pollution, damage, this rail line will create speaks for itself, and is NOT where this country knows we need to be. The opposite direction WE ARE GOING. What will you be telling the country, the American Citizen along the MILES of this project, if you approve this? That all the knowledge, education, experience of the past, current, and future efforts are for not? That the parks, farms, generations of farmers, wildlife and our lives don't count? That our lives in an emergcy don't count? That our livihood doesn't count? The pollution isn't there? This project won't contaminate our environment? The windmills, solar panels, govenrment requlations protecting our environment doen't count in Northest Indiana? Illinois? Wisconsin? The air, water, land and noise pollution, damage, this rail line will create speaks fr itself. and is NOT where this country is headed. We have learned we need to live WITH the planet not adjust the planet to suit out wants. I am asking you to consider my opinion and oppose the project. Period."
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23105Tom Hinspeter• Land use concern • Socioeconomic • Docket # FD 35952 Why would the STB approve Frank Patton’s GLBR when there are two other Class I railroads that already have bypasses around Chicago? The Norfolk Southern has stated in a comment (EI-22974) to the STB that they own their own bypass and are not interested in being a user of the GLBR. The Canadian National Railway purchased the Elgin Joliet & Eastern Railway (EJ&E) in 2008. The EJ&E was nicknamed “The Chicago Outer Belt Line”. Both of these two railroads are not being fully utilized. Why build another railroad bypass? The GLBR is soliciting Class 1 railroads to use their toll railroad. Instead this rail commerce could be routed on the two existing railroads. CN & NFS already have bypasses in operation around Chicago. This would save all property owners and fertile farmland in the path of this unnecessary GLBR. This railroad would be inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity therefore please deny GLBR request to construct this railroad. Tom Hinspeter Salina Township, Bonfield, IllinoisBonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23104Frederick Mark SchepplerI would like to state my opposition to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. I believe this project would negatively impact the local communities, homes, farms, and other businesses on and near the path of this new rail line. It would negatively impact a huge swath of prime farmland and it does not appear to have the local support of existing regional rail companies or the regional public/private partnership CREATE. I'm very concerned that this rail line would decrease public safety by increasing rail traffic far beyond what local volunteer fire departments and other public safety groups could handle when train derailments and other rail accidents occur. I'm very concerned that This proposed line would run near several schools and towns. It would most likely close many roads which would increase travel times significantly for emergency responders. This rail line would potentially negatively impact the local environment if there was a hazardous material spill, but it would also negatively impact the local environment in many other daily ways. I'm concerned about impacts to local wildlife including negative impacts to nesting bald eagles near the proposed route and about ecological damage at or near local waterways like the Fox River. I do not believe this project should be approved, as I think the negative public and environmental impacts far out weigh the unproven stated goals of a for profit novice outfit to reduce rail congestion. I think any proposal should follow proper channels and come through and be supported by local groups like CREATE.LaGrange, Illinois
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23103Justin kokosLinks will also be available on http://blockglbrailroad.com We encourage every adult to send this and other letters on or before June 10th...to be sure it's received by June 15 deadline. . ATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 .. Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. . NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board's (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation's legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any non-disclosure agreements at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region's freight congestion. Cook County's Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development. . PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton's words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spent millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the public's best interest. . The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. . Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Justin F Kokos 3013 Stone Fence Dr Kankakee IL 60901 708-259-2149 Justin.kokos@yahoo.comkankakee, IL
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23102Wanda AldersonMr. Navecky, I attended the first meeting regarding this railroad. While the initial plan proposes to put this rail only 2 miles from my home, I am also aware that can change drastically by miles. In addition to all the reasons below that I feel this needs to stop, I will also include the fact that we choose to live in the country. NOT CHICAGO. Chicago is not the state of Illinois and while they continue to mismanage schools and other entities, they continually try to rob us of our tax dollars in one way or another. We choose to live in the country without the congestion, without the high rises, without the traffic, without the conveniences, without public transportation, without city services, without professional fire departments and so much more. We live with nuclear plants in our back yard. From an environmental standpoint we have already had to deal with spills of low level nuclear waste in our communities. There are numerous dangers with chemical plants, fuel plants. There are high pressure pipelines running through much of the farm land. One of which was recently added. WE DO NOT NEED ANOTHER ENVIRONMENTAL DANGER. In enjoying our country" life it includes many inconveniences, but should this pass it will be a tragedy. People who own this land should NOT be subjected to a forced sale of any portion of their land for profit. It doesn't matter if they own 1 acre or a thousand. It doesn't matter if they struggled, scraped and saved to afford a mortgage to buy or build their dream home on a lot or a thousand acre farm, or if it has been in their family and passed down for a hundred years. It is theirs and no one should be able to force this by eminent domain. The environmental eyesore, potential for some hazardous spills in our river where Wilmington and others draw their water is unthinkable. The potential that these trains could be hauling nuclear waste and more. And what risk is there to this country, should this private group of investors decide to sell it to some foreign country for profit? The environmental impact that could affect the eagles that have just begun to soar over the Kankakee river and one nesting pair just a short distance from Warner Bridge Rd. should be a consideration. We raise, cattle, goats, sheep, chickens, horses, beans, corn and more on these farms. How many times I've heard about some business coming into an area and complaining about the smell from the farm that was there before the business came and the farmer loses. Beyond all of this, I am including the following factual document for your review. After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project,although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes,farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Respectfully, Wanda Alderson"
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23101Bryan SchroederI am a land owner of part of my family farm along with my sisters that has been in our family for over 125 yrs. We are not interested in becoming a rail yard. Not to mention our family is buried at the church next door that my family donated ground to. So we say NO to the proposed rail and yard project that GLB is presenting or shoving down our throats.Trevor, Wisconsin
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23100Matt ZagorskiThis Great Lakes Basin Railroad has to be stopped. It will destroy the entire area. Creeks and rivers will be disrupted, farms split in two, and property values will be decimated. People who live out in rural areas do so for a reason. It is not an opportunity for some business to destroy simply because the population density" is less. Add this rail traffic where the population is already dense and people already live with it. There is no defined need for this rail line. Please stop it."
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(printed as 5/31/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23098Christine HornI want to express my opposition to the proposed GLB railroad. This railroad as proposed will run through my family farm. I am the 5th generation to live on this farm. Heritage and legacy are important words to me. The proposed route will run one half mile south of my house the noise and pollution let alone the closure of the road I live on will have such a tremendous negative impact on my family its hard to describe. The town of Grant Park will eventually be a ghost town. The families that are forced to move because of the excessive amount of land taken for a rail yard will force the schools to close and if there are students left they will have to be consolidated with another rural school. The students will be on buses longer because of the distance and also added time trying to cross railroads with over 100 trains a day running on them. The elevator will eventually go out of business because 15000 acres of farm land will be gone. Farmers will haul their grain somewhere easier to get to. Patton talks about more semis on the road if we don't build this railroad making the highways more dangerous. I say putting more slow moving tractors and combines on the highway is even more dangerous. Farmers having to move equipment from farms that are split because of the railroad are not only an inconvenience, time consuming but will be very dangerous especially when so many roads have been proposed to have no through access. All the nearby towns will also be negatively affected by train crossing and devalued properties. One more thought, just because Patton says its in a rural area does not mean its uninhabited. These are peoples homes and farms .These are peoples livelihood. Do not let this become another government bureaucracy fleecing of america. We do not need it here. Two big railroad companies already said they will not use it. The state of Illinois is already in dire straits. If people are forced out of their homes I can guarantee they will also leave the state of Illinois. This railroad will be so detrimental to this community and my family it is hard to fathom.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23097April GerstungRe: Docket No. FD 35952 - Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Der Mr. Navecky, Jim Wilson, Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. stated, We want to have a safety corridor in case of a derailment, spill or a leak, if there is an issue. it's a lot easier to evacuate two or three families that several thousand people." For the President of GLB to even say that out loud is telling. There should not be any emergencies happening in the first place. The Times of Northwest Indiana published this statement on April 2, 2016,:"Wilson estimates the new tracks could save trains passing through Chicago region as much as 24 hours each way, which would be especially helpful when they're shipping frozen foods or apples, oranges and other produce from the West Coast. Grapes, strawberries and other fruits and vegetables grown in California and Washington State could have a longer shelf life when they finally reach supermarkets." Taking prime farmland through eminent domain that grows fruit, vegetables, corn and soybeans along the proposed route in the Midwest versus longer shelf life in the supermarkets is like comparing, forgive me, apples and oranges. I'm glad that Mr. Wilson wants to have that safety corridor in case derailment, spill or leak...to evacuate...families..." I'd completely forgotten what a disaster is created when fruits and vegetable are involved in a train accident. Cook County, Il. Dept. of Transportation sent the STB their opposition to GLB and one issue was toxic releases from a train derailment/explosion to the east into high populated areas by the wind and the culprit will not be oranges or lettuce. Toxic releases alone should be the cause of this projects rejection now. Regards, April Gerstung"
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23096karen kokosATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board's (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation's legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any non-disclosure agreements at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region's freight congestion. Cook County's Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development. . PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton's words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spent millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the public's best interest. The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Signature: Karen M. Kokos Name: Karen M. Kokos Address: 4423 S. Abilene Circle City: Aurora State and Zip: Colorado 80015 Phone: 303/680-7741 Email: karenmkokos@msn.comaurora, co
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23095Save Our FarmlandMr.Navecky: The stated purpose of the proposed GLBT Rail project is to alleviate rail congestion in the rail yard on the south side of Chicago. According to GLBT documents it can take up to 30 hours for a train car to get through this yard. An alternative to building a new track and destroying thousands of acres of farmland would be to have better planning/coordination between railroads prior to reaching the Chicago rail yard. The Union Pacific railroad operates a switch yard on the south side of Janesville, Wisconsin that has been underutilized since the closing of the General Motors plant in Janesville. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe, Canadian Pacific, and the Canadian National all have access opportunities via the State of Wisconsin owned track operated by the Wisconsin Southern or Wisconsin Great national railroads. The Union Pacific rail yard in Janesville could be used as an ancillary switch yard (staging yard) to group railcars together based on destination. The Union Pacific railroad could forward the grouped trains on a daily AM and PM schedule similar to schedules when GM was operating. This provides an opportunity to minimize the number of switches required upon arrival in Chicago which would reduce the amount of time it takes for a railcar to pass through the yard. Trains coming out of Chicago could be handled in the reverse order. The rail lines owned by the State of Wisconsin would require upgrades to accommodate this alternative. The involved railroads would need detailed planning and coordination in order to make it work. This is an alternative that would use existing rail resources to alleviate the Chicago yard delays that are occurring today rather than destroying our farmland. Please analyze and give consideration to this alternative.Brad Mair · Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentResolution against proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad for the Porter County, IN Storm Water Management BoardRobert Thompson · Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentResolution from the Porter County Plan Commission against the proposed Great Lakes Basin RailroadRobert Thompson · Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23092mary piuntiMr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board's (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation's legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any non-disclosure agreements at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region's freight congestion. Cook County's Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development. PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton's words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spent millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the public's best interest. The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system.Homewood, il
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23091Josh StauffenbergThis railroad is going to go through the farm that my childhood revolved around and now my son will not be able to have that same experience.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23090Sherry WaltersDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing to express my strong opposition for the proposed GLB railroad project in Illinois and Indiana. The proposed route is approximately 2 miles from my house and less than 1/2 mile from my children's elementary school. Our houses and the school rely on well water and any toxic spill caused by a railroad accident would leave us with no source of water as the city would never extend city water that far out in the country to our homes and school. I am also concerned about the noise that would affect the school as well as the safety concern of the school buses having to cross the tracks. Stopped trains would also cause delay for our volunteer fire departments to respond. And even though the trains are not supposed to stop on the tracks, who is going to monitor them, so you know it will happen. I am also concerned that the railroad would damage the existing drainage tiles beyond repair and we will all be dealing with flooding - in our fields, our basements, etc. I am deeply concerned that Mr. Patton will not answer any of our questions regarding specifics to the proposed route. And the answers he has given simply aren't true and in some case are outside of the laws (for example how much he can legally pay the farmers to take their land). This proposed GLB train route is simply not needed as we already have sufficient train rails in place. This railroad would destroy our multi-generational farms and our deep knit communities. We appreciate you thoroughly investigating all our concerns and we know that you will come to the same conclusion as us - this GLB railroad will damage our environment, our farms, and should not be allowed to continue. Thank you for your time and attention. Sherry WaltersValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23089Jason KokosMr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. . NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board's (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation's legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any non-disclosure agreements at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region's freight congestion. Cook County's Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development. . PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton's words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spent millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the public's best interest. . The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. . Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Jason Kokos Concerned Citizen 10831 Prairie Farm rd. Grant Park, IL 60940Grant park, il
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23088Jame R. FleishmanI am writing to express my concern about the GLB railroad. I feel like we the people who own the land and have to live with the consequences are getting railroaded. This all needs to slow down and be looked at carefully and not run through on a fast track because some software executive got bored and wants a new project. Eminent Domain was meant to be used in limited situations, for public good, and as a last resort. It wasn't meant so some politically connected people could steal large tracts of land for a private project. Please do the right thing and slow down and look at potential alternatives to this land grab.Verona, Il
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23075Robert and Kimberly Ricci[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/31/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23063Steve JensenFrank Patton stated he has been hearing the same arguments and not hearing something about the National Purpose. He states that this RR will take trucks off the roads, population is growing, business expanding, this contradicts the involvement of agriculture. National Purpose is farm ground is being swallowed up by business. Farm land is irreplaceable and in United States is made of less than 1% of the population in active Ag Production. I would say taking farm land for a RR with NO purpose, is devastating for a Nation Purpose for United StatesLaPorte, In
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23062TAX PAYERDear Mr. Navecky, please tell me this will be stopped!! Please cease any future planning related to this docket. It is an unnecessary and unjust proposed use of eminent domain that serves no public use. There are enormous environmental concerns on this project and huge opposition. These private investors have no right whatsoever to take land away from people who rightfully own it!!!!! This is a huge land grab for their profit! This is wrong and should be stopped now! No more waivers, extensions, studies, federal money, etc for Frank Patton and the GLB!!!! Please reject this now!! thank you, Julie Kokos 708-426-4180julie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23061Manuel KoutelasMr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Further more I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED - The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. - The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. - The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. - There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. - GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. - Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. - Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and are therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. - The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. - Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE - I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. - Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. - The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. - Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. - Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. - Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. - GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. - Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. - The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23060Janet Koutelas[VALPARAISO] I recently read a letter from our Porter Co. Indiana Assessor and I am very against the Great Lakes Basin R.R. due to the negative impact on our county and the individuals who live here. Hauling products such as crude oil through our county and subjecting us to safety and environmental issues because of the train traffic and possible hazardous spillage is totally unacceptable. We all depend on Well Water in our area. Our children would also be affected (this passes by several schools, affecting the safety issue of the children on buses vs. train traffic and the vibration/noise issues.) Why do you think Mr. Patton does not want the train in his county or his back yard? It doesn't take much thought to figure that one out. Here's our assessor's letter from Porter Co. Indiana, attached for your information.VALPARAISO, IN
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(printed as 5/31/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23058Jeff and Bona HeinsohnKirkland, IL
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23057TAX PAYERATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Furthermore, I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and is therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Julie Kokos 8454 E 11000 N Rd GP 60940 sunsettravel@sbcglobal.netjulie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23056Melanie Hofstrom-WaiteATTN: Docket # FD 35952 May 31, 2016 Mr. Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky, After reviewing the available information about the proposed Great Lakes Basin (GLB) rail project, it is my opinion that the proposed GLB project has failed to sufficiently provide documentation that supports public convenience and necessity. Furthermore, I believe that fast tracking this project and waiving the six month notification period was an error on the part of the STB. For the following reasons I respectfully request that the STB cease any further action on this project. NEED The Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) program - a collaboration between rail companies, local, state and federal government - is in the process of implementing physical and managerial improvements to make the rail system in Chicago more efficient in order to decrease delays. Letters from the Class I rail lines in response to the July 13, 2015 letter by the Chairman of the STB Daniel R. Elliot, II, indicate the CREATE project, although not completed, is improving the delays in Chicago. The GLB proposed project undermines and subverts the CREATE program. The GLB project is neither comprehensive, visionary, or collaborative. The proposed project is not part of any federal, state or local long-term freight plan. It is strictly a commercial venture by a for-profit company. There is no publicly available business plan for the proposed rail line to document public convenience, necessity or benefits. GLB documentation does not describe a need for the 50 foot utility easement (beyond stating that it is a potential revenue source), or the need for the proposed 15,000 acre Kankakee rail terminal, which is five times larger than the largest rail yard in the world. The Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) jurisdiction to approve a utility corridor is also in question. Union Pacific and Norfolk-Southern have publicly stated that they are not interested in the proposed GLB project. Instead they prefer to work with the CREATE program in Chicago. Canadian National invested heavily in their own Chicago bypass by purchasing the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern Railway line and is therefore less likely to use the proposed GLB toll rail. The letter from Norfolk Southern Corporation’s legal department (filed as EI-22974 under FD-35952) states that Norfolk-Southern does not have a non-disclosure agreement with GLB, nor is it interested in using the proposed rail. It also states that no information about current rail movements or traffic volumes was provided for the GLB project. This raises the question whether there are any “non-disclosure agreements” at all. It also makes one wonder about the market research that was done, or not done, for this project. Mr. John Yonan, P. E., Superintendent of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways writes the following in his letter to the STB; “ The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will, at best, only address a very small part of the region’s freight congestion. Cook County’s Department of Transportation and Highways is proceeding with a long range transportation plan and an analysis to identify and prioritize freight pinch points and possible solutions. Those studies will yield a more comprehensive range of projects to address freight congestion and promote development.” PUBLIC CONVENIENCE I find no evidence that the proposed GLB Chicago bypass has been identified as a solution to the Chicago bottleneck, a public convenience, or a national transportation priority (as Mr. Patton asserts). It is a business proposal by a for-profit company. Due to the fact that the route of the proposed rail will likely change (Mr. Patton’s words) people in an area of over 32,220 square miles have lived in uncertainty about the future of their homes, farms and livelihood. The potential for unwanted rail - and the use of eminent domain - has increased stress for land and property owners. Farm fields divided by the proposed rail will be more difficult and dangerous (due to farm field crossings) to manage. Productivity of the land will decrease due to construction of the rail, odd shaped parcels and increased compaction. Costly irrigation and tiling infrastructure will be damaged and rendered useless. Government has spend millions of tax dollars preserving farmland, woodlands and promoting good agricultural practices. Farmers spend thousands of dollars on soil conservation practices. The proposed rail line is counter-productive to these efforts. Home and land owners near the proposed rail will see their home and land values reduced. GLB intends to be a toll railroad. Investors in this proposed project will have only their own financial interest in mind, not the public convenience. Opposition to the proposed project has been overwhelming, seven of eleven counties involved have passed resolutions opposing the GLB rail. Mr. Patton has stated that he will take land by eminent domain if the proposed project is approved. The loss of thousands of acres of prime farmland cannot possibly be considered a public convenience. Taking highly productive land out of production for a speculative for-profit project is not in the publics’ best interest The above provided information is what led me to the conclusion that the proposed GLB project is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity. It was insufficiently vetted before starting the approval process. I respectfully request that the STB cease work on this project. Individually, or as part of a group, I will fight the GLB proposed plan using all options available, including Congress, my vote at the ballot box and the judicial system. Melanie Hofstrom Waite 6729 east county road X Clinton Wi 53525 2mymelbox@gmail.comclinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23055Brian R HallMr. Navecky, I am writing in opposition of the GLB railroad. I am unsure of the need for the GLB railroad to acquire 200 ft of right away. This proposed railroad will go through family land. The rail line needs no more than 50 ft to run a single rail line through property. A farmer would be less affected if their land is not cut into triangular pieces. The GLB needs to find a way to reduce the farmland monopolized by this project by trying to travel north/south rather than weaving at angles that make farming difficult. Like I've said above, the GLB railroad should be requesting much smaller amounts of right away. They should be finding ways to avoid crossing field at angles which would reduce the amount of farmland used. Please look into my suggestions. Thanks, Brian HallMonroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 5/31/2016)CommentEI-23054Janet HallDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing today in opposition of the GLB Transportation project. I feel this project does not take into account the citizens who will live along the railline. My family has purchased a home in a rural area to raise hogs and live peacefully. According to the projected map, our family will be directly affected. The rail will be close to our property which is a risk to our livelihood. My husband and our three children will be subjected to the fear of derailment of unknown chemicals, noise, and pollution. In a recent letter from GLB officials it states that if a major derailment would occur by going through rural areas less people would be affected. While that may be true, why does anyone have to be affected when the CREATE project is already addressing the congestion issues. Our animals will be affected by the noise of this frequently used rail line. When we moved to the country we bought a home that was in a rural area to raise our children peacefully and raise animals. Just like most people wouldn't want a hog farm next to them, we don't want a unnecessary train next to us! Sincerely, Janet HallMonroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 5/30/2016)CommentEI-23287Kevin Goebel
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(printed as 5/30/2016)CommentEI-23053Save Our FarmlandMr. Navecky, Save Our Farmland! I am writing in opposition of the GLBT railway project. Our family farm is located 1/2 mile from the location or the proposed railroad. My husband's family has owned this farm for almost 100 years. We were very fortunate to take over the farm about 12 years ago. We feel blessed to carry on the farming legacy for his family and now ours. My husband & I, our 3 grown sons & their families, all respect the farmland and want to preserve it for future generations. Frank Patton and his investors see this as a great business opportunity. A way to solve the rail bottleneck in Chicago and a surefire way to make a profit. Investing is their way of life. What about us? Farming is our way of life! This railroad is going to lessen the profit margin for a lot of farm families. That is their only means of making a living. Please consider this when making your decision. Most farmers love farming! The hours are long~ the pay is minimal~ but the satisfaction is beyond measure! We need to take care of the farmland. It is a precious natural resource. Please Save Our Farmland!Linda Mair · Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 5/30/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/30/2016)CommentEI-23051Kathleen Bessenthis article from a Rockford, IL publication is riveting and on target. 'Farmland is not wasted potential waiting to be turned into something of value. Farmland is already highly valuable and productive.' We haven't had a good night's sleep since this project was brought to light. It is beyond unethical that eminent domain could be used to force existing, productive business out. http://www.rrstar.com/article/20160528/OPINION/160529438/?Start=1Gardner, il
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(printed as 5/30/2016)CommentEI-23050Susan LillyMy concerns with the new railroad to bypass Chicago and connect with the Milton Wisconsin Rail lines are: 1. The number of trains is significantly more than currently use the current tracks. If the lines are connecting can the current tracks handle the traffic expected. 2. The current track heading through Lima Township are in marsh area and what would be the impact to the marsh, animals, foliage etc. if more trains travel each day.Milton, WI
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(printed as 5/30/2016)CommentEI-23049Bill Stremmel[Winnetka] Objections to the environmental impact of the 47-mile Illiana Expressway were similar to those now being raised against the 278-mile Great Lakes Basin Rail (GLBRR) Line: It is a new-terrain transportation corridor disrupting or displacing thousands of residents and businesses, splitting farms, interfering with wildlife, and encouraging the flight of industry from compact urban cores to sprawling new exurban developments. These are valid arguments against both projects. However there are powerful counter-arguments for the redundancy of allowing interstate freight shipments to avoid disruptions to the existing core networks, and reducing the risk of exposing more concentrated populations to exposure by accidental spillage there. To a lesser extent because of its shorter length just between I-55 and I-65 Illiana provides redundancy for trucks avoiding the I-80-94 and US-30 routes across the south suburbs in the same manner as the rail line does for trains. Drawing trucks off those existing highways reduces the risk of exposure from accidental spillage to so many people adjacent to those routes as would rerouting trains off the existing Belt Railway in Chicago. So the straight east-west segment of the rail line between US-45 in Illinois to I-65 in Indiana on an alignment most logically shared with Illiana should have sufficient width for construction of the Expressway parallel to the railroad tracks if Illiana is resurrected at some time in the future. This would avoid the economic, social and environmental impacts of building the road on its own right-of-way. Duplicate right-of-ways always have many more negative impacts as well as ultimate construction expense than to have one single, albeit wider, combined right-of-way for the proposed rail bypass and a possible highway link. A joint road-rail right-of-way would be a more powerful impetus for intermodal freight facilities to ameliorate concerns of impacted communities over loss of taxable farm land. And to reiterate the earlier point: A combined road + rail corridor bypasses more freight, some of it flammable or toxic, away from more heavily-populated areas within Chicago-Gary-Hammond urban core areas. None of the GLBRR right-of-way through the “collar” counties around Chicago and outlying areas of Lake and Porter Counties may be considered as invading “pristine” open space. Original forests were cut down as long as two centuries ago to create farmland, some of which has subsequently been converted from rural to urban use. The metropolitan area of nine-million people has created an aura of urban impact that cannot be reversed merely by stopping this or that infrastructure project. So the trade-off is not between economy and the environment, but rather of competing human uses of local agriculture versus essential infrastructure for an increasingly globalized economy dependent on expeditious movement of transcontinental freight. It is the reduction of hazard associated with such cargoes to millions of people that tips the balance towards the Surface Transportation Board’s approval of the GLBRR bypass around Chicago-Gary-Hammond.Winnetka, IL
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(printed as 5/30/2016)CommentEI-23048Larry E. NickelsI have numerous concerns about the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. I understand that this project would result in numerous trains per day, as many as one every 15 minutes, going through prime Illinois farmland. I also understand that this rail line is to carry freight, which would include numerous types of hazardous materials. Any type of train mishap, such as derailments, could have devastating environmental damage which could contaminate and poison the soil and perhaps even the water table. The physical presence of the railroad will result in the loss of a substantial amount of farmland, and any accidental mishap would result in even more loss. Besides the loss of top soil, there could be chemical contamination of the water table. If you have ever seen a train derailment with a resulting fire of highly toxic and volatile chemicals, it leaves a lasting impression of the dangers transporting these materials that can occur. Any type of rail line will also inhibit migration routes of deer and other animal life in Illinois, forcing them to funnel into roads that go over/under the railroad tracks. This will result in increased numbers of dangerous animal-vehicle accidents. Emergency vehicles will also be affected, slowing down their response time. The response time is already pretty high due to the rural nature. Besides having to navigate around the tracks, emergency vehicles could be blocked at the crossings due to the presence of the train. Also, the physical presence of the railroad roadway will negatively impact drainage in the area. We have recently seen storms in our area occur that have exceeded the 100 year flood basis more that once in a lifetime. I believe that this project would cause an increase in major flood damage to the area. This would result in even more loss of productive farmland and increased costs of residential and farm building damage, along with increased insurance premiums for residents and farmers. I believe there are too many risks, both environmental and physical, for this project to proceed. Please stop this.Morris, IL
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(printed as 5/30/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/30/2016)CommentEI-23046Jason KokosDear Mr. Navecky, Please cease any future planning related to this docket. It is an unnecessary and unjust proposed use of eminent domain that serves no public use. The environmental concerns of this project are numerous. The one thing in this world that God is not making any more of is land. Taking farms and farmland from people and telling them to go elsewhere is laughable. Land is not for sale elsewhere. Can you even comprehend how difficult it would be to move your entire farm and start over? You should ask people in Sumner Twp (home of the 15,000 acre railport). I'm sure they are having to contemplate that very thought right now. It would be an absolute travesty to do that to the people that provide foods for AMERICANS on a daily basis. And why would you take their farmland? For profitability of private investors? That sounds so truly American, doesn't it? Today is Memorial Day. I cannot believe I'm having to write this on a day to remember fallen soldiers who gave their lives fighting for this country. Surely, they weren't fighting for a country that values the prerogatives of billionaire investors stomping on the little guy to line their own pockets with more. Simply stated, no railroads are backing this charade. This has not gone through the proper channels, has not been properly vetted, public not properly notified, and exemptions already granted that should not have been. Washington is concerned about global warming, correct? Do you have any idea what kind of pollution is caused by freight trains? Please see this link below. The EPA study shows the environmental detriment of railyards and the spike in pollution they cause. http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-27/news/ct-railyard-diesel-pollution- met-20140627_1_diesel-soot-diesel-pollution-freight Please kill this project immediately as it proves no beneficial use to the public, is detrimental to our natural resources, and is an unjust use of eminent domain.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/29/2016)CommentEI-23045Carole BrownWe are very much opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line coming through the counties of Grundy and LaSalle or any other rural areas. It would be a disgrace to destroy so much land! Living in the country with all its beauty and peacefulness means so much to us. These trains would certainly destroy all of this! Derailments, constant noise, traffic of the trains would be disastrous. As it is now the towns of Ottawa and Seneca, Illinois already have train issues. With the switching of the trains the traffic back up is long and frustrating. GLBR would only add to this problem. Please help keep our countryside beautiful! Thank you, Mr. & Mrs. Charles BrownVerona, Illinois
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(printed as 5/29/2016)CommentEI-23044RAILEDMy wife and I feel that it will affect our health. I have just recently gone through a triple bypass surgery and am very concerned with this railroad being so close to our house. My wife is dealing with Multiple Myeloma Cancer and I am very concerned how this will affect her and her recovery. My daughter's family lives next door and I am concerned how this will affect their health and with the railroad crossing being at our driveway I am equally concerned about their drive to school everyday considering they will at some point have to sit at a crossing and wait and possibly be late to school. 3 crossings within a mile is very dangerous for them and all other children driving to school not just them but the school buses that will be sitting at each crossing.Ron Hoffman · Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 5/29/2016)CommentEI-23043RAILEDPage 1..the elevation to the southwest is at 660ft at the highway it is 670ft elevation. half a mile to the northeast is 712ft. we have spent $8000. on tiling, the water flows southeast and southwest. on page 1..#3 is a high voltage utility line. The railroad line will be running 200ft from the 2 homes sitting there. Page 2.. water flows 712ft to the north the elevation is at 680ft at the waterways and the water flows east to west at this mark. we have spent $25,000. in tiling this land getting ready to do a major project in waterways CRP government funds, which is through the NRCS and FSA. page 1&2..in one mile there are 3 major railroad crossings. at the 3rd crossing it is at 710ft elevation. page 3...we have spent $3000. putting tile in. page 4... water flows to the west. we have spent $25,000 in tiling this particular land.Ron Hoffman · Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 5/29/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/29/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/29/2016)CommentEI-23040John LazorikPatton or GLB is proposing free electricity for residents along the route. Is there an environmental issue with running electricity so close to a railway? Also, Patton claims there is a need for this, but 2 railways have already stated they do not have an interest. Eminent domain is being used to take away and devastate a landscape for tracks not to used?Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/29/2016)CommentEI-23039John LazorikIs there really a need for the proposed railway? If so, why are so many existing railways being removed? Existing rail right of ways could have been used.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/29/2016)CommentEI-23038John LazorikSince all the water run off in Porter County flows into the Kankakee river, will this affect the fish population? Why not use existing railways farther south?Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/29/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/28/2016)CommentEI-23036TAX PAYERDear Mr. Navecky, please kill this GLB project now. besides all of the environmental issues this would cause, what about the people? What about all of the people who live, work, attend churches, are burried in these areas??? Why is it perfectly ok for the GLB to decide that we should be forced off of our land and out of our homes? Is this the USA???? This is un-American to say the least!! IF this project is allowed to proceed and is granted the use of Eminent Domain, I will loose all and total respect for the United States Federal Government along with countless other citizens. You should be outraged at the very thought of allowing this to happen to US citizens and tax payers!!! PLEASE KILL THIS PROJECT NOW!!!!julie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/28/2016)CommentEI-23035Mark DvorscakDear Mr. Navecky: I am writing to you and the Board over concerns with the proposed Great Lakes Basic Railroad. While the proposed route is over 270 miles, I am focusing my submission specific to the section that is slated for Eagle Creek Township in Lake County Indiana. In Eagle Creek township, there have been numerous sightings of American Eagles. The picture that is attached shows an Eagle on the ground located where the rail bed may be located. The habitat of the Eagle is extremely fragile and any disturbance, especially with pollutants and noise will have several adverse affects on this small Eagle population. I ask that the Board turn down the application of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad as it will have only negative impacts on the fragile environment of Eagle Creek Township.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/28/2016)CommentEI-23034Christine RapleyPLEASE DO NOT APPROVE THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAILWAY PROJECT!!!!Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/28/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/28/2016)CommentEI-23032Verna AuchstetterRead the 2nd largest Railroad does not want any part of GLBT. Before any approval, show this project is financial sound. Are they planning to have their own private R/R just to transport hazardous through rural areas? Or think a private R/R will be developed just to use their tracks and pay their fines? We want straight forward answers now. This project using taxpayers money have poor planning.Peru, Ill
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(printed as 5/28/2016)CommentEI-23031April GerstungRe: Docket No. FD 35952 - Great Lakes Basin Trasportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky, In April of this year, US rail traffic plunged 11.8% from 2015, according to the Association of American Railroads. A recent photo, via Google Earth on May 3, 2016, shows 292 engines sitting on a siding west of Benson, Arizona, with this scene playing across the country with engines and railcars parked out of sight. Where's the NEED for Great Lakes Basin Transportation to construct another rail line? Is GLB's true intent to construct a route for Bakken crude oil? Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc.'s design would connect Canadian Pacific's rail, south of Rockford, IL. to the Eastern lines of Norfolk Southern and CSX who they, (CP) through hostile takeovers, have tried to acquire. Wall Street Journal published a map showing routes carrying crude oil stating, Railroads have become virtual pipelines carrying crude." (12/3/14) In 15,000 acres, how many oil tankers and locomotives could be parked? How many acres does and oil refinery require? Where's the NEED for Great Lakes Basin to construct another rail for a likely environmental nightmare? Donald Trump, presumptive GOP nominee, speaking at the Petroleum Conference in Bismarck, N. Dakota, called for cutting regulations and for building the Keystone XL pipeline. (New York Times 5/26/16) Where's the NEED for Great Lakes Basin to construct another rail line? Regards, April Gerstung"
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(printed as 5/28/2016)CommentEI-23030Justin KokosMr. Navecky, I am a police officer. I live near a rail road crossing in Kankakee, IL. This specific railroad crossing is on 2750W Road, just north of IL Route 17, in Limestone Township. I have been stuck at this crossing countless times. Not just waiting for a train to pass, but for the train to start moving. It usually stops on the track for anywhere up to 20 minutes. It creates backups and is an extreme inconvenience and annoyance to people who live around there. The GLBRR would not only cause hundreds more crossings like these, but also poses a great threat to public safety. If a persons life can be saved, but I arrive 15-20 minutes later than I could have, I'd blame that death on FRANK PATTON and the GLBRR!!!! THIS IS EMINENT DOMAIN ABUSEKankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-24627Helen McCormick[see 19 attached letters from Helen McCormick, dated between May 13, 2016, and June 8, 2016]
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(printed as 5/27/2016)Comment[see attached filing]John Carr
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23750Jan Austgen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23679Sara Wollgast[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23320William Breitsprecher
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentBoard of Education
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23029Jason KokosMr. Navecky, I ask that you please consider the haste in which this project was so abruptly pushed on people. Please choose a no action alternative and shut this project down. It has not been thoroughly vetted nor planned. The CREATE project was developed to minimize rail traffic, and it is doing so. Please see Superintendent of Cook County DOT John Yonan's letter. This is the epitome of a project being disguised for other use. This should not be allowed. No legitimate planning has been provided. If the STB knows of alternatives for this railroad and it's use it should be made aware to the public via the Freedom of Information Act. Maps have been provided that also show an expressway. Is this information being presented to the STB? Our county officials have this information so I assume the federal government is aware. Please advise.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23028AMERICAN TAXPAYERMr. Navecky, This letter is to speak specifically to the socioeconomic issue and the stress that eminent domain can cause citizens. I've worked my behind off to achieve my American Dream, and that is to own the home in the town that I grew up in, and raise my children in the town that I grew up in, and send them to the great school that I attended. I'm achieving that dream as I write this. My home is in the country and it is beautiful thanks to hard work and determination. I intend to spend my dying days here in this home. It's something I never thought I'd achieve. But I have. Please ask yourself, why should my true American Dream be taken away for the profitability of others? Even worse, why should my AMERICAN dream be taken away with the prospect of foreign investors being involved? That's unamerican if you ask me. Eminent domain is for the good of the public, and the use of the public. This doesn't serve the public AT ALL. It only disturbs the public and our beautiful community. I will now have to stress for as long as this takes that I will lose everything I've achieved via an unjust use of eminent domain. Please choose a no action alternative and shut this nightmarish, unnecesary, unwanted, private profiteering railroad debacle down. Thank You, Jason Kokos Taxpayer - Hardworking AmericanJason Kokos · Sumner Township, IL
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23027TaxpayerMr Navecky, Please consider the infrastructure required to support a 15,000 acre railport. This area is not of the ability to support such a thing. The amount of first responders is not nearly enough of what would be required in Kankakee County. This county does not have the budget able to support what would be necessary to ensure the safety of surrounding homes and citizens. Tax payers should not shoulder the burden of this cost to beef up" what would be required. This is not an area that could sustain such a thing without extreme repercussions. Thank You"Jason Kokos
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23026Tom Hinspeter• Land use concern • Docket # FD 35952 My farm is located in the path of the proposed GLBR. The proposed route would consume the entire frontage of my farm along Manteno/Deselm road, section 14, Rockville twp... On the GLBR satellite map, the farm is between mile marker 73 and 74. Marker 74 would be south of the farm. There would be no access to my farm as it would be fragmented and divided in angled hard to farm parcels. The remaining farmland north of the proposed railroad would be land locked with no access. This farm has rich fertile soil that has produced over 200 bushel corn and 60 bushel beans even in some of the challenging years. You cannot replace this productive soil once it has been destroyed by a railroad. The GLBR would make the farm drastically drop in value and productivity after construction. Farmers in this era use large efficient equipment. Farming fragmented land would be difficult and hard to operate this large machinery on smaller angular parcels. Field tile lines that drain this fertile soil would be crushed. Pooling, ponding of rain water would drown out crops on each side of the railroad. Sub soils would not be drained of excess water and the remainder of the farm would not be nearly productive as it was before the railroad. This would create financial harm to my family and all other farms that the GLBR is constructed on. Please deny the GLBR a permit to construct this environmental disaster. . This railroad would be inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity therefor please deny GLBR request to construct this railroad. Tom Hinspeter Salina Township, Bonfield, IllinoisBonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23025Jay FahnI write in opposition to the approval and construction of the Great Lakes Basis Railroad. If approved this privately owned venture will have both an immediate and long term adverse impact on the land, businesses and residents of Porter and LaPorte Counties in Indiana. Farms and ranches in these communities will in many cases be bi-sected. Wetlands, cropland and grazing pastures will be threated by air and water and noise pollution.These counties have carefully balanced the competing needs of rural,suburban, city commercial and industrial land use. Construction and operation of the GLB Railroad will adversely impact all of these sectors. The increased rail and road traffic will create a full range of additional hazards to businesses and residents. It's approval and completion will further the demise of family farms in our community, a loss from which we cannot recover. As a small scale rancher, the potential degrading of the air, water and land ism, just too great a risk. While a few private interests and local governments may benefit on the short term, the many, including future generations, will suffer the long term consequences. I urge the STB to deny the GLRR's appilcation to construct and operate its line. Thank you Jay FahnWestville, IN
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(printed as 5/27/2016)Comment[see attached comment]Thomas Becker · Rochelle, Illinois
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23023Calhan-Anderson Farmincluded photo represents current four generations with one American Indian artifact found on family farm.John R Anderson · Centennial, CO
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23022Emeral Grove Cemetery AuxiliaryThe GLB rail will pass through the back of our Emerald Grove Cemetery in the far NW corner of Bradford Township, Rock Cty, WI. The Cemetery Auxiliary has sent a letter with their concerns (although I don't see it posted yet). This Cemetery is cataloged with the Wisconsin Historical Society - Burial Sites Preservation Board. This designation affords the cemetery some protections and procedures that GLB must abide by if it is to ever go through the cemetery. Attached is my request to become an Interested Person" in this cemetery and I and any other "Interested Person" may formally protest the GLB rail. You will see from this attachment that the GLB rail has an affect on every person who has attachment, personal or historical, to that cemetery. Please consider the cultural and historical significance of this place in your assesment of the GLB rail. Additional note: the railroad that is south of the cemetery has already caused Emerald Grove Road to be closed because the bridge is unsafe and they won't repair it. Thank you."Vicky Duoss · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentAlthough our letter to the STB, signed by the officers of the church, was sent over 2 weeks ago (snail mail) I have not seen it posted. I'm sending as an attachment in case it was lost or misplaced.Vicky Duoss · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23020John LazorikHas there been any thought of putting the entire track underground? Pollutants could be captured through ventilation ports, farmers could farm the ground above, traffic would not be affected. Crazy as it may sound it might be a solution.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23019John LazorikWith the high quantity of trains, what impact will that have on newly re- introduced wildlife such as the wild turkey and bald eagle? How many are expected to be slaughtered by being struck by trains or die from the pollutants the trains are emitting?Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/27/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23017April GerstungRe: Docket No. 35952 - Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky, The Great Lakes Basin proposed plan states that some rural roads will be closed. This leaves concerns for ambulance and fire emergencies that already operate on time constraints to arrive at the call in an expedient manner. It also concerns us as to the length of time children will have to be on a school bus twice a day. A major concern: I live in Grundy County, Il. and there are three nuclear power plants within 23 miles of my home. Dresden to the east, LaSalle to to west and Braidwood to the southeast. Nuclear power plants are built in rural areas with rural roads that are already limited in number. The emergency evacuation routes need to be carefully examined and studied by the Surface Transportation Board. Regards, April GerstungMorris, IL
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23016April GerstungDear Mr. Navecky, CREATE Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency Program A $3.2 billion project to improve the efficiency of the rail network. A project of national and regional significance. Reduce train delays throughout the Chicago area. Work includes 70 projects: New roadway overpasses, underpasses, extensive track, switch and signal system upgrades. Freight rail reduction of time in the Chicago area. Six of the major railroad operations in N. America pass through Chicago and ALL 6 have become partners in the CREATE program. THE FEDERAL SURFACE TRANSPORTATION BOARD ORGANIZED A TASK FORCE TO OVERCOME THE NEED OF THE REGIONS RAIL CAPACITY AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE RAILROAD INDUSTRY, STATE OF ILLINOIS AND CITY OF CHICAGO, IN JUNE OF 2003, ANNOUNCED THE CREATE PROGRAM. The program is still in progress. The program still has money. The program is still operating within its time frame. YOU already built a better mousetrap. Regards, April GerstungMorris, IL
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(printed as 5/27/2016)CommentEI-23015Melanie Hofstrom-WaiteI just heard on the news that the railway doesnt have money to repair the tracks to maintain them so if there isnt money in a system that has been in business for over 100 years than how can a new one be supported unless its from somewhere else" if they have the money to do it than maybe they should buy whats there that needs fixing and take partnership in what we already have because this Glb is within a mile or less from other tracks and crossing every company track if they can claim emiant domane on us farmers let them claim it on other tracks that aren't in proper repair or if they repair all the bad tracks let them be 1/2 owners or 3/4th owners. But you better know who has the money to back this first to keep america safe."
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-24737Caryn Conway[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23746Linda Hinkston[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23745Diane Gorman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23695Boone County GovernmentBob Walberg
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23319William Breitsprecher
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23014Susan VogiasI am a current resident of Lowell, Indiana, in Lake County. My husband is a disabled bedbound veteran who requires medical attention on a regular basis and due to his declining health has required emergency medical attention on a regular basis. We are seriously opposed to the rail line project as it will seriously affect my husband's (as well as anyone needing immediate medical attention)emergency medical care. The rail line will cross Rt.2 and block access to 55 and 65 which is cutting off access to ANY and ALL nearby hospitals. As an Indiana Firefighter and EMT, there are no alternate hospital routes to bypass this proposed line. Rt 2 and 55 are designated hospital routes of 1 NO PASSING LANE in each direction and receive first attention during snow storms, which we do get hit hard with snow. Interstate 65 is shut down during high wind and white out conditions further delaying transportation of the critically ill. All the other streets come second and are not city blocks" but miles between cross streets and not cleared first. We don't have the manpower to clean all streets, but which ones come first? Not only would ANY ambulance have to WAIT for a train to cross, there are no alternates as ALL the hospitals are north and east of the proposed line. So with all the traffic congestion this line would create with just cars, there are also many school buses and trucks servicing all of our local businesses. How are the emergency vehicles supposed to get through all of this? In case of fire or rail accident, the departments only have 1 house and many of them are volunteer, so someone has to get to the station for equipment, the rail line will not allow them to get to it, delaying or stopping response time, putting life at risk. As a Hazmat Technician, NONE of first responders here have ANY knowledge, experience or education in Emergency Prepardness to handle ANY type of rail incident. This is RURAL AMERICA, not a metro area with funding to hire and educate the number of needed responders. The Police department and current officers will face the same. Since Lake County has already "realined" the 911 system, many officers are being called to respond to unfamiliar areas and now they will have to try to go around train and vehicular traffic? Even the Indiana State Police Station is located east of the proposed line. Don't you think the "bad guys" are watching this? They are going to plan accordingly because they will realize there will be little or no emergency response to help us therefore they have more than enough time to hit and run. This rail line will be cutting off all access to emergency response. All emergency response is going to be cut off at the knees putting all residents lives and safety at risk. This proposed rail line needs to be stopped! Just say NO!"
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23013TIMOTHY ANDREWSIt has come to my attention that the Great Lakes Basin has proposed reinstalling a rail line on or about an old/abandoned rail line that was located in LaPorte county Indiana. This proposed line is located approx.1 mile north of U.S.highway 6 or approx. several hundred yards south of my homestead. My wife and I purchased our land 16 years ago and we built a home and created a WRP wetlands site on this property because it was a quite and remote location. The reinstatement of rails along this old/abandoned line will disrupt our tranquility and lower our property values for a route that could be installed for the most part along existing rail lines to the South of U.S.highway 6. It is the dream of my wife and I to live out our retirement years on our quite peaceful property along with the wildlife and our grand children. I ask that you consider other proposals. Thank you.LAPORTE, Indiana
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23012John LazorikWhy aren’t all the switch lines shown on GLB’s map? Not only is GLB trying to use up land for the tracks, it will require land grab for all the switch lines. Is this carbon footprint increase being taken into account? The more land grabbed the more pollutants, environmental impact it has.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23011Marianne PanzicaPlease do not waste the beautiful black top soil in the midwest. If you HAVE TO build around here, please scoop it up and sell it, or save it, but don't cover it up and obliterate it! Thank you.Morris, Il
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23010ApplebeeAs a farmers wife, I see the added stress this is causing to a already a stressful business. decide now and get it over.Sara · Lostant, Ill
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23009Stacy ApplebeeWhen a project founder at Mr. Patton lies, GLBT must be dropped. What is he hiding that he can not be honest? Who are the mystical investors? Who are the R/R he claims he has contracts? Why does the R/R start in middle of no where and end in middle of nowhere? he talks of empty ships leaving Burrs Harbor ( 28 miles away). Why is he afraid of the landowners along the route? Why can't he answer basic questions? This project has too many questions that are avoided by the GLB. any one can see the dismerits of the project. thanksLostant, Ill
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23008Dorothy ApplebeeWhen interstate 39 and 80 were built it destroyed thousands of acres of fertile farm land, but it was a Federal project for public use. GLBT is a private ( not Federal) for personal self profits. GLBT does not qualify for Federal Eminent Domain.Lostant, Ill
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23007delbert ApplebeeThe next letters are written by Mary Auchstetter since the Applebee's do not have a computer. If you approve GLBT with mitigations you are responsible for the consequences. All mitigations means hiring lawyers. These carpetbaggers hidden in LLC will long be gone. You better save a lot of those Federal Government budget money for the payment for the long lasting damages."
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(printed as 5/26/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23005Waterfowl USAMay 26, 2016 DOCKET NUMBER FD-35952 ATTN: Dave Navecky Property Location: Porter County Indiana Roads S450W and W550S Detailed Map 2 (28 – 29) Porter County Parcel Numbers: 641231200003000018 and 641231251001000018 Property Name: Jerry Allen Marsh Property Owner: Waterfowl USA Jerry Allen Marsh (JAM) is a 72 acre restored wetlands created in 1991 as part of the Indiana Grand Kankakee Marsh Project (IGKMP) and funded thru the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) managed by the US Fish & Wildlife Service. The role of wetlands in the ecosystem is well documented. The JAM was acquired and restored with its wetlands and associated uplands benefiting wildlife, waterfowl, shorebirds, grassland-dependent songbirds, and other migratory birds such as the American Bald Eagle. The proposed Great Lakes Basin rail line will run approximately within one half mile, east and west, north of the JAM. Our opposition and concerns for this project relate to potential groundwater contamination, drainage, and noise impact for breeding waterfowl. Ground Water Contamination Hazardous product freight transportation creates risk of accidental spills whether by defective rail or equipment. Due to the close approximation of the GLB to the existing wetland, any release of product would be devastating to this marsh and its wildlife inhabitants. In that water levels at JAM are controlled by a Flashboard Riser water level control structure on the west end of the property. Any spillage of toxic product moving into the marsh would be further transported via this structure into the Cornell Ditch which flows south to the Kankakee River. Further, one benefit of a wetlands is its’ filtering function upon potable well water systems. Such function of JAM would be compromised with the addition of contaminants. Drainage Again, as water movement runs south from the proposed line, our concern is that construction and installation of the proposed GBL will impede this natural flow. The JAM acts as a reservoir for excess surface water assisting in flood control of adjoining farmland and roads. Alteration of this process by installation of the rail line must be considered. Noise Pollution According to National Park System studies sound, just like the availability of nesting materials or food sources, plays an important role in the ecosystem. Activities such as finding desirable habitat and mates, avoiding predators, protecting young and establishing territories are all dependent on the acoustical environment. In order to continue with these activities, animals are being forced to adapt to increasing noise levels. Human-caused noise has produced similar results in multiple bird species (Barber, Fristrup, Brown, Hardy, Angeloni, & Crooks, 2009). In general, a growing number of studies indicate that wildlife, like humans, is stressed by a noisy environment. When these effects are combined with other stressors such as winter weather, disease, and food shortages, sound impacts can have important implications for the health and vitality of the wildlife populations. We are concerned such factors caused by train engine and traveling rail stock noise of GLB will similarly impact JAM.Paul Mazerik · Griffith, IN
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23004John LazorikWhat will be the expected death toll rate from traffic trying to beat trains. If the expected train traffic is 110 trains a day, there is not much of a window for vehicles to get through. Why can’t GLB have an overpass or underpass at every road intersection?Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23003John LazorikCan GLB foot the bill for bringing more pollutants into Porter county air? Porter County residents are required to have emission tests on their vehicles even though that is not the cause of the air quality. The reason is expressway to the north with out of state traffic that does not do emission testing. Will the increased out of traffic sitting longer at train intersections now decrease the air quality? Long waits at gates will increase vehicle emission emitted into the air.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/26/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23001John LazorikHow will the 110 train traffic a day affect the existing architecture in Porter County? Houses have not been constructed to withstand the constant shaking of train traffic. Will the vibrations displace people because of damage to the house foundations? How far does the rumbling travel through the ground? There are a lot of historic houses, mine included, that could crumble because of train vibration. Will GLB be held responsible for houses being knocked off foundations?Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-23000John Lazorik4. Is the proposed railway from GLB taking into consideration that the railway with up to 110 trains per day could affect some of Porter Counties endangered species? I would like a study done that reflects all the endangered species in Porter County that might be affected. I have attached a list of endangered species. http://www.in.gov/dnr/naturepreserve/files/np_porter.pdfHebron, IN
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-22999April GerstungRe: Docket No. 35052 - Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky, Some of the complications that would arise from having Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. construct a railroad through 11 counties and 3 states would be: Damage to existing field tiles Decreased production of crops and livestock Closure of some rural roads that would increase farm equipment on more traveled roads Landlocked fields and pastures due to rails being put down The use of herbicides used to maintain portions of the easement The permanent damage to the soil surrounding the railed tracks with what is being transported The permanent loss of rich and productive farmland There are many more problems that would present themselves in addition to the above, all irreversible. What is known at this time is that Great Lakes Basin is a privately funded company, never built a railroad nor maintained one. GLB's financial backers have not disclosed and in this day and age that is unacceptable and unforgivable. GLB states that their plan would reduce train waiting times by 8 hours. Eight hours versus what we know will happen to people's lives and property. To give anyone, especially a private individual, this kind of power is unbelievable and frightening. If this project is allowed to proceed, the trust of the American farmer and those that have chosen to live in a rural community will once again add to the mistrust of our government agencies and forever color this country. Written with all due respect...Morris, IL
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-22980James Van Drunen
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-22329Garry Junker[grant park] With water flow altered flooding could eliminate farm fields from production. Since no railroads have committed to using it--what happens if this project is built then abandoned--permanently altering the landscape?grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-22325Paul CormanI know that many concerns regarding drainage, wet lands, first responder infrastructure exist for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad and are legitimate concerns to the area. However the one concern that I have that truly causes me to question the viability of the project is the the close proximity it has to schools in the Indiana portion of the rail line. There certainly exist many alternatives that avoid any kind of disruption or endangerment of our youth. The current proposal takes dangerous chemicals, noise disruption, and risky student transportation and places it as a direct burden on children. I know your time is too precious for me to ramble on regarding many concerns about the aforementioned topics. I just ask for consideration in choosing a route that can avoid the negative impacts on our school- aged children. Thank you for your time and effort.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/26/2016)CommentEI-22324Ronald HoffmanThe projected rail line would run approx.175-200 feet from our house. So anything from a train whistle to 120 trains running constantly would affect us. The noise would affect us. We would be unable to sleep. We already have health issues. I would also imagine that trains running constantly with the smell of diesel would affect our health.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-24741Scott Dummer[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-24036John Bryant[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-24035Laura Conversa-Wail[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Roger Torman, President, and Dan Joyce, Superintendent
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-23751Jan Austgen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-23744Dorothy Michalak[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-23694Peter Pflanzer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-23693Dennis Rosengard[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-23680Helen McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-23676Dorothy Michalak[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-23675Dorothy Michalak[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-23674Dorothy Michalak[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-23673Dorothy Michalak[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22998John LazorikGLB has mentioned it not only wants a railway, but utilities? What type of utilities are being proposed and how will that be managed? Will there be any noise, light, chemical pollution from the utilities being run alongside the railway? Should there be safety concerns for utilities running so close to a railway?Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22997John Lazorik2. There is an existing railway that runs the entire length of east to west section that GLB is proposing, but it is just south of the proposed route. Why has this not been utilized. Wouldn’t using the existing railway be less of a carbon footprint, easier on the environment, better local economies, prevent destroying prime farmland? Train traffic is already a part of the communities on this established route. This existing east to west railway starts near Schneider and goes to Wheatfield, Indiana.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22996John LazorikIf the railway has to go in, there should be mandates that force GLB to install eco-bridges on every farm that it dissects, therefore allowing the farmer to farm land above the railway or transverse into fields. Eco-bridges would also allow safe habitats for wildlife. The more Eco-bridges GLB would have to build would be better. I have attached a photo of an example of an eco-bridge.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22995Mary Hodson[Kouts] Dear Sir, I respectfully ask that the STB consider my opposition to the Above referenced docket number. The railroad will pass within 1/4 mile of the Morgan Township School, as well as close proximity to two other schools in Lake and Porter Counties. It is well documented that children with special needs are greatly disturbed by sudden and loud noises, creating a loss in quality educational time, as well as demand on personnel to attend to student. The noise level will impact students of all abilities as it causes a potential disruption in ability to hear or focus on class work. Additionally the increased number of train crossings will impact the length of time students are on the bus. Early starts and later arrivals home. This increases the risk of bus related accidents. Taking into account the hazardous materials being transported the risk of train derailment creates a safety hazard for the students and faculty. A hazard that the County is not equipped to handle. These factors are simply unacceptable. Our community strives to provide quality education in a safe learning environment for all students. The planned railway will halt this progress and unjustly impact our youth. Respectfully Yours, Mary M. HodsonKouts, Indiana
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentPlease see the attached Resolution on behalf of the Kankakee Valley Historical Society, Inc.Mary Hodson · Kouts, Indiana
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(printed as 5/25/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22992duane ferrisconcerns against rail line closings of roads for emergency vehicles, and school buses. For slow moving vehicles and farm machinery.possible spills in fields creeks, rivers woods. Loss of prime farm land, animal habitat, decreases value of homes, business and farm ground. Large spills of hazardous material in creeks or rivers. What happens if rail line foldsybonfield, il
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22991shirley ferrisconcerns road closing and safety for school buses , emergency vehicles , farmers crossing with slow moving machinery,time for workers , and safety of that many rail crossings. Possible derailments with hazardous materials causing contamination of fields, creeks, rivers and spill on river or creek would disasters. Loss of prime farm ground, woods, pastures recreation arears, wildlife habitat. Decreased value of farm ground and homes. Ruined wetlands. If rail fails then what.bonfield, il
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22990shirley ferrisconcerns road closing and safety for school buses , emergency vehicles , farmers crossing with slow moving machinery,time for workers , and safety of that many rail crossings. Possible derailments with hazardous materials causing contamination of fields, creeks, rivers and spill on river or creek would disasters. Loss of prime farm ground, woods, pastures recreation arears, wildlife habitat. Decreased value of farm ground and homes. Ruined wetlands. If rail fails then what.bonfield, il
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22989shirley ferrisconcerns road closing and safety for school buses , emergency vehicles , farmers crossing with slow moving machinery,time for workers , and safety of that many rail crossings. Possible derailments with hazardous materials causing contamination of fields, creeks, rivers and spill on river or creek would disasters. Loss of prime farm ground, woods, pastures recreation arears, wildlife habitat. Decreased value of farm ground and homes. Ruined wetlands. If rail fails then what.bonfield, il
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22988shirley ferrisconcerns road closing and safety for school buses , emergency vehicles , farmers crossing with slow moving machinery,time for workers , and safety of that many rail crossings. Possible derailments with hazardous materials causing contamination of fields, creeks, rivers and spill on river or creek would disasters. Loss of prime farm ground, woods, pastures recreation arears, wildlife habitat. Decreased value of farm ground and homes. Ruined wetlands. If rail fails then what.bonfield, il
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22987shirley ferrisconcerns road closing and safety for school buses , emergency vehicles , farmers crossing with slow moving machinery,time for workers , and safety of that many rail crossings. Possible derailments with hazardous materials causing contamination of fields, creeks, rivers and spill on river or creek would disasters. Loss of prime farm ground, woods, pastures recreation arears, wildlife habitat. Decreased value of farm ground and homes. Ruined wetlands. If rail fails then what.bonfield, il
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22986Robert ChesterfieldAs an owner of farmland and a business I DO NOT support the proposed GLB Rail Line Through this area. Please stop this proposal to take this valuable farm land. Thank you..Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22985Patricia MussmanI am submitting the attached environmental comments. Patricia Mussman West Creek Township Lowell, Lake County, IndianaLowell, IN
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22984Kenneth KalasAs a Grundy County resident and U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran I want you to know that my horse property will be severely impacted if the proposed GLB Railroad project is approved. At risk is a substantial drop in value that I am relying on for my near future retirement. This proposal represents losses for thousands of people both directly and indirectly who own properties near this line. Further, delays at rail crossings will create problems for all those who traverse east and west across the line. Farms and wildlife are impacted. This effort is only to line the pockets of a group of investors with no concern for how it will impact citizens. I ask that a FULL REVIEW be conducted and that this board carefully considers what devastating results for citizens would most certainly ensue if this proposal should be approved. Sometimes I'm sure that it's difficult for board members to see how matters like this really impact people like me. I've attached a picture of my happy home". I hope it can stay this way. Thank you for this opportunity to state my position."Morris, IL
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22983Justin KokosMr. Navecky, The population of this country (and the world) continues to grow exponentially. While population is growing, farmland is not. New farmland does not just appear daily like new people do. In fact, it's the opposite. Farmland is being destroyed/removed/replaced daily. This project would remove 5% of farmland from the county of Kankakee, IL. Kankakee County has some of the most valuable farmland in the entire state of Illinois. A reduction in farmland for a bullshit railroad and railyard to help Chicago is just ridiculous. PLEASE KILL this project. This is EMMINENT DOMAIN ABUSE!!!!!!Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22982Arthur LeDoux
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22979Keri Perkins
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22978David Brockman
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22976Karen Vlasaty
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(printed as 5/25/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEI-22970Marsha TesdalATTN: Dave Navecky - Docket No. FD35952 Surface Transportation Board Office of Environmental Analysis| 395 E. Street SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 RE: -Docket # 35952 Mr. Navecky: I oppose the entire Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project and ask the Surface Transportation Board to deny the proposal. I would like to express my environmental concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project. My major environmental concerns are: high speed train derailments will cause toxic chemical spills on our prime farmland which will permanently destroy the soil and render it permanently useless for crop production; the rail line through our many farms will cause much longer response times for police, fire and ambulance vehicles to respond to emergencies in rural communities due to the increased length of time at railroad crossings and numerous township road closures; and the numerous heavy trains (100 trains per day) will cause soil compaction and tile damage which will cause flooding of our prime farmland resulting in decreased productivity and loss of fertile topsoil. Finally, everyone in these farm communities will be exposed to excessive noise, noxious odors, and intrusive bright lights throughout the day and night. My 160 acre centennial farm in Grundy County, Illinois will be bisected by the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line according to the proposed route. The Surface Transportation Board in Washington DC must please deny the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line project from being constructed on valuable Illinois farmland which will significantly impact the corn and soybeans production because large acres of prime Illinois farmland will be rendered useless and destroyed permanently. Marsha Tesdal 10925 Nettle Creek Road Newark, Illinois 60541Newark, Illinois
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(printed as 5/25/2016)CommentEO-2795Sandy Linden
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-24034Michael Lambert[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-23786Henrick Steiner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-23785Henrick Steiner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/24/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Dave Emling, President
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-23749Jan Austgen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-23689Betty Danielson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-23688Conrad Raczkowski[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-23677Sara J. Wollgast[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-22969Tom HinspeterBonfield, Illinios
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-22968Dennis & Cheryl DavisWe would prefer that this busy railroad not be routed through the Hebron / Kouts area because we feel that it would damage current efforts to upgrade the housing and landscape upgrades that are now going on. It would set progress back a lot in our area. Why not consider routes through the deteriorated areas of Gary and Hammond. Many outdated and deteriorated homes in this area are currently being demolished with federal assistance. The area is, however, blessed with outstanding transportation. I65, I80, I90, I94, US 12, 20, 6, 30, and 41 as well as numerous railroad lines pass through this area. Here is the right location for an intermodal transportation facility. Chicago is a city whose time has passed. Do they make anything in the city? It is in decline and will continue to decline. Where is the congestion then?Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-22967Sandy LindenPhyllis Johnson-Ball Dave Navecky Surface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 Frank Patton and GLBT states that landowners with right of way along the railroad will be given the option of putting in a spur and switch at their expense and receive free pickup and delivery of their goods (including grain and fertilizer) in boxcars landowners provide. Frank Patton states he has spent years doing research on this rail project, the route is not set in stone, has changed the amount of train traffic per day from 110 to 16 and everything in between and plans to take enough private property to put in 6 tracks not just 2. Since the affected landowners and farmers have only known of this project for 2 months and have not had years to consider our options or to contact every farmer and landowner in Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana affected by this 278 mile rail line, we respectfully request the STB to include in their Environmental Impact Study the pick up and delivery of goods at each and every separate farmland section the rail line would traverse. We request the Environmental Impact Study to reflect this added farmland disruption and elimination, air quality impact from stationary trains due to increased pick up and delivery time of grain and fertilizer as well as the impact on vehicle travel times and emergency services due to increased blocked railroad crossings. How much time would it take to stop a 70 mph train, unhook, back up onto a spur, hook onto a grain train car or unhook a delivery car, pull back onto the main track and re-hook to the rest of the train? The train would rarely get up to 70 mph if even half the farmers and landowners took up this offer. How much time would that add to this “fast track around Chicago”? How long would this block railroad crossings 50, 70 or 100 times a day? What railroad company would use this rail line, and pay to use this rail line, if it took longer than what they are now already using? In addition, GLBT states a utility line will be installed along the rail line and landowners on the right of way will receive free electricity. Will the EIS research and calculations, and STB decision, be based on unused right of way or will it include the impact of these utility lines in and of themselves plus the affect on existing utility lines when these additional lines are downed due to weather? Is anything allowed to be put in next to the rail line if it is not now included in the EIS? Looking forward to your reply. If any further information is needed to proceed with this request please contact me. Respectfully, Sandy Linden (219) 696-8525Lowell, IN
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-22958David HatzI didn't know anything about this until a few weeks ago. I then started investigating what this was all about and couldn't believe that somehow a privately funded railroad project was gonna come within 500 feet of my house. This is crazy that some guys can just get an idea to do something and move forward with it when it will cause so many problems with so many people. I can't believe that a for profit group of people can just take over property and have the zoning rules changed any way they want to benefit them. I tried to build a house on my property for my parents to live in and couldn't do that due to zoning rules, but some CONNECTED investors can put a train right next to my front door. I built a house in the country to avoid all of this. I came from New Lenox and had to deal with metra every time I tried to go anywhere, and now I'm gonna have a railroad crossing right in front of my house. Its different if you buy a house with a train track already there, but when you spend $500,000 on a house for you family and then have to deal with 110 freight trains a day blowing their horn and the dinging of the crossing all day long. I have 2 children with cystic fibrosis and my wife and I decided that we were happy where we were in the country with the fresh air and peace and quiet. My kids have enough problems with breathing and dealing with life let alone this. We enjoy the wildlife that comes across our property from the woods. We enjoy the fact that I can let my children be outside and not have to worry about them doing anything other than being children. All this is gone if a train comes through. The smoke will effect the quality of the air around our house which in turn will effect their respiratory, the parents in our subdivision will have to worry about 110 trains a day hitting one of the kids in the area, let alone if it derails and kills someone since it is right next door. If we decided that we wanted to move to get away from all of this insanity, who would buy $500,000 next to a train track. I am sure that I am not the only person who is concerned about this coming through their community. I just don't understand how so many people that pay income, sales, property, and every other registration tax can raise a concern but yet their voice doesn't matter. How is this railway a benefit to any community that it goes through. Is the railway gonna pay my $8000 a year tax bill for a property next to a railroad crossing. Even if the route is changed, it will create a whole new batch of concerned people that aren't raising their voice now but will later. Other then the railroad investors making a profit, who benefits from this. Is that benefit worth destroying the quality of life of families that live in the country for the peace and quiet that it offers.Verona, IL
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(printed as 5/24/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/24/2016)CommentEI-22956ken daggettI am asking you to deny Mr. Patton a permit to build a railroad. He has been planning this project for as many as 7 years behind closed doors without letting anyone know what his real intentions are. He has not informed any elected officials, public officials, land owners or health and safety officers. He has not said anything to farm bureaus, fire districts, emergency service agencies school districts, pollution control agencies or the corp of engineers to get permission to cross streams, creeks or rivers. He releases his intent to run this railroad without ANY EXPERANCE AT RUNNING A RAILROAD!!! He runs to the STB and wants you to give him permission build this railroad without giving any details as to who his backers are or his intended use of the tracks. He wants you to give him the right of eminent domain so he can legally steal our land. He makes claims of free electricity or farmers can use the trains to transport grain or property value to increase, all of which are nothing but a pipe dream. The man wants to leave a legacy for his grandchildren, what about the legacy he is trying to take away from thousands of landowners and residents of the affected area? Ken Daggettmorris, illinois
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-25102Scott Nystrom[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23748Jan Austgen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23692Marilyn J. Larson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23691William Hamilton[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23326Mary Auchstetter[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23325Verna Auchsletter[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23324Kim Lorenz[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23323Skylar McBride[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23322Garry Junker[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23318Barbara Jean Skelly[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23316Jan Austgen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23315Pat Richter[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23314William Radovich[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23313Susan and Leslie Truetner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23312Richard Kilmer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23311Mary Kilmer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23310Jo Ellen Gyorkos[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23309Jo Ellen Gyorkos[see attached comment]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23281Kenneth McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23280Helen McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23279Daniel A. Kilmer[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23278Rosemary Kautz[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23277Erin Kilmer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-23276Rosemary Kautz[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22981Arthur LeDoux
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22975Charlotte Zerbs-Barth
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22974Norfolk Southern CorporationJohn Scheib, General Counsel
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22972Tom Forburger
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22955Janet KoutelasTo whom it may concern: The safety of our children and our residents of Porter County is being discounted should Great Lakes Basin R.R. be allowed to go forward with its rail line proposal. I understand the proposed route will be close to several schools in Indiana and this needs to be considered, along with the fact that our counties in Porter and Lake Co. Indiana have many unused and abandoned railroad track properties which should be considered before disrupting other areas in our counties. I live in South Porter Co. and travel to North Porter Co. twice a day, Monday thru Friday, and rarely ever see a train, even though I travel across at least six sets of railroad tracks. I understand the people of CREATE" are working to take care of the issues of traveling by train throughout the Chicagoland area, so why not let them continue their good work and keep the trains in areas which are better equipped to handle train issues, such as derailments, accidents, fires, etc. Our rural parts of Porter Co. and Lake Co. should not have to expect our volunteer firemen and responders to handle such issues. Blocking our roads with railroad tracks and trains will also cause issues with people having medical emergencies to get the help they will need. If you look up the amount of car accidents at the intersection of C.R. 500 W. and State Road 2, you will see we have enough issues with accidents and we certainly will not see improvements if 110 trains per day come through our area."
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22954April GerstungDear Mr. Navecky, In 1963, my parents purchased a rural property to develop a campground. Our family owned business is still open to the public offering them well maintained grounds with owners living on site and peace and quiet. At the same time that my parents were creating the park, the campground and recreation industry in Illinois began growing and became an established commodity for the state by those that began other campgrounds and recreation areas throughout the State of Illinois. Yes, there are some campgrounds in our state that offer almost everything to their clients but the bottom line, that keeps them coming back, is piece and quiet and feeling secure as guests. If these trains are carrying oil or hazardous materials and traveling 70 mph well gosh, the odds of an unnecessary tragedy just chipped away at feeling secure. Those same trains going over our waterways will take the serene quiet and beauty, harm the flora and animal habitat of our rivers and streams that are attractive to those that want to explore and enjoy our state. My mother and father penned the widely used slogan: Enjoy Illinois" and I must say I'm furious that the GLB Transportation group could become a threat to the Illinois outdoors that so many people come to enjoy. I will not offer an alternative route as I will not be that type of person who would push this to another area and another group of unsuspecting citizens and I say that with all due respect. Regards, April Gerstung"
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22953maey AuchstetterWHO IS PAYING FOR EIS?? WE HAVE RIGHT TO KNOW SINCE THESE PEOPLE OR R/R COMPANY ARE HAVING DEEP EFFECT ON OUR LIVES> IF THEY CAN NOT SAY WHO THEY ARE < IT SHOW THEY ARE A COWARD AND THE PROJECT IS NOT RIGHTperu, ill
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22952Arthur SerenaDave Navecky: Re: Docket No. 35952 I am writing in reference to voice my concerns about the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. If allowed to continue it would greatly interfere with many lives in Kankakee County. The rail line would interfere with the natural flow of water run off by creating a dam that would restrict the flow of rain water in our area which is already plaigued with flooding and water backup. Will the herbicides used on the right of way to control the growth of unwanted vegitation pollute our streams and ground water supply? The effect on the wildlife and their habitat will be destroyed.With 110 trains daily the distruction of wildlife will increase,and the death and injury of wildlife being struck by trains traveling at 70m.p.h.will be atrocious. Hunting and fishing will be disturbed, access to our state park and state park campgrounds will be greatly effected. The crossing of the Kankakee River will be disturbed effecting spawning grounds for the fish and habitat for aquatic life in the river. The proposed site is in a sandy area which will allow pollutants to migrate directly into our fresh water supply. The noise pollution will be terrific to those of us who live in peace and quiet. The effect on the school busing,first responders,police,emergency medical services,and travel will be adversely affected. In the dreaded event of a derailment of trains traveling at 70 m.p.h. will be catestrophic. In our rural communities we have barely enough fire,emergency medical services,police, and volunteers to cover normal circumstances much less a catestrophic event as a derailment.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22951Mark DvorscakMr Navecky: I am writing with grave concern over the proposed Grate Lakes Basic Railroad route in Eagle Creek township, Lake County, Indiana. I have attached a section of the proposed route that is due East of Lowell, Indiana. I wish to relay my concern on the inability of Emergency Services to service our entire neighborhood if this proposed rail line is built. As you can see in attached scan, the rail line cuts through Route 2 (a major East-West artery in Lake County, and immediately cuts across Clay, 173rd and 165th streets. All of these are at-grade crossing and any train of nominal length will simply cut the Township in half. All Emergency Services (Fire, Paramedic, etc) come from the town of Lowell - approximately 5 miles due West of I-65 and Route 2. There will be no ability for any Emergency Services to be dispatched to our township as the train will cut off all routes. As in any neighborhood, we have our share of elderly residents whose right, not privilege, but right to Emergency Services will be jeopardized if this rail system were to be constructed. I wish to ask for your consideration in this matter as the availability of Emergency Services is critical for all residents and should not be compromised for any reason. Thank you Mark DvorscakHebron, IN
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22950sharon zagorskiI am writing OPPOSING the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project. There are many concerns with this project and I'm sure you are receiving plenty! May I talk about one that I have not heard much about at the many meetings I have attended? It concerns our beautiful Kankakee State Park. http://www.dnr.illinois.gov/Parks/Pages/KankakeeRiver.aspx This is a gorgeous Park with walk trails, bike trails, and horse trails. There are picnic areas, camping grounds, boat launches, a playground for children, and trees and landscaping to complete the setting. It’s teeming with native plants and wildlife. Quiet and tranquil, there is something for everyone. There's even hunting allowed at certain times of the year, in certain areas. It’s a beautiful place! Now GLB wants to put 110 trains a day right through it! A beautiful State Park should NOT be cut in half with 110 trains a day! Or even one! Think about the repercussions to this serene area! First off, the GLB route itself will eliminate the hunting ground that is right off of Warner Bridge road, south of the river. All the noise and chaos of the construction itself will frighten away all the wildlife and change everything for them! From breeding habits to nests already in use, to habitual paths taken by them through the park. There is even Bald Eagle nests in there and they are a Federally protected bird. There will be a great loss of life. Isn’t wildlife and natural habitat what a park is all about? Protecting nature within a State Park should be of the utmost importance. On the South side of the Kankakee River, right off of Rt. 113, is our horseback riding area of the Kankakee State Park. This is horse country! And the Kankakee State Park is frequented by hundreds of riders every year. There are beautiful paths and wet lands within the Park. Wild animals dot the area giving our rides a ‘wilderness’ feel. It’s what we come here for! It’s quiet and beautiful and close to nature. A special place like this should never be disturbed! Drive down Warner Bridge road and cross the river and you will see yellow Horse Crossing signs. Our horse trails continue on the west side as we carefully cross Warner Bridge Road. It’s difficult as it is crossing a fairly busy road, but with patience on our part and the courtesy of drivers, it is done. How will we ever get across with a train overhead?? Or even get near the road! Everyone knows that horses are a flight animal and something like a train (which most of our horses have never seen!) racing by at speeds of up to 70mph and every 13 minutes, will be impossible. Yes, every 13 minutes! That may not happen at the onset of the building of this train track, but that is their ultimate goal with this monstrous project. It will ruin our Park! To allow this to destroy a State Park is just sacrilegious! There are even some Indian burial grounds there. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kankakee_River_State_Park Please don’t allow our beautiful park to be destroyed by Great Lakes Basin Railroad! We live in this community and love our Park! We love everything out here! This project will destroy our homes, our land, our animals and our way of life. Please oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project!! Sharon Zagorski 37340 Mack Road Custer Park, Illinois 60481 815 405 4251 Horseluv53@aol.comcuster park, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22949melanie hofstrom-waiteI would like you to under stand when a field is cut into a triangle or any thing but a rectangle or a square one of the farmers childern will have to ride the planter to scoope the sead out of the way to narrow the area of what is being planted some where there may be a comuterized planter that does it on its own but let me tell ya if they have it it may only be 1% of the farmers out there because it would be more expensive than the whole farm. So what im saying is our children will have to ride the drill and they will be covered in dust and get black lung they also will inhale the coating of chemicals that is put on the seed future genorations of farmers will die from cancer and there will be less farmers for the future also alot will be killed from falling off the equiment and be run over and be exposed to the sun for too many hours causing skin cancer...if you say well wear sun screen...that is laughable because it would work like egg yolk before shake n bake and would coat them with dirt..I know this first hand I have had to ride the drill to plant wheat. So if any of the feilds are any thing but square or rectangle please picture the kids and wives and farmers riding behind this dusty and im not talking a little dust im talking inches of it by the end of the day please dont do this to us please cause this plan to have to make partners with the railways already there for all our field there is tracks with in a mile or half a mile please use them. Thank you if you cant tell I am apposed to the GLB as planed thank you for your time.clinton, wi
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22948Janesville Area MPOSee attached letter approved by MPO Policy Board on May 19, 2016 for submittal to STBDuane Cherek · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22947Kenneth LockwoodI don't want the Great Lakes Basin transportation company going through Salina Twp.Kankakee County,Il. #1. With 9 grade crossings (as proposed) in our twp.there will be an increase in the already long school bus routes of the Herscher School Dist. in the transporting of students to and from school. This will affect grades K- 12. #2: There is an additional Public Safety for the Response Time for the volenteer fire dept as well as police & EMS services. It is also proposed to close (dead end) all township road on the proposed rail path, which would cause further delays in response times. #3: Surface water drainage will be affected by the birms created by the rail beds, thus creating lowland flooding and insect problems.Bonfield, il
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22946Barb JacksonWilmington, IL
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(printed as 5/23/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22927Girl Scouts of Northern IllinoisCharlie Qualls
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(printed as 5/23/2016)CommentEI-22926Dale Hoots
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(printed as 5/22/2016)CommentEI-22944Justin kokosMr Navecky, A concern I have is how the GLB Railroad will effect a school district. If the rail port" is built in Sumner Township, Kankakee County, it would decimate the school district of Grant Park. The school's enrollment would be cut in half and would not be able to sustain a school. Also, on 9000N Road in Sumner Township is the Manteno Mobile Home Community with approximately 200-250 residents. These are low income people who would be forced to move without possibly having the means to do so. This rail lime proposal is not "progress" It is devastation to thousands of families in its path. PLEASE KILL THIS PROJECT!!!!"
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(printed as 5/22/2016)CommentEI-22943Block GLB Rail LineOBJECTION and Call for action AGAINST the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Railroad, Docket No.FD 35952. As a resident of Kankakee County, Illinois, my family and I request the STB pursue no action alternative" of denying the petition or application of GLBT due to the negative environmental, safety, social and economic impact the rail line would have on us and ALL that own property and reside in and near the proposed path of the railway! We thought Bald Eagles are still under the Illinois protection Act!! There has been a nest near the proposed Kankakee State Park/Warner Bridge crossing for years! This rail line will devistate it!!! PLEASE call for action AGAINST this rail line! Thank you."Terry Shafiabady · Kankakee, IL
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(printed as 5/22/2016)CommentEI-22942Brian & Mary DekkerSTB, we continue to research the need for an additional rail line or Great Lakes Basin Railway. We have yet to find a need. There seems to be so many unused or fully used rail lines in this area. How can we allow eminent domain to trample over citizens' homes, farms, and have a negative impact on our wildlife, water, and eco systems? We are asking that you do not give a permit for Great Lakes Basin to proceed any further. Thanks in advance for allowing our input and comments. Brian & Mary DekkerLowell, IN
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(printed as 5/22/2016)CommentEI-22941April GerstungThank you for providing this medium to submit comments on Docket No. FD 35952 in reference to Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Because of the countless environmental impacts, and the suggestion for alternative routes, I am requesting that the Surface Transportation Board deny the GLB's petition for exception and require the proposed venture to submit to a full review or end this project. In addition to those who are suffering the emotional turmoil that this proposed route has done to them and their objection to doing the same to other farm land owners or rural community's there is the fact that the STB has jurisdiction to authorize construction of railroad lines, but cannot authorize construction of a designated utility corridor for possible use in the future by utilities as the GLB Route Narrative states. Great Lakes Basin states that one of its key design objectives is to ...provide a utility corridor for improved electricity, water, natural gas, fiber optics, and wireless coverage, both to support railroad operations and to provide new options for our neighbors." For these reasons, a full review of GLB's project under Section 10901 is warranted and I ask that you please do so. Regards, April Gerstung"
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(printed as 5/22/2016)CommentEI-22940melanie hofstrom-waiteI would like you to under stand when a field is cut into a triangle or any thing but a rectangle or a square one of the farmers childern will have to ride the planter to scoope the sead out of the way to narrow the area of what is being planted some where there may be a comuterized planter that does it on its own but let me tell ya if they have it it may only be 1% of the farmers out there because it would be more expensive than the whole farm. So what im saying is our children will have to ride the drill and they will be covered in dust and get black lung they also will inhale the coating of chemicals that is put on the seed future genorations of farmers will die from cancer and there will be less farmers for the future also alot will be killed from falling off the equiment and be run over and be exposed to the sun for too many hours causing skin cancer...if you say well wear sun screen...that is laughable because it would work like egg yolk before shake n bake and would coat them with dirt..I know this first hand I have had to ride the drill to plant wheat. So if any of the feilds are any thing but square or rectangle please picture the kids and wives and farmers riding behind this dusty and im not talking a little dust im talking inches of it by the end of the day please dont do this to us please cause this plan to have to make partners with the railways already there for all our field there is tracks with in a mile or half a mile please use them. Thank you if you cant tell I am apposed to the GLB as planed thank you for your time.clinton, wi
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(printed as 5/22/2016)CommentEI-22939Cheryl Davis[HEBRON] I am against building an expensive new rail line that will disrupt many peoples lives in Indiana and Illinois when there is much existing track in the area that can be revitalized and connected to have the desired effect of bypassing Chicago.HEBRON, Indiana
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(printed as 5/22/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/22/2016)CommentEI-22937Mark MccolleyI think this is needed. Do not know any details to comment furtherValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/22/2016)CommentEI-22925Terry and Mike Shafiabady
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(printed as 5/21/2016)CommentEI-22936JuleneAUchstetterGLBT will be the death of the small towns it will run near. Towns as Earlville, Creston, Pawpaw to name a few. People have invested in homes, property, a way of life. There are R/R that run near or through these same towns, and just because there is R/R doesn't mean industry will come.peru, ill
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(printed as 5/21/2016)CommentEI-22935Justin kokosI have a wonderful idea! Let's change the route of this proposal so it goes through Frank Patton's home. I'll bet he'd be all for that. I mean, it is HIS railroad. So he should get it at his house.kankakee, IL
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(printed as 5/21/2016)CommentEI-22934Sandy LindenSurface Transportation Board Docket No. FD 35952 GLBT Railroad project I live on W. 191st Ave less than ½ mile south of the proposed rail line. Within this small square area bordered by State Road 55 on the east and Grant St. on the west (1/2 mile apart). There are 26 people ranging in age from 2 to 67. Our only access north is Grant St. and SR 55 which would both be crossed by this rail line. There are no other roads to take going north. It is our only direct way into town, to the grocery store, to the gas station, doctor's appointments or the hospital. It is the only way for an ambulance, fire truck or NIPSCO to get to us unless they went 7 miles around and crossed another rail crossing if it was open. Rural living already lends itself to longer emergency response times on it's own without the addition of added rail road crossings. These 2 tracks can handle 110 trains a day plus a 200 foot right of way can support an additional 4 tracks. It would be like every time you left your house or came home you caught the same red light over and over and over. In this small square area are 10 kids from kindergarten to high school who's only way to school is over these 2 railroad crossings. That's 3 different school buses each crossing these railroad tracks 4 times a day. Sound travels a lot farther in open areas compared to sound blocked by rows of houses, trees and buildings. We can hear the CSX train 2 miles southwest of us! The unending night and day noise of trains and crossing alarms on this proposed rail would negatively affect our quality of life. 2 years ago we had had a tornado that totally closed our road with downed trees, downed a row of 13 utility poles, collapsed large grain bins and there was a natural gas supply line leak . The area was without power for 5 days. Emergency services, NIPSCO and any Lake County help came down SR55. Again, it's our only direct way out or in. On April 8 south bound I-65 was shut down for 5 hours because of major accidents from ice on the road. Whenever I-65 is regularly shut down because of bad roads or serious accidents the closest major state road alternate is this SR 55. Train traffic would hinder that back up of big trucks and vehicle traffic. The only alternative would be to divert I-65 traffic through the small town of Lowell to US 41, down to Route 10 to get back to I-65. An extra 12 miles. During the winter Grant St. in this area routinely blows over with snow and is impassable leaving SR 55 our only way out. It's not just me in this small area. It's like this for the majority of the people who live here. Most of these rural areas in Lake County have no other alternate roads to get around this rail line. This proposed rail line, crossing Grant St. and SR 55, would box us in, severely limit our access to any emergency services, endanger bus loads of kids and destroy the quiet peacefulness of the rural lifestyle we chose. I respectfully request that the STB deny the above referenced project. Sandy Linden 1150 W 191st Ave. Lowell, INLowell, IN
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(printed as 5/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/20/2016)CommentEI-25248Robert J Ross[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/20/2016)CommentEI-23690Larry Ekhoff[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/20/2016)CommentEI-22931Block GLBI am concerned that the GLB project is not concerned with the number of pipelines running through the Kankakee county area they plan to build their rail system on. There has been a gas line burst and spew fire into the night sky from the weight of trucks. This line is in the direct path of the tracks that GLB plans to build . What would the weight of a rail system do to those underground lines ? What impact would this desecration of these underground pipelines do to the farming, wildlife, and water sources for those in the path. I urge you to STOP this unnecessary destruction of lands clearly meant for sustainable generational farming.Connie Papineau · Bonfield, Il
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(printed as 5/20/2016)CommentMichael Aylesworth & Rick Niemeyer
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(printed as 5/20/2016)CommentEI-22906TAXPAYERDear Mr. Dave Navecky, I cannot thank you enough for listening to my concerns. I expect that you take these very seriously and give them much consideration. This is expected when a transportation company" disguised as a railroad tries to use the right of eminent domain. Wouldn't you agree? Anyways, the real issues at hand here are the environmental disasters this railroad and railport would cause. Separate the fact that eminent domain is not only unjust in this case but causes its own socioeconomic issues, the most important issue here is still the environment. After all, God only gave us one? I'd like to know the following in regards to your impact study. Please respond to each item listed below: - Where will all the soil and dirt be excavated from to provide the necessary grading of the rail tracks? - Assuming that soil is taken from surrounding fields, how will farmers be compensated for it? - Who will pay for any remedial grading in said fields to allow adequate drainage of rainwater? - For those who's homes utilize well pumps for their water sources, how will the GLBR minimize pollution through ground water that would eventually make its way into citizens drinking and bathing water? - In the case of widespread contamination, how will hazardous materials be cleaned up? Surely, this must be considered due to GLBR's mention that this railroad would transport these. - What kind of damage will be caused to drainage/field tiles? In the case that these are ruptured, who will pay to excavate and repair these? Trains are very heavy you see. And if you know anything about physics, speed x mass = velocity. When considering trains, these will impose significant loads on the tiles. I'm sure though that this is being considered. Thank You very much for listening to my concerns today. I appreciate your consideration. Jason Kokos Hardworking American Taxpayer 708.259.5250"Jason Kokos
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(printed as 5/20/2016)CommentEI-22905TAX PAYERHello Mr. Navecky, Regarding the GLB Railroad proposal, the environmental concerns are endless. Soil, water, land, air quality, destruction of rich, productive farm land, destruction of wild life, plant life, human way of life....the list goes on and on...Please, I urge and request the STB to pursue the no-action alternative" of denying the petition or application of GLBT due to all of these negative concerns."julie kokos
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(printed as 5/20/2016)CommentEI-22904Rock Against the RailThis was submitted previously however I do not see it listed in the comments so I am resubmitting this comment. Please make sure this comment is posted. I will check again.Gary Tagtmeier · Sharon, WI
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(printed as 5/20/2016)CommentEI-22903Ruth Wright-PirosGeneral concerns about GLB railroad proposal: Loss of highly productive ag land, decreased productivity due to disruption of tile (14 inch tile that drains 2-3,000 acres will be disrupted on our land), safety issues with combines and other traffic trying to cross such busy intersections. Personal concerns: our family farm is bisected with the house and farm buildings on one side and most of the land on the other, noise level very high for house, function of tile required for acceptable productivity (14 inch tile will be transected).Carlisle, IA
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(printed as 5/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/20/2016)CommentEI-22897Kathleen BessenDear Sirs; per the American Farmland Trust fact sheet: Fertile soils take thousands of years to develop. Creating them takes a combination of climate, geology, biology and good luck. So far, no one has found a way to manufacture them. Thus, productive agricultural land is a finite and irreplaceable natural resource. America’s agricultural land provides the nation —and world—with an unparalleled abundance of food and fiber products. The dominant role of U.S. agriculture in the global economy has been likened to OPEC’s in the field of energy. The food and farming system is important to the balance of trade and the employment of nearly 23 million people. Across the country, farmland supports the economic base of many rural and suburban communitiesGardner, IL
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-25323Kenneth McCormick[see attached letters, 5/4/16, 5/6/16, 5/9/16, 5/12/16, 5/13/16]
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-25322Helen McCormick[see attached letters, 5/11/16, 5/6/16]
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(printed as 5/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-24092Sandy LindenFrom: Sandy" <sandyclaus2000@att.net> To: "Phyllis Johnson-Ball" <Phillis.Johnson-Ball@stb.dot.gov> Date: 05/19/2016 10:49 AM Subject: Docket No. FD 35952 Phyllis Johnson-Ball; Attached is my letter to you and Dave regarding the GLBT railroad proposal you are studying, Docket No. FD 35952. Please forward my attached letter to Dave Navecky. I look forward to your replies either through email or phone call. Thank you for your time, Sandy Linden (219 )696-8525 [see attached letter]"
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-23772Helen Westcot[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-23696Earl Township
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-22923Village of Grant Park TtrusteeJill Morse
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-22901Jackie ReedHebron, IN
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-22900melanie hofstrom-waite[clinton] Honesy the best policy , if people are not infor med honestly it cause speculation and when the person heading this whole thing up changes what they say ping ponging there answers to fit which croud they talk to it leaves a dis honest feeling in our hearts...as a mother it reminds me of a child squearming and fibing to try to cover something up...the Eddy Haskel" move. I dont like how mr Patton is doing that. In his video he states that there will be 110 trains a day and they will be haulling some of 6000 toxic chemicals around chicago....but than he said at another meeting only double digets of trains and he wont say who is behind him he said they will be hauling all across america and when the other guy was asked he said they would use government money...it isnt government money its taxpayers money renamed. I hope you get the true answers who is behind this one minute there not foreigners next They will be hauling from canada I Just dont like how it changes."
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-22899TAX PAYERThe environmental hazards completely outweigh any benefits this could possibly provide. Then there's the risks involved by transporting tar sands across all these communities that rely on well water for their drinking. None of the communities involved have the financial means to provide emergency services in the case of a catastrophic event. These are high speed trans with no horn restrictions, which is dangerous. The Chicago Department of Transportation is even against this project, and they are the ones this project is supposedly supporting. This GLB Railroad project needs to be killed now before the Federal Government wastes any more time or money on it. Thank you. Julie Kokosjulie kokos · grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-22898RAILEDATTN: Dave Navecky There are so many reasons for you not to approve this request I can't begin to list them all. I think the $20,000 an acre is way less than what that ground is worth. What about all the dollars this ground will produce in the future for our children and grandchildren? What impact will it have on the wildlife in the area? Drainage in the entire county? Please consider not approving this request. Thank you.Linda L. Howard · Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-22896Karen McGregor[Bonfield] Dear Dave Navecky, As a resident and landowner in Illinois, I oppose and object to the construction of the rail line proposed by Great Lakes Basin Transportation Inc. (GLBT") , recognized as docket # FD 35952, consisting of a rail line of approximately 278 miles in length, from La Porte, Indiana, through the State of Illinois, to a point in the Town of Lima in Rock County, Wisconsin. I urge and request the STB pursue the "no-action alternative" of denying the petition or application of GLBT due to the negative environmental impact the rail line would have on me and all citizens that own property and/or reside near the proposed path of the rail line. The claimed (but unproven and unspecified) efficiencies possibly gained from the rail line are far outweighed by the loss of prime farmland, impact on the safety of local residents, and significant changes to the local environment and landscape. Our community is still recovering from a Shell gasoline pipeline leak which contaminated drinking water and caused significant health problems for local residents nearly 28 years ago. We wholeheartedly reject allowing transportation of hazardous materials via the proposed new railway through our community, especially since doing so would be solely for profit and NOT to contribute to the public good. Eminent domain does NOT apply here. I request and call upon the STB to ensure the scope of the Environmental Impact Study ("EIS") associated with the project be as broad and stringent at possible, and include investigation of and weighing the relative impact of the proposed rail line's claimed economic efficiencies against the enormous tangible and intangible costs that would be imposed on residents and owners of property that fall on or near the path of the rail line. I further request and call upon the STB to deny any exemption from GLBT filing a formal application to ensure additional public comment is allowed prior to any approval of rail line construction. Thank you for your attention to my concern. Karen McGregor"
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(printed as 5/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-22894melanie hofstrom-waite[clinton] the attached photo see the big blue line is turtle creek in rock county wi and the small blue lines are where either cracks in the sub surface soil lets water in to the top layer such as a spring or water flows naturally which must be taken in to account with the railway needing a deep strong base to keep it from sinking or damming up water the photo is a google earth shot and the area is east BC townline road, crossing 140, up E.BC townline road than down milner road, crossing turtle creek,crossing creek rd in rock county , Wisconsin. The railway is about where the red line is drawn I feel that due to so much water trouble in this area it would be a bad area for a train to be built and if a chemical spill happens either on the curve where they said they will go 70 mph right by the creek there is a possability of a derail and contamination of the creek if the building of the train would intail digging it deeper than where the surface is now on the top of the hill of e bc townline there is a spring that may let loose and could cause filling of water to the proposed railway as may be seen in the gravel pit to the top right I feel the area hasnt been chosen properly because they didn't know the obstacles they would face. I was told they would be at road level with 140 and the hwy 140 woud go over them but this makes no sence because there are huge hills on both sides of hwy140 it would make more sence to be a tall bridge from one side to the other because of the requirement of 1% grade to be 70 mph train and the land all around is at that hight also but building that overpass would make visability bad for east BC townline it is for these reasons I feel this area is a bad choice to build a train in this area also due to the efect on live stock on 5 of the area farms right there.clinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 5/19/2016)CommentEI-22893Checking[BONFIELD] I am concerned about 1) destruction of farmland and 2) the use of eminent domain to procure land 1) The permanent destruction of the farmland natural resources as a result of this privately funded project would be a violation of the intent of both the Federal Farmland Protection Policy Act (CFR-2010-TITLE7-VOL6-PART658) and the Illinois Farmland Preservation act (505 ILCS 75/). The application of these Federal and State Laws should be evaluated as part of the review process. (Portions of both acts are attached) 2) Eminent domain should not be allowed for a private project. This private project has no proven necessity for the good of the community, has no publicly acknowledged support from major railroads and has not proven that it is totally funded without using taxpayers federal money to build it. I request this project should be rejected Respectfully, Randall MauRANDALL MAU · BONFIELD, Illinois
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(printed as 5/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-25099Bonus Township, Boone County IL[See attached letter]Robert L. Bahling Dan Mickey Gary Turner Todd Malberg · Garden Prairie, IL
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-24781Barbara Merriam[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-24777Keith and Sharon Hagen[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-24776Robert Kautz[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)Comment[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-24772Robert W Chesterfield[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-24771Linda Hinkston[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-24769Gerald Frenzel[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-24758Wanda Kember[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-24753Steve and Jennifer Piala[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-24752Roger and Carol Heath[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-24751Roger and Elizabeth Clark[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-23775Angela Daniels[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-23774Dolores Mack[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-23773Mary Court[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22963Jan Austgen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22962Donna Michaels[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22961Helen McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22960Kay Johnson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22959Kenneth McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22922Angie Cornelius
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22921Donald and Carole Smith
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22920Emma Norvell
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22892Don and Carole SmithPicture planting 4 inch diameter trees with a root ball of 30 inches and 18-24 inches deep. Now imagine planting these trees where the top soil is just as deep. We do not have to see this in the mind's eye. It is an actual experience. Over the past 40 years, we have landscaped our yard with trees and shrubs. We never run out of top soil. This God-given asset must be preserved. It is for this reason we strongly oppose Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Soil of this quality must not be needlessly thrown aside. So what if oil tanker trains need a few more days to reach the destination point. People will survive. However, food is a different story. Food is a necessity. Fertile soils took thousands of years to develop. Productive agricultural land is a finite, irreplaceable natural resource. Farm land must be protected. Cast aside the Great Lakes Basin Railroad.Reddick, IL
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22891ROCK AGAINST THE RAILAS A MEMBER OF THIS COMMUNITY AND A CIVILIAN WHO WILL BE DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY THIS PLAN - MYSELF AND MY FAMILY STAND AGAINST THE GLB RAILROAD PROJECT. WE WILL CONTINUE TO FIGHT AGAINST THIS PROJECT UNTIL OUR VOICES ARE HEARD.STEVE COLLINS · VERONA, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22890ROCK AGAINST THE RAILWE ARE AGAINST THE GLB RAILROAD PROJECT. AS CITIZENS THAT WILL BE DIRECTLY AFFECTED, WE IMPLORE YOU TO SHUT THIS PROJECT DOWN. THIS PROJECT WILL HURT MORE THAN IT WILL HELP. IN A TIME AND AREA WHERE SO MUCH GOOD CAN BE DONE, IT SHAMES AND SADDENS US THAT THIS IS THE PROJECT UP FOR DEBATE.VERONA, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 5/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22888Justin KokosMy concern with this railroad, among many things, is safety. A railroad with 110 trains per day causes great safety concerns. As we just saw, there was an amtrak crash in Philadelphia killing 7 people and injuring hundreds. Trains are dangerous. This is not groundbreaking news. In the county of Kankakee, IL, we experience our own Amtrak derailment in 1999, which killed 11 people. The cause of that crash was a driver of a truck tractor semi going around crossing gates. These crashes occur. A new 278 mile rail line increases the probability of these incidents. Imagine the ecological issues if one of these derailments happened while carrying hazardous materials into the Kankakee River System.... catastrophe.Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22887Maureen DeFiore[South Chicago Heights] please block GLB RailroadSouth Chicago Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22886Maureen DeFiore[South Chicago Heights] Please block GLB railroadSouth Chicago Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22885Maureen DeFiore[South Chicago Heights] Please block GLB railroadSouth Chicago Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22884Laura WenzelmanI oppose the GLB railroad, due to permanent destruction of prime, productive farmland.Bonfield, Il
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22883Patricia MussmanDocket No. FD 35952 Environmental Comments The average number of train derailments in the United States is three (3) per day. Many of these derailments create very serious environmental issues that include ground water contamination and contamination of rivers and streams. This causes death and destruction to wildlife and human life as well as plant life. The proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line has been promoted as a high speed rail line that will carry only freight, the majority of which will be up to two thousand (2000) types of hazardous materials. These trains could be up to one hundred (100) cars each and could be up to a mile long traveling up to seventy (70) miles per hour. The proposed route shows many turns and curves along the way which would create an even greater risk of derailment. I am attaching a file citing ten (10) recent examples of disastrous derailments. Many of these were not high speed trains. For these reasons among others we are requesting that you and the Surface Transportation Board (STB) deny this project from going forward. Thank you. Patricia Mussman West Creek TownshipLowell, IN
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22882Trisha VolleAttn: Dave Navecky Docket #FD 35952 I would like to express my concerns over the purposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation LLC Rail Line Project. I oppose the project for many reasons. The Surface Transportation Board needs to deny this proposal. I would like to start with the town of Westville. Westville is a small town; but is has been growning with some major businesses coming here. McDonald's and the Michiana Hematology-Oncology are the most recent ones to place their businesses here. The most notable business that has been here for years and still is growing today is Purdue North Central. A long time ago people wondered why the United Parcel Service would place a major setup in Westville? They have and businesses and the school that have set up roots here shows that this town is growing and is becoming a major factor for the towns that surround them. That being Michigan City, LaPorte, Valparaiso, Wanatah, Union Mills, and LaCrosse. IF you thought of putting your bridge at 421 and the other end of Westville you will be breaking up a town for no good reason. The other places where their would need to be bridges would make it look like someone tried to criss-cross through the town and countryside for no apparent reason. On line I found the Notice for the Surface Transportation Board STD on March 15, 2016. You need to go around Chicago is a very flimsy to say the least. Why is it that the Class I Railroads are not stating this? The list of railroads in our report but not at the meetings why? It seems just seem to be this board. That's what big cities are for. The country is to get away from the noise and everything else. When you live in the country you expect certain things. Like farmers big equipment one the roads, the dust fro the fields getting into your house on nice spring days cause you have your windows open for that clean fresh air. By this proposal you would be doing great disservice this country. To take away 7,000 acres of farmland is unthinkable! This land feeds not just this country; but all around the world we need every piece of land that is farm able to serve this country and the world. I could see if it needed to be built to export; but it doesn't! It travels every day. So it takes a little longer to get where it needs to go, it's not hurting the good farmland we have to use every day to feed this country and the world. I cannot image the noise it would create. There would not be anything to knock the sound out. I used to live in town by a railroad track. You would here it go by then you would get used the their schedule. It went by every so often. I could not even fathom a train every 13 minutes. You would have time to do nothing!! It would be a constant bother besides the noise it would make inside your house rattle things non stop. There would be no such thing as a decent good night sleep. The board and Fred Patton keeps saying about jobs. IT WILL NOT BRING IN A LOT OF JOBS!! Oh it will at first but it will be temporarily. If anybody thinks it's going to help the economy they are WRONG! It might give you a few jobs; but they will bring in their own people. Another thing is that this is going from Wisconsin, to Illinois, to Indiana. They will have jobs in all of these places. So it won't produce a lot of jobs just in LaPorte County. The board and Fred Patton doesn't say it's just till this project is don or it would be permanent jobs for all these places.. Another big question: GIVE THE ACTUAL NUMBERS OF HOW MANY JOBS YOUR ARE COUNTING? 15,100, 2. TELL US!! The spills will cost us not the railroads or the boards, or the investors or even Fred Patton. They only talk about hauling dangerous chemicals. On Monday May 2, 2016 train derails in Washington D.C. It was a CSX track one of cars leaked sodium hydroxide. It is known as corrosive lye it is a chemical that can irritate and burn the skin and eyes. It took hours later to the the leak plugged. I can see several things wrong with this proposal. It doesn't really benefit anyone. Other than to hurt and destroy a town that is going places and farmers' that feed the country and the world. The farmers are a business too! That the investors, the boards and Fred Patton attend to forget these facts. Sincerely, TrishaLaPorte, Indiana
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22881Connie SchneiderDear Dave Navecky, I live on my family home and it is right in the path of this proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This is an out rage. I can not believe that you my friend are for this. Shame on you. there are countless family run farms and homes is this direct path. My family have a small family run business in this path. I would loose all of this.. This is a privately fund project and is ridiculous that even the thought of them coming in and condemning my home. you need to stand up for our rights. I am very upset over this.Vote NO!Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22880Town of WestvilleRESOLUTION NO.: 2016-2 RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF WESTVILLE, LAPORTE COUNTY, INDIANA, OPPOSING THE CURRENT PROPOSED ROUTE FOR THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAILROAD AND PROPOSING AN ALTERNATE ROUTE.Tom Fath · Westville, Indiana
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(printed as 5/18/2016)CommentEI-22879TAXPAYERPlease consider the air pollution that will be emitted from the railyard in Sumner Twp. This is an unnecessary use of land. The largest rail yard in this country is 1/5 the size. This is a land grab! It should not be allowed. The federal government should protect people from abusive eminent domain attempts such as this. My American dream was to own a home in the country with a small plot of land and raise my kids in the community and rural area I grew up in. I worked my ass off to attain this. Now it there is potential I lose all of this at the hands of wealthy investors? That's wrong, and UNAMERICAN! Do the right thing and shut this nightmare down.Jason Kokos · Grant park, il
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(printed as 5/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-23779Gerald Heisner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-23778Michael Mulligan[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22919Tom Forburger
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22918Lisa Lacheta
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22917Angie Cornelius
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22915Michael Fox
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22912Arthur LeDoux
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22877Lynn BurchDear Mr. Navecky: I am concerned about the taking of private property by a private company using eminent domain. GLB is requesting a 200’ right of way to go through prime farmland in Ogle County, IL. That is approximately 24 acres per mile of track. In addition, GLB proposes overpasses over existing railroads, interstates, and state highways. The amount of soil removal to create the long grade to make a 1% grade for the overpass will take additional prime farmland out of production for borrow pits. I have seen no mention how many additional acres will be required in borrow pits. In addition, during construction of rail lines, existing field drainage tiles will be destroyed causing standing water along the proposed railroad. Without existing tiles, some fields along the railroad may become unfarmable. Another concern is the rural roads that will be closed because GLB determines that they are in sparsely populated areas. Years ago, the planners decided that enough people lived on those roads to gravel and continue to maintain them. A private, out of state company should not be granted power to close roads in our county. In emergency situations, first responders will have to go way out of their way to get to people needing immediate assistance. Many rural farms have grain bins on them. Minutes count when responding to someone trapped in a grain bin or pinned under a tractor, etc. I am also very concerned at the proposed speed of up to 70 mph for the trains and the proposed 110 trains that GLB states on their website that they expect to have traveling the rails per day. The speed will cause derailments and the number of trains will often have people waiting for trains. When a farmer’s field is divided by the railroad, how will he safely cross the tracks with a combine, grain cart, and semi during harvest with 70 mph trains every 15 minutes. The grain hauler will have to make many trips across the tracks dividing his field during harvest to get the crop out. In addition, the proposed route traverses and runs alongside many waterways. In a derailment, how would oil, gas, or other dangerous substances be contained and cleaned up. This will be very dangerous for all involved. I hope that you will reject GLB’s request for this unnecessary railroad. Furthermore, I urge the STB to conduct a full review of the GLB project and not grant an Exemption if requested by GLB. Thank you for considering my concerns. Lynn BurchLindenwood, IL
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22876RANDALL D MAUI AM CONCERNED ABOUT THE LOSS OF ONE OF KANKAKEE COUNTY ILLINOIS' MOST VALUABLE NATURAL RESOURCES, FARMLAND. FARMLAND IS A NON-RENEWABLE NATURAL RESOURCE THAT PLAYS AN INTERGRAL PART OF THE ECONOMY AND THE ENVIRONMENT OF KANKAKEE COUNTY, IL. THE PROPOSED RAILROAD WOULD CONSUME APPROXIMATELY 16000 ACRES OF THE COUNTY'S FARMLAND. IT WOULD CREATE NUMEROUS SEVERED AND LANDLOCKED FARM PARCELS, AND UNECONOMICAL REMNANTS. AS WELL, IT WOULD CAUSE ADVERSE TRAVEL FOR MANY FARMERS, ADDING TO THEIR OPERATING COSTS TO FARM REDUCED ACERAGE. THE PROPOSED RAILPORT IN KANKAKEE COUNTY WOULD CONSUME THE ENTIRE TOWNSHIP OF SUMNER. THIS WOULD DESTROY NEARLY 24 SQ MILES OF PRIME FARMLAND AS WELL AS MANY FARMSTEAD HOMES AND RURAL HOMES THAT ARE NOT PART OF FARM PARCELS. IT WOULD BASICALLY DESTROY THAT FARMING COMUNNITY AND CAUSE IT'S RESIDENTS TO BE RELOCATED. THE ECONOMIES AND THE ENVIRONMENTS OF KANKAKEE COUNTY WOULD BE IMPACTED VERY NEGATIVELY BU THE BUILDING OF THIS RAILROAD. THE PROJECT HAS NO PROVEN MERIT REGARDING THE GREATER GOOD AND SHOULD BE STOPPED BEFORE IT PERMANTLY AND UNREPAIRABLY ALTERS THIS COMUNNITY AND ITS ENVIRONMENT.BONFIELD, IL
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22875Save Our FarmlandI am writing in opposition to the proposed GLBT railroad project. Although it is not passing through our property, it will only be 1/2 mile away, across the road from our family farm. We have a beef cattle operation and I am concerned about how the constant noise and vibrations of the trains will affect the animals. It is very quiet out here on the prairie, and our animals are not used to a lot of noise. When the cattle get nervous or worked up, they begin running through the steer yard. The cattle could fall and injure themselves or run through the fences when they get riled up. I am also worried about the safety of my husband, sons and other family members who help on the farm. If the cattle become agitated by the train, they could injure or trample someone. Research shows that noise pollution does have a negative affect on farm animals. Please consider this when making your decision on the proposed railroad project.Linda Mair · Janesville, Wi
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22874JUDITH S. MAUI AM CONCERNED ABOUT POLLUTION 1) AIR POLLUTION CAUSED BY ROUTINE EMISSIONS FROM THE TRAINS AND TRUCKS BOTH DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DURING OPERATING OF THE RAIL SYSTEM. 2) NOISE POLLUTION WILL DESTROY THE QUIET ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH ALL NATURE THRIVES 3)WATER POLLUTION. WATER IS THREATENED BY THE RISK OF CONTAMINATION FROM SPILLS INTO OUR GROUND WATER, WELLS AND THE KANKAKEE RIVER SYSTEM. ALSO, ONCE THE NATURAL GRADE OF THE LAND IS ALTERED, WE FACE THE DISRUPTION OF THE NATURAL FLOW OF SURFACE WATER CONTRIBUTING TO THE POTENTIAL RISK OF MOSQITO ISSUES IN STAGNANT WATER. I AM ALSO CONCERNED ABOUT THE LOSS OF FARM SOIL. IT IS A NATURAL RESOURCE IMPORTANT TO OUR LOCAL ECONOMY AND THE ENVIRONMENT. IT IS A NONRENEWABLE RESOURCE THAT ONCE DEVELOPED FOR USE OTHER THAN FARMING, IS GONE FOREVER. THIS PROPOSED RAILROAD HAS NOT PROVEN IT'S MERIT AS SOMETHING NECESSARY FOR THE GREATER GOOD AND I AM ASKING THAT IT BE STOPPED FOR THESE REASONS BEFORE IT CAUSES IRREVERSIBLE DAMAGE TO OUR ENVIRONMENT AND OUR COMUNNITY. RESPECTFULLY, JUDITH S MAUBONFIELD, IL
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22873Laura SchepplerPlease explain how the Great Lakes Basin Railroad is a bypass of Chicagoland, when it goes through Chicagoland. Most of the trains that would use the line do no not go through the city itself already. A bypass should truly bypass an area, such a as building a line from Kansas City to Atlanta to end the need for trains going east needing to go through Chicago. This is not a bypass.Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22872Dennis SchepplerPlease do not approve the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This line is environmentally harmful and would in Kankakee County it would eliminate school district number 6. Forcing 100's of students outmof their school and worse out of their homes. The proposed rail yard is unneeded as the major railroads already have repair yards. The whole notion businesses would move operations just because this line is built is ludicrous. Railroads are not new and any business wanting to be near one would have already built near one. Do not allow Great Lakes Basin Railroad to uproot families and destroy entire ways of life in the affected areas.Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22870William Geisler[Bourbonnais] I would like to receive updates on this proposed railroad.Bourbonnais, IL
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22869Dawn MolinaI am requesting that a stop be put to the GLB Railway Project. This project will impact the homes, property, farmland, jobs, schools, etc. of many of my family and friends. Not to mention the impact on the entire community of farmers, churches, associated cemetaries, creeks and wildlife. What about first responders for these communities? They will be greatly impacted by all of the railway crossings, additional training necessary? Undoubtedly there will be derailments, unknown contaminents, spills, noise pollution and employee traffic to the area. Please, PLEASE think of all you will be STEALING from our family.Woodridge, IL
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22868By Scott PumroyHenrik Steiner · Sycamore, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22867By Scott PumroyHenrik Steiner · Sycamore, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/17/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22864business ownerSunset Travel 422 S. Governors Hwy. Peotone, IL 60468 www.sunsettravelbyjulie.com sunsettravel@sbcglobal.net 708-258-3550 phone 708-258-3561 fax May 17, 2016 Dave Navecky Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Docket No FD-35952 Dear Mr. Navecky, Please kill the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project. The permanent destruction of prime farmland is only one of the thousands of environmental reasons this project should be stopped. Along with safety and many other issues, the land being efficiently being used as farm land would be destroyed and would create a loss of 69 million in lost revenue and 4800 jobs. Please kill this project now. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Regards, Julie Kokos Agency Owner Julie Kokos Sunset Traveljulie kokos · grant park, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22863home ownerI have concerns about noise and vibration to our autistic students at nearby Boone Grove. Our drainage is already bad and this will add more problems. Finally, as a bus driver I feel the crossings will cause delays and danger.gloria mockaitis · valparaiso, in
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(printed as 5/17/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/17/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22860Jeanette Carothers[No file attached] Please see attached letter. Thank you.EARLVILLE, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22859BLOCK GLBRRPlease see the attached image. This would be decimation to a school and township. A 15,000 acre rail port and intermodal would be hazardous to the safety and health of the town of Grant Park, and surrounding communities like Beecher, Momence, Lowell, Manteno, Peotone. This is an abomination. It is unsafe, unjust, and unnecessary!Jason Kokos · Grant park, il
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22858Laura WenzelmanI'm opposed to the proposed GLB railroad. I physically get ill whenever I see pristine land, snatched up and destroyed along with the wildlife that calls this home! Only to see it sit abandoned some years later, and there it sits........after destroying farms that have been in families for generations! There is only so much land.....we can't make anymore.....quit destroying productive farm ground. The population continues to grow.....how are we going to keep up if we continue to destroy productive land?Bonfield, Il
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22857Susan TruetnerBlock GLB railroad. Protect out land and our people!May 17, 2016 Susan & Leslie Truetner 5520 N 7000W RD. Kankakee IL. 60901 Phone: 815-922-0661 To whom it may concern: I am writing this letter to block Great Lake Basin Railroad from coming through. It is going to have only negative effects to those whose property is on or near route. It’s going to have negative effects to surrounding areas. It will have environmental effects that can cause great harm. It will affect transportation systems, safety, impact on current land use, recreation, impact on agricultural activities (Biological Resources), water resources, navigation, geology and soils, air quality and climate, noise and vibration, energy resources, socioeconomics, cultural and historic resources, aesthetics, environmental justice, cumulative impacts and lost of income for families. Illinois does not have many nice State Parks and this area enjoys the Kankakee State Park. The GLB railroad will destroy our State Park. Environmental problems will be lost of a wet land since the tracks go over pond which is a beaver hebetate, it will chase newly bald eagles away from area, going over property by river that has many Indian artifacts, in the winter it will cause worse ice build up by bridges which have already been a problem, and cause problems with flow of water into River. Since are family are farmers in the area I am afraid of how it going to Impact current land use. It going to permanent destruction of prime farmland (appr. 6,700 acres: 20 per mile for 270 miles), Large fields will be divided in small pieces which will decrease productivity, increase compaction of soils due to shorter rows, farm implements may be too big to use on newly created smaller fields, large amounts of fill are needed to build “fly-over” and bridges, livestock wondering on tracks due to poor or broken fencing, and maintenance of the unused portion of 200 food wide easement. It GLB railroad will cause problems with weed control and bring in new types of weeds to the area farmers. It is going to affect our field tiles and wells. Environmentally it will cause flow of water which will cause standing water and swamps. Environmentally the train vibration will break down our lime stone/road which will cause the earth to collapse which effect wells and water flow. Our farm will be affected by GLB railroad for many reasons. The property we have could have been divided into two parcels and with what the train takes up will cause our parcels to be too small which will cause lost of income for us which the GLB railroad will not compensate us for. Water resources are of great concern anywhere. GRB rail road will cause the natural grade of the land to be altered disrupting the natural flow of surface water, potentially creating artificial ponds/wetlands, stagnate water will lead to issues with mosquitoes, wildlife, and access to areas, and possible ground water contamination due to spills and/or derailments. The GLB rail road is not looking at the big picture the want to make money for themselves and take away our livelihoods. I know many who our on the train route including myself say they will move out of Illinois. We are taking about farmers and individuals who pay taxes and bring income to the area. It may bring jobs at first to build the railroad but once it is build it will cause those individuals to be unemployed alone with millions of truckers since the train is going to replace container trucks. I do not see how GLB railroad is going to benefits anyone but those who have invested in GLB railroad. We need to stop this and save our environment. We can not keep taking farm land to accommodate population since the most important thing to sustain life is having land to grow food and having water that not polluted. I had moved out here to get out of a polluted area since it had great effect on my health. It will have great impact on health issues with wildlife and human life. We can not allow the GLB railroad to destroy our environments. Please stop GLB Railroad from ever coming. Save our environment and way of life. Sincerely yours Leslie & Susan TruetnerKankakee, IL.
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22856Neal CurrierI appose the Great Lake Basin Railroad, I know that this train track will have a negative impact on the safety of my community because this will impact the response time of our volunteer fire department.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22855Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad trains will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22854Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad trains will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22853Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad trains will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22852Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad trains will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22851Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad trains will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22850Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad trains will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22849Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad trains will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22848Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad trains will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22847Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad trains will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22846Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad trains will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22845Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad train will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22844Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 1&1/4 miles from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad train will not stop in or near Bonfield to provide services to the community. The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22843Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 3/4 of a mile from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!! The GLB Railroad is inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22842Carol HartmanDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing this letter in protest against the proposed GLB Railroad. There are several reasons why I’m against the proposal. The main reason would be the impact on the way of life for the many people along the proposed route. I have lived in the country all but 13 years of my life. The 13 were spent in Valparaiso. I moved back to the country because it is a way of life. That is why we all live out here. Many people don’t mind the traffic, pollution, noise and crime that most cities endure, but the people that live out in the country choose the quiet, fresh air way of live for a reason. My family and most of my friends own farms. Farming is a way of life that is important to us all, even to the people that are trying to take that away from us. I personally know several families that own farms along the proposed route that will interfere with their livelihood. Most of those farms have been in their families for generations and for someone to come in and just take their land and their lifestyle away is appalling at best. If this railroad goes through, it will affect the crops, livestock, water supply, air quality as well as the noise impact. People out in the country have wells for the water we drink. Running a railroad through here will only contaminate our wells. What are we supposed to drink then? What are we supposed to feed to our livestock? What about the air pollution? We moved here to get away from the pollution from things like trains. The noise and vibrations will negatively affect our livestock and crops as well. How many homes are you planning on seizing and destroying? How many churches? How many of those places are consider historic? The potential for train accidents that involve hazardous materials is beyond frightening. We have all seen on the news where there are train derailments along a seemingly safe area out in the country with hazardous materials. The news people always comment on “how lucky they are that it was in a rural area”. But what they never mention is the impact of that rural area in regards to the contamination of livestock and water after the accident. No one does studies on how that all affects the people in that area. The soil around that area will be contaminated simply from the oils and fuels that come off the train. The pond, lakes and streams too will become contaminated which will impact the wildlife in our area as well. The construction of this railroad is another story in itself. The time it will take and the devastating effect on the surrounding area of the work site is something no one wants to see. Our roads cannot handle the traffic it will take to get the hundreds of thousands of loads of stone and materials to the sight. What is going to happen then? Who is going to fix those roads? Where is the money going to come from for those roads? Also, who is going to benefit from all this construction? I’m sure it will not be locals. It will probably be some out of state business and will be absolutely no help to the people of Indiana. You are the people we have voted into office. The people we are trusting to do the right thing for US, not some rich corporation that will “owe you one” if you put this railroad through. There is not one person I have talked to that thinks this is a good idea. You say the reason is because of the delays it takes to get through Chicago. There is a simple solution to that. You know how long it takes to get through that area, simply allow for that time. It’s the same thing when receiving anything from overseas. You have to allow for the travel time. This is no different. The people that own houses, not farms will also be affected in a terrible way. If they try to sell their homes to get out of the path of the train, they will not get anything close to what their property is worth because nobody is going to buy a house with a train going through the yard. The property values will decrease to next to nothing and thousands of people will lose what they have worked YEARS to create. I know this railroad will not affect any of you I am writing to, nor will it affect the people that are proposing it. But because it doesn’t affect you is NO REASON to vote this through. How would you like your property values to drop to nothing? How would you like your lifestyle taken away against your will? How would you like someone that lives nowhere near you or knows you tell you how you should live and what is “good for you”? How would you like someone to come in and ruin all you have worked your entire life for just for a few dollars? This is what you are doing to thousands of people and it is NOT RIGHT! The only way this railroad should even be considered is if everyone within a 10 mile radius the entire route vote yes for it, which will never happen, because as I have said, there are too many lives that will be ruined. This railroad is not the answer to what you say are problems. This will ruin thousands of lives. That is not worth ANY amount of money. The people proposing this mess will not be affected. If everyone involved in wanting this railroad put through would live in this area, have their lives ruined and lose all they have worked for their entire lives, then I would consider it, but they all will be untouched and therefore do not care how many lives they affect. This to me is criminal. For me, my family and all my farming friends and neighbors, we say NO!!! to this railroad. It is up to you in office to protect us and do what is RIGHT, not what is PROFITABLE!! Thank you Carol Hartman Rural Valparaiso, IN.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22841Michael J. Fox RN,BSNPlease DO NOT APPROVE FD 35952 by Great Lakes Basin Transport. The proposed Railroad will pass 1/4 mile from my home changing drainage and cross a creek 3/4 of a mile from my home where draining rain water needs to go. My Home would be flooded with nowhere for the rain water to go. Bonfield has a population of 325 and ALL would Affected with Flooding by a Change of Drainage by the GLB Railroad!!Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/17/2016)CommentEI-22840Timothy SplearAs a resident and/or landowner in Illinois, I oppose and object to the construction of the rail line proposed by Great Lakes Basin Transportation Inc.(GLBT"). I urge and request the STB pursue the "no-action alternative" of denying the petition or application of GLBT due to the negative environmental, safety, social, and economic impact the rail line would have on me and all citizens that own property and/or reside near the proposed path of the rail line. The claimed (but unproven and unspecified) efficiencies possibly gained from the rail line are far outweighed by the loss of prime farmland, impact on the safety of local residents, and significant changes to the local environment and landscape. I request and call upon the STB to ensure the scope of the Evironmental Impact Study ("EIS') associated with the project be as broad and stringent as possible, and include investigation of and weighing the relative impact of the proosed rail line's claimed economic efficiencies against the enormous tangible and intangible costs that would be imposed on residents and owners of property that fall on or near the path of the rail line. I further request and call up on the STB to deny any exemption from GLBT filing a formal application to ensure additional public comment is allowed prior to any approval of rail line construction."
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(printed as 5/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-24731Jan McCall[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-24726Susan and Leslie Truetner[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-24673Jan Austgen[See attached letters from 5/16/16 to 6/20/16]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23671David Brockman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23087Kenneth McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23086Helen McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23085Helen McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23084Jan Austgen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23083Alban and Denise Scheuber[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23082Alban and Denise Scheuber[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23081Judi Urban[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23080Judi Urban[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23079Tom Kettle[see attached petition]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23078Linda Hinkston[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23077Marjorie Wegner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23074Roger and Elizabeth Clark[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23073Wayne C. Ehmen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23072James Brownlee[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23071Charles W. Pfingsten[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23069Sharon and Mel Jones[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23067Linda Hinkston[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23066Helen McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-23065Kenneth McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22966Yvonne Peterson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22965Robert D. Jornlin[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22916Grundy CountyDoug Pryor
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentDan Kane
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentKathleen Chung
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22911David Vlasaty
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22909Rock County Board of SupervisorsLisa Tollefson, Clerk
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22908Milwaukee Passenger Rail CompanyMie Garven
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentSee comments in attached file.Colin Woodall · Washington, DC
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22838Dale Hoots
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22837Tom Hinspeter• Docket: FD 35952 • GLBT proposed rail line Attention: Dave Navecky Environmental comment Derailment of a locomotive, train car full of crude oil, ethanol or hazardous chemicals in the Kankakee River would be an environmental disaster. What about a spill near the river on the banks or natural drainage to the Kankakee River? The village of Wilmington IL draws its drinking water from the Kankakee River and is only several miles downstream. The Kankakee River is no place for an environmental disaster. The Braidwood Nuclear Generating Stations cooling lake also draws its water from the Kankakee River. The Nuclear plants pumping station is only a few miles downstream from the proposed GLBR Bridge inside the Kankakee River State Park. There are three large pumps inside the pumping station. The pumps are rated at 24,000 gallons per minute each, two pumps run almost daily 24/7.The pumps make-up water to the cooling lake on a daily basis to make up for evaporation from the cooling lake. The cooling lake is 2600 acres. Environmental damage from a spill in or drainage too the Kankakee River would cause disastrous environment damage. Before the pumps at the pumping station were shut off, the rivers current would move the spill to the pumping station and would contaminate the 2600 acre cooling lake. This would not only kill wildlife in the Kankakee River but also the Braidwood cooling lake and contaminate Wilmington’s drinking water. Why would the GLBR cross the Kankakee River at all? The environmental risks are too great for wildlife, the public and the environment. The GLBR should avoid crossing one of the cleanest rivers in the country, the Kankakee River. This railroad would be inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity therefor please deny GLBR request to construct this railroad. Tom Hinspeter Salina Township, Bonfield, IllinoisBonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22836Tom Hinspeter• Docket: FD 35952 • GLBT proposed rail line Attention: Dave Navecky Public recreation and environmental concern My concern with the GLBT proposed rail line is the entry into the Kankakee River State Park. People travel to the park for bike riding, to observe nature, enjoy the outdoors, hunt, fish, family picnics, bird and wildlife viewing, cross country skiing, camping and many other outdoor activities. The park offers a place for people to go to get away from noise and everyday stresses. They don’t go to see freight trains making noise and polluting the water and land in the park. Fishing is some of the best in the state. Hunting includes dove, pheasant, deer and turkey hunting. The park even offers disabled hunters the opportunity to hunt. Nobody wants to share the park with the noise pollution or smell of the diesel locomotives while trying to enjoy the outdoors. There are two campgrounds also that would be devastated by the noise pollution. Try sleeping in a tent with that noise pollution, smell and vibration. There is a pair of Bald eagles nesting not too far from the proposed GLBR Bridge crossing the Kankakee River in the state park. Although the bald eagle is removed from the endangered species list it is still illegal to harass or disturb them. I believe constructing a bridge and locomotives traveling inside the park boundaries would classify as disturbing the bald eagles. The railroad would scare and harass the Bald eagles and other wildlife from the park. The state park is for public recreation not a railroad driven by a few wealthy investors or someone’s legacy. Mr. Patton said he wants the 200’ easement to allow for up to six tracks some day on his railroad as stated in his interview in the 5/9/2016 Farm Week newspaper. Can you imagine the noise pollution heard through the park with two rails let alone six rail lines? This railroad would be inconsistent with the public convenience and necessity therefor please deny GLBR request to construct this railroad. Tom Hinspeter Salina Township, Bonfield, IllinoisBonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentThe Illinois Tollway appreciates the need to conduct the Environmental Impact Statement in an effort to develop viable alternatives that will provide congestion relief for the regional rail network. Upon review of the Draft Scope of Study for the Environmental Impact Statement, the Tollway has no comments on the information provided within it. Please note that as the study moves forward with subsequent planning and engineering it is requested that consideration for future growth and or use modifications within the Tollway’s Right of Way (ROW) is provided to our agency. Therefore, the Tollway formally requests that the any and all Great Lakes Basin crossings of the Tollway span the entirety of Tollway’s ROW. This will help to limit any potential future costs for both agencies should the Tollway pursue and implement any expansion or use modification projects. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this worthwhile effort and please feel free to contact me should you have any questions. Sincerely, Rocco ZuccheroRocco Zucchero · Downers Grove, Illinois
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(printed as 5/16/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22832James and Janice DixonThree years ago, we made the decision to return to IN in our retirement. We chose Westville for its quiet, rural/small town atmosphere. It was also centrally located among three hospitals and their doctors. As we have lived here, we have enjoyed the quiet and chose those doctors that we have established a relationship and have confidence in. As we look at the proposal, our access to those hospitals and doctors, as well as any emergency responders will be challenged in all three directions. Although, we are told that the RR will use overpasses on Rt. 421, 2 and 6, the construction of such will still have a negative impact on the time involved in accessing urgent care. We are also concerned of the environmental impact on Westville's wells and sewer treatment plant, the proximity to several county parks that serve as wildlife and wildflower sanctuaries, and the impact that those overpasses might have on the businesses near the RR. The Westville Schools are also right in the target" zone. Any derailments or spillages could be a major disaster for the people of the town. We understand from the town board that the proposed RR would cut off the area of town that is planned for commercial development. Each spring and fall, the Sand Hill Cranes stop over in the Kankakee River Basin on their migration. Any RR development that would disrupt the amount of water, etc. in the marsh lands would have a negative effect on the cranes. One of the first things we noticed the spring we moved back to Indiana was the warbling of the cranes as they flew overhead to feeding grounds and back to the marsh for the night."
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22830William HamiltonCincinnati, OH
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22828Elizabeth Rittenbcher[BONFIELD] Closing of township roads will impact the school bus routes,emergency responders & commute times. I live & work in Bonfield. I drive a Bonfield school bus, and would be effected many times every day. Makes me want to leave the stateBONFIELD, Illinois
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22827Kathleen Van ArsdelThese comments are in reference to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad, Docket No. FD 35952. I oppose this transportion plan as it will only move commerce, pollution and population from the northern areas of Indiana to the south, thus damaging more of the environment in the process. We should revise and repurpose land that has already been compromised by industry and dense populations INSTEAD of creating MORE damaged zones. I've lived in Northwest Indiana my whole life and know very well what we have lost environmentally in the name of jobs and the economy. Everything done in the name of the economy was short-sighted and, well, just stupid. We could have had a good local economy AND polluted much less. We knew plenty then, but we know so much more now - no more excuses. This railroad will only extend the damage further down from Lake Michigan. It's time to stop repeating this mistake. It's time to stem - not spread - pollution. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Kathleen Van Arsdel Valparaiso, IndianaValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22826Patricia Troller[Valparaiso] I know that I have emailed you before, but I noticed that today is the last day for correspondence. I heartily encourage you and the board to deny this company's application to continue to progress with this railroad. Everything I have been reading is pointing to the danger of having this unwanted railroad in the proposed areas. There are too many family farms and wildlife areas at stake. The drainage pattern will be changing in the affected areas, putting acres and acres of the best farmland in the country in danger. Our family farms are the backbone of the rural counties in the path of this unwanted railroad. I truly believe that this is a proposed solution to a non-problem. There is already talk of solutions to Chicago congestion and I have not read of any existing railroad interested in this. Please consider carefully all of the people and land affected as you make your decision. Thank you very much!Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22825Todd Green[Garden Prairie] comments to docket no FD35952 Our home is located at mile marker # 205. Our address is 9474 Marengo Rd., Garden Prairie, IL 61038. The train that GLB is proposing would place the green line on our property, 16 ft from our garage, on the west side of our home. Where we view our west sunsets. With it being so close our concerns are: 1-Noise levels of trains going back and forth along with the railroad cross bars going up and down all day long. We live very close to the street. Our driveway would be blocked by the traffic stopping at the railroad tracks. Which brings # 2 concern. 2- Emergency vehicles response time to our home. Trains going by and they cannot get to the emergency. 3- Potential for chemical spills, as we live on grounds that have a very high water table. Our sump pump runs year round (even in the winter) the ditch area never freezes up. Because of the water always running from our sump pump. We have a well system that could easily be contaminated from any spills. 4-Accidents at the railroad crossing, which is again next to our home. 5- Air quality, the smells and fumes of a train going by daily. 6-With a train coming that close to our home the vibrations that would rattle the foundation and our very large windows. We would have a lot of cracks in our walls and foundation. Along with the vibrations and stress on the home. 7-All of this would depreciate the value of our home significantly. We moved to the Boone County area in 1999. To get away from the noise of the city. We love and enjoy the country living, wild life and farm land. (which we can see nothing but farm land as far as our eyes can see from our house) We bought this house and my husband completely remodeled this home from the floor to the ceiling. With adding a large addition. We put a lot of time and sweat and money into making it a perfect home for us. It has been said A man's home is his castle". We agree that if GLB is allowed to build this close to our home, we would be forced to move. We could not live under these conditions. So we ask you to please look closely at how it would affect us. We pray and trust that the Washington STB would realize the impact to our home, water and environment areas and make the right decisions. Sincerely, Todd and Brenda Green"
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22823Justin KokosMr. Navecky, My concern with this railroad project is the size of the intended rail yard. Which would be the largest railyard in the United States by a vast measure. What is the necessity for a rail yard that big, when not a single Class 1 Railroad has committed to using this railroad. Is this a land grab for development? If so, then this is an abuse of eminent domain. That railyard would destroy an entire township, which in turn would destroy the Grant Park, IL school district. The school district is comprised of two townships Yellowhead and Sumner. Sumner township would be decimated by the railyard. So not only would this railyard destroy Farm land, natural resources, state parks, churches, cemetaries, businesses and homes, BUT SCHOOLS!!!! This project should not receive any type of exemption and the project should be stopped NOW! Several politicians and elected county boards have opposed this project.Kankakee, IL-ILLINOIS
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22822Ron ShanklandI am sending a letter to you for Ron Shankland. He requested this letter be sent/used to further the Block GLB RR cause. He does use a computer some. I am almost 70, and he is older than I. will attach the letter and a picture of him at a recent meeting. Feel free to call him. Thank you. Jeanette CarothersManteno, Illinois
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22821Carol HartmanI am writing this letter in protest against the proposed GLB Railroad. There are several reasons why I’m against the proposal. The main reason would be the impact on the way of life for the many people along the proposed route. I have lived in the country all but 13 years of my life. The 13 were spent in Valparaiso. I moved back to the country because it is a way of life. That is why we all live out here. Many people don’t mind the traffic, pollution, noise and crime that most cities endure, but the people that live out in the country choose the quiet, fresh air way of live for a reason. My family and most of my friends own farms. Farming is a way of life that is important to us all, even to the people that are trying to take that away from us. I personally know several families that own farms along the proposed route that will interfere with their livelihood. Most of those farms have been in their families for generations and for someone to come in and just take their land and their lifestyle away is appalling at best. If this railroad goes through, it will affect the crops, livestock, water supply, air quality as well as the noise impact. People out in the country have wells for the water we drink. Running a railroad through here will only contaminate our wells. What are we supposed to drink then? What are we supposed to feed to our livestock? What about the air pollution? We moved here to get away from the pollution from things like trains. The noise and vibrations will negatively affect our livestock and crops as well. How many homes are you planning on seizing and destroying? How many churches? How many of those places are consider historic? The potential for train accidents that involve hazardous materials is beyond frightening. We have all seen on the news where there are train derailments along a seemingly safe area out in the country with hazardous materials. The news people always comment on “how lucky they are that it was in a rural area”. But what they never mention is the impact of that rural area in regards to the contamination of livestock and water after the accident. No one does studies on how that all affects the people in that area. The soil around that area will be contaminated simply from the oils and fuels that come off the train. The pond, lakes and streams too will become contaminated which will impact the wildlife in our area as well. The construction of this railroad is another story in itself. The time it will take and the devastating effect on the surrounding area of the work site is something no one wants to see. Our roads cannot handle the traffic it will take to get the hundreds of thousands of loads of stone and materials to the sight. What is going to happen then? Who is going to fix those roads? Where is the money going to come from for those roads? Also, who is going to benefit from all this construction? I’m sure it will not be locals. It will probably be some out of state business and will be absolutely no help to the people of Indiana. You are the people we have voted into office. The people we are trusting to do the right thing for US, not some rich corporation that will “owe you one” if you put this railroad through. There is not one person I have talked to that thinks this is a good idea. You say the reason is because of the delays it takes to get through Chicago. There is a simple solution to that. You know how long it takes to get through that area, simply allow for that time. It’s the same thing when receiving anything from overseas. You have to allow for the travel time. This is no different. The people that own houses, not farms will also be affected in a terrible way. If they try to sell their homes to get out of the path of the train, they will not get anything close to what their property is worth because nobody is going to buy a house with a train going through the yard. The property values will decrease to next to nothing and thousands of people will lose what they have worked YEARS to create. I know this railroad will not affect any of you I am writing to, nor will it affect the people that are proposing it. But because it doesn’t affect you is NO REASON to vote this through. How would you like your property values to drop to nothing? How would you like your lifestyle taken away against your will? How would you like someone that lives nowhere near you or knows you tell you how you should live and what is “good for you”? How would you like someone to come in and ruin all you have worked your entire life for just for a few dollars? This is what you are doing to thousands of people and it is NOT RIGHT! The only way this railroad should even be considered is if everyone within a 10 mile radius the entire route vote yes for it, which will never happen, because as I have said, there are too many lives that will be ruined. This railroad is not the answer to what you say are problems. This will ruin thousands of lives. That is not worth ANY amount of money. The people proposing this mess will not be affected. If everyone involved in wanting this railroad put through would live in this area, have their lives ruined and lose all they have worked for their entire lives, then I would consider it, but they all will be untouched and therefore do not care how many lives they affect. This to me is criminal. For me, my family and all my farming friends and neighbors, we say NO!!! to this railroad. It is up to you in office to protect us and do what is RIGHT, not what is PROFITABLE!! Thank you Carol Hartman Rural Valparaiso, IN.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22820Jaret SchroederI am in opposition of the GLB Railroad Project and I am voicing my concerns through the attached essay. Thank you for your time and your consideration of my concerns.Trevor, WI
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(printed as 5/16/2016)CommentEI-22819Ken DaggettI am asking you to deny Mr. Patton a permit to build a railroad. Mr. Patton wants to take over 21,000 acres of the best farmland in the country and make it useless for any further farming activities. A farmer can make up to $1,000 and acre a year, after 20 years he will not make a dime off of his former land, and the rich investors will be making large amounts of money for many generations to come at the expense of the residents from air, water, land, and environmental pollution which is sure to happen. Why should farmers kill the goose that lays the golden egg? This land is valuable to everyone in the country, lets not give it away and destroy it forever. Mr. Patton said in Morris that he took his granddaughter to camp next to a railroad and he hinted he did not like it, how would he like to live next to it? Ken DaggettMorris, Il.
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22814James RobbThe GLB Railroad will 1. Disrupt by cutting off township roads 2. Slowing 1st Responders 3.Make farms less productive by dividing them even limiting access to land locked parcels 4. Disrupt waterfowl that heavily use the area nearby cooling lakes and rivers 5. Routing busy train tracks over the Kankakee River and through the Kankakee State Park 6. Disrupt decades old well established drainage. At one time this whole area was part of the Grand Kankakee marsh. Drainage problems are easy to aggravate, Trains and the construction of their tracks would most certainly be a problem 7. Seeing, hearing and feeling train traffic out our windows would definitely disrupt ours and many others lives.Essex, IL
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentJames Moody · Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22811James RobbI am a resident in Essex Township within 1/4 mile of the proposed GLB railroad. I am 100% disabled veteran with congestive heart failure. The railroad will very likely cause delays in getting an ambulance from Essex Volunteer Fire Department which will be on the other side of the tracks. Our neighbors will be affected also should any of us have an emergency of any kind. We suspect also that many of the rural roads in our area will be closed at the tracks as they are not well travelled other than local residents. These closures will cause even more delays that will likely lead to increased loss of life and loss of property as firemen, EMTs and police take longer to respond to emergency situations. The risks are too great for our community. Thanks you and it is my hope that the STB will agree that this is a great environmental risk to the residents affected.Essex, IL
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(printed as 5/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22809Debra RobbI have many concerns regarding the GLB Railroad. My home is 1/4 mile from the proposed train track. My husband Jim is a 100% disabled veteran with congestive heart failure due to agent orange exposure in Vietnam. My greatest concern is Should we need an ambulance I fear that the Essex volunteer Fire Department will be delayed due to train traffic to and from Essex Fire Station and I believe there is every likelihood also that our rural road and others will dead end at the tracks. Any delay due to confusion getting to us and delays due to trains could cost us precious time and make us and our neighbors less safe. It is my hope that the STB will deny the GLBT proposal due to the fact that it changes our Rural community's safety net significantly for any emergency.Essex, IL
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22808Lori AllisonI am very opposed to the GLB Railroad. I am concerned about the noise and vibration it will create. Also the impact it will have on the creeks, ponds, and all the wildlife. Please put a stop to this because it will have a negative effect on everything around it!Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/15/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22806Rebecca SherwoodI am absolutely appalled by the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad line. We spend every summer in Momence and have family with homes, farms, and businesses all over the area, that this project is threatening to destroy. Corporate greed will not win!Overland Park, KS
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22805Jason KokosMr. Navecky, Thank you for considering this message. I appreciate your consideration and my concerns over the environmental issues that this proposed GLBRR would cause to our area. I'm an avid fisherman, who fishes the Kankakee river. The wildlife habitat is extraordinary. I feel as if the river is not being considered in this matter. This proposed route would bring tons of pollution and oil that would permeate through the ground into local waterways that end in the Kankakee River, contaminating it to exponential levels. Tens of thousands of people rely on this river for their drinking water and daily lives. Assuming a railport of 15,000 acres is built in Sumner Twp decimating the town and community, where do the creeks, ditches, spillways, and run off get diverted to? Will water pipelines channeling this water into the Kankakee river be supplied all the way from this railport? Who will pay for that? If this is not the case, what about water backup in surrounding fields? Farmers in these areas have spent millions of dollars installing field drain tiles to take this water away from their field to not drown the precious crops that this nation survives on. Please consider this as an abomination and extremely detrimental to the environment. I appreciate your consideration. Thank YouGrant Park, IL
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-228041949I believe this would be a disaster for the economy of this area and uproot to many farms and other families from there homes even the railroads wont use it as unneeded as the third airport was and look at that mess please stop any further consideration since the railroads have stated they will not use this line if built!Ken SDmith · Peotone, Illinois
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22803Jeanette CarothersThe GLB RR route is very close to this patch of bluebells. We have nurtured (without any state or federal assistance)this 3-4 acre patch for as long as I can remember. Beaver, muskrat, rabbits, fox, coyote, deer, numerous birds, including bald eagles, etc pass through this property. It is my opinion that this railroad in not needed in Wisconsin, Illinois, or Indiana. I believe these pictures will tell anyone interested in the environment why this railroad should not be built. My question to the STB board is why should this company be allowed to keep the investors names secret? Thank you for your time. Sincerely, JeanetteEARLVILLE, IL
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22802Kelli ArseneauWe strongly oppose the proposed GLB Railroad. According to the map it will be in our backyard and run directly through my parents home and farm ground that has been in our family for over 100 years.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22801Maureen DeFioreI urge and request the STB pursue the no action alternative of denying the petition or application of GLBT due to the negative environmental, safety, social, and economic impact it would propose.South Chicago Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22800Tami SavoieI'm writing to ask you to please do a complete study on the environmental impacts of the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad project. Not only is this project not wanted, it isn't needed. There are other plans in place currently to correct the issues they are wanting to remedy. This railroad and railyard jeopardize not only the communities that it wants to pass through but the animals, wetlands, forests, and farmland. There have recently even been eagles spotted over our beautiful state park and Kankakee River, both of which are in the path of this railroad. The air quality will be ruined along the path, as will all the farmland. This project is claiming to bring convenience to these communities, but taking land from all the inhabitants that live here isn't convenient to anyone but them. I urge you to conduct a full study on behalf of all of us that will be affected, including those who can't ask for the help themselves. Thank you.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22799Kevin WhiteI am not in favor of the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line being built in my community of Manteno IL. I am a employee of the rail industry/and have seen the negative impact on communities and property values.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 5/15/2016)CommentEI-22798Melanie Hofstrom-WaiteHere is a link for you http://www.dailyliked.net/farmers-feed-the-world/clinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-24618Kenneth McCormick[see attached letters from Kenneth McCormick, dated between May 14, 2016, and June 9, 2016]
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22797Justin kokosThis proposed railroad will negatively effect waterways all where it passes. Soil will be disrupted, field drainage will be damages, natural creeks and streams will be ruined. This will also destroy habitats for many animals and creatures. This railroad will go through the Kankakee State Park which SHOULD NOT be touched. It will ruin the Kankakee River. The aesthetics of a railroad and the biggest railyard in the country would be horrendous. Do not grant an exemption to this project. KILL THIS PROJECT. This is eminent domain abuse!!!!kankakee, IL
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(printed as 5/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22795Ron HerlitzValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22793Hope OkeefeWe have property planted in alfalfa, as do our neighbors. We live within 1/2 mile of the proposed railway. My concern is that bees are affected by diesel fumes. Bees are essential for alfalfa pollination, clover, apples, peaches, pears, and many many other fruits and vegetables. And diesel fumes prevent the bees from smelling the flowers, therefore no pollination, no food for the bees, and the bees are dying. We already are experiencing the death of bee colonies, and someone is proposing to add more diesel fumes in an area where pollination of crops is essential? Kankakee county is a leading producer in many agricultural commodities. Not to mention the native plants and flowers in the Kankakee State Park that are dependent upon bees. Please ensure that a very thorough investigation and research is conducted prior to any decisions regarding this railroad that nobody in this county wants. thank you.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22792TAX PAYERDear STB, with the 15000 acre rail port being placed on top of Sumner Township, there must be thought given to the large areas of fields that would be rendered useless for agriculture production, the township would cease to exist and then the Village of Grant Park would also. The school system of Grant Park would be closed and the town of Grant Park would die off. There are centennial farms in this area and all along this proposed rail line. This project must be killed now, please kill the GLB RR project.julie kokos · grant park, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22791Prudence TokarzI wanted to draw the board's attention to the fact that if the water wells of Lowell would become contaminated; there is no water available to the town. Lowell sits in the Kankakee Watershed and they do not qualify for Lake Michigan Water (Valparaiso Moraine Watershed). Back in the early 1990's Lowell failed to meet Federal Rules on water quality and applied for permission for access to Lake Michigan water. They were denied. The commission that decides these cases are made up of U.S. States that circle the Great Lakes and also the Canadian Provinces that circle the lakes. So this is not only a denial from the federal government but from another county as well. This is taking the ONLY water source away from an whole town. The original denial letter is in the files of the town of Lowell (Denial sent to then Governor Evan Bayh (received May 13, 1992) and transfer and recorded in Lowell.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22790MaryLeigh ArndtI'm writing to state my opposition to the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad. The double tracks and trains would be very visible and audible from our home. We already have trains running perpendicular to the proposed line and they are close to our home and loud. We are concerned about even greater property taxes due to drainage costs or the opposite concern of plunging property values because no one will want to buy a house with a huge railroad right behind it. We also wish to keep the large amount of wildlife we enjoy with our rural setting. And finally, I question the motivation behind this plan. Is this the best plan to alleviate stated congestion in Chicago? Is it an overall benefit to add diesel exhaust pollution to thousands of acres of crops? And if this is so necessary, why am I seeing quotes in the newspaper from the developer saying how much fun" it is to work on this railroad. And "how many chances do you get in life to build a railroad"? This isn't a hobby!! And it isn't a model sitting on a table. It affects hundreds of properties and owners, farmers and roads, animals and crops."
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22789John & Cheryl ClemensDear Mr. Navecky: We are contacting you regarding the pending Great Lakes Basin Rail System, in hopes that you will not allow this railway to pass through Porter County. Should this railway go through Porter County as currently planned, it will travel within 500’ of our home and across prosperous and fertile farm land. The people in this area use wells for water, and this would severely pollute our water should an accident occur. If the spill involved chemicals or toxic material, it could be catastrophic. The repeated pollution emitted by these trains would also impact our soil over time; as stated in the Water, Air, and Soil Pollution research, “Railway transportation as a serious source of organic and inorganic pollution.” This article may be found at www.ncbI.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3096763. Our area depends on a volunteer fire department and small police force. They are not equipped to quickly and effectively provide for the needs of our community while handling all that is required when a train accident occurs. This would be especially true when the accident involved a chemical, toxic material spill, and or involved the need for immediate evacuation of the area involved. The CSX train accident that involved 3 trains and occurred on Friday, January 6, 2012, at 1:18 p.m., within 6 miles of my home is proof of this. The accident occurred at 1:18 p.m. and smoke did not begin to dissipate from the site until 5:30 p.m. Even though my home was within 6 miles of the accident and officials were unsure of what had been spilled and what may be floating in the air, I was still not notified of any danger. I was informed two hours after the accident occurred by my husband, who saw the accident on the news, while he was at work. Diesel fuel was spilled, but fortunately the train cars that had been carrying chemicals were empty. This accident occurred on a family’s fertile and prosperous farm land. If those tank cars had still contained chemicals, that farmers crops would have been contaminated, and it would have meant an end for that family’s income and those depending on that farmer’s crops. This accident occurred on a country road, so the impact of the road being closed for days was not as severe as it could have been. The families that were evacuated were minimum but it still impacted them. Some of them evacuated their home without remembering to bring their daily medications. What if they had been required to be gone for longer than the 8-9 hours? The trains that would be traveling on the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railway would be carrying multiple types of material, including chemicals. This railway would be affecting State Road 2, Route 6, and 421. These are the major roads for this area and are already traveled heavily by emergency vehicles, trucks, school busses, and those traveling in and out of Porter County. This additional rail system through Porter County would severely impact how long it took for ambulances to arrive to those in need as well as transporting them to area hospitals. It would also affect how quickly fire crews and/or police officers would arrive during an emergency. Many of our students are already on a school bus for over an hour each day, and the additional train tracks and trains would only lengthen that trip. Longer time on the school bus prevents students from getting homework done, getting needed physical activity, and in turn causes loss of sleep and affects the ability for students to learn. We do not have a trauma facility in this area and our hospital is not equipped to handle the kind of catastrophes that could occur from a train accident. Therefore all patients would be receiving reduced quality of care, especially when you compact this with delays in arrival due to the trains and train tracks. This would mean the difference between a patient getting better, permanent disability, or life and death. We have all seen the statistics of what happens to patient care when staff at a medical facility becomes overwhelmed. When you consider the number of freight trains that will be using this railway daily, the products that they will be carrying, and consider human error, you can see the potential for serious accidents. The increased trains and tracks will also cause increased pedestrian and auto injuries, as accidents always increase when you involve train tracks and people. Our child has asthma and allergies. According to an article from PubMed, “Effects of concentrated ambient particles and diesel engine exhaust on allergic airway disease in Brown Norway rats and Diesel exhaust particles exposure increases severity of allergic asthma in young mice“, both articles may be accessed at www.ncbI.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20198910 and www.ncbI.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24112543. The pollution emitted from trains traveling so close to our home would be terrible for his health, the health of our family, and our neighbors. The noise and vibration of repeated train traffic would also interrupt the sleep patterns, and overall health of everyone in the area. This information can be found at www.ncbI.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27030897, “Long-term transportation noise annoyance is associated with subsequent lower levels of physical activity” and “The growth of railway ground vibration problems- A review” at ww.ncbl.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed26493344. Both articles attribute noise and vibration of trains to those nearby contributing to loss of sleep and increased obesity. Loss of sleep contributes to increased accidents, loss of focus, and an increase in illnesses that cause loss of work and poor work performance. The repeated vibration caused by the trains has also been shown to change heart rhythm, and would cause heart problems to some individuals over time. All or any of the above issues would be devastating to our community. The railways have also been proven to decrease property value. When you consider all the negative ways that this railway system would impact people’s health, water, agriculture, safety, property values, and transportation system, you must agree that this railway would not bring any positive results for this community. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Mr. John Clemens Mrs. Cheryl ClemensWestville, IN
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22788julene auchstetterWhat is the chance of failure, another abandon R/R track in our area. How can GLBT be successful on a dream that doesn't have backing of any major R/R. Why would they a toll line when they own a line? What's the rush to unload, so it can set in a warehouse?peru, ill
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22787Angela SnowI would like to express my concern for the proposed rail project running through south Porter County. As a retired teacher at Morgan Twp. School, I am deeply troubled by the impact on our students and faculty. Because it is a rural small school, the majority of our middle and high school students either drive themselves or are driven by parents on a regular basis. We also have a large number of high school students who drive to other schools for vocational education. These are new teenage drivers who unfortunately are prone to take risks and drive distracted. Crossing railroad tracks on a daily basis increases the risk for tragic accidents. In addition, Morgan School is part of a 3-school corporation, so that moving the tracks 10 miles to the north or south will put them near other rural schools with similar populations. Those students who do ride the bus are already subject to long bus rides due to limited funding and a shortage of drivers. Railroad crossings will only increase these drive times and cause further logistical headaches in getting students to class on time. Also, I can tell you from experience that outside noise is a huge distraction to the classroom. These are K-12 schools so imagine the difficulties of redirecting attention from train whistles every 15 minutes. Finally, our Morgan Fire Station is located on the school grounds, meaning emergency response will be negatively affected by train crossings. I would ask that this project be rerouted to an area with less detriment to education and traffic safety. Thank you for your time. Angela SnowValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22786Lake County RailedPlease see attachments. First Attachment is cover letter for route alternative to GLBR route which is environmentally far better than the one proposed. The second attachment details the alternative route. I will submit a hard copy, too.John Bryant · Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22785Maureen DeFiorePlease BLOCK the GLB Railroad. Don't destroy our livesSouth Chicago Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 5/14/2016)CommentEI-22784Randal KlackleBased upon the current railroad statistics, adding more rail lines makes no sense. Total US rail traffic in April plunged 11.8% from a year ago, the Association of American Railroads reported today. Carloads of bulk commodities such as coal, oil, grains, and chemicals plummeted 16.1% to 944,339 units. For the first 17 weeks of the year, total rail freight fell 7.8% from the same period a year ago, with carload traffic down 14.3% and intermodal down 0.8%.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-23787Karen Gill[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-23777Delores Devine[see attached comment]
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22930Richard Allen
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(printed as 5/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22834Kay Johnson
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22831Mike Hertz
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22829Elizabeth Johnston
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22824Bill Breitsprecher
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22783Ken DaggettI am asking you to deny Mr. Patton a permit to build a railroad. This project will eliminate 6600 acres of the best grain producing land in the country, that is just the tracks and does not include the 15000 acre track in Manteno or any other spurs or borrow pits to obtain fill for the rails or for any other unforeseen need for land with the project. Ken DaggettMorris, Il.
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22782D Wilson[Valparaiso] I am writing to oppose the Great Lakes Basin Rail line. We live in Valparaiso Indiana and have 4 nieces that attend Morgan Township School, which is close to the proposed rail line. We attend many softball games and track meets at the school which will be impacted by the noise and vibration of the train going by. My nieces will also have to cross the tracks many times a day for extracurricular activities to and from their school and other schools on buses and in their own vehicles. Please consider all the students at Morgan, which is also a highly rated and sought after school in Indiana.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22781Darlene Cole-ConleyI moved out to Kankakee County to get away from the hustle and bustle. I live out in the country of Kankakee County and we love how quiet and peaceful it is. I do not want to hear a train going by every 13 minutes. I don't want to hear a train at all. I remember living in the city and on occasion we were evacuated do to hazard material spills. I travel 1 1/2 hours to go to my job just to have the peace and quiet I want and am use too. Please stop this train from coming through our beautiful town.Manteno, IL
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22780Kelsey WenzelmanGround water contamination will occur from this un needed rail system. Humans and wildlife need clean uncontaminated water for survival. GLB railway is one more source contributing to this problem. No clean water, no life.Bonfield, IL
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(printed as 5/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22778TAX PAYERMr. Navecky, the GLB railroad project must be stopped. I live in Sumner Township, the proposed 15000 acre rail port. How much field tile lines will be crushed from this and then it would affect the subsoil drainage. This is only one of many, many environmental hazards this would pose. Please kill this project now!!julie kokos · grant park, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22777Cheryl SarafinI am a resident of Morgan Township in Porter County, Indiana and am strongly opposed to the proposed GLB Railroad project. • It will create serious safety issues for road/rail grade crossings throughout southern Porter County as school children travel on buses and individuals go to and from work. • The potential threats of pollution in and drainage problems for the Kankakee River make the GLB Railroad project a danger to the health of the citizens of this area. The Kankakee River area is important for agricultural and residential drainage throughout both northern and southern Porter County. Wetlands and floodplains around the Kankakee River would also be affected by putting a railroad through southern Porter County. • The loss of farmland that would happen as a result of the railroad would cause serious negative impacts to the current economy of the region through the loss of farmland and lowered property values for the land that nearby. • Residents, workers, school children and others traveling through the area would be negatively affected by reduced air quality and increased noise pollution. • The current emergency response personnel and available equipment is not sufficient to adequately and safely handle any emergencies that might arise from the high level of rail traffic that would be travelling through the county every day. The current economic situation and budgets prevent fire, police and emergency departments from being able to upgrade or purchse the necessary equipment and increase their staff to handle emergencies. This adds an additional burden and creates additional safety concerns for those living, working and travelling in the areas that would be impacted by the GLR Railroad project.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22776Sherry BaughHebron, IN
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22775Patrick J DeFioreBlock GLBT railroad Do NOT destroy valuable farmland and put people off their propertiesSouth Chicago Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22774Justin kokosThe STB needs to make sure than an exemption to the GLB is NOT granted. A full environmental study needs to be completed or, better yet, kill the entire proposed project. No class 1 railroads support this proposal. The effects of farmland in Kankakee county would be abysmal. Not only would it destroy 4.5% of all farmland in Kankakee County, but it would affect field drainage, wetlands, landlock farmland, etc... These farmers livelihood is at stake and stands to be destroyed by eminent domain abuse. KILL THIS PROJECT. THIS IS EMINENT DOMAIN ABUSEkankakee, IL
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22773Robb Schultz[Kankakee] Concerns regarding the GLB Railroad; Increased amount of rail road crossings, Increased possibility of spills and derailments with high speed rail Permanent destruction of prime farmland Goes over/through the Kankakee State Park Possible ground water contamination due to spills and/or derailments Risk permanent damage to surrounding soil with transport of oil and chemicalsKankakee, il
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22772Carly WenzelmanI throughly care about the environment I live in and the environment we create for future generations.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22771Laura WenzelmanI oppose the proposed GLB Railroad! It's criminal to allow people/organizations to destroy productive farmland. Once it's destroyed there's no getting it back. There is only so much land. We can't make anymore so why continue to destroy it. Population is on the rise and taking productive farmland out doesn't make since. Not to mention what this change in environment will do to our local Bald Eagles!Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22770Michael W. HertzMr. Navecky I am a farmer in western Kankakee County, Illinois. The proposed line does not go through any real estate owned or farmed by me. But a farm owned and operated by my father and I located in section 27 of Essex Township has a drainage outlet tile that goes North through land owned by Jeffery King. The proposed rail would travel over this tile and most likely crush it. It is my understanding that the rail developers are not committing to repair or maintain the tiles that the rail would travel over. Without this outlet much of our land would be saturated and become unusable as productive farm ground. This obviously would create an economic hardship for us. In addition, the township road that serves Mr. King’s home could quite frankly suffer from water that would flow off of my farm as the natural flow is to the North. The rail would become a manmade damn impeding the natural flow of water. I respectfully request that the Great Lakes Basin Rail be denied approval. I appreciate your attention to this matter and ask that you email me with any questions or concerns.Buckingham, Illinois
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22769Maureen DeFiore[South Chicago Heights] Block the GLB - save the farmland!South Chicago Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22768Antonina WellsPlease block this railroad as it impact our communities emergency responders and farmers. The noise and air pollution with the destruction of natural wildlife and Farmer's fields and livestock is it permissible.Bonfield, Il
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22767Antonina WellsAs a resident of the affected glb Railroad I would like you to know my opinion. The railroad should be blocked as it will be damaging to our wetlands and a major concern for our volunteer emergency response teams. 95% of our calls in the last year would be impacted by volunteers trying to get to the Firehouse or the responder. An independent private sale should not be able to come through without considering the impact to our community. Not to mention the disruption to our water tables, Lance, air quality, noise pollution, vibration impacts, and probability of train accidents. AR Community is already rated with a very high risk because of our country roads and teen drivers.Bonfield, IL
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22766Vincent SimonI do not feel that this rail line is worth the destruction of the farmland it will pass through. Once an acre of top quality farm land is taken out of production, that acre can never be replaced. We only have so much farm land available for future food production, And we should do all we can to make sure that it is not destroyed. And the farm land in this part of Rock County Wisconsin is the best in the world. Rail line can go anywhere, but this type and quality of farm land can not be found everywhere. Please do not allow this rail line to cut through this top quality farm land.Janesville, WI
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22765Randy JohnsonI am writing in opposition to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. I feel that it will ruin thousands of acres of farmland by taking it out of production,crushing and blocking drainage tiles, and will alter the natural flow of water creating wetlands that are worthless. It will close many local roads, or create many crossings that will create a huge difference in response time for volunteer fire departments and ambulances. It will decrease values of all neighboring properties.Leland, Illinois
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22764Jason KokosMr Navecky, This proposal for the GLBRR is extremely detrimental to our environment. The pollution inhabiting the Kanakakee River, the damage to pipelines that are not being considered. The sheer addition of crossings, the safety concerns. As a Sumner Township resident I'd be wiped off the map. How is it that someone can request 15,000 acres, 5 times the size of the largest rail yard in this country. This would decimate a town, homes, community, churches, greenhouses, CEMETERIES!!! Please consider this as an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT!!!Grant park, il
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22761Ken DaggettI am asking you to deny Mr. Patton a permit to build a railroad. He clearly stated at the meeting in Morris that he would use RIF funds if they were needed. This is taxpayers money and I don't want my money used to build this railroad to help line the pockets of rich investors with our money. Ken DaggettMorris, Il.
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(printed as 5/13/2016)CommentEI-22699Anthony Voshell[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-25475Helen McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-25321Linda Hinkston[see attached letters received 5/11/16 and 5/12/16]
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-25254Mark and Pam Spurgeon[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-25244Village of Clinton[see attached letter]Chief David A. Hooker - Chief of Police, Acting Administrator
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-24750Kenneth McCormick[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-23776Eric Conway[see attached file]
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22818Jesse Funderburg
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22817Carol Hartman
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22760Laura WenzelmanI oppose the proposed GLB railroad because some school bus routes are already over an hour long for some Kindergarten students. Closing some township roads will cause these routes to be even longer in the morning and end of the day.Bonfield, Il.
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22759Justin KokosMy concerns with this railroad system are vast. My biggest concern, however, is safety. As I am a police officer and first responder. The increase in railroad crossings will only increase the time it takes for myself and other first responders can make it to calls for service. Which those extra seconds and minutes could mean someone's life. The potential for rail crossing accidents would increase exponentially in our area. I couldn't even imagine a railroad crossing accident with a filled school bus. The potential for spills is a big problem, as most of the townships and fire protection districts in my area are volunteer firegighters who are not trained to deal with such a catastrophe or problem. This railroad" is an enormous safety concener."Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22758Marsha TesdalOffice of Environmental Analysis 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Dave Navecky, Re: Docket FD35952_01 Mr. Navecky: I oppose the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line project. I would like to express my environmental concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project. My centennial 160 acre family farm in Grundy County,Illinois, will be bisected according to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation rail line route . My major concerns are the permanent destruction of prime farmland approximately 6,700 acres (20 acres per mile for 270 miles plus the rail yard proposed for the Manteno area of Kankakee County)and large fields will be divided in smaller pieces. Additional major public environmental issues which will affect prime farmland in Illinois include, but are not limited to: high speed train derailments of freight trains hauling hazardous toxic materials will cause toxic chemical spills on prime farmland which will permanently destroy the soil and render it useless for crop production; the rail line in the rural communities will cause much longer response times for police, fire and ambulance vehicles to respond to emergencies due to the increased length of time at railroad crossings and numerous township road closures and the numerous heavy trains will cause soil compaction and tile damage which will cause flooding of our prime farmland resulting in significantly decreasing the number of bushels per acres of corn and soybeans and loss of fertile topsoil. Finally, everyone in our community will be exposed to excessive noise, noxious odors, and intrusive bright lights throughout the day and night. The Surface Transportation Board in Washington DC must deny the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line project from being constructed on valuable prime Illinois farmland which will significantly impact the corn and soybeans production because large acres of prime Illinois farmland will be rendered useless and destroyed permanently. Marsha Tesdal 10925 Nettle Creek Road Grundy County, Newark, Illinois 60541Newark, Illinois
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22757Nina NetzleySTOP THE GLBR The interruption of traffic, the farm land being boxed in, more farm rail crossings, hundreds of miles of Right of Way to be sprayed with addition chemicals. Damage to fragile Eco systems along the route. Transversing steams and marshes, I know the promise of we will be good emissaries of the environment " will only last until full operation. You can't fix the damage once done !"Clyde Netzley
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22756Nina NetzleyThe proposed GLB railroad will make getting in and out of Rockford, Belvedere, Dekalb, Sycamore a much more dangerous trip for all who live in northern Dekalb and southern Boone and Winnibago counties. To add a BUSY railroad with all the crossings it will need will create a great number of additional driving hazards for local residents and farm vehicles. Let us not forget the multitudes of NIU students traveling back and forth from from there homes in the stateline. I have two railroads within two miles of my home and the Canada TAR SAND OIL pipeline next to my property. The GLBR calls tanker cars bursting open during a accident or derailment a SPILLAGE! This SPILLAGE would be cleaned up by environmental specialist! I have seen that work before in northern Illinois derailments!!! No one has a clue what to do! Evacuate and let it burn seems to be the plan. We in northern Illinois don't want to be violated by big business making promises that can't or won't keep! Stop the GLBR FD 359952 Clyde NetzleyClyde Netzley · Kingston, Illinois
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22755Rebecca ZeigerThe proposed railway could be devestating to our water resources at Morgan Township Elementary. If there was any sort of leak or spill from the train, our well water would become tainted. This is not healthy for our students or staff.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22754Rebecca ZeigerI am very concerned about the saftey of my students. The proposed rail line will interfere with bus routes and students being driven in cars to Morgan Township school. A potential train accident could cost young, innocent lives.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22753Rebecca ZeigerI am very concerned about the noise and vibration of the trains. I am a kindergarten teacher at Morgan Elementary, and I know the trians will be VERY distracting to my students. It will be especially distracting to my students with IEPs. For example, I have an autistic student this school year who would not be able to focus one bit everytime a train would pass through. I am very concerned about the noise and vibration and am against the rail line.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22751Andy CorbusDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing to ask you to consider holding an additional scoping meeting in Kankakee County Illinois. The only meeting held here was the first meeting in your series of scoping meetings. This of great concern for a couple of reasons: The public while given notice was not aware of the scope of this project. There was no press coverage or awareness of routes at that time. The meeting would not reflect sentiment, simply because this was an unknown. Unlike other projects of this magnitude, there has been very little transparency for this project prior to your meetings. I fear that the representation at a Kankakee meeting today, would be significantly different than what you experienced. The impact to this county, particularly in the areas around the state park and proposed rail yard should warrant additional conversation. I have spoken to several officials who were not aware of the meetings or the status of this project. Again, transparency has been very limited due to the private development of this project. I am grateful that you apply the scrutiny that you do and realize this is at your discretion, and hope you would earnestly consider this request. Sincerely, Andy CorbusBOURBONNAIS, IL
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22750Cook County Farm BureauJames Gutzmer · Countryside, IL
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22662Amy NystromHi Dave I hope that we were able to give you enough information about how this is completely not feasible in this location. I am sending you a few pictures so that you can see this is not just a farm, but a multimillion dollar estate that we are creating and working very very had at to leave a legacy for our children. I know you said you are not from the area, so I am sending you a few short videos so you can see that as far as a noise study, if more than 5 cars go by - it's a noise problem out here. Hopefully that will save you time and energy on a noise study in the area. We hope that all of you on the board and whoever else is involved in making the decision to allow this or not, realize what a great burden is put on your shoulders. Two men, who have no business running multiple tracks and hauling toxic material are asking you for permission to do so. In the heart of the Midwest. Frank doesn't understand that whether he wants a glass of milk, hamburger on the grill, or a fancy steak- he gets those options because of the people he is trying to destroy. We hope you see there is NO public need for this. This is only money in some pockets and some unwanted tax dollars maybe. The burden placed on you guys is either the decision to help Frank and Jim single handedly destroy tens of thousands of innocent people that have dedicated their lives to helping the environment and feeding our children, or telling them NO. It's really easy to see the right answer here. More studies are not even needed. The environmental impact here would be catastrophic! Please don't be bullied by people above you to push this through. You seem very genuine. And I'm a pretty good judge of character. Please do the moral, ethical and environmental duty you have in front of you and say NO. I'm a trauma nurse in the operating room across town and we have a saying that is also very appropriate here- just because you can do it- doesn't mean you should. It doesn't matter if Warren Buffet is behind this. The environmental impact that this project would have is astronomical. The answer is clear here- NO. Sorry Frank. Games Over. Please let me know that all of the packet of information and pictures I gave you at the meetings will become part of the record. Please let me know as soon as this will be moved from MP 186-188. My husband is physically sick over this. Please call me or email me anytime. Thanks Dave Amy Nystrom 815-509-0445 anenjn@yahoo.com Sent from my iPhone [no files attached]
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22659Larry JohnsenThere is a new railroad route being proposed through Illinois. The location being proposed will interfer with services like Fire Department and Ambulance services to the areas west of the proposed route. Today all services come out of Morris Illinois and it there is a train on any of the tracks those services will be delayed. If this route is installed the rail company should provide a fully staff and equipped fire station and ambulance service for when access is inhidited by a passing train.
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22657Justin kokos[kankakee] Mr. Navecky, Let it be known to you, the Surface Transportation Board, Frank Patton and any government agencies/private investors who plan to move forward with the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This is middle America. The heart, soul and backbone of this country. And the people who live here, well, they aren't weak minded people who will be taken advantage of or roll over at the mercy of the government/railroad. While there may be some who wish to sell quickly and leave, the vast majority would rather die fighting for their land and home than take some cheap buy-out". We are not to be pushed around and trampled on. This is our land. These are our homes. This is our right and our freedom. "When the people fear the government, there is tyranny. When the government fears the people, there is Liberty" -Thomas Jefferson And these people in the path of this bullshit railroad ought to be feared. For we will not go quietly."
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22656James BrossmanI own farm land in the potential path of the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad and I wish to express my opposition to the project for the following reasons: 1. )The proposed railroad will significantly disrupt farming operations by restricting farmers from accessing their land. While the project developer has boasted that he will pay double the going rate for farmland, this will not be adequate compensation for the permanent operational disruptions caused when an existing farm is divided by a railroad. In addition, the project developer is not providing compensation for the reduction in value to the surrounding land where access is limited by his track. 2.) Based on the proposed route, bypassing Chicago and other populated areas, the proposed line will be a logical choice for high hazard cargo such as crude oil shipments headed to BP's Whiting, IN refinery and other refineries to the east. In recent years rail accidents involving shipments of crude oil have resulted in significant loss of life and property; in addition to environmental damage . A large percentage of the cargo on this rail is likely to be crude oil and other hazardous materials that are not destined for the Chicago area. When reviewing the risks of this project I believe the STB must recognize the high percentage of hazardous cargo that will be transported on the proposed route. 3.) It is my understanding that the developer is requesting the government to use its eminent domain authority for their benefit. I strongly oppose this action. Unfortunately, it has become a common occurrence for a government body to seize private property and provide that property to another party for their private use. While eminent domain is a necessary authority for projects that truly benefit the public (such as a highway or a public school) its use to enrich private parties such as railroads is an abuse of the government's authority.Oswego, IL
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22655RANDALL MAU[BONFIELD] I am concerned about the increased risk of pollution to the soil, surface water, well water and the air by hazardous materials. Currently there is very minimal risk of any of this because of our location away from major railroads or highways. The risk would would be substantially increased with a major railroad passing through my community. The projected path is less than 1/4 mile from my home and less than one mile from our local public school.BONFIELD, Illinois
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(printed as 5/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22653Carol HartmanI am writing this letter in protest against the proposed GLB Railroad. There are several reasons why I’m against the proposal. The main reason would be the impact on the way of life for the many people along the proposed route. I have lived in the country all but 13 years of my life. The 13 were spent in Valparaiso. I moved back to the country because it is a way of life. That is why we all live out here. Many people don’t mind the traffic, pollution, noise and crime that most cities endure, but the people that live out in the country choose the quiet, fresh air way of live for a reason. My family and most of my friends own farms. Farming is a way of life that is important to us all, even to the people that are trying to take that away from us. I personally know several families that own farms along the proposed route that will interfere with their livelihood. Most of those farms have been in their families for generations and for someone to come in and just take their land and their lifestyle away is appalling at best. If this railroad goes through, it will affect the crops, livestock, water supply, air quality as well as the noise impact. People out in the country have wells for the water we drink. Running a railroad through here will only contaminate our wells. What are we supposed to drink then? What are we supposed to feed to our livestock? What about the air pollution? We moved here to get away from the pollution from things like trains. The noise and vibrations will negatively affect our livestock and crops as well. How many homes are you planning on seizing and destroying? How many churches? How many of those places are consider historic? The potential for train accidents that involve hazardous materials is beyond frightening. We have all seen on the news where there are train derailments along a seemingly safe area out in the country with hazardous materials. The news people always comment on “how lucky they are that it was in a rural area”. But what they never mention is the impact of that rural area in regards to the contamination of livestock and water after the accident. No one does studies on how that all affects the people in that area. The soil around that area will be contaminated simply from the oils and fuels that come off the train. The pond, lakes and streams too will become contaminated which will impact the wildlife in our area as well. The construction of this railroad is another story in itself. The time it will take and the devastating effect on the surrounding area of the work site is something no one wants to see. Our roads cannot handle the traffic it will take to get the hundreds of thousands of loads of stone and materials to the sight. What is going to happen then? Who is going to fix those roads? Where is the money going to come from for those roads? Also, who is going to benefit from all this construction? I’m sure it will not be locals. It will probably be some out of state business and will be absolutely no help to the people of Indiana. You are the people we have voted into office. The people we are trusting to do the right thing for US, not some rich corporation that will “owe you one” if you put this railroad through. There is not one person I have talked to that thinks this is a good idea. You say the reason is because of the delays it takes to get through Chicago. There is a simple solution to that. You know how long it takes to get through that area, simply allow for that time. It’s the same thing when receiving anything from overseas. You have to allow for the travel time. This is no different. The people that own houses, not farms will also be affected in a terrible way. If they try to sell their homes to get out of the path of the train, they will not get anything close to what their property is worth because nobody is going to buy a house with a train going through the yard. The property values will decrease to next to nothing and thousands of people will lose what they have worked YEARS to create. I know this railroad will not affect any of you I am writing to, nor will it affect the people that are proposing it. But because it doesn’t affect you is NO REASON to vote this through. How would you like your property values to drop to nothing? How would you like your lifestyle taken away against your will? How would you like someone that lives nowhere near you or knows you tell you how you should live and what is “good for you”? How would you like someone to come in and ruin all you have worked your entire life for just for a few dollars? This is what you are doing to thousands of people and it is NOT RIGHT! The only way this railroad should even be considered is if everyone within a 10 mile radius the entire route vote yes for it, which will never happen, because as I have said, there are too many lives that will be ruined. This railroad is not the answer to what you say are problems. This will ruin thousands of lives. That is not worth ANY amount of money. The people proposing this mess will not be affected. If everyone involved in wanting this railroad put through would live in this area, have their lives ruined and lose all they have worked for their entire lives, then I would consider it, but they all will be untouched and therefore do not care how many lives they affect. This to me is criminal. For me, my family and all my farming friends and neighbors, we say NO!!! to this railroad. It is up to you in office to protect us and do what is RIGHT, not what is PROFITABLE!! Thank you Carol Hartman Rural Valparaiso, IN.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22652TAX PAYERAside from all of the environmental concerns this project poses, if the government or Frank Patton or anyone from this project thinks they are going to bulldoze my home, it will be over my DEAD BODY!!!! What about the stress this proposal is causing the people it will impact???? To take people's land, farms, homes etc is unjust, unfair and un-American!!!!!Julie Kokos · grant park, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22651Jason KokosMy concerns are the safety and hazardous conditions of implementing a railyard and freight train line. New research from federal scientists has found that levels of diesel soot in residential areas near the BNSF Intermodal Facility frequently spike higher than the national average for urban areas. The study, the first of its kind in Chicago, sheds light on health hazards posed by freight yards that are concentrated in some of the area's poorest communities. You wonder if somebody's exhaust pipe is in your window," said Foster, a retired nurse who has lived across from the west suburban yard for three years. "On some days you can smell the fumes. It's hard on our system." The Cicero yard is among more than a dozen facilities in Chicago and the suburbs where giant cranes move steel containers between trains and trucks. Nearly 340,000 people, including 38,000 children younger than 7, live within a half-mile of one of the intermodal terminals, according to a Tribune analysis of census data. More than 80 percent are Latino or African-American. Diesel exhaust from the equipment contributes to the Chicago area's chronic problem with soot pollution, which can trigger asthma attacks, cause heart damage and take years off lives. Federal officials say they have little power to do anything about it. Unlike factories and power plants, the diesel locomotives and trucks maneuvering around or passing through freight yards aren't subject to federal rules that require the latest pollution controls. New or refurbished diesel engines must be cleaner, but many older locomotives and other equipment can legally keep operating for years. Chicago has been a major rail hub since the 1800s, prompting decades of conflict between industry demands and the quality-of-life concerns of neighboring residents. The South and Southwest sides remain critical junctions in a freight system that today relies on modular containers exchanged between ships, rail cars and trucks. More than 7 million containers were transferred at Chicago area intermodal terminals in 2012, according to the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning. Railroads promote the system as a economic engine that employs thousands and cuts pollution by reducing truck traffic. Most of the companies that operate freight yards in the area say they have been taking steps to reduce diesel pollution. "BNSF has continued to install cleaner diesel technology on numerous vehicles, including shuttle trucks, container cranes and switch engines," Amy Casas, a company spokeswoman, said in an email response to questions. Recent efforts to clean up aging locomotives and other freight equipment come as scientists increasingly raise alarms about the health costs of diesel pollution. Breathing even small amounts can inflame the lungs and trigger asthma attacks, studies have shown. Other research links exposure to cancer, heart attacks, brain damage and premature death."
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(printed as 5/12/2016)CommentEI-22650Ken DaggettIt is plainly obvious that Mr. Patton has no compassion, concern, or grip on reality about the affect his project has on the everyday lives of hundreds of thousands of people. He said about two people getting killed on a rail crossing if people want to commit suicide they will find a way to do it" how cold hearted can he get? All he wants is to leave a legacy for future generations and make money for his rich investors without consideration of the legacy all the landowners want to leave to their families. He said in his opinion real estate value will not decrease , what kind of bubble is he living in? The property value for miles on either side of the tracks will decrease. This man has no grip on reality!!!! His business dealings are very suspect, he will not answer direct questions, and when he does not want to answer he goes on to the next question, why, does he not know the answer or is he trying to hide something? THIS MAKES YOU BELIEVE YOU CANNOT TRUST HIM!!!! You need to deny this man a permit because he is not trustworthy and is trying to hide many things from ALL of us, you included!!! Ken Daggett"
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(printed as 5/11/2016)CommentEI-25249Mr. and Mrs. David Brzycki[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/11/2016)CommentEI-22816Clerk, Beetown Townshup, WISharon Bontreger
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(printed as 5/11/2016)CommentEI-22649Biggs AppraisalI applaud the Great Lakes Basin Transportation concept as great out of the box thinking and a solution to a mired of rail related problems that Metro Chicago faces daily. If no other environmental improvement is taken into consideration the major reduction of locomotive operating hours at low speed and idling in the Chicago Metro area is environmental reason enough to comment in the affirmative for this project.Edward Biggs · Marietta, GA
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(printed as 5/11/2016)CommentEI-22648Kathleen BessenDear Sir; I vehemently oppose the GLBR project. It is an unconscionable endeavor to literally steal people's land. Our family farm is priceless to us. I am a 4th generation farmer on the ground my family has farmed for 147 years. In 2019 we will be recognized as a sesquicentennial farm. We will fight this project allowing a private entity to use eminent domain for private gain. Our farm is first and foremost, our family home. We farm, and also run a state licensed hunting preserve. This railroad would destroy both businesses we have worked for our entire lives. It is wrong to continue to develop valuable farm ground. We are not a disposable commodity. Sincerely, Joe and Kathleen (Maher) Bessen 5195 E Goodfarm Rd Gardner, IL 60424Gardner, IL
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(printed as 5/11/2016)CommentEI-22647mary auchstetterIt doesn't take a team of professional environmental specialist to see the harm GLBT will cost the natural resources of the Nation. Put all the maps to gether and see the over hundreds of thousands of food growing acres that will be destroyed. Abandon R/R track can never be put back to level of prior productivity. ( I know we have abandon IC on a farm) thank youperu, illinois
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(printed as 5/11/2016)CommentEI-22646Patricia MussmanDocument No. FD 35952 Environmental Comment By following the proposed rail line by the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Co. LLC (GLBT) I can see serious flaws in the route they have designated. Because Frank Patton has stated that he wants to avoid major cities and populated areas he has assumed that no matter where he drew his line through the country side it would be good for him and his project. He gave no thought to unintended consequences caused by his choices. There are numerous consequences. 1. Proximity to schools creates danger, health risks, and distractions, extended time on school busses, air pollution and noise pollution. It also slows response times to incidents for emergency services. 2. How does this project plan to deal with existing rail lines that it will have to cross in at least five (5) different locations? Do they have a plan to go over or tunnel under these lines? With and expected number of trains reaching one hundred ten (110) per day they can’t possibly intersect them and cross them like road traffic does. 3. Where the rail line proposes to cross State Route 2 east of I-65 in Indiana it will create serious problems with traffic. It will also cross State Route 2 again in Porter county making the traffic on that road between Lowell and Hebron as well as Valparaiso. If they do an overpass over Route 2 in Porter County Farmers driving combines or tractors attached to large tillage tools will be an accident waiting to happen. The bridge would be too narrow for them to meet oncoming traffic. 4. Where the rail line crosses Route 2 east of I-65 it is next to two major truck stops. With semi traffic at two major truck stops causing backups that could extend onto I-65. It will create a barrier restricting west bound traffic from getting to both I-65 and the town of Lowell. A freight train that could be from seventy (70) to one hundred (100) cars per train with the proposed number of trains passing through there every thirteen (13) minutes it could conceivably kill the town of Lowell. It would restrict growth and could cause people to leave severely hurting the economy of the area. 5. Loss of income from farm production will also cripple the economy in the area. 6. Potential water contamination through spills of toxic and hazardous materials into the ground and field tiles that drain into the Kankakee River would be devastating to ground water (aquafer), to flora and fauna. This is a very real and serious problem. 7. The proximity to state and county parks will destroy programs that are designed for the preservation of historical artifacts, native grasses and historical sites. Also wildlife and flora. 8. The observatory south and east of Lowell would be irreparably damaged by the placement of the rail line. Purdue University along with the historical society and other people and organizations has spent large sums of money on this awesome and valuable facility. 9. The proposed route this rail line has selected has bisected farms it impossible in some cases to reach the landlocked parcels creating a hardship and serious financial losses for the farmers. The land would be unable to be accessed or sold so it would become worthless. It would create a fire hazard since it would grow up into weed and grass fields. During dry weather sparks from the rails could start fires. Another danger to the environment that could create serious problems for the volunteer fire departments all across the area. 10. The Pinney-Purdue Research Farm near Wanatah, Indiana could lose up to seventy five (75) acres of its six hundred thirty four (634) acre farm. This farm straddles the Porter – La Porte County Line that train is expected to use will destroy seventeen (17) years of research on some projects, destroy the farms ability to use its very costly irrigation equipment since the center pivots can’t cross railroad tracks. There are many other examples of unintended consequences that I have failed to mention. What I have done is site just a few examples but I hope the Surface Transportation Board (STB) can see that at every turn there is something that will negatively impact the environment and the economy of the area. For these reasons I would like the STB to deny this project. I have also attached the news story reporting on the problems for the Purdue Research farm that will be caused by GLBR. Thank you for your consideration. Patricia Mussman West Creek Township, Lowell INLowell, IN
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(printed as 5/11/2016)CommentEI-22645TAX PAYERPlease deny the application of GLBT!!! I am a land owner in the proposed rail yard" site. Please deny any use of eminent domain as it is unjust. This project would have a negative impact on the environment, safety and lives and lively hood of the citizens that reside near or on the path of the rail line. Please stop this now."julie kokos
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(printed as 5/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-23247T. Forburger[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-23246T. Forburger[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-23245Peter E. Pratt[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22815Daniel and Patricia Haag
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22745Andy Corbus
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(printed as 5/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22700Anthony Voshell[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22698Helen McCormick[see attached file]
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22697Robert and Carol Heath[see attached comment]
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22644Sparkling LightsSee attachment. Can you let us know if you got this pleaseRon Meyers · Westville, Indiana
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22643Dalton JacksonClinton, Wisconsin (WI)
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22642Mike HerlitzThe proposed route runs through my farm at a slight angle. Angles create extra costs and decrease production on the remaining farm. The route should run parallel to property lines whenever possible. Document Attached.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22641Daniel KloosThe risk from creosote railroad ties: The most common exposure to creosote is via direct skin contact with creosote contaminated soil. Thus, exposure of local residents to creosote on railroad ties could come via the following vectors: Children – playing around or NEAR tracks and ingesting creosote laden dirt via unwashed hands. Children or adults breathing vapors from freshly treated railroad ties or water soaked from heavy rains or ties in standing water and water evaporating into the atmosphere. *note that all of the above also apply to utility poles, bridges, and fence posts that would be installed or used alongside railroad lines. And finally, anyone or anything (animals) who drinks ground water that is contaminated by creosote is at risk. This risk would be dependent on how much creosote is present and where the water comes from. For example, if you are dealing with a single set of old train tracks near your house and a municipal water system, the likelihood of contamination is going to be low. But, if you are dealing with NEWLY INSTALLED 6 TRACK RAILROAD like the one proposed, creosote laden ties, this would present a much HIGHER RISK. Drinking water that is taken from groundwater near railroad facilities are at a much higher risk of being contaminated with creosote. This is of particular concern where drinking water supplies are unregulated, such as in rural areas and where people have private wells." This contaminant is not going to stay within the designated railroad right away it is going to migrate into the existing field tiles and make its way to the waterways that these filed tiles are draining to and in turn contaminate that water source too. The people that will be impacted from this railroad are not just the ones being forced to live next to it will be anyone that gets its drinking water from these waterways. Brief exposure to large amounts of coal tar creosote may result in a rash or severe irritation of the skin, chemical burns of the surfaces of the eye, convulsions and mental confusion, kidney or liver problems, unconsciousness, or even death. Longer exposure to lower levels of creosote can also result in increased sensitivity to sunlight, damage to the cornea, and skin damage such as reddening, blistering, or peeling. Longer exposures to the vapors of the creosotes can also cause irritation of the respiratory tract. Skin cancer and cancer of the scrotum have also resulted from long exposure to low levels of this chemical. The risks are much higher if you are exposed to it in groundwater, food, air, or soil. Please don't allow this railroad to destroy the lives of the people, animals and waterways. Deny them from moving forward."
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22640Village of CapronPlease find attached a resolution passed by the Board of Capron on 5.9.16 and there current position on the GLB railroad.Laura Pisarcik · Capron, IL
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22639Garry Junker[grant park] Land is a limited resource--why take the best land knowing it can never be replaced out of production. If we look to the future as Mr. Patton says we should then I ask how will we continue to produce more food to meet world needs?grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22638Garry Junker[grant park] Why alter the environment with this project when the use of rail traffic is going down every year? Also the CREATE project has already started so why institute another project--especially when no railroads have committed to it.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22637Garry Junker[grant park] The creation of smaller fields will create more compaction problems due to shorter rows as well as increase planting times as well as harvest times.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22636Garry Junker[grant park] People living in the path of this project chose to live here because of the rural environment or to farm--this project will cause some to move or at the very least make the lives of those in the path less desirable or more difficult to farm.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22635Garry Junker[grant park] This project will lead to decreased value of homes, loss of homes, decreased value of farmland and property, making some areas less desirable for living, causing people to move thereby hurting entire communities.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22634Garry Junker[grant park] This project will result in the disturbance of approximately 24 acres of land (mostly agricultural) per mile of track--permanently taking some of the best agricultural land out of production.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22633Garry Junker[grant park] This project will cause the natural grade of the land to be disrupted most likely causing changes in the flow of surface water,forming of ponds, wetlands etc.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22632Garry Junker[grant park] Road closings or stubs will lead to increased times to get to work, fields,towns,etc. and could also make access to some fields inaccessible. Land compaction during construction will also be a problem--hurting yields, farmability, etc.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22631Garry Junker[grant park] Maintenance of the easement for this project could lead to the use of hazardous chemicals to control weeds, etc.that will also be hazardous to humans as well as wildlife, farm animals ,etc.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22630Garry Junker[grant park] This project will strip farmland of its intended use. Alterations of creek banks,ditches, etc. will affect drainage especially during large rain events.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22629Garry JunkerClosing or stubbing of roads will put more farm equipment on faster moving roads setting up the possibility of more accidents.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22628Tom & Rita Pattersonwww.stb.dot.gov, click E-filing, select Environmental Comments (refer to docket No. FD35952) Dave Navecky (OEA project mgr., 395 East St. SW Washington DC 20423001 Great Lakes Basin rail freight line proposal (docket No. FD35952). Most respectfully, I ask that you exert pressure on the Surface Transportation Board in Washington D.C. to stop Great Lakes Basin rail from taking our farmland for freight train tracks that would traverse our county. Please take measures to prevent this tragedy to the farmland and the lifestyle that surrounds it. Its purpose says Frank Patton founder and managing partner of Great Lakes Basin Transportation (GLBT) is to eliminate freight train congestion in Chicago. He speaks of how it would be a great economic boon to the region but in reality the only boon would be to GLBT and the intermodal rail yards in LaPorte (Kingsbury), Indiana. A developer like Patton convinces government entities to take private property for redevelopment and do it for the “public good.” Landowners new to this type of proceeding have little in the way of resources to protect themselves. Eminent domain favors large businesses who abuse the original intent of the law. In short the law can be used for private profit in the name of public benefit. Now Patton intends to use the law for “the public good” to improve shipping around Chicago. From a general viewpoint of the landowner or farmer, it’s an ongoing matter of lifestyle versus monetary gain—a fight to protect the farm, the country lifestyle, and the environment against the forces of expansion. The tracks would affect farming, drainage, waterways and water resources, wildlife, environment and biological resources as well as impact soils, land use, air quality, noise and vibration. They would create delays on highways, block emergency access, affect public safety, and entrance to schools, towns, and homes. Every mile across the county has a county road north and south that the freight train would cross. Originally GLBT talked of over and under passes for traffic but facts seem to indicate most country and state roads will be traversed by ground level railroad crossings. Smaller country roads will simply dead end because of the liability to the railroad. Farmers will be forced to use main roads to move equipment. These trains will be hauling everything and firemen are concerned of spills and derailments. The trains will pass close to several schools and through the Pinney Purdue Agricultural center. Surely the GLBT can utilize existing trucking routes and rail lines running along the north end of the counties. The lifestyle of those who have farmed the land depend on the Surface Transportation Board denying the freight line proposal. The farming lifestyle still thrives across Indiana. It is the bedrock and the foundation of family, work and the economic livelihood of the state. It is too precious to jeopardize with such a scheme that only benefits railroads, truckers and developers like Frank Patton who do not care about the land. Sincerely, Thomas Patterson 352E. 900 South Kouts, IN 46347Kouts, IN
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22627Barbara GoetzI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railway due to air quality and noise pollution. I run a small business in Lowell Indiana that provides hotel accommodations for pets. I purposely purchased my property 20 years ago looking for a quiet relaxing setting for animals to be housed while their owners travel. The randomness and volume of train whistles and vibrations can be depilating for pets, especially those rescue animals. Due to the volume of trains expected, the amount of crossings and non-signal rural roads the volume of whistles has increased. Constant noise and vibration can put our boarders on edge, which causes many safety concerns for my staff and animals. The pollution caused by running many trains will effect air quality and also ground water drainage which is where we get our only viable water source. We get very high winds in this area which is why we have a wind farm very close. Contamination due to any type of railroad spill will quickly pass through the lower county. In closing this rail line is not putting our best foot forward to continue on the path to change our countries dependence on fossil fuels. We must all work together and move forward to put less impact on our food, air and ground. Keeping our environment safe, clean and healthy for generations of animals and people to thrive. Thank you.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22626Barbara GoetzI wish to voice opposition to the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. This rail line could put into jeopardy our only drinking water sources. Since the surrounding area is all serviced by private wells with no other options. Changing water drainage or possibility of contaminating our water supply could leave us without viable drinking water for our homes and in my case my business. In the twenty years I have lived here road changes alone have caused many properties to have drainage and well issues. This very diverse community of farms and properties all have different well depths due to soil and sand conditions. The rail line could block natural water flow which then directly impacts our well systems. In the event of an derailment everything south of the rail line wells would easily be impacted and polluted. Once again I would like to explain we have no other options for water. Even our closest town of Lowell is all on a well system that one Great Lakes Basin Map was cutting right through. This is just one of the many environmental concerns I have. Please note that water is essential for life and not optional and keep that thought in the forefront of your decision. Thank you!Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 5/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22624Tom PattersonDave Navecky (OEA project mgr., 395 East St. SW Washington DC 20423001 Great Lakes Basin rail freight line proposal (docket No. FD35952). Most respectfully, I ask that you exert pressure on the Surface Transportation Board in Washington D.C. to stop Great Lakes Basin rail from taking our farmland for freight train tracks that would traverse our county. Please take measures to prevent this tragedy to the farmland and the lifestyle that surrounds it. Its purpose says Frank Patton founder and managing partner of Great Lakes Basin Transportation (GLBT) is to eliminate freight train congestion in Chicago. He speaks of how it would be a great economic boon to the region but in reality the only boon would be to GLBT and the intermodal rail yards in LaPorte (Kingsbury), Indiana. A developer like Patton convinces government entities to take private property for redevelopment and do it for the “public good.” Landowners new to this type of proceeding have little in the way of resources to protect themselves. Eminent domain favors large businesses who abuse the original intent of the law. In short the law can be used for private profit in the name of public benefit. Now Patton intends to use the law for “the public good” to improve shipping around Chicago. From a general viewpoint of the landowner or farmer, it’s an ongoing matter of lifestyle versus monetary gain—a fight to protect the farm, the country lifestyle, and the environment against the forces of expansion. The tracks would affect farming, drainage, waterways and water resources, wildlife, environment and biological resources as well as impact soils, land use, air quality, noise and vibration. They would create delays on highways, block emergency access, affect public safety, and entrance to schools, towns, and homes. Every mile across the county has a county road north and south that the freight train would cross. Originally GLBT talked of over and under passes for traffic but facts seem to indicate most country and state roads will be traversed by ground level railroad crossings. Smaller country roads will simply dead end because of the liability to the railroad. Farmers will be forced to use main roads to move equipment. These trains will be hauling everything and firemen are concerned of spills and derailments. The trains will pass close to several schools and through the Pinney Purdue Agricultural center. Surely the GLBT can utilize existing trucking routes and rail lines running along the north end of the counties. The lifestyle of those who have farmed the land depend on the Surface Transportation Board denying the freight line proposal. The farming lifestyle still thrives across Indiana. It is the bedrock and the foundation of family, work and the economic livelihood of the state. It is too precious to jeopardize with such a scheme that only benefits railroads, truckers and developers like Frank Patton who do not care about the land. Sincerely, Thomas & Rita Patterson 352E. 900 South Kouts, IN 46347Kouts, IN
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22623Tri Creek Ambulance BoardThe board of the Tri Creek Ambulance Service met Monday evening May 9, 2016 to discuss and vote on a resolution opposing the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. The resolution is attached. Harold Mussman, Jr. Vice President Tri Creek Ambulance Board.Harold Mussman, Trustee · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22582Daniel KloosProposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line: The chemicals that railroad ties are treated with can pose a problem to private & community water wells. One common treatment is creosote, an insecticide, sporicide, miticide and fungicide that penetrates deeply into pressure-treated wood for a long time. The creosote may ooze out, leeching the soil and killing plants, insects and small animals. Creosote also pollutes the local watershed and can be dangerous to health with prolonged or frequent contact. Wood oozing creosote should be disposed of immediately as municipal solid waste. Wood coated in chromated copper arsenate (CCA), which appears green, can be even more dangerous. This preservative protects against rotting with chromium, copper and arsenic, and it is a common alternative to creosote for treating railroad ties. The arsenic in the wood is toxic, making it a danger to plants and wildlife that have prolonged contact with it. CCA- treated railroad ties should be disposed of through municipal means. Soil surveys that are taken along other railroad right aways come back with additional severe issues such as lead and arsenic. These harmful chemicals can be left behind in freight corridors, as they are produced from coal ash and cinder. Severity and extent of contamination will not be known until it is too late and entire towns will be devastated. These issues are from regular train traffic and do not even begin to address what will happen if there is a train derailment. With these areas having very extensive underground drainage pipes to control the ground water in the fields this contamination can be spread far beyond the proposed railroad right away. For these reasons alone you should not allow the construction of the proposed rail line. You have ability to stop this from happening by denying the request to construct this railroad.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22581julie kokosI have seen over 52 pages of government agencies, elected officials, interested parties and Indian Tribes that were notified and asked for their opinion on the GLBRR. Why weren't the residents notified?? The people who live in the homes and land that would be destroyed???? I live in Sumner Township in Kankakee County. This needs to stop now! Before another penny of taxpayer money is spent on this nonsense of Frank Patton's legacy"!!! "grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22580Joseph BessenGLBT claim that farmers could load product on there own property is a complete fantasy as a loading facility would cost 15.000.000 plus. Also their are at least 4 loading facilities within 20 miles in Grundy County and many of the other counties affected.Building more would be a waste of land and money.Gardner, Il
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22579Patricia MussmanDocket No. FD 35952 Environmental Comment The CDC and other health organizations have determined that children living near or spending large amounts of time near rail lines and trains are considerably more likely to suffer from asthma. We already have several existing rail lines in our area and most of them do not go past schools and subdivisions. By allowing the building the new rail line proposed by the Great Lake Basin Transportation Company LLC (GLBT) it endangers the health of a very large number of children. The route the GLBT has selected travels very close to a large number of schools and several nice homes and subdivisions thus putting children in danger of developing asthma. Noise and land vibration creates a problem for children and their concentration in school and families by disrupting football, soccer and baseball games due to noise pollution. Sleep disruptions from train noise is real and can cause numerous problems in children and adults. The proposed rail line projects that it will carry one hundred ten (110) trains per day or up to one (1) train every thirteen minutes. Air pollution is a real issue again for the same reasons. Poorly maintained engines emit dangerous air pollutants into the air and the environment creating serious health hazards to the people living, working or going to school near the rail line. We would therefore ask the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to deny this proposed rail lines ability to proceed. Thank you for your consideration. Patricia Mussman West Creek Township Lowell, IndianaLowell, IN
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22578Joe BessenAs a farmer I would like to urge that the STB take the no action alternative and deny GLB'S request. A train every 12 minutes @ 70 MPH would make it imposible to use the private crossings with farm equipment to get to the many land locked peices of property that their pruposed route would create. Thank You for giving me the chance to commentGardner, IL
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22577Jason KokosHello Mr. Navecky, Thank you for considering this message and position. Today I'd like to discuss my concern for safety regarding the proposed GLBR. Our communities are small and very rural. Often times a farm house in the country can take significant time to be reached by first responders. In the case of Grant Park (Sumner Twp) we rely on the county (Kankakee) for emergency services. Adding rail lines throughout the township and the potential for a railyard will only increase the lead times to be reached in the case of an emergency. Additionally, the danger and probability for train related incidents will increase dramatically. Please thoroughly consider this prior to any decisions made to negatively effect our rural towns by decimating them with a freight line and rail yard. I appreciate your consideration to this matter. Thank You, Jason R. KokosGrant park, il
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(printed as 5/10/2016)CommentEI-22576melanie waite[clinton] In wi there are 23 miles of track perposed in that, there are 66 places where farmers will need to cross to the other side to get to the 2nd half of there land...at the meeting in Moris ILL he was asked by someone who's father was hit by a train how he would make the crossings safe for farmers, he said if they chose to commit suiside it isn't there fault ....I'm very consearned for these farmers who have no chioce but to cross ...he doesnt under stand farm equiptment and how slow it is geared it is noisy and it will be hard to hear the trains coming , he said they have new technology that the train will be quiet and it wont vibrate so if it is so quiet and the farmer has no warning its coming at 70 mph a lot of farmers and the children running equiptment will die a whorable death farming children drive tractors leagly at younger ages 13 or 14 please asure to not have all these seperations of farmland and be sure they have at grade crossings 25-30 feet wide to get equiptment across and have them have some sort of signal for the farmer so they know a train is comming with curves and hills it may be hard to see them. Also make sure they put up fencing to keep our animals from being hit they are cutting through the middle of lands that are fenced and now with 270 some miles of cutting through fences animals will run the countrysides. I feel they chose the middle of each field because its easier than clearing fence rows to go alongclinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-24761Rose Fieser[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-24729Helen McCormick[See attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23768Phyllis Floyd[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23244Diane Downs[see attached comment]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23243Brad Erickson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23242Kathleen Erickson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23241Barbara Bowen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23240Melanie Hofstrom-Waite[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23239Molly Brown[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23159Jan Austgen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23158Patricial Robisky[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23157Patricia Robisky[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23156David Floyd[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23155Glen Snyder[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23154Dorothy Melquist[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23153Robert Mitchell[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23152Kenneth McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23151Helen McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23150Linda Hinkston[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23149Kenneth McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23148Linda Hinkston[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23147Jan Austgen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23146Ned Kovachevich[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-23143Nancy Gustafson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22973April Gerstung
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22744Sandra Bruch
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22743Julie Kokos
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22742Julie Kokos
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22726Scott and Amy Nystrom
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22575Save Our FarmlandThe proposed route of this rail project passes over an underground oil pipeline. This pipeline was installed within the last ten years. Depth of the pipeline is approximately 6 feet. I am concerned about the continuous vibrations of 110 trains a day passing over this pipeline. Could the constant vibration damage the structural integrity of the pipeline? If a leak goes undetected soil and ground water contamination is guaranteed.Brad Mair · Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22574Tom HinspeterBonfield, IL
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22573E. HildebrandtThe area of my concern is one mile east of the I-65 and State Rd 2 intersection. If you look at the area StRd2, Clay St. and 173rd Ave the route will create three crossings within one mile.This will seriously delay emergency vehicles trying serve the area, as well as school buses and regular traffic. Another problem is the area South of St Rd 2. Until the Grand Kankakee Marsh was drained that area was a swamp. I do not think the soil would support a rail bed. Last year 2015 a stone quarry was built in that area, the tracks will be within a few hundred yards of the quarry. They are blasting regularly at the quarry. If the water seeping into the quarry was contaminated it would be into the Kankakee River and into Illinois in no time because the quarry will be pumping approximately 17 million gallons of water per day into The Singleton Ditch that drains to the river.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22571Jason KokosMr. Navecky, I appreciate your time and consideration to this matter. The Great lakes basin railroad is very concerning to me for many reasons, one of which being how detrimental it will be on the environment. The pollution that would seep into our ground water and rural areas. We drink, bathe, and live via wells, and the railyard and freight train pollution would surely pollute the ground. As well, the creeks and streams and sloughs would now have this pollution, sending likely thousands and thousands of gallons of polluted water to the great Kankakee River endangering wildlife and the aquatics. I ask that you consider these detrimental impacts of this railroad as a key reason to reject this proposal. Thank you sir for your time. Jason R. KokosGrant park, il
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22570Barbara Gumz PattersonThe proposed rail line would have a severe negative impact on our family farm in Porter County, Indiana. Our farm ground is among the highest producing farm ground in the Midwest. This proposed rail line would cut a substantial number of our 771acres into triangular pieces that would extensively impair our ability to farm the ground as well as decrease its productivity. The fields have natural drainage but also many tile have been laid to protect our crops from potentially damaging rainfall. The rail line would cut into the tile's ability to drain as well as destroy the natural drainage. Irreparable damage to our farm is not acceptable to us as we are good stewards of this land and have been every year for the past 50 years. This land should not be classified as undeveloped as Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. has called it, but in fact, as a irreplaceable natural resource that produces food to feed the American people and the world through our agricultural exports. This natural resource, our farmland, should never be destroyed for any reason, but definitely not for the profit of some investors in areas with no ties to our community. Again, we do not want this proposed railway to be granted a permit due to the immense permanent damage it will do to the value and income of our farm and also, personal damage to our family who have strong attachment to this beautiful farm. thank youNorth Judson, IN
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22534julie kokosAfter spending the day outside with my two sons getting the yard and property ready for the summer, doing home improvements, planting trees, cleaning up the landscape, repairing still, after the tornado two years ago…etc….I think of a legacy….My husband’s legacy…he always wanted to live in the country, we bough this house along with almost 3 acres…out in the country, in Sumner Township, Grant Park., IL. He loved it here, even though he didn’t get to enjoy it for long….he died at 42 years old. This place is HIS legacy!!!!! He wanted to raise his family here! My family and friends still enjoy it here, it’s a sacrifice and a huge amount of work to live here…….How dare you try to take it from me??? How dare you, Frank Patton, GLB, Surface Transportation Board, County Representatives, anyone who is in agreement with this and/or ANYONE who tries to take someone else’s land for private gain or for the sake of Progress???? How dare you?? How dare you try to take what is rightfully mine???? Let me ask, how would you feel if everything you have worked for, of which I am not nearly the only one, businesses, farms, homes, lives, generations old farmland, were so disregarded to the statement/decision to say…. “We’ve decided, we will just put a railroad/rail yard through there” How would you feel??? Would you sit back and chalk it up to “progress”? Would you just give up everything you have worked so hard for? Would you give in and agree that someone has decided that my area needs to be changed, urbanized, developed, taken over, made to be something other than it is right now???? Please stop trying to take away this way of life, country living, peaceful living, hard working living …..away from us!!!!grant park, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22533Mark GordonSurface Transportation Board Office of Environmental Analysis 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Re: Docket FD35952_01 Mr. Navecky: I oppose the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line project. I would like to express my environmental concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project. My 160 acre centennial farm in Grundy County, Illinois will be bisected by the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line according to the proposed route. The many major public environmental issues which will affect prime farmland in Illinois include, but are not limited to: high speed train derailments of freight trains hauling hazardous toxic materials will cause toxic chemical spills on prime farmland which will permanently destroy the soil and render it useless for crop production; the rail line in the rural communities will cause much longer response times for police, fire and ambulance vehicles to respond to emergencies due to the increased length of time at railroad crossings and numerous township road closures and the numerous heavy trains will cause soil compaction and tile damage which will cause flooding of our prime farmland resulting in decreased productivity and loss of fertile topsoil. Finally, everyone in our community will be exposed to excessive noise, noxious odors, and intrusive bright lights throughout the day and night. The Surface Transportation Board in Washington DC must deny the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line project from being constructed on valuable prime Illinois farmland which will significantly impact the corn and soybeans production because large acres of prime Illinois farmland will be rendered useless and destroyed permanently. Mark Gordon 10925 Nettle Creek Road Grundy County, Newark, Illinois 60541N, Illinois
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22532Susan CarpenterPlease carefully consider all the negative impacts that the proposed railway will make to all residents, business owners, farmers, schools, crops, wildlife, recreational areas, vehicle transportation, air quality, water sources and so many more. The negative impacts of this proposed projects will hurt so many: It will forever change our homes, our livelihood and our lives in general.....all because someone thinks it's a good idea and will benefit his pocketbook. Mr. Patton will not see any negative effects from his kitchen window, but 10's of thousands of those of us who reside, work and play in this area will, every single day, for the rest of our lives. Please put yourself in our shoes....would you want this coming through your community and your life?Wanatah, IN
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22531Darlene BoickenI strongly oppose this railroad!! My family and many other families have lived in this area for many generations. The impact on this community and the lost farmland would be devastating to many. Please do not build this railroad!!!Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22530julie kokosAfter spending the day outside with my two sons getting the yard and property ready for the summer, doing home improvements, planting trees, cleaning up the landscape, repairing still, after the tornado two years ago…etc….I think of a legacy….My husband’s legacy…he always wanted to live in the country, we bough this house along with almost 3 acres…out in the country, in Sumner Township, Grant Park., IL. He loved it here, even though he didn’t get to enjoy it for long….he died at 42 years old. This place is HIS legacy!!!!! He wanted to raise his family here! My family and friends still enjoy it here, it’s a sacrifice and a huge amount of work to live here…….How dare you try to take it from me??? How dare you, Frank Patton, GLB, Surface Transportation Board, County Representatives, anyone who is in agreement with this and/or ANYONE who tries to take someone else’s land for private gain or for the sake of Progress???? How dare you?? How dare you try to take what is rightfully mine???? Let me ask, how would you feel if everything you have worked for, of which I am not nearly the only one, businesses, farms, homes, lives, generations old farmland, were so disregarded to the statement/decision to say…. “We’ve decided, we will just put a railroad/rail yard through there” How would you feel??? Would you sit back and chalk it up to “progress”? Would you just give up everything you have worked so hard for? Would you give in and agree that someone has decided that my area needs to be changed, urbanized, developed, taken over, made to be something other than it is right now???? Please stop trying to take away this way of life, country living, peaceful living, hard working living …..away from us!!!!grant park, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22529Justin KokosI am completely against this railroad system destroying our rural communities and way of life for the profit of others. Not only will this destroy homes, farmland and resources, but it will also affect so many other things. NO ONE, wants 100+ trains going past their front door on a daily basis. NO ONE, wants to sees lakes, streams, creeks, rivers and other natural resources and habitats destroyed (especially in the Kankakee River area) NO ONE, wants to lose their home! NO ONE, wants to lose their farmland. This is eminent domain abuse to profit private investors and line the pockets of the rich. While the Illinois downstate farm communities get trampled on like usual. These farm communities are the backbone of America. Last I checked, the world wasn't producing any extra farmland and the population in the world continues to grow.... NO GLB RAILROADKankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22528Pat MussmanDocket No. FD 35952 Environmental Comment Three years ago my husband and I completed a one hundred thousand dollar project ($100,000.00) building and improving waterways and tiling our farm on the Indiana/Illinois State line. We did this to improve drainage and to increase crop productivity. Field tiles carry excess water to these creeks, rivers and streams. The proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation Company (GLBT) plans to enter our farm, cross over these waterways and destroy our investment and our ability to farm ½ of our farm by doing so. The proposed line will also cross over two (2) thirty inch (30”) natural gas pipelines that are not nearly deep enough for safety. The rail line will destroy our waterways and field tiles and greatly destroy our ability to earn a living. It will result in flooded fields and will probably contaminate the water in the West Creek. Their rail line will cross the West Creek on our farm, which lies on both sides of the West Creek. The West Creek feeds the Singleton Ditch, a public ditch that drains into the Kankakee River. Hazardous materials are going to be transported across this rail line if it is built. Mr. Patton has said that as many as two thousand (2000) different hazardous materials will be carried on this rail line. The potential for leaks from inferior rail car tankers, diesel leaks from old or poorly maintained engines is extremely probable. This means contamination of ground water, streams and rivers. Our only source of water is ground water in southern Lake and Porter Counties. People in Illinois along the Kankakee River draw their water from the river. All of us would lose our most precious resource, drinking water. This would affect wildlife as well as plant life. The contamination would be carried through the field tiles to the creeks, streams, ditches and the Kankakee River. This would be a total disaster for the people in the area when there are other options. Leasing right of way from existing rail lines already traveling close to this proposed route would cause much less damage and destruction to the land and the environment. Since Mr. Patton owns no rail cars and no trains and none of the other carriers want to rent or lease his proposed rail line we feel it should be denied permits going forward. It appears that it would do nothing but destroy the environment and destroy farmland and towns by creating a barrier to car and truck traffic and the health of the residents. Thank you, Patricia Mussman West Creek Township Lowell, IndianaLowell, IN
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22527Glenn jACKSONI am opposed to the construction of the Great Lakes Basin Railway due to a number of environmental concerns. Noise pollution, air pollution and loss of habitat are big concerns of mine. Not only the direct locomotive impacts which include noise vibration and bright lights, but also the many vehicles that will be emitting pollutants while idling at the railroad crossings. Many a property owners lands will be forever divided by an industry that has throughout history taken advantage of landowners to line their own deep pockets.Clinton, WI
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(printed as 5/9/2016)CommentEI-22526Ken DaggettI am asking you to deny Frank Patton the right to take our land from use. The railroad would require a 1 degree grade which means in 1 mile it would only raise the track 92 inches, how high would they have to go to fly over a highway and how far back would they have to start the approach? This would require many miles of track to be elevated and many more miles of travel to haul all the fill needed to raise the track to the needed height over county roads and farmed land that was not made for this kind of traffic. The other option is to raise the highways creating enormous expense to already cash strapped state, federal and county agencies. This cost added onto our taxes. I AM NOT GOING TO PAY FOR MR PATTON TO BUILD HIS RAILROAD!!!!!!!! I think the STB should be very wary of Mr Patton because he will not be honest and co-operative with the very people he wants to take land from, the federal, county, state, and township officials that he is going to have to deal with to go through with this project. The man has been planning this for up to 7 years, so he is way ahead of everyone in his planning this project and we only have 3 months to try to figure out what his plans are? I cant help but feel the man is trying to put something over on EVERYONE for his own personal gain!!! Take the mans way of doing business into consideration when making a decision, if he cant be honest and straightforward with EVERYONE be very carful because you decision will affect hundreds of thousands of people every day in lost time waiting for trains to pass, noise pollution, and interrupted daily activities!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Il.
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(printed as 5/8/2016)CommentEI-22525Mary DekkerSurface Transportation Board, we are writing in concern about the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. One of the objectives we have heard for this proposed rail line is to reduce transportation delivery times. We also understand Chicago Region and Environmental Transportation and Efficiency Program has already been created to address this issue and has reduced delivery times. Wouldn't this be a duplication of CREATE's objective? We have serious concerns about the changes in the environment for south Lake County, IN. Brian and Mary Dekker Lowell, INLowell, IN
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(printed as 5/8/2016)CommentEI-22524John HollandAlthough our farm land is not in the proposed direct line of the GLB railroad, it will be close. We are concerned about the loss of the most productive farmland in our country, emergency vehicles being able to reach us when needed, and the effect this railway will have on our drinking water supply.Belvidere, Illinois
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(printed as 5/8/2016)CommentEI-22523Kevin SnookThe proposed route for this railroad is about 400 feet from my property. It is also along the ditch that my property drains to. I don't know how deep they will be digging for the right of way but there is a good possibility they will block the drainage from my place. The water table here is never lower than 6 feet and at times is 1 to 3 feet below the surface of the ground. Putting a railroad in an area that is this wet cannot be good for the environment the people that live here and I would think the right of way would not be too stable either. Sincerely, Kevin SnookValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 5/8/2016)CommentEI-22522Kevin SnookThe counties of Lake and porter in Indiana Have an air quality issue. All motor vehicles in these two counties have to be emission tested. Adding the pollution of 110 trains a day is only going make the air quality worse in counties that already have a problem. Sincerely, Kevin SnookValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 5/7/2016)CommentEI-22521Martin HoffmanI'm opposed to the railroad, because, impact on existing land use patterns, and on prime farm land.edna hoffman · Hebron, IA
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(printed as 5/7/2016)CommentEI-22520Rock Against the Rail[Beloit] Dave Navecky and the STB, I am writing this letter in regards to the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad system, Docket No. FD 35952. My family owns property in Bradford Township, Rock County Wisconsin, near the current proposed route, in which the railway would pass just feet from our property line. I want to make it very clear that we are AGAINST this railway coming through our backyards, for many reasons, which I will elaborate on below. Please take the time to hear me out, as this is crucial to the lives of my family, as well as many other's in our local community. The land in which my parents own has been in our family for generations. I intend on being the future owner of this property, and to be able to enjoy it in peace and quiet, and for it's intended use as a rural property. I am a Licensed Counselor in both Wisconsin and Illinois and devote most of my time working with clients with substance abuse and mental health issues. Spending time on our rural land is a type of self-care that I have always been able to retreat to, without having to worry about noise, pollution, and environmental hazards that a railway would bring through. I went to the scoping meeting held in Janesville, and agree with all the farmer's concerns that were mentioned, I hope they are engrained in your thoughts for consideration. They verbalized many quantitative facts, with numbers and loss of income, land, property value etc. I am concerned with all of those things, as well as many qualitative issues that are hard to measure and factually prove; issues such as psychological and physiological effects. I will list below factual reasons why we are against the current path of this GLB railroad. Land-locked property and blocked fire lane- The number one issue for your consideration is that our land can only be accessed by ONE ROAD, a dead end road, and it would be landlocked by a creek and other fields should the railroad be block, stopped, or worked on for maintenance. This can be seen on the map as 'Milner Road' in Bradford Township, Rock County, Wisconsin. This road would be impacted as it is shown on the current route map to have tracks laid down across it. If there is a train stopped, how will I be able to tend to my horse/animals in an emergency situation? How would we receive emergency care for any of our family members should a situation arise? There would be no way to get there. We have a neighbor who lives next to our property with the same concerns, one way in, one way out. They have animals as well. I have read in an article recently, that a Wisconsin community is having issues related to this specific situation which have severely affect their ability to be accessed by emergency vehicles, for children to reach the school bus without climbing through boxcars, and for residents to get to work on time. See link below. (If you have issues viewing it, it is from the Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune 'Trains block Wisconsin roads, lives.) http://www.wisconsinrapidstribune.com/story/news/investigations/2015/08/10/train s-block-roads-lives--regulations-stall/31135593/ The end of Milner Road connects to Turtle Creek, one of our areas main sources of water. This is a fire lane for the local fire department. What are alternate routes that would deter from having to land-lock our property and that of our neighbors, as well as block the fire lane from it's emergency use? This rail route could easily be redirected away from Milner Road. Psychological Effects- I would like to add psychological effects possible to landowners, neighboring land owners, communities, and animals impacted to the list of issues that you examine as it relates to short and long term effects. The impact of stress from this type of trauma, including cognitive, physical, emotional, financial, and behavioral. Cognitive: general attitude, mind racing, stress, difficulty concentrating, the sense that life is over whelming and that one cannot problem solve. Physical: sleep disturbances, homeostasis, heart racing, chest pains, dizziness, restlessness, agitated behavior, high blood pressure, lack of energy, hyperventilating, muscle tension, anxiety, digestive upsets, grinding teeth. Emotional: feeling overwhelmed, helpless, hopeless, depression, frustration, apathy. Financial: Decrease in land value, loss of revenue, inability to secure property rental, loss of business because of road closures, inability to make it to work on time for blocked rail crossings. Behavioral: Decreased interaction with community members, poor work relations, avoidance of others/poor mood, interference with self-care hobbies due to noise and location of the railroad. This proposed plan is currently affecting thousands of people in a magnitude of ways. Add it to your list of research the impact it has already had, and could have long term, for generations to come. How the animals will be affected; their temperament, behavior, the safety of owners to handle irritated livestock, ability to produce milk, etc. These structurally form what a person would need to be of healthy state of mind. Do you see how every single one of these factors listed would be jeopardized by this proposed railroad? Can you see and hear already how it has negatively impacted so many people? Their needs are being threatened. I would ask that you research the negative affects on humans if these elements are taken away or threatened on a daily basis. How this would negatively affect our animals, livestock, and wildlife. I have a horse on our property, within yards of this proposed rail- how will his primal needs to threatened, how will this affect his hearing, the safety of myself as his rider? Consider the impact you may have already witnessed to the psyche of each speech you have heard, and imagine it multiplied 10 fold, 100, 1,000, or more- that is the emotional and physiological damage that a project like this could magnify. Wildlife and providing- Year round our property is utilize for hunting deer, turkey, and other wildlife as a way to provide food for our family. For many this may be shrugged off as insignificant, but for some, it is understood that this is a way of life. I take pride in knowing I can provide my family with animals harvested from our property and our neighboring farmer's and family's land. A railroad would devastate the area and rid it of wildlife necessary for us to sustain our current way of life. The noise, the pollution, the added tracks, the electric lines, potential spills, and maintenance of this railroad would cut through prime hunting land, just yards from my tree stand. This way of life would cease for us. I cannot even comprehend how it can be taken away so quickly, and without any consent of our own. I want to teach my children one day, the ways that my father and grandfather have taught me to live off this land. There are already limited habitats for many of the wildlife near our property, such as pheasants whose numbers have depleted in recent years. This current route would negatively impact the natural habitat of many animals. This land is rented out to local farmer's to grow crops to supply their local families, farms, and businesses. The income from this farmland is my parents' main source of income at this current time. Current renters may back out from renting due to the inefficiency to cross railroad tracks to get to the farmland, and having polluted soil from the railroad. How will my family be compensated for loss of income and loss of property value should this rail go through? Water quality- Water quality is another major concern, as we keep our horse(s) on this property, and have considered building a home there one day. How does this affect our property and the quality of water should there be a spill? How would this affect the water, the soil, the crop land? Turtle Creek, the main water source in our area would be affected by a derailment, should oil, or other chemicals leak into the water. How would this affect us? How would this affect the animals and livestock that drink from it? Property Value decrease and other concerns- With our property being near the current proposed route, this would surely decrease it's value dramatically. It's value would decrease, yet we would see no compensation from the railroad. Three weeks ago, before finding out about this proposed railroad project, I had talked with my parent's about building a home on this property, a lifelong dream of both theirs' and mine. This railroad would devastate those plans. Who would want to live that close to a railroad? How is this dream suddenly being taken away from us, for private gain of someone else? Alternate options- Utilizing existing railroads in Rock County instead of blazing through valuable farmland. It is ridiculous to even fathom taking away this land when alternate options exist. Having listened to local farmers plea for this railroad plan to be abandoned, I can see why they are fighting for their land as well. Cutting up their land into sections, only to make their already difficult jobs, even more time consuming and inefficient. Oil spills, run off, fumes, and debris would absolutely harm the environment of crops, those living in the immediate area, and the wildlife and livestock. I wanted to keep this letter short in hopes that you would read it's entirety. It is hard to put into words the detrimental affects this project would bring to our area. We have worked hard to keep what we have earned, and with every ounce of us want to keep it that way. Please consider rerouting this railway away from Milner Road, Rock County as it appears you have many other options and routes to utilize. Please stop this nightmare from happening to us. Sincerely, Jada Miller, MSAT, LCPC, ATR, CADC jadajobird@yahoo.com 608-290-5597 Written on behalf of James and Pamela Milner, owners of the above mentioned property.Jada · Beloit, WISCONSIN
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(printed as 5/7/2016)CommentEI-22519Steve JensenObject to this RR, this is foolish when there are abandoned tracks that are now good for nothing other then used as a active restored track . Have studied this route that could be used in place of this ridiculous route that Frank Patton is proposed. Please study this, as a back up plan as it is mentioned that really is there a need for this when no other RR want to have anything to do with this GLB. Again I objected to GLBLaPorte, Indiana
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(printed as 5/7/2016)CommentEI-22518Kathleen Bessenplease consider, per article by Kevin Foster on mywebtimes.com: No one can foresee all the pros and cons of this idea. My biggest fear is the long-term effects of such a project. It is a known fact that our planet will have more people to feed as every year marches by. The only way to grow food is by burying a seed underground and letting Mother Nature run her course. We are not getting more ground. In fact, we are losing it. This has to stop. This must stop now. If not now, when? When will we decide that our world as we have destroyed it cannot sustain us any longer? Today is a good day to make that decision. Yesterday would have been even better.""
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(printed as 5/7/2016)CommentEI-22517Hal RhoadesThe proposed railroad would cut across existing roads which would delay emergency services. In addition it would destroy valuable farm land an disrupt the peaceful rural setting with noise and pollution. Many people now take advantage on these rural setting to bicycle. The railroad would also increase the traffic and vibration on the existing railroad of Wisconsin Southern which runs very close to the Milton House which is on the National Historic register as one of the few documented stops on this nation's underground railroad, and given in unique grout construction could be easily damaged by this.Milton, Wi
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(printed as 5/7/2016)CommentEI-22516Kathleen BessenI strongly agree with this exerpt from an article published online, mywebtimes.com: The simple fact — with extreme emphasis on the word FACT, which no person can intelligently deny — is that our planet is heating up. Taking thousands and thousands and thousands and thousands of acres of farmland out of production forever only hastens our demise. Simple math tells me that a 200-foot wide-swath nearly 300 miles long adds up to an extremely conservative 6,000 acres, minimum. When planted with corn, those 6,000 acres can remove more than 100,000 tons of carbon dioxide per growing season. Thank you, Kathleen Bessen"
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(printed as 5/7/2016)CommentEI-22515Randal KlackleThe proposed rail line would have a substantial negative impact on the regions water shed. The GLB route passes over several stretches of Highly Erodible Land (HEL). HEL is a designation by NRCS (Natural Resource & Conservation Service). This land is usually rolling and/or hilly. Putting a rail route through such terrain would require a lot of cutting and filling to keep the rail route at an allowable grade. For instance, the route just east of Clay St. will have a grade change of 43 feet in one mile. Imagine the disruption of surface water that will cause. Most of south Lake County is out of the Lake Michigan watershed and not eligible to receive water from the lake according to the Great Lakes Treaty. Any significant spillage from tank cars during a derailment will put our ground water sources in jeopardy. Such a spillage could also contaminate the Singleton Ditch/Kankakee watershed from which some municipalities draw their water. The Town of Lowell water well field is close to the proposed route and those wells are shallow. Years ago, Lowell tried to get Lake Michigan water and was denied by the Board of Governors of the Great Lakes.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 5/7/2016)CommentEI-22514private citizenDear Sir, The proposed GLBR is a threat hanging over our heads every minute of every day since first brought to our attention, shortly before Easter 2016. The proposed project is a serious impairment to our livelihood and future. The loss of acres and additional costs of drainage repair and ground remediation is devastating to our income. Not only does this affect our net worth, our home value, our assets against operating loans, it also is a huge blow to our future income. We are nearing retirement age and we could not begin to absorb the losses and start our lives and vocations anew. Please consider the devastating effect this proposed project will have on many, many families and homes that are in the direct line of the tracks. Thank You, Kathleen BessenKathleen Bessen · Gardner, IL
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-25236Jacqueline McNall[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-23145Helen McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22741David Vlasaty
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentDan Kane
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22513Private CitizenDear Sir: Our home is literally just a few hundred feet from the proposed tracks that will cut through our family farm ground. Our home is a centennial farm, soon to be 150 years old (2019) I am concerned about our water well. There is a reasonable risk that the spillage, leakage from every day travel of train cars and possible derailment of hazardous tank and freight cars would pose a serious threat to our water well. The certain damage to our existing field waterways and drainage systems, in addition to our human and animal consumption water source is a danger that I submit for you to consider in your decision to allow the GLB railroad to proceed. I urge you to deny their request, and implore you to act in favor of the families, tenants, residents and rural communities who vehemently oppose this project. Thank you, Kathleen BessenKathleen Bessen · Gardner, IL
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22512Dave BrockmanThis unnecesary rail road would disrupt this area with more noise and traffic stops. There is more noise from a train than just the horn . The people that want to make money from this are delusional. Rail access for farmers is not a valid excuse for destroying so much farmland. Please make the right choice and deny any rail in this route.Verona, IL
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22511Justin KokosOver 150 river and creeks are crossed by the proposed rail line. These include high quality systems such as the Kishwaukee, Lower Fox and Kankakee Rivers as well as over 100 headwater streams that are critical for sustaining healthy plant and animal habitat downstream. The rail line would impact at least two of Chicago Wilderness' Priority Species, the mottled sculpin and ellipse mussel, who reside in these waters. The destruction of our natural resources, farmland and HOMES(!) is an absolute travesty and should not even be THOUGHT ABOUT. THIS IS EMINENT DOMAIN ABUSE!!!!Kankakee, IL
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22510Jennifer SellersThe great Basin Railroad needs to be stopped! It will not only rip families from their homes that some have passed down from generation to generation but cemeteries, greenhouses and now the worry of chemical spills and the possibility of this seeping into the ground water! There is a chance that this little town of Grant Park will no longer exist if people who have worked so hard for everything they have. It does not affect me personally but it does affect my family and will fight for them!! Please help to keep these families in their homes.Monee, IL
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22509Marsha TesdalSurface Transportation Board Office of Environmental Analysis 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Re: Docket FD35952_01 Mr. Navecky: I oppose the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line project. I would like to express my environmental concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project. My 160 acre centennial farm in Grundy County, Illinois will be bisected by the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line according to the proposed route. The many major public environmental issues which will affect prime farmland in Illinois include, but are not limited to: high speed train derailments of freight trains hauling hazardous toxic materials will cause toxic chemical spills on prime farmland which will permanently destroy the soil and render it useless for crop production; the rail line in the rural communities will cause much longer response times for police, fire and ambulance vehicles to respond to emergencies due to the increased length of time at railroad crossings and numerous township road closures and the numerous heavy trains will cause soil compaction and tile damage which will cause flooding of our prime farmland resulting in decreased productivity and loss of fertile topsoil. Finally, everyone in our community will be exposed to excessive noise, noxious odors, and intrusive bright lights throughout the day and night. The Surface Transportation Board in Washington DC must deny the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line project from being constructed on valuable prime Illinois farmland which will significantly impact the corn and soybeans production because large acres of prime Illinois farmland will be rendered useless and destroyed permanently. Marsha Tesdal 10925 Nettle Creek Road Grundy County, Newark, Illinois 60541Newark, Illinois
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(printed as 5/6/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22507Barbara Parrish[Lowell] I strongly oppose the proposed GLBT route. The attached IMG 815 is looking south of my property on Belshaw Rd. The Conway Observatory is located on the horizon to the west, or right side of the frame. The track would run the width of the frame on the southern horizon. As you can see, the area to the east (left side) is very low-lying, and I believe was once part of the Grand Kankakee. This area is home to many species of flora and fauna.The buildup for the rail line would impede the flow of drainage to Spring Run Ditch, which is to the left of the frame. You can see the guardrail for the bridge over the ditch. Belshaw Rd. was once an Indian Trail, and Img 445 is a Native American artifact I found in my front yard. The integrity of the Buckley Homestead and the Conway Observatory would be compromised by the establishment of this rail line.Such important links to our past need to be preserved as teaching tools for future generations.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22506Val MorrisPlease stop this proposed displacement of people in the path of eminent domain for the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad!Crete, IL
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22505Val MorrisPlease stop this proposed displacement of people in the path of eminent domain for the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad!Crete, IL
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22429jason kokos[Grant park] Please see the attachment. This shows the environmental impact on the creeks, streams, and bodies of water that would be negatively effected by freight trains and/or a rail yard. These would have extremely negative effects on drainage into our ground water effecting our drinking water for those living in rural areas utilizing wells. Additionally, the Kankakee River would be negatively impacted by the drainage being polluted. Please consider this as part of your environmental impact study.Grant park, il
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22428Lou BiernackiI would like the board to take into consideration what I consider our most important natural resource that will be lost forever by the construction of any new railroad beds which are being proposed for this project. That is the farm ground/soil. this is not what I would consider a renewable resource, unless we all have the thousands of years to wait that it originally took to form what is there now. We will loose this forever and along with it the food and other products that are currently produced and all future production. So as consideration is taken for the affects on wetlands, drainage, and other naturally occurring things. I would like you to consider the affects of reducing the amount of fertile non replaceable soil will have on the current and future generations.LaPorte, Indiana
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22427Maureen DeFiore[South Chicago Heights] please block the GLB Railroad Basin Project!!!!! It will destroy too much farmland and homes!!!!South Chicago Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22426julie kokosPlease put a stop to the proposed GLB Railroad project. I live in Sumner township Grant Park IL and this would destroy my home along with countless other homes, farms, businesses, churches, graveyards, etc. It is not right for someone to take what is rightfully yours or mine. Please stop this now. Please.grant park, ILLINOIS
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22425R.A.I.L.E.D.To: Dave Navecky Environmental Analysis Surface Transportation Board Docket #: FD35952 I am opposed to the approval for the Great Lakes Basin Project for the following health and environmental reasons: In January 2012, The Health and Environment Impact Project (www.theimpactproject.org) conducted a study called: Tracking Harm: Health and Environmental Impacts of Rail Yards THE Impact Project Policy Brief Series. This study came to the following conclusions: Case-Study - BNSF Hobart BNSF’s Hobart rail yard in Commerce, California is the largest rail yard of its kind in the United States. The 243-acre yard, which BNSF says has reached capacity, handles 1.5 million containers a year. The facility is classified as an intermodal yard, meaning inside the yard containers are transferred from trucks, which travel the 20 miles from the port, to rail for distribution across the country. According to a Health Risk Assessment done by the California Air Resources Board, communities living near the yard are exposed to an increased risk of 250 chances in a million of developing cancer. It is estimated that 315,000 people are exposed to an excess cancer risk of at least 10 in a million around the BNSF Hobart rail yard.1 Source: Li, W. (2007). Health Risk Assessment for the BNSF Railway. Hobart Railyard. California Environmental Protection Agency and California Air Resources Board. www.arb.ca.gov/ railyard/hra/bnsf_hobart_hra.pdf As noted in this study, the constant and heavy exposure to railroad emissions from continual train traffic in addition to the potential dangers of derailments and hazardous waste spills, increase the risk of cancer. Emissions, accidents and spills affect farmland usage and productivity, livestock wellbeing and productivity in addition to the increase risks to the human population. Thank you for your time and consideration. Patricia HamiltonPatricia Hamilton · Hebron, INDIANA
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(printed as 5/6/2016)CommentEI-22424Janet Koutelas[Valparaiso] I am addressing my additional concerns with the proposed freight train R.R. which is planned to pass through south Porter Co., where I live. This morning, while traveling 35 minutes to north Porter Co. where I work, I traveled over SIX (6) sets of R.R. tracks. Please note that two of my routes take me parallel to the R.R. tracks for quite a few miles each. I travel this way every day, twice each day, Monday thru Friday. Very seldom do I ever see even one train on any of these tracks during my 35 minute trips. So, I do not understand why we are in such a need for another R.R. track through our county, when we are not using the R.R. tracks we already have positioned here. Just wanted to point this observation out. Additionally, I work for a trucking company. I cannot even imagine how many trucking companies are in the N.W. Indiana and Chicagoland areas. There are thousands of people who depend on their jobs in the trucking industry. So, I understand Mr. Patton has stated that millions of trucks will be taken off the roads with this proposed R.R. How many jobs in my area will be lost due to this new R.R.? I understand that not even one job will be created for Porter Co. residents. Yet we will have to trade our lands for our residents' inconveniences, the farmers' loss of crops, drainage issues in farmer fields and the property of residents, our children's safety due to bus-train and car-train issues, pollution issues, possible well water contamination, longer response times for the fire departments and ambulances in our area. Let me mention, too, that the small volunteer fire departments in the areas where this new R.R. is proposed do not have the capabilities of handling tragedies such as train fires, derailments, spills, etc. Who is going to help them handle these issues and buy them all the equipment they will need to handle these types of problems? The residents? The same ones that are not obtaining even one job or one dollar from this venture? The same residents who may have lost their jobs because they worked in the trucking industry or are suffering decreased earnings because they are farmers whose fields have been affected? The same residents that will be suffering from pollution, noise and vibrations of trains which were not in our areas when we moved here? The same residents who have lost children and family members due to car-train or bus-train accidents? Yes, those are the ones who will bear the increased costs of better fire department equipment. Not the people who are proposing this new rail line.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-23274Kenneth McCormick[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22739Karen Vlasaty
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22738Cindy Kohler
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22696Ben G. GruszkaI am opposed to the construction and eminent domain land grab of the GLBTRL. This rail line will block north and south movement by automobile traffic including EMS. I also feel the property value of South Porter County will suffer too. benpear63@yahoo.com
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22695Town of HarmonyTown of Harmony Rock County Resolution opposing GLBR rail line Attached is a resolution that was passed by the Town of Harmony Rock County Wisconsin. This resolution opposes the construction of the rail line in South Central Wisconsin by the GLBR. townclerk@townofharmony.comTim Tollefson
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22423Steve Jensenwithin 3 miles of this RR, (affecting our farm)there are 2 farms with the Hoosier Homestead award, in the family for over 100 years, the biggest orchard in Northwest IN, 2 Historic properties on the National registry, 1 a home and 1 church, National Lakeshore Bog Park, this RR have negative impacts on all of these well earned properties. I OBJECT to this RRLaPorte, Indiana
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22422Joann Jensen[LaPorte] THIS RR WILL HAVE A SEVERE NEGATIVE IMPACT TO THE WILDLIFE, FISHERIES, WETLANDS, FORESTS AND GRASSLANDS I OBJECT TO THIS RR.LaPorte, Indiana
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22421Joann Jensen[LaPorte] THERE ARE ALREADY EXISTING TRANSPORTATION NETWORKS, AND THERE WILL BE POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON EXISTING TRANSPORTATION NETWORK.I AM OPPOSED TO THIS RRLaPorte, Indiana
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22420Mike HerlitzThe proposed railroad's current route disrupts some of the best farm ground in the area. More notes attached.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22419verna auchstetterBefore wasting more taxpayers money on GLBT, have DOT talk to EPA. EPA WOTUS program passed senate by 4 votes, so DOT better pay attention. If you do not know this EPA program, you have no qualifications to make a decision to approve GLBT Landowners, renters have develop their land to be compliant with WOTUS. GLBT creates a WOTUS situation with 287 mile semi-height dikes across farm fields. Do not add this to mitigation clause, because GLBT will bury in in layers of LLC's of shell companies and no one will ever take the responsibility. GLBT caused the problem and they pay the dally steep EPA fines At the end it ( as in gas pipeline mitigation agreement) the farmer, who cares about the land, will use his money, his resources, to correct problem that didn't exist before GLBT. Does On Federal Dept. talk to another Federal agency? Forget the Dept of Agriculture, they are usless in farming matters and too busy dealing with school lunches, food stamps. One Federal Dept (EPA) is making conservation rules while another federal Dept (DOT)is unaware or don't care or can do what they want without respect for these rules.peru, ill
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22418Justin Kokos[Kankakee] Dear Mr. Navecky, I'm sure you've read the same thing over and over again regarding the GLB Railroad. I am writing to reiterate that point and express my anger at this proposed railroad. The chosen path for this railroad in Sumner Township, Kankakee County, IL is of the most importance to me. It not only would devastate the town I grew up in, but would also destroy my family home where my mother still lives and my brother's home, which he just built for his family of 4 within the last 2 years. NO ONE in that area wants their lives destroyed and uprooted for financial gain by private investors... THIS IS EMINENT DOMAIN ABUSE!!!! This railroad will destroy biological resources, not only in that area, but in the Kankakee County area where it intends to pass through the Kankakee River State Park. THIS IS UNNEEDED, UNWANTED, UNWARRANTED, AND UNBELIEVABLE!!!Kankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22417Calumet Astronomical SocietyThe near proximity of this rail line to the Calumet Astronomy Center, located at 191st and Chase Street in Lowell, would completely shut down the research and educational activities taking place there. Three observatories are presently operational at this location. The vibrations, noise pollution and light pollution caused by the many trains would dramatically affect the use of the sensitive observatory equipment. The Northwest Indiana Robotic Observatory (NIRo), maintained by the Physics and Astronomy Department at Purdue University NW is being used for educational research by staff and students. An example of their work is chronicled in the following article. http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lake/hammond/astronomy-research-of-five-puc-s tudents-is-published/article_3a92a882-4f92-5c0c-b4bf-72aab67a462b.html The Thomas Conway Observatory and the Mildred Hunter Astrophotography Laboratory are maintained by the Calumet Astronomical Society (CAS). Members of CAS are using these facilities not only for their research but also to share the wonders of the night sky with visitors to the Calumet Astronomy Center. Not only do visitors have an opportunity to look through Conway’s 16 inch telescope at monthly open houses and other special astronomy events, but CAS members will set up their personal telescopes to provide additional viewing opportunities for these guests. All events are open to the public, family friendly, and free. The Calumet Astronomical Society will also arrange special viewing and educational opportunities for youth groups. Following are just a few examples of what takes place at the observatory. 1) In June of 2012, Venus would cross the face of the Sun and this would be visible in NW Indiana. Members of CAS had their telescopes set up and fitted with special filters to give visitors an opportunity to get an “up close and personal” view of this event. We estimated that approximately 300 visitors took advantage of viewing through our telescopes. By the way, if you missed this epic event, it will happen again in the year 2117 and 2125. For some of us, this was a once in a lifetime event. 2) Each year CAS hosts Girl Scouts from the Greater Chicagoland Council for a day of fun and learning at the Observatory. After a barbecue, the Troop leaders provide the scouts with various astronomy related learning activities. When darkness falls, CAS members use their telescopes to take the Scouts and their parents on a tour of the night sky. 3) We can also anticipate a crowd of 100 or more on the peak nights of the Perseid and Leonid meteor showers. Included are a few pictures of what we have and what takes place at the Calumet Astronomy Center. I urge you to find a way to circumvent the GLBT’s rail line plans that would realistically put an end to these learning activities.Larry Maka · Munster, Indiana
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22416Pat MussmanDocket No. FD 35952 Environmental Comments Much of the land in West Creek Township was inhabited by Indian Tribes going back as far as 13,000 years ago. They continued to live along the banks of the West Creek in the Township for hundreds of years. These tribes were largely Potawatomie and they left behind burial grounds, fire pits for cooking and others for ceremonial purposes along with artifacts that are irreplaceable. Ceremonial fire pits on our farm are directly in the path of the proposed Great Lakes Basin’s rail line. Numerous tribal artifacts surround these fire pits and would be destroyed. We can’t afford to lose this historic site for a train that really isn’t needed. So far The GLBR is planning to build a high speed rail line to haul hazardous materials through this land with no one contracted or interested in leasing the tracks. The GLBR has no experience building trains or running a railroad. They own no rail cars or equipment and don’t plan to do so. They plan to sell off a portion of their acquired right-of-way to utility companies to make a profit at our expense. Then they plan to lease the tracks to other rail companies in order to make money. To date not one single rail company is interested in leasing these tracks. All of them have been spending money improving their own lines. If the rail line is built and no one leases it, the rail line will be abandoned and all of the land they have taken will be permanently destroyed. For all of the reasons listed above we are asking the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to deny the project. Thank you for your consideration. Patricia Mussman West Creek Township Lake County, INLowell, IN
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22415Dave BrockmanAccording to NEPA Policy Act Sec 101 page 3 item 2: assure for all Americans safe, healthful, productive and aesthetically and culturally pleasing surroundings. This project would disrupt and destroy so much farmland that it would be a criminal act to proceed.Verona, IL
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22414Ken DaggettI believe Mr. Pattons plan to build a railroad needs to be scrapped. There is already a plan in place, CREATE, and it is working very well, cutting thru time drastically to what it was and it is only going to get better. This plan is being used and endorsed by the major rail systems in the affected area, why would they want to pay a toll to use a track that is untried and not being endorsed by any major rail lines? CREATE uses existing lines and does not require any new lines being built and the lose of valuable land in the process. Thank You Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22323Ben Gruszka
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(printed as 5/5/2016)CommentEI-22322Town of Harmony, WITim Tollefson
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-23275Joyce Bernard[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-23273Carol Pregont[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-23272Karen Gill[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-23271Ashley Meador[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-23270Lawrence Ekhoff[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-23269Laurie Allen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22737Mark Gordon
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22736Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22735Cindy Kohler
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22694Bryan SchroederMr. Navecky I can't believe that there is a need for another railroad when there is a down turn in rail shipping by 15% due to less coal movement and other factors. This rail port that is proposed sits atop my familys farm, church and cemetery not to mention another cemetery. 15,000 acres that they want to just take and change the lives of hundreds of family farmers for there legalese. What about all of ours, our farm has been in our family well over 125 years and don't need it to meet it's demise at the hands of some wealthy person who wants to leave a railroad for his grand kids. Buy them a HO scale and have at it. This is unneeded and definitely unwanted. bschroeder21@wi.rr.com
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22413Georgia QuinnMr. Navecky, I am writing to ask you to oppose any plans for a new GLB Railroad system. There are so many negative points to having this implemented. The safety of all of our children at these RR crossings is at top of my list! We don't want the pollution above ground and underground in our communities. The RR crossings that are in place in Indiana right now are NOT properly maintained!They wreak havoc on all of our vehicles.It is not fair to all farmers and landowners whose land will be taken by these billionaires. The farmers and families who will lose their land don't deserve that.The companies that want to move all their goods via a new RR, can use the existing RR tracks or continue using our bigger & better highways that President Obama just sunk millions of our taxpayer money into. There are many other options for the billionaires to get their goods from one place to another, without effecting negatively all of our small communities and possibly have major devastation in a case where a train has a accident with hazardous material.Then our small Emergency responders are left to clean up their mess. Once again, not fair to all of them.Many negatives, including traffic congestion at RR crossings and holding up possible ambulance calls, or firefighters. All of these negatives should be considered while making your decisions. Please consider ALL people, not just the rich who want to take control of someone else's hard-earned land that's been in families for sometimes generations. Sincerely, Georgia QuinnLa Porte, IN
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22412Christie KiperI am emailing to let you know that this Great Lakes Basin railroad idea that Frank Patton has is HORRIBLE, TERRIBLE AND just plain STUPID AND IGNORANT! This is not only going to take farmland away, but because of that, it will make crop prices that we pay in the grocery stores increase due to lack of acreage to produce these crops. Us average people cannot afford any more extra expenses. Groceries are already high! This railroad idea will ruin our countryside. We live in the country/suburban areas to get away from this crap! Keep the Chicago stuff in Chicago!!!!! We like the quiet so we can listen to the birds and the tranquility of peace and quiet. We, that live here, enjoy nature! The noise from these 100+ trains per day will be extremely ridiculous and VERY UNNECESSARY!!!! The land will look horrendous if the railroad is allowed to come in. There will be roads going nowhere, drainage tiles that have been broken (which will create flooded areas) and trees torn up. If they build this railroad they will NOT have the respect for our countryside land like we do. He will come along like that other jerk from the city who thought Seneca needed a railport. Everything will be torn up and in a complete disarray. Very disrespectful! And extremely embarrassing for us who care how our land looks! Us country folk love to drive around country roads for cruises in our old cars finding new off the road places and creating new and different memories. With this Great Lakes Basin railroad, many of us won't be able to do that anymore as roads will come to a complete stop because this railroad will not make crossings. So now besides taking land from us, Patton is taking memories away from us. He sounds like a very selfish person! And what about the roads for emergency crew and personnel?????????? They may need to get somewhere off in the country to get to a hurt person but can't because that good ole Patton" and his great (not so much) railroad idea has cut off the emergency crews only path to help this person. There are many people who live off these off the beaten paths that could be affected. How would you feel if your little old grandparents lived at the end of the road and one of them needed emergency help, but Patton's railroad blocked your grandparents only chance to stay alive? I sure as heck wouldn't be very happy! There are already way too may trains in the area. We do NOT need to add anymore to this area. Please, please, please vote NO to this railroad plan. Thank you for your time and consideration. Christie Kiper Seneca, IL"Seneca, IL
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22411dorothy heitkeThe Great Lakes Basin Train is proposing a route one mile from my home and less than one mile from Turtle Creek. The environmental issues of building train tracks through southeastern rock county should be questioned. The southeastern part of Rock County is drained by Turtle Creek, which also flows into Illinois before joining the Rock River. GLB railroad has indicated in their paperwork and proposal that they do not cross any wetlands...there are wetlands on both sides of the creek. Furthermore the railroad is purposing to build track about 400 to 500 feet higher in elevation than the creek and one half mile from the creek and it's surrounding wetlands. This particular area has significant wetlands for several miles. This would be apparent to anyone who stood on the road and looked down at the creek. A derailment involving chemicals or petroleum products would drain into the creek because it is the lowest elevation in southern rock county. Turtle Creek and it's wetlands are important to the many migratory birds that pass through spring and fall and stop for water and to scavenge the corn and soybean fields before continuing on their journey. The creek is also home to eagles and herons..both of which eat fish from the creek. A chemical spill would also be catastropic event that would make the entire water supply for Rock County vulnerable. Charles Dunning, hydrogen logistics with the Wisconsin Water Science Center of the US Geological Survey states that all of Rock County's water comes from shallow aquifers, generally less than 250 feet, which are most susceptible to pollution . Because of the interconnection and close relationship of all groundwater in the county, the entire system is comsidered to be a single groundwater body. The crux of this is that a spill will negatively affect everyone's water. Water will have to be brought I for all people and animals in the county, because all water will be negatively affected. The health and economic problems of undrinkable water would be astronomical. Hauling in water for livestock would be a full time job for a farmer. Hauling in water for schools and residents would be nearly impossible. At a question and answer session we asked how long the water would be undrinkable..no one had an answer I did some digging and have found that derailments have spread from 8 states in 2010 to 21 states in 2014. There were two train derailments in wisconsin recently (Watertown and Alma) and one in northern Illinois earlier this year. The Department of Transportation predicts that oil train derailments will be commonplace. Your own NTSB site shows ongoing investigations on numerous derailments We are concerned that this train is going to pass over and parallel to our very vulnerable wetlands and streams. We are concerned about derailments and what that will mean for our groundwater. After research, train derailments are not that uncommon. We request that the rail be moved somewhere where the entire county's ground water won't suffer if a derailment occurs.Clinton, WI
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22410Connie MeederOur family is opposed to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. The noise and inconvenience at rail crossings would greatly diminish the value and enjoyment of our property. The proposed route is also entirely too close to Boone Grove Middle School to ensure a safe environment both with regard to potential rail crossing collisions and chemical spills. This area is already home to a many residences and farms and more residential development is planned. This rail route should be established much further south of our area or not at all.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22409Mark GordonOffice of Environmental Analysis 395 E Street, SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Docket FD35952_01 David Navecky: I oppose the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line project. I would like to express my environmental concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project. The many major public environmental issues which will affect prime farmland in Illinois include, but are not limited to: high speed train derailments of freight trains hauling hazardous materials will cause toxic chemical spills on prime farmland which will permanently destroy the soil and render it useless for crop production; the rail line bisecting the farms will cause much longer response times for police, fire and ambulance vehicles to respond to emergencies in rural communities due to the increased length of time at railroad crossings and numerous township road closures and the numerous heavy trains (100 trains per day) will cause soil compaction and tile damage which will cause flooding of our prime farmland resulting in decreased productivity and loss of fertile topsoil. Finally, everyone in these farm communities will be exposed to excessive noise, noxious odors, and intrusive bright lights throughout the day and night. Our 160 acre centennial farm in Grundy County, Illinois will be bisected by the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line according to the proposed route. Please deny the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line project from being constructed on valuable Illinois farmland which will significantly impact the corn and soybeans production because large acres of prime Illinois farmland will be rendered useless and destroyed permanently. Mark Gordon 10925 Nettle Creek Road Grundy County, Newark, Illinois 60541Newark, Illinois
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22408Rose Marie BucherDear Mr. Navecky, I’m urging you not to approve the Great Lakes Basin Transport project for several reasons: • Many concerns on the negative effect the project would have on soil and water quality • Many concerns about the potential for hazardous waste spills and accidents • Destruction of topsoil • Destruction of wildlife habitat • The project isn't necessary as there are adequate rail and other transportation options • CREATE (Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency) program is already in existence, the Great Lakes Basin Transport project would be redundant and wasteful Thank you for considering these comments, Rose Marie L. BucherMacomb, IL
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22407Marsha TesdalATTN: Dave Navecky - Docket No. FD35952 Surface Transportation Board Office of Environmental Analysis 395 E. Street SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky: I would like to express my concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project. I oppose the entire Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project and ask the Surface Transportation Board to deny the proposal. Prime farmland will be impacted by this project. Approximately 6,700 acres of prime farmland will be permanently destroyed by this project. Rail lines will bisect farms compacting the soil and decreasing productivity. As the owner of a centennial family farm, I am concerned that the rail lines will damage the tiles beneath the soil causing major flooding to crops.In addition, I am concerned that high speed train derailments will cause toxic chemical spills which will permanently destroy prime farmland and render the soil useless for crop production. Marsha Tesdal 10925 Nettle Creek Road Newark, Illinois 60541Newark, Illinois
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22406Johnnie C JohnsonI moved to the country for good air water no and no noise pollution. I pay High TAXES for the above things I just mentioned. If our property was to catch on fire the fire department would be unable to reach use. This would decrease the value of home property. I live on designated bike route which would put many bikers in jeopardy. School bus route would be in jeopardy that would mean KIDS. I don't want to look out my backyard an see trains going by or sitting on the tracks. What if there is a train wreck, what would happen to the Environment and People. My Wife & I absolutely do not want this close to our home.Valparaiso, In
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22405Johnnie C JohnsonI moved to the country for good air water no and no noise pollution. I pay High TAXES for the above things I just mentioned. If our property was to catch on fire the fire department would be unable to reach use. This would decrease the value of home property. I live on designated bike route which would put many bikers in jeopardy. School bus route would be in jeopardy that would mean KIDS. I don't want to look out my backyard an see trains going by or sitting on the tracks. What if there is a train wreck, what would happen to the Environment and People. My Wife & I absolutely do not want this close to our home.Valparaiso, In
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22404Pat MussmanDocket No. FD 35952 Environmental Comments Water contamination is a very large concern for South Lake County Indiana. With a proposed high speed rail line by Great Lakes Basin Transportation carrying up to 2000 + types of hazardous materials spills and leaks of these materials is a very real possibility. There was just a “Haz-mat” derailment in Washington DC Sunday, May 1, 2016. Another disastrous train derailment occurred in Canada in July of 2013, the “Lac-Megantic” created massive damage to the area including contaminated ground water. Because our water shed is the Kankakee River south Lake County is totally dependent on ground water wells. Water is our most important resource without it there could be no inhabitants that would include both human and various types of wildlife. Because of the field tiles that run through all of the farmland in the area the contamination would travel to the Kankakee River that would kill wildlife that depends upon the river for survival. The contamination would continue down river to Illinois where people in the towns and cities that border the river draw their water. For these reasons we are appealing to the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to deny the project and preserve the environment. Thank you. Patricia Mussman West Creek Township Lake County, INLowell, IN
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22403Cindy KohlerATTN: Dave Navecky - Docket No. FD35952 Surface Transportation Board Office of Environmental Analysis| 395 E. Street SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky: I would like to express my concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project. I attended the meeting at the Seneca High School in Seneca, Illinois on Thursday, April 14 and listened to the viewpoints of concerned citizens who oppose the Great Lakes Basin LLC rail line project. As a land owner in Grundy County, Illinois, I also oppose the project because it divides my land, ensures constant noise levels and transports toxic chemicals. In addition, I’m concerned about the rail line damaging the tiles beneath the farmland causing flooding to crops. Finally, the waterway on my farm was reshaped under the CRP program to protect the land from erosion. This project will not protect the land. To conclude, the GLB Rail Line is not advantageous to farmers, landowners, or people in the community. Therefore, I’m asking you to deny the GLB project and protect our community and landowners’ rights. Our lives and values matter! Sincerely, Cindy Kohler 839 David Street Kewanee, Illinois 61443Kewanee, Illinois
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22321Amy Nystrom
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(printed as 5/4/2016)CommentEI-22320Bryan Schroeder
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-23268David K. Guest[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-23267Cynthia Gotling[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-23266Robert L. Heath[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-23265Mary Hoover[see attached humor]
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-23264B. Stimac[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-23263Michael Mullooly[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/3/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-23249Ben Brancel[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22734Fred Martin
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22733Jan Von Qualon
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22732Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22731Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22693Anthea MorganNew freight trains through Indiana farmlandPlease, do not approve the new freight line from eastern Indiana to Illinois. I forgot the railroads name, but we don't need any more dangerous, polluting trains in NW Indiana. Thank you
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(printed as 5/3/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22401Rock Against the RailFrequent trains carrying hazardous materials are an enormous threat to the natural environment and the well being of all residents both human and non-human in the area. There can be no justification for this unnecessary rail construction. Such construction would be purely based on blind, short-term greed and self interests of the few. Your project has no merit. Those involved and their relation will be rightly demonized by the community members whose lives they will destroy.Thomas Paschke · Beloit, WI
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22400Dennis SchepplerThe Great Lakes Basin Railroad plan is flawed. They claim anyone owning land with the train running through it will be granted the right to access the line. They can sell to a factory or business, but this land is zoned agricultural. How is the Surface Transportation Board going to change that zoning? The train makes the land unfarmable in some cases and then it is unsellable because of zoning issues. This line is poory thought out and does not reflect the reality of the land and it's approved uses. This line needs to be stopped and sent back for more planning. The claims of the builder are untrue.Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22399Dennis SchepplerRecently miles 130 to 134 have seen increased bald eagle activity. 2144 north 40th road, currently is home to a an Eagle's nest. We need to protect this area as wildlife is coming back to it. This line will harm wildlife. How is the Surface Transportation Board going to ensure this line does not adversely affect the Eagles?Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22398Laura Scheppler[Mount Prospect] This new railroad will greatly impact drainage. Train tracks are almost always evevated in some manner, this elevation and the rails themselves will prevent the natural flow of water. There is o way around this. The line will a ad t as a dam blocking waterflow and making prime farmland unuseable wetlands. This line will also disect fields creating small unfarmable plots in many cases. This plots will become eyesores and dumping grounds for trash. The plots will be inaccessible or if thhey are acessible they will be undevelopable as no one will want to live by the track. Who is going to pay for the trash unauthorized people will dump on these plots. Who will maintain them? What plans are in place to do something with the small 1 to ten acre plots that are going to be created. They will be more expensive to farm than they are worth and undevelopable because they are too small for a rail shippingt business and uninhabitale because of the noise and vibrations of the train. Who also is going to protect the farmers crossing this track to get from one side to another on their private" crossing? They are expected to risk their life to cross the line with no lights or gates and a train coming every ten to 15 minutes? Who is going to look out for them? Please ddeny this poory thought out business plan."
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22397Dennis Scheppler[Mount Prospect] This proposed new railroad is supposed to reduce congestion, and at the same time increase total rail capacity. This two goals are incompatible. The so called bypass also does not take any trains out of the metro area. So this line brings more trains to an already congeste area. A true bypass wouldd take trains out of the area. For example a line running from Kansas City to detroit would bypass the Chicago Metro Area. This line does not do this, for that reason the line needes stopped.Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22396Joan CristMore suburban sprawl: this will be the likely impact of the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation" rail line in Northwest Indiana, as businesses and intermodal centers are built along the line outside of existing urban areas. This will very likely lead to continued loss of farmland and wild habitat, and hydrology problems, as well as urban decay and distress in the Region's core cities--Gary, Hammond, and East Chicago--as yet more resources are drained away from the urban core and pulled to the suburbs. Refer to the "Costs of Sprawl" 2000 Report for a detailed discussion of environmental, economic, and social impacts of continued sprawl. Far from being visionary, this is a very shortsighted project. It would be wiser to invest in separating at-grade crossings along existing rail lines in the Region."
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22395Marsha TesdalATTN: Dave Navecky - Docket No. FD35952 Surface Transportation Board Office of Environmental Analysis| 395 E. Street SW Washington, DC 20423-0001 Mr. Navecky: I oppose the entire Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC project and ask the Surface Transportation Board to deny the proposal. I would like to express my environmental concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project-Docket # 35952. My concerns are: high speed train derailments will cause toxic chemical spills on our prime farmland which will permanently destroy the soil and render it permanently useless for crop production; the rail line through our many farms will cause much longer response times for police, fire and ambulance vehicles to respond to emergencies in rural communities due to the increased length of time at railroad crossings and numerous township road closures and the disruption of water flow and tile damage will cause flooding of our farmland and the loss of fertile top soil. Marsha Tesdal 10925 Nettle Creek Road Newark, Illinois 60541Newark, Illinois
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22394Kellie PozilAfter reading about Mr. Patton's q&a session he had may 2nd(was not there, read articles and saw some video) there are too many missing puzzle pieces that he will not answer to the public. Since this involves so so many public people we should have everything disclosed to us and we are not getting and I believe you are not getting it from GLBT. I hope you consider the ethics of this project. It will have negative affects on my land(within 200ft of of my house), it's productivity and value. DENY DENY DENY this project. Thank you.Valparaiso, In
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22393SHERYL SCHMITTCAPRON, IL
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22392MussmanDocket # 35952 Environmental Comments The issue I wish to address pertains to drainage. South Lake County Indiana is situated in a flood plain that drains into the Kankakee River to the south. Because most of the land the proposed rail line will traverse is farm land the ground is drained by field tiles that run through the land. Constructing a rail line through this farm land will break and damage these tiles. The rail line would act as a dam, a barrier that would prevent proper drainage and would cause flooding on the north side. Water flow to the Kankakee River would be greatly reduced which would be harmful for the environment by depriving fish and wildlife that depend upon the water in the river to survive. Also, as the River crosses the state line into Kankakee County Illinois it becomes the water source for the residents of the towns and cities along the way, including the city of Kankakee. These towns and cities draw their water right out of the river, so if the volume of water is drastically reduced by the dam this rail line would create they will lose their ability to have adequate water. Flooding caused by the dam created by the rail line will reduce crop production along the route because our crops can’t grow in flood water. The hardship this would cause economically to the area would be significant. Therefore; we recommend that the STB deny this project going forward. Thank you. Patricia MussmanPat · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22391Roger MilhollandMr. Navecky, Grundy County Farm Bureau put forth the effort to arrange a Q&A session with Mr. Patton at Morris High School on May 2, 2016. I wish a representative from your office had attended. Particularly given the level of economic incompetence demonstrated by Frank Pattons answers. They were somewhere between evasive and ignorant when speaking of property values and taxes. His answers about job creation are not verifiable, even by the sources that he cited to us. I checked them online after his meeting concluded. His view of devaluation of personal property is that It's value will increase"....NOT SO. It is as simple as this. If no one wants to buy my property located 250 feet from HIS multi rail train line..."What is my property REALLY worth?"...and it is a direct result of Mr. Pattons railway. His pipe dream about noise control?... 278 miles of sound barrier?... Really? That was his answer. The man has no clue about a field tile, drainage, or what that really is? Mr. Patton demonstrated a level of distrust, ignorance and incompetence second to none last night. I am sure it was filmed, and I'm also sure if you obtain this film you will not waste anymore time, effort and tax payer dollars with this endeavor. Do the tax payers a great benefit and just end this thing now...There is a term called "waste, Fraud and Abuse"... and pursuing this is a textbook example of it."
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(printed as 5/3/2016)CommentEI-22318Anthea Morgan
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-25279John Brinkman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-23780Joann Eike[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-23259Gina Miller[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-23258Caroline McBride[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-23252Wayne McCoy[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22730Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22729Cindy Tesdal
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22728Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22714Mr. Walter Mikrut[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22713Wayne McCoy[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22712Caroline McBride[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22710Keith and Sharon Hagen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22709Ralph and Ellen Nottingham[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22708Nicholas A Vanquel[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22707Carol Heath[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22706Mark Mann[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22704Rancy Hopkins[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22703Doreen E. Savage[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22692Timothy L Kitzman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22691Sarah Olson-SmithLEE CO. AGAINST GLB RR My concerns surround the effects it will have on the local environment and the safety of our families and farms. The environmental concerns are, but not limited to drainage ditches and the altering of the quality and safety of the creeks. The natural flow of water will be interrupted and cause erosion issues as well as increased flooding. My concerns about safety issues, are for all citizens in our area, as the possible closing of the road that will affect Fire Department routes as well as the proximity of the rail road to several homes/properties that families reside on. My concerns about safety issues, are for all citizens in our area, as the possible closing of the road that will affect Fire Department routes as well as the proximity of the rail road to several homes/properties that families reside on. Another important issue to note, Mr. Navecky, is this will be taking over 60 acres out of the 100 acres that my father has worked his whole life to be able to purchase and have for his family. I AM ASKING YOU TO PLEASE DENY THIS PROPOSED RAIL ROAD. THANK YOU!
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22390Carla BrownleeLoud, persistent noise IS pollution. It causes sleep deprivation, disrupts circadian rhythms in animals and induces neurotic behavior in humans. The impact of being exposed to the noise from 110 trains a day is absolutely aural pollution.Sheridan, IL
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22389Hope O'KeefeHello. Regarding the proposed GLB railroad: People living west of the 9000 N crossing, and north of the 5000 W crossing will be effectively cut off from Manteno Fire Department, Manteno Paramedics. Also, Manteno Fire district includes the state park. People get hurt, get into trouble in the water there every summer. Kids at Camp Shaw get hurt. This railroad will prevent Manteno Fire from getting to people in need. Additionally, exposure to the emissions produced by trains increase risk of cancer. These emissions contribute to acid rain which has been shown to decrease farmland productivity. Nitrogen dioxide which is produced by diesel engines prevents honeybees from finding flowers to sustain them. The constant noise and lights associated with the rail yards have been shown to be deleterious to health. Please take into account the value of the farmland that will be irreparably damaged. The value of the farmland is not measured only by dollars, but is measured in wildlife, peace and tranquility, safety, and in history.Manteno, il
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22388Elizabeth RittenbacherI didn't know about the April 11th meeting to oppose the GLB Rail line. I'm very opposed for my legacy to possibly be effected by this project. I'm a taxpayer & registered voter who will not allow this to happen.Bonfield, IL
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22387Michael ReplinMr. Dave Navecky, Just 18 days after the public scoping meeting at the Lowell VFW on April 12, 2016, there is a freight train derailment. Fourteen cars derailed on May 1, 2016 in Washington D.C. Some of the cars were carrying hazardous material which was spilled only blocks from the capitol. Isnt it ironic that it happened in the city where the Surface Transportation Board is located. Thankfully the city is equipped to handle such a disaster.The town of Lowell, IN is not as fortunate if a derailment occurred. Please let us keep our way of living safe and free from the dangers of any train accidents or derailments. Thank you."
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22386Roger MilhollandIT'S NOT A MATTER OF IF"...."IT'S A MATTER OF WHEN" Train derails in Washington Yahoo News Photo May 02, 2016 Officials warned Washington, D.C., area residents to brace for a potentially slow commute Monday after a CSX freight train derailed near a Metro stop, sending 15 cars off the tracks and spilling hazardous material. The train derailed at about 6:40 a.m. Sunday near the Rhode Island Avenue Metro station, and one of the cars leaked sodium hydroxide, which is used to produce various household products, including paper, soap and detergents, CSX said. Also known as "LYE""
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22385Daniel KloosThe Great Lakes Basin Rail Line is proposed to run only 300 feet south of my home that I am in the process of building. I poured the footings for my new home on March 17, 2016 the same day that we were first informed of this rail line. My wife and I picked Lowell, IN to retire there after working years and years and saving our money to live out in the quiet and peaceful country. I currently work 45 miles from Lowell in Alsip IL and it takes me one hour each way to get to and from work but I have chosen to do this to improve the value of my life and the lives of my family. I have decided to live there for the peace and quiet and now I am being threatened with a railroad that can handle as many as 110 trains per day at speeds of 70 MPH. The only source of water that I have for my new home is well water and one spill or accident that close to my home and my drinking water will be destroyed. Our new home is abutted by a flood plain on two sides and any change to the topography of the surrounding land would be devastating to this flood plain and would end up flooding out my property and new home. The vibrations from a train so close to the new house would end up vibrating the house apart. The noises from one train traveling at 70 miles per hour would be deafening now make that 60 – 110 trains per day we will have no quality of life. Watching the news and seeing what is going on in Flint Michigan with the contamination of their drinking water I know that same thing will be played out here in Northwest Indiana if you allow this railroad to be built. It may not be right away but the oil, fuel and cargo that would be taken on these tracks will leach into our drinking water. For that for that reason alone you need to deny the application to proceed with the construction of this railroad.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22384Daniel KloosThe Great Lakes Basin Rail Line is proposed to run only 300 feet south of my home that I am in the process of building. I poured the footings for my new home on March 17, 2016 the same day that we were first informed of this rail line. My wife and I picked Lowell, IN to retire there after working years and years and saving our money to live out in the quiet and peaceful country. I currently work 45 miles from Lowell in Alsip IL and it takes me one hour each way to get to and from work but I have chosen to do this to improve the value of my life and the lives of my family. I have decided to live there for the peace and quiet and now I am being threatened with a railroad that can handle as many as 110 trains per day at speeds of 70 MPH. The only source of water that I have for my new home is well water and one spill or accident that close to my home and my drinking water will be destroyed. Our new home is abutted by a flood plain on two sides and any change to the topography of the surrounding land would be devastating to this flood plain and would end up flooding out my property and new home. The vibrations from a train so close to the new house would end up vibrating the house apart. The noises from one train traveling at 70 miles per hour would be deafening now make that 60 – 110 trains per day we will have no quality of life. Watching the news and seeing what is going on in Flint Michigan with the contamination of their drinking water I know that same thing will be played out here in Northwest Indiana if you allow this railroad to be built. It may not be right away but the oil, fuel and cargo that would be taken on these tracks will leach into our drinking water. For that for that reason alone you need to deny the application to proceed with the construction of this railroad.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 5/2/2016)Comment
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22382julene auchstetterGreat lake Basin Transportation LLC estimate 90% project finance through Federal R/R loans. Patriotic federal taxpayers small business farmer gives his hard earned money to IRS so the Nation will protect, serve and care for him. IRS passes taxpayers money to Congress U.S. Congress passed $281BILLION transportation bill to give to DOT STB a small division of DOT okays GLBT LCC. GLB LLC see opportunity to make profits off taxpayers and applies for a least $8BILLION or more in form of loans that with loop holes will never pay paid. The small hard working farmer tax money in reality is being used to destroy or severely harm his business and quality of life. IRS says farmers are honest in paying Federal taxes. As a taxpayer I vote NO, NO, NO, No,NO, to Great lake Basin Railroad getting approval and any Federal R/R loans. There are beneficial needs for my tax money to support not provide for a destructive environmental project, or give my money to this speculative hedge fund Indi duals. thank youperu, ill
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22315Sarah Olson-Smith
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(printed as 5/2/2016)CommentEI-22314Tomothy Kitzman
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(printed as 5/1/2016)CommentEI-22381Kevin SnookI live about 400 feet from where the train right of way will be located. My house will shake from the trains going by. I'm not sure what that will do to may foundation but it will defiantly do something. At 133 trains a day that would be about 13 trains an hour. Figuring that the time for a train to go by would be 3 to 5 minutes I will have 1 minute out of three that there is not a train going by my house. This will keep us from being able to talk outside and hear each other pretty much all the time. We have a pool in the back yard and every Sunday we have friends and relatives here to swim and cook out. With trains going by most of the time that will no longer happen as we won't be able to hear each other. Thank you for considering my situation. Kevin SnookValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 5/1/2016)CommentEI-22380Sheila SnookI have concerns about the impact of the GLBR on the Biological Resources in our area. We live right next to a Wetlands Conservation area. Before our local farmer and friend Rich Kleist passed away, he arranged for a large portion of acreage to be set aside for conservation and preservation purposes. To our knowledge, no homes, subdivisions, or developments are allowed to be built in this area. The sign posted on this land says: Restoring America's Wetland Heritage Wetlands Reserve Program U.S Dept. of Agriculture Since the railroad will pass through about 1/2 mile away, I am certain the protected wildlife of that area will diminish. The construction alone probably will eliminate wildlife from the the wetlands preserve and the fish in the neighboring Crooked Creek. The idea of Stewardship for Future Generations" as the sign reads will never come to pass if a railroad such as the GLBR goes through this land."
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(printed as 5/1/2016)CommentEI-22379Roberta Baileyour family farm has turned down selling our mineral rights and windmills and we are saying NO to this proposed rail line. our concern is water drainage. the railroad would cross a waterway on our property and rain runoff will not flow properly and cause wet spots and drown out crops.Morris, Illinois
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(printed as 5/1/2016)CommentEI-22378Michael RiegelDear STB, First of all I do oppose the introduction of a new railroad. But if it must be, then I wish to propose the re-routing of the proposed route in order to reduce the number of times that the railroad crosses the rivers in the region. In addition the alternate route is shorter in distance, thus reducing the cumulative effects to the environment. My concern is that each mile of rail and each river crossing takes away part of the scenery, adding to visual pollution, air and water pollution, and disrupting wildlife habitats. I simply wish to minimize these effects by urging the repurposing of existing rails and their river crossings. Please see attached image. Shown in the image is the current proposal in Kankakee County. Highlighted in the yellow is a proposed alternate rail that minimizes the overall environmental impact to the region by reducing rail length and number of river crossings. Sincerely, Michael RiegelBonfield, IL
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(printed as 5/1/2016)CommentEI-22377Michael RiegelDear STB, I wish to propose the repurposing of exiting rail passages crossing the Kankakee River, rather than the exploitation of additional waters and lands of the state park. I do not know anything about the exiting rail road and rail crossing shown below, other than the visible fact that it exists. I appears that it is no longer in use, and just abandoned. My concern is that each crossing takes away part of the scenery, adding to visual pollution, air and water pollution, and disrupting wildlife habitats. This example is real proof that railroads will forever leave a scar to the landscape long after they are abandoned. I simply wish to minimize these effects by urging the repurposing of existing rails and their river crossings. Please see attached image. Shown in this image is the current proposal in Kankakee County. Enclosed within the yellow is an existing rail that crosses the Kankakee River near Custer Park, IL. Sincerely, Michael RiegelBonfield, IL
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(printed as 5/1/2016)CommentEI-22376Brad MairIn recent years Johnstown Township in Rock County has become a winter habitat for Snowy Owls. I have observed them on my property which is a half mile east of the proposed rail line. Trains passing through the area at 70MPH will not provide a comfortable winter habitat for these birds.Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 5/1/2016)CommentEI-22375Michael RiegelDear STB, I wish to propose the repurposing of exiting rail passages crossing the Kankakee River, rather than the exploitation of additional waters and lands of the state park. I do not know anything about the exiting remnants of the rail crossing shown below, other than the visible fact that it exists. It is clearly visible from both satellite view and by eye from the river / park level. My concern is that each crossing takes away part of the scenery, adding to visual pollution, air and water pollution, and disrupting wildlife habitats. This example is real proof that railroads will forever leave a scar to the landscape long after they are abandoned. I simply wish to minimize these effects by urging the repurposing of existing crossings. Please see the attachment that contains images of the area of interest. Current proposal near #79 Kankakee County (river crossing). Circled in Yellow are the remnants of an abandoned railroad which continues to scar the river and surrounding area. Sincerely, Michael RiegelBonfield, IL
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(printed as 5/1/2016)CommentEI-22374Michael RiegelDear STB, My Assumptions… • Crude oil is being harvested in North Dakota, in particular from the Bakken formation. • The method by which the crude is being harvested includes a process called fracking (a method that is highly controversial in terms of the environment). • The largest share of the harvested crude is then transported by rail and road (trucking) to the east coast region, where it is then refined or exported to one or more other countries. • Rail shipments of this crude to the east coast region had rapidly spiked in 2013 through mid- 2015, driving a high demand for Chicago based rail passage. Fortunately these volumes are currently not sustained. Could they return? My objections… • I object to using fracking to harvest crude for the sale to foreign countries. This crude is a valuable resource for the United States which should be reserved for our own use in future years. Putting this crude on the world market encourages over-use of fossil fuels that is ultimately exasperating our path to global warming. • I object to using road and rail transportation of crude oil over long distances. These modes of transportation of large volumes of material over long distances are extremely inefficient compared to alternative modes. Among many factors, these inefficient modes of transportation, in the colossal scale of crude oil volumes, is an enormous contribution to CO2 emissions. Not to mention the fact that roads and rail aggressively compete against safe and environmentally resources needed for human beings, wild life, insects, and other fragile ecosystems. Our land surface is of limited quantity and quality. We must preserve this where all possible. This is the only place where we successfully live. In the case that I have no control over the fracking process and sale of this crude to other countries, I urge alternate modes of transportation of crude to its destination. Such alternatives to consider… Pipelines are capable of efficiently transporting vast quantities of material over long distances. They can be relatively easily placed both above and/or below grade, and can be spanned cross bodies of water. The use of pipelines allow for direct point to point delivery with minimal interference to the human and the ecological populations. Maritime vessels provide the most efficient mode of transportation of very large quantities of material such as crude oil. This efficiency is of particular interest when it involves movement of material over very long distances, such as overseas. This mode of transportation offers the least environmental impact to our planet. Maritime vessels travel in paths that are safely out of the harm of the most common human activities, which allows for a vast and efficient transportation system to co-exist with the human population. Although no one mode of transportation fits all the requirements, it is often the discerned combination of modes that provide the most practical solution. With the above assumptions, it would seem that the most economical and environmentally friendly solution is to use rail to transport crude from the Bakken fields to the closest point of the great lakes. From a port of the great lakes, the crude would then be transferred to maritime vessels. The vessels would then complete the transportation to its final location. I strongly urge the Surface Transportation Board to reject the application for additional railroad construction and transportation, in favor of more efficient modes of transportation. Sincerely, Michael Riegel Sources: Great Lakes Maritime Research Institute The Geography of Transport Systems (Dr. Jean-Paul Rodrigue, Dr. Brian Slack and Dr. Claude Comtois)Bonfield, IL
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(printed as 5/1/2016)CommentEI-22373Brad MairI would like to address the economic impact of the proposed rail project to Rock County. The Rock County UW Extension Office has calculated lost crop production revenue at $438,000 and a loss to Agriculture related businesses i.e. (feed, fertilizer, herbicide, Seed, agronomy services, and financial support) of $170,000. That is a total of $608,000 taken out of the local economy on an annual basis based on current USDA Ag Statistics. Great Lakes Basin claims on their website that 500 to 600 permanent jobs will be created by this project. Where will these jobs be created? I doubt any of those jobs will be in Rock County. When trying to gain approval for a project from local, state or federal authorities, corporations commonly project potential job creation. Numbers that often never materialize. It has been reported that Frank Patton claims this project will take 1 million trucks off the highway reducing traffic congestion. Trucks need drivers; therefore, we will lose 1 million truck driving jobs. I believe this project to have a negative economic impact to our local Agriculture economy. I'm requesting the Surface Transportation Board study the economic impact to each Village, Township, Town and County that this project passes through or near.Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 5/1/2016)CommentEI-22372Michael RiegelDear STB, My Assumptions… • Crude oil is being harvested in North Dakota, in particular from the Bakken formation. • The method by which the crude is being harvested includes a process called fracking (a method that is highly controversial in terms of the environment). • The largest share of the harvested crude is then transported by rail and road (trucking) to the east coast region, where it is then refined or exported to one or more other countries. • Rail shipments of this crude to the east coast region had rapidly spiked in 2013 through mid- 2015, driving a high demand for Chicago based rail passage. Fortunately these volumes are currently not sustained. Could they return? My objections… • I object to using fracking to harvest crude for the sale to foreign countries. This crude is a valuable resource for the United States which should be reserved for our own use in future years. Putting this crude on the world market encourages over-use of fossil fuels that is ultimately exasperating our path to global warming. • I object to using road and rail transportation of crude oil over long distances. These modes of transportation of large volumes of material over long distances are extremely inefficient compared to alternative modes. Among many factors, these inefficient modes of transportation, in the colossal scale of crude oil volumes, is an enormous contribution to CO2 emissions. Not to mention the fact that roads and rail aggressively compete against safe and environmentally resources needed for human beings, wild life, insects, and other fragile ecosystems. Our land surface is of limited quantity and quality. We must preserve this where all possible. This is the only place where we successfully live. In the case that I have no control over the fracking process and sale of this crude to other countries, I urge alternate modes of transportation of crude to its destination. Such alternatives to consider… Pipelines are capable of efficiently transporting vast quantities of material over long distances. They can be relatively easily placed both above and/or below grade, and can be spanned cross bodies of water. The use of pipelines allow for direct point to point delivery with minimal interference to the human and the ecological populations. Maritime vessels provide the most efficient mode of transportation of very large quantities of material such as crude oil. This efficiency is of particular interest when it involves movement of material over very long distances, such as overseas. This mode of transportation offers the least environmental impact to our planet. Maritime vessels travel in paths that are safely out of the harm of the most common human activities, which allows for a vast and efficient transportation system to co-exist with the human population. Although no one mode of transportation fits all the requirements, it is often the discerned combination of modes that provide the most practical solution. With the above assumptions, it would seem that the most economical and environmentally friendly solution is to use rail to transport crude from the Bakken fields to the closest point of the great lakes. From a port of the great lakes, the crude would then be transferred to maritime vessels. The vessels would then complete the transportation to its final location. I strongly urge the Surface Transportation Board to reject the application for additional railroad construction and transportation, in favor of more efficient modes of transportation. Sincerely, Michael Riegel Sources: Great Lakes Maritime Research Institute and The Geography of Transport Systems (Dr. Jean-Paul Rodrigue, Dr. Brian Slack and Dr. Claude Comtois)Bonfield, IL
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(printed as 5/1/2016)CommentEI-22371Alan WiesbrookPlease read my concerns regarding the Great Lakes Basin project Thank youYorkville, il
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(printed as 4/30/2016)CommentEI-22370Sharon McKayPorter County Indiana has required emission testing of vehicles for many years because of pollution. By adding 50 to 100 trains going thru Porter County daily will add unneeded pollution to our area and made a bigger health issue for our community. PLEASE TURN DOWN THE RAILROAD REQUEST FOR NW INDIANA. THANK YOU.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/30/2016)CommentEI-22369dorothy heitkeI live in Bradford Township less than one mile from where the great Lakes basin railroad is proposing train tracks. The proposal includes crossing Turtle Creek and the running parallel (and less than one half mile from the creek) for about six miles. The track is going to be located hundreds of feet higher than the creek, so a spill most certainly would make it's way into the creek. This creek and the surrounding woods and farm fields are on the migratory path of geese, herons, cranes and occasionally great white owls. This area is also home to eagles, which are nesting here for the first time in over 50 years This train has the potential to create catastrophic consequences for a lot of wild life. The noise of 115 trains per day would discourage birds from making this a stop every spring and fall or the herons from nesting here each summer. Turtle Creek is also the home to thousands of turtles, a species especially susceptible to pollution or some type of chemical spill. The railroad is also proposing to cross Carvers Rock Road along this same path. The crossing would be less than a tenth of a mile from the crest of the hill..thereby necessitating that the train blow a warning whistle each time it crosses the road...or 115 times per day!!!! Even with a gate..the crossing would not be visible (going 55 mph) until it was too late to stop. I live in an area where I will literally not be able to go in any direction without having to cross the railroad tracks. This cuts us off from police and fire protection. I have tried to figure out how many minutes we will have between trains. 115 trains per day means one train about every 14 minutes. With the time spent from when the gate stops traffic until 50 cars go through and the gate goes up...I figure drivers will at the best only have 8 minutes between trains. That is going to be A big hardship..especially during commute times and when one is waiting for police, ambulance or fire truck to arrive. Highway 140/67 is an alternate to Interstate 39/90, the highway wide load translorts use, the corridor that DeLong (seed, fertilizer, ammonia provider) travel on to distribute their products, the artery used by school buses and lastly the road heavily traveled by farm equipment. How can this busy road, only be accessible for 32 minutes a day because a train chose the most populated, heavily congested part of southern wisconsin to locate their tracks on? Why should taxpayers have to accommodate a train company to this degree? Why should wildlife be forced to migrate differently than they have for 100's of years? Why should my health and welfare be in jeopardy because the responders got held up at the train crossing. Why do I have to be subject to all this noise pollution? Is it fair that my property value decrease and home insurance costs increase, because some private investors want to make huge profits? sClinton, WI
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(printed as 4/30/2016)CommentEI-22368TOWN OF LIMA ROCK COUNTYThis is in regards to the rail road proposed going through WI. When this RR is constructed and maintained, they must abide by the weight limits imposed on local roads. Local roads are posted for even lower weights during spring thawing. Also the RR has to apply for conditional use permits from local governments in Rock County as they are locally controlled. There also has to be a bond in place for potential damage to the road. If road inspections are done, they need to be paid for by the RR. Any legal expenses incurred by the township should be paid for by the RR. In our township (Lima, Rock) we had road damage done by the Enbridge pipe line and we were reimbursed for only a small fraction of the damages done. Being the deputy treasurer of Lima, I know that we don't have funds to sufficiently maintain our roads and heavy equipment is a big part of the problem. Thank you for your attention to this.JANICE QUADE · WHITEWATER, WI
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(printed as 4/30/2016)CommentEI-22367Ken DaggettI am adamantly opposed to any rail system going through any part of northern Illinois, the extreme noise pollution it would cause in a normally quite country setting would disrupt the everyday piece and quiet that we in the country have become accustomed to, and that is the reason we live in this area, to get away from this kind of pollution, air, noise, and the possibility of water pollution caused by a leak or contamination to the ground caused by a train derailment and major leak from unsafe tank cars. We in the country receive our water from wells on our land and they could be easily contaminated by any kind of spill. This will also cause serious problems with any livestock, or do serious damage to grain crops for many years down the road. The long term environmental impact could be disastrous to hundreds of farmers who depend on a safe and clean environment to earn their livelihood. Please think about the long term affect of this project and deny their request. Ken DaggettMorris, Il.
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-25269Amber Keller[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-23262Susan Ekhoff[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-23261Suzie Henschler[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22366Kristin AndrysiakPlease see attached comments I brought to the Valparaiso scope meeting; however, I wanted to make sure I submitted them electronically as well.Westville, IN
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22365Cedar Creek Township TrusteeAlice F. Dahl · Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22364verna auchstetterMitigation is not the answer to stress questions. It is not the answer to GLB either. Mitigation doesn't alleviate, it just extends stress forever. All it means farmers have for ever hire lawyers to fight for rights on sheet of paper that doesn't mean a thing. Or the paper put added responsibility on the farmer. It is not comprise it is giving R/R want they want in full terms. LLC Groups are hidden inlayers of shell companies, no one takes responsibility--and never will. I can tell you about the oil pipe line that broke our neighbor tile. (5 yrs still not fix,-companies lawyers keep changing -one excuse given) STB is far away in D.C. they will see or deal with the consequences of their force mitigations. PLEASE A COMPLETE NO TO GLB thank youperu, ill
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22363mary auchstetterstressful question, no answers, realize have no control, feel decision already decided, STB is just going through steps-- otherwise this crazy project would already be stopped. Feel hopeless. How much land I toil for years to care for will be destroyed? What will it do to my conservation program, my waterways, my expensive tile system? How do I deal with the abnormal deep compaction caused by heavy construction equipment (construction crews have proven not to respect others land) How will the equipment get to site? What growing period will they attack? Who is responsible for weed control? How much crops will be destroyed? who pays? How many miles will I need to move my slow large equipment to my segregated section? Will my neighbors give excess land to reach this plot? Will I be forced due to train sell this section, which will be at a reduced price ( thanks to R/R). With lost in income from easement will I be able to pay loans on expensive farm equipment? Will I need to move the family away from trains that hope to operate 24 hrs, one every 15 minutes. Can I afford a lawyer that is good enough to protect my rights. STB will say mitigation will take care of these issues---HA, HA, HA. It is sad to live in America and be a hard worker.peru, ill
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22362colette limaThe magnitude of stress GLB is causing those directly affected is immeasurable. Who are these mysterious people, ashamed to say their names in public? Who are these people who can control our life now and in the future? Are they like so much of Mr. Patton says a lie?Rochelle, ill
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22361Sherry LindquistAs a landowner with a high pressure gas line running through my property I researched the restrictions for use over or near the pipeline. Attached is that information.Belvidere, Illinois
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22360Sherry LindquistAs a 5th Generation resident and a docent at the Boone County Historical Museum I researched Modern Farming for the Mural which depicts the History of Boone County in images and is used as a tool for self guided tours as well as a guide for docents leading tours. Attached is that research. Please don't approve this unnecessary railroad across Boone County and disrupt the livelihood of successful farmers. The possibility of a few temporary construction jobs can never replace the lifelong occupation of farming. The lives of all of our citizens would be negatively impacted.Belvidere, Illinois
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentPhil Thornton
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22312USEPA, Region 5Kenneth Westlake
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22311James Henderson
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22310Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22309Cindy Kohler
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(printed as 4/29/2016)CommentEI-22308Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-23260Joanne Wixom[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-23256Phyllis Feeney[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-23255Phyllis Feeney[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-23254Mary Scheppler[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-23253Donna Mullooly[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22711Judith McCoy[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22690Julie Kokoshere's a scoping comment, you will not put a railroad through my property!!!!!!!!!! or anywhere near it. sorry if that is not what you wanted to hear! go run a railroad through your own backyard!!!
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22359Maria ShookIn our community, Morgan Township, the fire dept. is a volunteer force. By building a railroad here, not only will the volunteers be delayed getting to their equipment, there will be delays getting to emergency locations and people in distress. With potentially over 100 trains per day, delays are an inevitability. This poses a great threat to the residents of Morgan Township. Please do not build this railroad and put our community at risk.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22358Maria ShookAs a mother of student with epilepsy, I strongly oppose to the new railroad proposed in our area. I am very concerned that emergency vehicles will not be able to reach our school quickly if they are stopped by a train. We are not an urban community. We have limited roads available, and our main highway, St. Rd. 49 can not be compromised by numerous trains stopping traffic for long periods of time. Please do not build this railroad in Morgan Township.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22357Maria ShookI am a parent of a student at Morgan Township High School and I am very worried about the changes that the new railroad will bring to our school. The railroad will double the number of railroad crossings that our buses will travel twice daily. This is a significant increase in danger to our students. Also, this will increase the time that students spend on the bus. Morgan already has an extended school day. Please do not sacrifice our students safety and welfare for the sake of a railroad. Thank you.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22356Steven NuppenauA rough estimate of a typical" railroad overpass is 250,000 cubic yards. The cost of construction will quickly force the reduction of crossings and cut off more roads than the current plans show. Second concern is the area of Route 64 and the proposed railroad overpass. I have driven this route many times and noted the geology. A DETAILED, geological study is need to see if a railroad could/should be built on this ground. The site may be unfit to support the proposed project. Finally, has Homeland Security made any comments about trains filled with North Dakota crude passing overhead of Interstate Highways?"
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(printed as 4/28/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22354Amy BorsilliHello I am writing this to let you know that I am very concerned about the impact the Great Lakes Basin railroad proposal would have on my property and surrounding farmland. The railway is proposed to run about a 1/2 mile from the back of my property. If there would be a derailment of a train containing hazardous material it would contaminate our well water and the water around us. We love the peace and quiet on our property and the noise a train would make would disrupt our sleep. There is a lot of wildlife in the area and a train would disrupt their habitat. My husband just saw an eagle near our home a few days ago. Our local emergency response teams are not trained or equipped to handle any sort of railroad emergency involving hazardous materials or fire. Most importantly is that no rail company has expressed interest in using this rail line that we know of. If theres a hazardous material spill the material would contaminate the soil and it would get into the Kankakee River. The railroad crossings would block any path that an ambulance or fire truck needs to respond to emergencies. I do not want this railway in our backyard. Thank you for your consideration of the citizens and myself in Lowell Indiana.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22353Lynn BurchDear Mr. Navecky: I am concerned about the taking of private property by a private company using eminent domain. GLB is requesting a 200’ right of way to go through prime farmland in Ogle County, IL. That is approximately 24 acres per mile of track. In addition, GLB proposes overpasses over existing railroads, interstates, and state highways. The amount of soil removal to create the long grade to make a 1% grade for the overpass will take additional prime farmland out of production for borrow pits. I have seen no mention how many additional acres will be required in borrow pits. In addition, during construction of rail lines, existing field drainage tiles will be destroyed causing standing water along the proposed railroad. Without existing tiles, some fields along the railroad may become unfarmable. Another concern is the rural roads that will be closed because GLB determines that they are in sparsely populated areas. Years ago, the planners decided that enough people lived on those roads to gravel and continue to maintain them. A private, out of state company should not be granted power to close roads in our county. In emergency situations, first responders will have to go way out of their way to get to people needing immediate assistance. Many rural farms have grain bins on them. Minutes count when responding to someone trapped in a grain bin or pinned under a tractor, etc. I am also very concerned at the proposed speed of up to 70 mph for the trains and the proposed 110 trains that GLB states on their website that they expect to have traveling the rails per day. The speed will cause derailments and the number of trains will often have people waiting for trains. When a farmer’s field is divided by the railroad, how will he safely cross the tracks with a combine, grain cart, and semi during harvest with 70 mph trains every 15 minutes. The grain hauler will have to make many trips across the tracks dividing his field during harvest to get the crop out. In addition, the proposed route traverses and runs alongside many waterways. In a derailment, how would oil, gas, or other dangerous substances be contained and cleaned up. This will be very dangerous for all involved. I hope that you will reject GLB’s request for this unnecessary railroad. Furthermore, I urge the STB to conduct a full review of the GLB project and not grant an Exemption if requested by GLB. Thank you for considering my concerns. Lynn BurchLindenwood, IL
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22352Laurel KuehlI express concern about the proposed train route in Porter County, Indiana. Any train wreck/leakage will contaminate the aqueducts/springs where we get our supply of water. Hauling nuclear products/waste will create another Chernobyl if there is an accident. Any other products (chemical, etc.) pose a whole new set of problems. Insurmountable medical problems,which is shown in medical studies, due to air, noise/vibration, water, and soil pollution, can and will create hardships. There is a potential of trains delaying ambulances and police. Our emergency traffic must get through, which one hundred trains per day does not leave much leeway for. Also, our economy relies on highway traffic. The proposed railroad can pursue the abandoned rails I see listed on the web site. It was stated to me, A wise person will look at the impact and the results as it pertains to the present and distant future for the well being of all." Thank you for your time."
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22351Patricia MussmanRE: Docket No. FD 35952 Environmental Comment The proposed rail line by Frank Patton and the Great Lakes Basin Transportation LLC destroys thousands of acres of highly productive farmland. This is farmland that provides income to the land owners and stimulates the economy of the counties and townships along the route as well as adjoining communities. The loss of this income will adversely impact these areas and cause a lack of growth and development that benefits these areas. No one wants to buy land next to a railroad track that has no intention of providing goods and services to these communities. Property values will drop dramatically and remaining taxpayers will have to pay more for necessary services. I am attaching a statement by the Kankakee County Farm Bureau that eloquently addresses the impact the rail line would have on the agricultural community in that county, but represents the other counties as well. If there is no need for this rail road and no carriers who are interested in leasing the completed rail line there should be no reason to allow the GLBR to build the line. There seems to be no genuine purpose and need for this to go forward. Therefore I am asking the STB to deny the project. I am also attaching a news story from the Wall Street Journal that address the lack need for the rail line to proceed. Patricia Mussman West Creek Township Lowell, IN 46356Lowell, IN
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22350Jennifer Ludeman[Clinton] I oppose the Great Lakes Basin Transportation rail project in Rock County, WI because of the loss of vital farmland. Twenty four acres of land will be disturbed per mile of track; this does not include the soil taken from borrow pits necessary for the building of ramps for overpasses. Much of the soil that will be disturbed or taken out of production is plano silt loam, considered to be one of the best crop production soil types in the world. Once this soil is radically disturbed, it can never be replaced. In addition, many acres of farmland will no longer be in crop production due to isolation from the farmer's main acreage, or due to re-sizing and re-shaping that does not allow access by large farm equipment. Preservation of prime farmland is of high priority, as once lost, it is never fully regained. Loss of highly productive cropland and loss of the world's best soil is unacceptable, and reason for you to reject GLBT's proposal.Clinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22349Ken DaggettFrom the legal definition of eminent domain: The power of eminent domain was created to authorize the government or condemning authority...to conduct a compulsory sale of property FOR THE COMMON WELFARE, SUCH AS HEALTH OR SAFTY." This project is neither intended for the common welfare nor the public health or safety!!! and eminent domain should not apply to this project!!! "To exercise this power, the government must prove that the four elements set forth in the fifth amendment are present:(1)private property (2)must be taken(3)FOR PUBLIC USE....." The public in the affected area will not have any use for this project whatsoever!!! "Property value may be reduced because of noise, accessibility problems, or other agents" Property value will definitely go down in the area, creating a lose of revenue to all township, county and state coffers due to lower tax rates. "The third element, public use, requires that the property taken be used to BENEFIT THE PUBLIC RATHER THAN SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS" This project only benefits a handful of investors and has no benefit at all to the land owners or the counties that it passes through!!! "Generally, the best use of the land is considered to be its use at the time it was condemned, even though the condemnor might not intend to use the land in the same manner as the owner" For these reasons, and a hundred others, I ask that you deny GLB's request for a railroad through northern Illinois!! Ken Daggett"
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22307Donna Beranek
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(printed as 4/28/2016)CommentEI-22306Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22490Patricia Robisky[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22489Sue Donnelly[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22480Lauren Birkholz[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22479Marcia R. Kaster[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22478Lance & Juanita Milton[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22477Wayne G. McCoy[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22476Daniel J. Kaster[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22348Glenn SmithThe proposed rail line would affect my family in the following ways: It will adversely affect our current transportation systems in that; It would cut my family off from the 2 closest hospitals. It would impeed me from getting to work. It would prevent my children from getting to school in a timely fashion. Many county roads used for farming may not have adequate crossings for farm implements and thus, the farming equipment will be forced to congest roads that are already busy. It will threaten my family's safety as we would cross the proposed tracks 14 or more times a week. A derailment will threaten our personal water supply, as well as the supply of the nearest town and the fisheries that are downstream. (Kankakee River) There is the biological resource of a quiet park we enjoy that will no longer be quiet. (Stoney Run) It will adversely affect the air quality of my living space. Our local library is likely to have unwanted noise and vibration, as well as a cultural and historic resource near the line (church). There is already a Class 1 railroad (Norfolk Southern) 7 miles to the south. Why not save time and money and use tracks that are already there? Please oppose the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line project.Hebron, In
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22347Jennifer Ludeman[Clinton] I am requesting the STB's rejection of the Great Lakes Basin Transportation's proposed railroad through Rock County, WI, on basis of negative economic impact. Property owners and renters will lose future profits from farming the acreage that is taken by GLBT. They will also lose profits on field areas that become inaccessible either by isolation or by being carved in to shapes and sizes that do not accomodate farm equipment. In addition to crop profit loss, this land will also drop in property value, causing loss of profit if the owner sells in the future. Devaluation also affects the tax base for the surrounding townships and Rock County, as lower land values mean lower property taxes. This loss of tax income will affect township and county roads, emergency services, school budgets, and library budgets. Please reject GLBT's railroad proposal.Clinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22346melanie hofstrom-waiteI have seen reports of the use of the rails and conjestion and a thought came to mind that whom ever runs the chicago rail way may need more organization possably or hier someone with more experiance running a huge big bussy rail line maybe they are burnt out and sick of it ...if pack mercandise in traincars by region and sending them on a rail line to that direction and do less change over in this terminal using others farther away and running differant times of day 24 hours a day possably this is going on now but I feel all possable things must be tryed first before sacrifising all this land and if it is only needed in chicago than it doesnt need to also go through 2 other states the area of over use is so small and un needed in all other areas if they are useing a computer program for hauling that should be looked at because it was more than likely written By a computer programer and not a train shipper so listen to the yards men and the loaders of the trains they are experianced more than the computer...I say this because our school uses a computer program for the routs and even the bus drivers say it is ridiculous Criss crossing all over if this situation can be solved more easliy it should be tryed first before waisting farm landclinron, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22345melanie hofstrom-waiteI have seen reports of the use of the rails and conjestion and a thought came to mind that whom ever runs the chicago rail way may need more organization possably or hier someone with more experiance running a huge big bussy rail line maybe they are burnt out and sick of it ...if pack mercandise in traincars by region and sending them on a rail line to that direction and do less change over in this terminal using others farther away and running differant times of day 24 hours a day possably this is going on now but I feel all possable things must be tryed first before sacrifising all this land and if it is only needed in chicago than it doesnt need to also go through 2 other states the area of over use is so small and un needed in all other areas if they are useing a computer program for hauling that should be looked at because it was more than likely written By a computer programer and not a train shipper so listen to the yards men and the loaders of the trains they are experianced more than the computer...I say this because our school uses a computer program for the routs and even the bus drivers say it is ridiculous Criss crossing all over if this situation can be solved more easliy it should be tryed first before waisting farm landclinron, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22344Mary Rose FillipWinnebago School District #323 has 4 buses a day on Alworth, 2 a day on Edwardsville Road, 4 a day on Westfield Road & 4 a day on Montague Road. Contact Mike Reinders, Winnebago School District #323, Transportation Director, 302 E. McNair Rd, Winnebago, IL 61088-9074 815-335_2903 extension 121, Fax 815-335-7574 reindersM@winnebagoschools.org Please insure that all those crossings are very safe for the children. Thank you for your attention to this requestRockford, Il
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22343Charles A. StimacPlease consider the environmental impact to the land and farm land and the impact on the people that farm in this proposed area. With the old E-J&E beltway that was taken over by another railroad this beltway will handle all the propose traffic and this rail network is not needed. This beltway was proposed and built to handle the bypass of Chicago. If this rail network could be used daily it will eliminate the need for Fd 350952. its their already and rarely used. Why not use what is already their and ready to be used? No cost to the State or Federal tax payers, the rural areas , animals, plants and wet land areas , insects, like the dragon fly and almost extinct spoted turtle would be left alone. No loud noise, use the network i mentioned. Already built, will bypass, this beltway is not being used or rarely used . i see it everyday and almost never a train or and locomotive traffic on it. Why not check this out and look at whats there. Why not use it , or is one rail company out to over charge the other to use it? I do not understand why the cost and and all the land and danger to the environment , when this rail-network is already built and ready to be used. And its rarely used. Whats the reason why its not used?Shorewood, Illinois
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22342Jason KokosMy environmental concern is in regard to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This railway would decimate agricultural farmland and the surrounding communities that have lived here for generations. I've lived in this small town of Sumner Township all my life. I've worked my butt off to purchase a home to raise my own family in this great community. I intend to stay here until my dying breath. The pride in a small local community like this is like nothing else. I cannot fathom the thought of being pushed away from my hardwork for the sake of someone else's profit. I ask that you please consider the negatives imposed by this railway that would destroy the very farms and communities that feed this nation. Thank You for your consideration.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22340TaxpayerThe following is an unedited version of a column I wrote for my local paper, The Times in Ottawa, IL. I submit it to you for review since it is of great concern. GLB Railroad is Just Plain Stupid This is such a dumb idea I have to start with the big picture first because if we don’t understand the big picture we’re all in deep, deep trouble. The simple fact - with extreme emphasis on the word FACT - which no person can intelligently deny is that our planet is heating up. Taking thousands and thousands and thousands and thousands of acres of farmland out of production forever only hastens our demise. Simple math tells me that a 200 foot wide swath nearly 300 miles long adds up to an extremely conservative 6000 acres, minimum. When planted with corn, those 6000 acres can remove over 100,000 TONS of carbon dioxide per growing season. If we have been paying attention we all know that CO2 is the greenhouse gas causing our global environmental disaster. This one fact alone should be enough reason to deny the building of this railroad. But another sad fact is that until we are starving and gasping for air while standing knee deep in flood waters we will do nothing to change the way we live, especially if the right people can make a buck off of it. Speaking of money, I find it hard to believe that Frank Patton has 14 investors just sitting around on an 8 billion dollar pile of cash. The first rule in business is don’t use your own money. When Frank Patton says that this project will be privately funded you can believe it is every bit as privately funded as my home is. I purchased my private property using my own money. At least 10% of it was my own money. When an application asks if I own or rent my home I always check the OWN box even though the bank owns a bigger chunk than I actually do. And since the bank sold my mortgage to Fannie Mae the government now holds the title. I’m pretty sure the same thing will happen should this railroad be built. The government, i.e., we the people will foot the bill for this dumb idea. That’s probably why Frank Patton stays mum about his “investors”. The biggest one will be Uncle Sam. And when this railroad goes belly because no one uses it we taxpayers will be left with the bill and the farmland is still gone forever. Uncle Sam also plays a huge role in this fiasco through the abuse of eminent domain. Frank Patton says that if one farmer won’t accept his deal to purchase your land he will simply offer the deal to your neighbor, thereby pitting neighbor against neighbor, farmer against farmer. I understand the logic. You either get the railroad and the money or you still get the railroad but your neighbor gets the money. If both you and your neighbor live with honor and scruples it will come down to a coin toss for whom gets the shaft. In order to allow eminent domain, a judge – just one person - must determine if your livelihood and income producing land is more important for transporting crops rather than growing them. That is absurd in its own right. But that’s not really what Frank Patton wants this railroad for. He doesn’t care about your crops. He wants to bring Canadian Tar sand to refineries in Northern Indiana one day quicker than what happens now. Frank Patton says it’s not about the money, although his “investors” might disagree, it’s all about his legacy. Frank Patton’s legacy will also include the destruction of ancient artifacts. Native Americans were living on this land for thousands of years before Frank Patton had any idea of any sort. There is no telling exactly where the Indians lived and roamed in this area for the past 10 to 20,000 years but I can guarantee if Frank Patton starts digging around where no man has dug before he will most certainly find out. Do you think the Indian tribes whose ancestors lived once lived here might still hold a grudge? Let’s see what happens when someone digs up a bone along any of the four major rivers. While digging along the rivers and fence rows, Frank Patton should take notice of the flora and fauna being dislodged and destroyed. Along with what I mentioned before, anything that grows green absorbs CO2. All the trees and undergrowth will be gone forever. We will lose even more life sustaining vegetation. The surviving wildlife will need to find new places to live while the others will simply put a major disruption in the local food chain. I haven’t even scratched the surface of all the environmental and social issues that this railroad proposal brings up. No one can foresee all the pros and cons of this idea. My biggest fear is the long term effects of such a project. It is a known fact that our planet will have more people to feed as every year marches by. The only way to grow food is by burying a seed underground and letting Mother Nature run her course. We are not getting more ground. In fact, we are losing it. This has got to stop. This must stop now. If not now, when? When will we decide that our world as we have destroyed it cannot sustain us any longer? Today is a good day to make that decision. Yesterday would have been even better.Kevin Foster · OTTAWA, IL
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22339Donald FlettI am concerned and demanding the protection of the environment involving lands, wild animals, natural lakes and rivers. This is also a terrible concern to protect agriculture, farming and homes which will be destroyed along this route. I believe it is the personal gain of Frank Patton and unknown secretive investors. It is obviously a financial attempt by GLB RR money men who do not care about natural resources or citizens property.Bonfield, IL
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22338LaGena CrawfordConcerning the economic impact of this project. We live on one of the roads that is planned to be closed. That is the road that gets us to Clinton, the quickest and easiest. That would leave 4 houses on the other side of the road that our Township would have to figure out how to get to and maintain. We also sell fresh market sweet corn at our farm. The through traffic are the people purchasing that sweet corn. We also sell in Clinton on 140. If there is going to be a train every 14 minutes crossing 140 there will eventually be no traffic. The pass through traffic that would stop to get gas or buy something to eat is gone. The Town of Clinton will eventually be nothing. For us that is a huge economic impact. PLease consider these things when making your decision. Thank youJanesville, WI
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22305Julie Kokos
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22304Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22303Mark Gordon
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22302Lynn Riskedal
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentEI-22301Dorothy Heitke
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(printed as 4/27/2016)CommentGerald Solomon and Camille Mittelholtz
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(printed as 4/26/2016)NoticeWisconsin Department Of Transportation
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-25255Dixie Mende[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-24742Anthony Voshell[See attached letter]
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22715Patricia Robisky[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentWisconsin Department of Transportation Bennett Conard Wisconsin Department of Transportation 4802 Sheboygan Ave, Rm 115-B Madison, Wisconsin 53707 6082668810 6082676734 bennett.conard@dot.wi.govBennett Conard
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22687Scott NystromTo all that this concerns My name is Scott Nystrom. My wife and I own the farm on the South/East corner of Winnebago County in Illinois. When a local farmer notified us of a railroad potentially impacting our farm on Wednesday 4/13/16, we looked up the route and were shocked that someone would think they could violate us in such a way. After hours of research and contacting numerous bodies of government, we uncovered vital information. Frank Patton and Jim Wilson of GLBR filed an updated narrative route with the Office of Environmental Analysis/ Surface Transportation Board on 3/7/16. In DETAIL, the letter explains routes the train will follow, and why alternate routes were not preferred. Our farm is located at MP 186-188 on Frank and Jim's detailed description. Frank and Jim list MP 180-190 as one large section. Here is the exact information they put for why alternative routes were not chosen for this section. Several impediments preclude this alternative, including adjacent wetlands and hunting areas, and a gradient issue on the Illinois-Wisconsin border." INSTEAD, they chose a route for MP 186-188, that land locks our entire farm. The route also closes off our road. As you can see from the picture attached, which came directly off of the GLBR website, this route indeed goes directly through wetlands and prime hunting areas. To be more descript, the planned route goes first, through hundreds of thousands of dollars of established nursery tree stock. Then, it crosses land in a CRP program to prevent erosion. Then, it goes through acres of wooded areas which are also prime hunting grounds. Then, it not only crosses wetlands, but it crosses the South branch of the Kishwaukee River. This area has a volatile 990 foot flood plain that continues to grow due to development in neighboring counties. Frank and Jim's detailed environmental interface for this route states exactly this, " The route goes through greenfield farmland and passes some residences and farmsteads. NO WETLANDS, WOODED AREAS, OR WATERWAYS would be affected by this segment. Again, they state for the image attached below, from their website, that in this segment no wetlands, wooded areas, or waterways would be affected. We feel that you, the Surface Transportation Board, have an obligation to immediately stop this project! It is not possible to conduct an accurate environment study, when the GLBR gives false information regarding the environmental impact of the routes. We feel with this vital information, if you choose to license the GLBR to run a multi-track, Class 1 railroad, hauling toxic material/oil/fertilizer etc., you the Surface Transportation Board, will be equally as liable for the catastrophic environmental impact this will have, and the hundreds of thousands of lives this will negatively impact. The GLBR lacks leadership, and needs to be held accountable for the false information given to you, the Surface Transportation Board. They lied to us, they lied to you, and they have no credibility. There is no excuse, in a project of this caliber, that any information can be "overlooked". If mistakes like this are happening in phase 1 of this project, as vital as this is, there can be NO phase 2! We trust you will look at all of the information and make the right decision- NO! Scott Nystrom Nystroms Nursery, Inc. 4910 Stone Quarry Rd. Belvidere, IL 61008 815-547-1000 office www.nystromsnursery.com scott@nystromsnursery.com [attached file could not be opened]"
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22686Scott NystromTo all that this concerns, My name is Scott Nystrom. My wife and I own the farm on the South/East corner of Winnebago County in Illinois. When a local farmer notified us of a railroad potentially impacting our farm on Wednesday 4/13/16, we looked up the route and were shocked that someone would think they could violate us in such a way. After hours of research and contacting numerous bodies of government, we uncovered vital information. Frank Patton and Jim Wilson of GLBR filed an updated narrative route with the Office of Environmental Analysis/ Surface Transportation Board on 3/7/16. In DETAIL, the letter explains routes the train will follow, and why alternate routes were not preferred. Our farm is located at MP 186-188 on Frank and Jim's detailed description. Frank and Jim list MP 180-190 as one large section. Here is the exact information they put for why alternative routes were not chosen for this section. Several impediments preclude this alternative, including adjacent wetlands and hunting areas, and a gradient issue on the Illinois-Wisconsin border." INSTEAD, they chose a route for MP 186-188, that land locks our entire farm. The route also closes off our road. As you can see from the picture attached, which came directly off of the GLBR website, this route indeed goes directly through wetlands and prime hunting areas. To be more descript, the planned route goes first, through hundreds of thousands of dollars of established nursery tree stock. Then, it crosses land in a CRP program to prevent erosion. Then, it goes through acres of wooded areas which are also prime hunting grounds. Then, it not only crosses wetlands, but it crosses the South branch of the Kishwaukee River. This area has a volatile 990 foot flood plain that continues to grow due to development in neighboring counties. Frank and Jim's detailed environmental interface for this route states exactly this, " The route goes through greenfield farmland and passes some residences and farmsteads. NO WETLANDS, WOODED AREAS, OR WATERWAYS would be affected by this segment. Again, they state for the image attached below, from their website, that in this segment no wetlands, wooded areas, or waterways would be affected. We feel that you, the Surface Transportation Board, have an obligation to immediately stop this project! It is not possible to conduct an accurate environment study, when the GLBR gives false information regarding the environmental impact of the routes. We feel with this vital information, if you choose to license the GLBR to run a multi-track, Class 1 railroad, hauling toxic material/oil/fertilizer etc., you the Surface Transportation Board, will be equally as liable for the catastrophic environmental impact this will have, and the hundreds of thousands of lives this will negatively impact. The GLBR lacks leadership, and needs to be held accountable for the false information given to you, the Surface Transportation Board. They lied to us, they lied to you, and they have no credibility. There is no excuse, in a project of this caliber, that any information can be "overlooked". If mistakes like this are happening in phase 1 of this project, as vital as this is, there can be NO phase 2! We trust you will look at all of the information and make the right decision- NO! Scott Nystrom Nystroms Nursery, Inc. 4910 Stone Quarry Rd. Belvidere, IL 61008 815-547-1000 office www.nystromsnursery.com scott@nystromsnursery.com"
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22685Town of Johnstown Rock Co WIFrom: Mary <prairie_farmer@hotmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/21/2016 02:48 PM Subject: docket # FD35952 opposition to proposed rail road This was approved by the Johnstown Town Board at a special meeting held April 11, 2016. Mary Mawhinney Town Clerk Town of Johnstown Rock Co WI"Mary Mawhinney
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22684James M. RichmondPlease see my attached file.
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22538Roger Clark[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22491Robert Heath[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/26/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22445Kathi DePoister[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22444David Wollgast[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22443Ken Wendtland[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22442James Gilbank[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22441James Gilbank[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22337Kathy StefanelliDear Mr. Navecky, I would like to bring to your attention the proposed at grade crossing on North Boone School Road at about Mile Post 213.7. This is the main route used to get children from the town of Capron to the North Boone Upper Elementary (grades 5 & 6), North Boone Junior High (grades 7 & 8) and North Boone High School (grades 9-12). The buses travel across this proposed crossing at least 12 times per day. This route is used by all the students that drive from Capron to the high school for school, sports and various other activities. The potential for an accident at this crossing is higher than usual due to the type of vehicles and drivers using this road. If the railroad is approved it would be best if a bridge is built across the railroad at at this crossing. The GLB has proposed bridges at other crossings in the MP 210 to 220 section on roads with much lower traffic volume. It only makes sense to put a bridge on this road also. In fact it makes sense to eliminate as many at grade crossings as possible. At grade crossings are the spot that the public is most at risk to collide with or be hit by a train. This is a new project and this is the time to develop and put in safety features. Eliminating at grade crossings, especially when trains could be traveling up to 70 mph, would go a long way to ensuring the safety of both the public and the trains. Sincerely, Kathy StefanelliElkhorn, WI
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22336Kathy StefanelliDear Mr Navecky, It was a pleasure to get a chance to speak with you last week at the Rockford, IL scoping meeting. Thank you for your time and listening to the concerns of the citizens affected by the GLB. I was able to speak at the Belvidere, IL scoping meeting, regarding the economic impact on the town of Capron. I have additional thoughts on the economic impact in this area. The home and farmowners that are concerned about the decreased value of their property are not going to make improvements to their homes and farms. They are not going to remodel or add on decks or upgrade porches. There is no reason to make improvements to homes that are going to lose value. This in turn is going to impact the construction trade in these areas. These small rural towns will feel this impact quickly. The homeowners and farmers in these areas are on hold with their lives and buildings until this project is either approved to go forward or disapproved. Essentially they have a 2 to 3 year period they cannot make plans for their future. At this time if they want to sell their property they are morally and possibly legally obligated to disclose the plans of the GLB. Even if the GLB is never approved, this is currently impacting the value of their property. This is unfair as they have done nothing wrong, other than living their lives in their homes on their land. Land that the GLB wants to build a railroad on. A railroad that is destroying the value of the homes and farms of those in the proposed area of the GLB. Please consider the economic impact of this railroad on these small towns. These towns are not manufacturing bases and most do not house large granaries and have no need to access a railroad. There is no benefit to these towns by the presence of the railroad only detriment. Thank you for your consideration. Kathy StefanelliElkhorn, WI
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22335Garry JunkerWith the probability of flooding, more insects, etc. will be present thus increasing the likelihood for disease, etc. Abandoned railroad property is already in the route area and has become a habitat for deer, crane, birds, etc.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22334Garry JunkerThere are at least two cemeteries in the footprint for the terminal of this project. Farmers cannot continually produce more food, etc. to meet the needs of a growing population when the best land is taken out of production.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22333Garry JunkerMany problems with trains moving at 70 mph or faster can occur--accidents, derailments, spills, pollution, etc. Wildlife in wooded areas such as Kankakee River State Park and other areas will be adversely affected.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22332Dennis Scheppler[Mount Prospect] The proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad, states it wishes to bypass Chicago rail conjestion, but the plan is inconsistent with where the majority of Chicago frieght comes from. It is not preventing frieght from coming to the area, it is just moving frieght that is already here. Many maps show the majority of frieght comes from Kansas City and Memphis, not Indiana and Wisconsin. This plan does not accomplish its goal.Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22331Garry Junker[grant park] With this project there are numerous possibilities for health hazards due to spills of the materials being hauled. With the flow of water altered and bringing the tracks up to grade valuable topsoil will be forever lost.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22330Garry JunkerThis project disrupts a way of life that many people and animals depend on for food, etc. Once land is destroyed for this project, it cannot be replaced or brought back to its original form.grant park, IL
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22328Garry Junker[grant park] With changes in the water flow, flooding would eliminate farm fields from production. Since no railroads have committed to using it--what happens if this project is built then abandoned--permanently altering the landscape?grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22327Garry Junker[grant park] This project will alter roads , highways, etc. and block or close some roadways. It also sets up potential spills of chemicals, etc. harmful to water on the surface and below ground level--harming the topsoil.grant park, Illinois
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22326Dennis Scheppler[Mount Prospect] At and near mile 133 in Serena Township, in Illinois. This line would cross an exiting oil pipeline. This would place the oil line in risk of bing damged. An oil leak would ruin the land and possibly contaminate the water supply.Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22299Cindy Kohler
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22298Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22297Nystrom NurseriesScott Nystrom
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22296Amy Nystrom
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22295Amy Nystrom
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22294Chris Hoeppner
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22293Amy Nystrom
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentBen Brancel
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22280Rock Against the Rails[Clinton] Two weeks ago our daughter was t-boned" and flipped in her car on her driver's side by a drunk driver. One of the shocking results we saw was that our 5 month old granddaughter, who was not in the vehicle, became a cranky, anxious, and unhappy baby. You see her milk supply from her mom was changed or stressed. We know first hand what stress will be placed on animals along the proposed GLB railroad line. We know that the rumbling and eventual tumbling of any of those cars will cause the HUGE event, the shock, that will change the milk in dairy animals and change the meat in meat animals. Stress on animals along the proposed path of this rail line will NOT diminish, it will compound, and the milk and meat will be changed forever. This is my experience as a large animal veterinarian as well - animal stress changes all outcomes for the consumer, and my clients depend on the milk and meat along this line. Dr. Jeoff Stevens - Stateline Veterinary Clinic, Clinton, WI"Jeoff/Melanie Stevens
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22279helen rotherPlease end this stressful project right now. Anyone can see the perpetual environmental harm this will cause.-- even without Google zero in maps. Washington D.C. and Mr Patton in Chicago is along way from rural America, to understand the stress this project is causing.rochelle, ill
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEI-22278Mary Rose FillipPlease investigate the Plum River Fault Zone, the Leaf River Anticline & Upton's Cave Syncline. These are in Ogle County, 5 - 10 miles from the proposed route of GLBRR. The San Madrid Fault does a re-adjust about every 200 years. The last one was in 1811. You mentioned the tracks are welded & have very little give. I believe this to be a major concern. Please stop this Railroad!Rockford, Il
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(printed as 4/26/2016)CommentEO-2791Town of WiltonBecky Pitel
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22665Tri-Creek School CorporationTri-Creek School Corporation Board of School Trustees Resolution #2016-13 Regarding the Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Proposed Rail LineDouglas L Ward
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22664Tri-Creek School CorporationLetter from Dr. Debra K. Howe, superintendent, Tri-Creek School Corporation, Lowell, IndianaDebra K. Howe
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22496Kevin Panizzi[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22493Barb Mockler[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22492Vickie Brinkman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22488William and Katie Boughton[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22487Maurine Hoeppner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22486Kathryn Korth[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22485Roland Hagemeyer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22484Joyce Kellogg[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22475Jesse Funderburg[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22474Fred H. Dickson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22440Linda Zirzow[see attached petition - 17 signatures]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22439J. Voigt[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22438Judity K. McCoy[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22437Keith Hagen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22436Judi Urban[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22435Sandra Fidder[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22291Scott and Amy Nystrom
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22288Tri-Creek School Corp. Board
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentDebra K. Howe
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22286Marsha Tesdal
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22285Dale Hoots
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22284Stephen Westman
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22283Jan Hughes
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22282Susan Merriam
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22277Maryanne NicksI am concerned about the proposed railroad because of endangered flora and fauna. One particular species of plant called the prickly pear cactus grows naturally in Indiana. It is the only cactus that can survive snow fraught winters. This little plant was even mentioned in the Lewis and Clarke expedition documents. Due to construction and loss of habitat this plant is rapidly disappearing. Another concern is the red tailed hawk. This magnificent bird has also lost so much habitat. When we lose these types of species we cut more and more links in the food web. This railroad is just not a necessity. The area in question will not thrive because of the railroad and the humans in the area do not need it for survival. Finally, please consider the studies being done at the local observatory in Buckley Homestead. This observatory does benefit mankind in numerous ways. The railroad will completely disrupt the sensitive telescopic instrumentation. All of what I have mentioned, flora, fauna, and man made items, are beneficial and were here first. All have done quite well without the need for a railroad.Cedar Lake, Indiana
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22276Jerome Long[Milton] I would like the STB to consider not only the impact the new route GLBT proposes but the secondary effect that its traffic will have, specifically increased traffic through the City of Milton including noise pollution and an increased risk of accidental spills within the city. The traffic GLBT proposes has to go somewhere. It will not stop suddenly at Vickerman and County KK. It has to go somewhere and that somewhere must inevitably be through Milton. With these questions unanswered, the STB should not approve the GLBT proposal.Milton, WI
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22275Beverly Parker[Dwight] I would like to express my concerns over the prosed Great Lakes Basin Transportaion, LLC rail line project . Docket # 35952. I oppose the project and ask the Surface Transportation Board to deny the proposal. My concerns are: 1. Closing of township roads impacts rural school bus routes, emergency responders, and moving of farm machinery from one farm to another. If various roads are closed, that means more farm machinery on the more traveled roads, which will create safety hazards for all. We receive pamphlets every year regarding what to do in the case of a nuclear emergency and the area power plants. Evaculation of these “rural, undeveloped” areas would take more time. 2. Permanent destruction of prime farmland. American Farmers feed the world. The acres taken out of production, to be used by the GLB Rail System, can never be replaced. One cannot build, nor can one replace prime farmland. Not only the acres required for the rail are affected, but also the farmland near the railroad. This railway will destroy farm drainage tile, creating more water standing, which environmentally speaking, leave more area for mosquito breeding, which increases everyones exposure to west nile virus and the zika virus, and leave small acreage that would be difficult to farm. 3. I also would like to clarify Mr. Patton’s/GLB’s decriptrion of this area. He stated he wanted to build this railway away from highly populated areas, on rural undeveloped land. This “undeveloped land” is FARMLAND! And we are agricultural communities along this route. We are a group of several self-employed farmers, and farming is our “business”! We produce the corn and soybeans that are used in production of food and other products for the world! We would like to keep these agricultural areas “environmentally safe” for our businesses now and thru the years. Farmland cannot be replaced! 4. Grundy County IL has “Chief Shabbona” historic land that would be intruded on. There are probably undiscovered Indian artifacts on that ground. 5. Grundy County IL also has numerous underground mines. Some are not marked/mapped. They probably would not withstand the numerous and heavily loaded train traffic. 6. If these trains haul oil or other environmentally unsafe materials, there would be an increased possibility of derailments and spills. Our emergency responders would need training and equipment for this type of accident. Also, because of closed roads, or waiting for the numerous trains to pass, there would be a loss of time responding to these incidents. I also am totally against the possibility of eminent domain in this railroad project. That means that we landowners of farmground would have to give up our business (farming acres), in order for another private group/citizen to create a business! This is wrong!! In conclusion….please deny the Great Lakes Basin Transportaion Railway their request for this rail line as proposed, between Indiana and Wisconsin. Also, I strongly object to eminent domain prevailing in this private business venture! Sincerely, Beverly J. ParkerDwight, IL
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22238Connie PapineauI am opposed to the GLB RR because it will deposit caustic drips over the Kankakee River water shed area which my water and the town of Bonfield's water comes from.Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22237Elizabeth FlettI am opposing the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line due to environmental factors where I live. The construction of this rail line will interfere with water quality and habitat for our birds and wild animals. Additional railroad crossings and trains will make safety problems and travel delays for emergency responders, school buses and travel in general. There are generational farmers who will have their land disrupted and cause hardships on the families. Noise pollution will be created in areas where people chose to live in peace and quiet. This railroad is an attempt for certain investors to make personal gains at the expense of innocent farmers and residents who are just trying to make a living. For these reasons, I am opposing the construction of this railroad and know that the environmental impact outweighs monetary gains by investors who have no vested interest in the land they are disrupting.Bonfield, IL
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22236Cassie BrannumI am writing in regards to the proposed GLB Railroad in Northwest Indiana. I strongly oppose this rail line for many reasons, one being that based off of the proposed route it will be running within a half a mile of my back yard. We purchased this home, our dream home, in October with no knowledge of these plans. We moved to the country for peace, quite, safety, and to start a family with space enough for our children to play safely. This rail line would greatly reduce our property value and create many dangers to our family. My concerns are for the safety of this rail line, what if there is ever a derailment a toxic chemical spill, etc? What happens to our homes, the air we breathe, and our drinking water if any of these were to occur? And not to mention the intense noise this would create in our area. And what about the farmers that for so many generations have lived off of their farms making a living for themselves and their families with a legacy to pass down from generation to generation? Are people's livelihood and safety less important than this railroad? Aside from the obvious negative impacts from a safety, land use, and quality of life perspective, the fact that this private company can wield the power of eminent domain for its own private gain is appalling. The right to own private property is the American dream for many. How secure is that right if a private company can come in and use their influence to condemn and confiscate the landowners property from them? Allowing a private company to use eminent domain is unconscionable. Should the right of a property taker be more powerful than the rights of a property owner? While you're not asking for public money, you are asking for one of the most sacred rights we have as American's and that is the right to own private property. I strongly urge you to please deny this GLB Railway.VALPARAISO, IN
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22235Lorraine HorsleyThis proposed railroad is going to take up valuable farming properties not to mention the loss to our wildlife. I am already dealing with noise and pollution from I-80, and this is going to add to that being 1 1/2 miles away from my home. This will lower property values. Enough is enough!Seneca, IL
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22234Joshua Turner[GARDEN PRAIRIE] Dear Mr. Navecky, Please consider the following issues with the GLB proposed railroad route: 1. First responders getting to emergencies with railroad tracks barring the way and getting to possible haz mat accidents/ spills caused by the trains themselves. 2. The danger of the tracks themselves for busses and all vehicles with numerous crossings in our county. 3. The threat to our precious natural resources including our rare soil and glacial aquifers. 4. The threat to the way of life of the farmers of our county and damage to the drain tiles they have put in. This could cause standing water and more health risks from the mosquitoes breeding the standing water. This project is a terrible idea. Please do what you can to stop it from happening! If it does need to happen, it should follow a major highway, not cut through farms!! Sincerely, Joshua TurnerGARDEN PRAIRIE, Illinois
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(printed as 4/25/2016)CommentEI-22233Ken DaggettI would like to thank you for having the scoping meeting in Seneca Il. on April 21, it was helpful and informative and answered a few questions I had. I do not see the need for the project on the grounds that there are already many abandoned and under used track throughout the area. Also C.R.E.A.T.E is well under way and has already alleviated much of the congestion in the Chicago rail system. This new railroad would take away much needed farm land from production and disrupt the lives of many farmers forever. Thank you KenMorris, Il.
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEI-22281Robert Merriam
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEI-22232Dana TalagaPeople move to the country because it is beautiful, peace and quiet or they are farmers and it there way of life. We moved here to enjoy nature and sunsets. If we wanted to move by noisy trains and devalued property we would have moved north. Seems like the small towns keep trying to grow and then something like this comes along and stops any growth. Truly don't understand why the decision was made to go thru peoples property versus along a major highway all the way where there is already noise and possible tracks from trains in the past. Very concerned about property value and how it changes our scenery our life! Pick a better route that isn't in peoples yards, there are so many trains and tracks already pick one of those to partner with. Strongly opposed!Hebron, IN
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(printed as 4/24/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEI-22230Brian & Mary Dekker[Lowell] Surface Transportation Board, We are writing to you in regards to the proposed freight railroad by Great Lakes Basin Transportation (GLBT). We have great concerns about the Surface Transportation Board giving a permit to GLBT. We have yet to hear a need for this railroad. Who is going to use these tracks? Our understanding is there isn't a rail company who needs to use additional tracks. How can a private company receive a permit to use Eminent Domain? What about the rights of the property home and farm owners who will be impacted? As rural Indiana residents, we utilize well water. What happens if this rail carriers hazardous material, and there is a spill? All of us are without water. We don't have other options. We also have limited police, fire, and emergency services. How are we to cover the additional needs a new rail line will require? Who is going to pay for those additional services? Noise and vibrations is a concern as well. As rural residents, this is a big concern. How are our local schools to provide quality education with these distractions? We are asking that you do all you can to put a stop to the Surface Transportation Board giving a yes vote/permit to GLBT. Brian and Mary Dekker Lowell, INLowell, IN - Indiana
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEI-22229Far Horizons[hebron] I respectfully request that the STB deny the above referenced project for the following reasons: 1. Transportation Systems There are already alternate projects such as CREATE to improve rail efficiency, and alternatives such as Great Lakes shipping and existing rail lines. It a threat to funding for existing transportation and maintenance; there is much concern that public funding will be sought and compete with existing stretched transportation maintenance objectives. 2. Safety The railroad will pass directly by public schools in Lowell IN and near communities with young children. The project lacks funding for all but occasional overpasses and therefore necessarily will substantially affect fire and emergency and electrical repair vehicles including route 231 and county line road in our community. People moved to our community in order to be able commute to Chicago from a rural setting but the railroad cuts through that link (route 231) in a highly disruptive fashion. 3. Land Use Our farm and our neighbor farm (Jan Austin) are operated as part of the adjacent Wolf Bros Farm, all of which will be put out of business because the rail directly bisects the Wolf Bros land disrupting accessbility and economics of the combined dairy / field-crop operation. We invested in many improvements in the farm when we moved here recently including a barn and fencing for our livestock and drainage tile for our crop fields, which will now be a lost improvement. 4. Recreation The existing recreation path adjacent to 231 (a hiking, horseback, atv trail planted with orchard) currently used (by us and the community) as an access route to the local state park (Stony Run State park) and Veterans memorial will be bisected and rendered uncrossable by foot / horse / or atv. 5. Biological Resources, and 6. water resources We are in a wetland area. Approximately half of our farm is maintained as a seasonal wetland and nesting ground for waterfowl, with 3 permanent ponds and several acres of seasonal marsh. These could become either permanently flooded or drained due to the impact of the railroad blocking and disrupting a major portion of the Kanakee watershed of which we are a part. 10. Noise and Vibration, and 14. Aesthetics The predicted rate of trains will introduce substantial noise and vibration through not only our own community but to those adjacent to us on the path of the railroad where it passes directly by schools, and to official wetlands preservation area (Tom Sporre Wildlife Area).Phillips Hamilton · hebron, in
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEI-22228PETER BLANK[HEBRON] I am writing with my concerns about the proposed railroad coming through our county. I live in Boone Township and the railroad will be approximately 3/4 of a mile from my home. I am b=very concerned about the noise pollution this will have. My wife, Marjorie Blank has fibromyalgia and is very sensitive to loud noises. If this passes I feel we will have to move because it will cause her physical pain. I also have many concerns on how the railroad will affect our community. Here is a list of those concerns:1. Drainage issues when railroad damages drainage tiles in farm fields. 2. Longer commutes for children going to and from school. 3. Accidents at railroad crossings due to frequency of trains and impatience of especially teenage drivers. 4. Delayed Emergency care both fire and ambulance. 5. Noise pollution for our entire community. 6. Expense to community to acquire required emergency equipment in preparation for any derailments. 7. Close proximity of railroad to many schools.8. Hazardous materials which would be transported by railroad and it's proximity to Hebron's water supply. By far my biggest concern is with our children, especially our high school kids. One of these kids is going to be late for school, or a game, or a practice. Teenagers consider themselves immortal and do not consider the consequences of their actions. The rail line in its present position cuts across our entire school district. With so many roads bisected by the rail line in our school district one of these kids is going to ignore a crossing gate, or not stop at an ungated crossing. One of them will be killed at a crossing. I don't believe it's a matter of if, just a matter of when and how many. As to the benefits of the rail line I see absolutely zero local benefits. Yours is not a job I would want. You have a lot of issues before you. Please consider some of the above thoughts as you make your decision. Sincerely, Peter J BlankHEBRON, Indiana
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEI-22227Janet Hoisington[Rockford] Our farm will be decimated by this rail project. We would not be able to produce enough income to pay the high taxes and utilities. If we sell, and we would have to, we could not sell to any one planning to live on the property since the train runs very close to the farmhouse and barn. It would even be difficult to sell it as farmland since the rail cuts off part of the tillage. This will be the death of many small farms in the area. Our family has lived on this land since the 1800's. This will destroy our family's identity.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEI-22226Janet Hoisington[Rockford] Kishwaukee Road, where our farm is located, is an artery for the people living to the southwest of Rockford. It is heavily traveled by commuters as well as most of the emergency vehicles heading to the hospitals in Rockford. Cutting off Condon Road and then Kishwaukee would be a disaster! IF there are trains blocking the only two ways for us to get to town, we would have to drive down to Byron to get across the river and then up to Rockford on Rt. 2. This is a distance of over 26 miles compared to the 4 miles on Kishwaukee for us. Has any consideration to the lives and welfare of the residents been taken into affect?Rockford, IL
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEI-22225Janet Hoisington and family[Rockford] The rail proposed to cut the length and then the width of Cedar Cliff farm would pass directly above two very old gas pipelines very near the Rock River. There have been leaks on these lines in the past few years and they are aging. The vibration from the trains could cause leaks and possibly, explosions. The toxic waste will flow the short distance downhill to the River or to the creeks and streams on the farm. It is incredible that this was not taken into account by the planners of the rail.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEI-22224Janet Hoisington and family[Rockford] This rail will impact our farm to a high degree. It will not only decrease our acreage but will cross two, aging natural gas pipelines put in during 1949 and 1950. This would be just yards uphill from the Rock River at the back of our farm. It would cross a wide floodplain with a creek that drains into the Rock River. It would climb up in our woodlot to one of the highest elevations in the county just above the river and disrupt the wildlife corridor which is dwindling. I can't imagine a more destructive pathway for this rail.Rockford, IL
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEI-22223Mary Rose FillipPlease study the strength of the railroad span on Rock City Rd just north of German Valley. www.bridge hunter.com has 5 good pictures. Built in 1901, still has center pylon. Listed on quadrangle map Ridott span # IL089-9903. This is the only rail span from Seward where the GLBRR connects heading west toward Freeport. Just prior to crossing into Winnebago County, GLBRR will skirt 3 protected properties, Byron Forest Preserves Coleman Dells, Natural Land Institutes Howard D Coleman property & Severson Dells Forest Preserve & Severson Dells Nature Center. These areas provide excellent wildlife habitat along Hall Creek. These are a quiet respite for local urban residents. 110 trains will destroy that solitude. Beware figures don't lie, but liars do figure". Please verify the statistics GLBRR is promoting. Thank you for your attention!"
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEI-22222Connie BernardiI am opposed to the Great Basin Rain Bypass. It is a flawed idea since there is already infrastructure in place to do what proposed. There is no need to destroy land and agriculture. We need to preserve land for a healthy environment. We need our farms to eat. It is enough to have rails and highways already-use those.This plan is all wrong.Dyer, Indiana
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEO-2790Scott Nystrom
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(printed as 4/24/2016)CommentEO-2784Scott and Amy Nystrom
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(printed as 4/23/2016)CommentEI-25715Tom ModicaTo whom it may Concern, I am a railroad worker in the Chicago region and a member of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way railroad union. The owners of The GLBT keep citing the congestion of rail traffic getting into Chicago. I'm not sure if you are aware but the Federal Government granted over $70 million to the state of Indiana creating what is called the Indiana Gateway project. Long story short it is creating a third main line for Norfolk Southern to help alleviate train traffic congestion from Elkhart to Chicago. The Ns lines that this affects also has connections for most of the class 1 railroads. I feel this is important information that has not been addressed and that they are jumping the gun to jam a railroad down in Lowell, In. This project is still being completed. I also feel that the glbt railroad does not need to be built through Lowell, IN. NS already has a couple lines that run close by out of Kankakee and a line that runs to Knox, Indiana that is out of service that could be reconditioned if need be. The Kankakee line runs maybe 3-4 trains a day and in the recent years NS has dumped millions of dollars into this line to reconditioning and repairs of this line and can handle a lot more traffic. The Kankakee Line that connects at Knox connects to the NS B Line which runs from Chicago to Fort Wayne and into Ohio. My point is that the necessary rail infrastructure is already in place without the need to add more and steal land from the farmers in Lowell Indiana and surrounding areas.Hobart, In
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(printed as 4/23/2016)CommentEI-25714John SpanglerMazon already has a railroad coming through town (two tracks)that carries hazardous materials. An additional railroad so close to town increases the danger and places residences between the railroads in an unacceptable hazard zone. Mazon is also a convergence hazard zone for 3 nuclear power plants (20 mile radius overlap).Mazon, Illinois
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(printed as 4/23/2016)CommentEI-25712Suzanne DonnellyI am opposed to the GLB RR. I grew up on a farm and I would hate to see the farmers lose their precious farm land to a railroad. Some of these farmers have worked hard for that land, Don't take that away from them. Also I am a rural mail carrier and I deliver mail in the area where the GLB RR is going. That would make my mail route a complete and utter mess. My route is evaluated there fore I only get paid a certain amount of hours, If I am constantly waiting for trains and I work over my evaluated time, I am not getting paid. Please Do not let this railroad into our area. It would be a complete disaster. Just think about how many car vs train accidents there are now and put in tracks with 100 trains a day. I don't even want to think about. Please do not let this railroad come through this area.Gardner, IL
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(printed as 4/23/2016)CommentEI-22221Lisa Riegel[Bonfield] I have been diagnosed with severe vertigo. This railroad will be withing 200 to 300 feet of our family room bay window/outside deck. I will no longer be able to sit in our family room or on our deck because the passing of trains will trigger my vertigo, which can bedridden me for at least three days. How will I live in my home? This is a definite environmental effect on my life!Bonfield, Illinois
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(printed as 4/23/2016)CommentEI-22220Amy SandowI hear to discuss my 78 year old widowed mother who lives on a plot of land that the train is going to run diagonal through the corn field on her side and back yard. This is occurring in Winnebago, IL. My mom does not own the cornfield and will not be getting any compensation. However, she will be getting a train within 200 ft of her property line, 300 ft from her home, significantly decreased property value to the point that the beautiful, well-kept early 1900’s home with original wood work risks being abandoned, and finally the most scariest part for me is the way the train is scheduled to go through the intersection of Alworth and Edwardsville Rd, not only for my mother, but tractors and school buses. The whole reason behind this railroad is to bypass Chicago. However, I believe the railroad company lost their focus. There are existing railroads in place that are hardly ever used. In fact, one is less than 0.25 miles away from my mother. The same mother that has this GLB train proposed to go diagonal across her home. I haven’t stopped for a train on those tracks for three plus years, and it is an active track with a grain elevator. Bypassing Chicago to go through small town America and destroy acreage is simply not acceptable or smart. In fact there is acts in place to eliminate blighted properties in larger cities affected the railroad. Now, you are asking thousands of homes and farms along this 280 mile corridor to become blighted properties by the installation of this railroad and potentially future utilities. We have bike paths everywhere in small town America because railroads were taken out and yet we are to believe in a revitalization of the railroad industry when this world is advancing the technology at alarming rate. These railroads were taken out less than 20 years ago. I find that hard to believe. The Surface Transportation Board needs to support our farmers and not destroy the acreage. The destruction of the farm acreage alone creates an environmental concern. Why are we looking any further?Winnebago, IL
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(printed as 4/23/2016)CommentEI-22219Joyce HuettnerWe need our farms. This would impact the farming community. We don't have any local hospitals. This would impact the emergency vehicles from getting people to the hospital for emergency care. It would impact our schools and our school busses.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/23/2016)CommentEI-22218Amy SandowI hear to discuss my 78 year old widowed mother who lives on a plot of land that the train is going to run diagonal through the corn field on her side and back yard. This is occurring in Winnebago, IL. My mom does not own the cornfield and will not be getting any compensation. However, she will be getting a train within 200 ft of her property line, 300 ft from her home, significantly decreased property value to the point that the beautiful, well-kept early 1900’s home with original wood work risks being abandoned, and finally the most scariest part for me is the way the train is scheduled to go through the intersection of Alworth and Edwardsville Rd, not only for my mother, but tractors and school buses. The whole reason behind this railroad is to bypass Chicago. However, I believe the railroad company lost their focus. There are existing railroads in place that are hardly ever used. In fact, one is less than 0.25 miles away from my mother. The same mother that has this GLB train proposed to go diagonal across her home. I haven’t stopped for a train on those tracks for three plus years, and it is an active track with a grain elevator. Bypassing Chicago to go through small town America and destroy acreage is simply not acceptable or smart. In fact there is acts in place to eliminate blighted properties in larger cities affected the railroad. Now, you are asking thousands of homes and farms along this 280 mile corridor to become blighted properties by the installation of this railroad and potentially future utilities. We have bike paths everywhere in small town America because railroads were taken out and yet we are to believe in a revitalization of the railroad industry when this world is advancing the technology at alarming rate. These railroads were taken out less than 20 years ago. The Surface Transportation Board needs to support our farmers and not destroy the acreage. The destruction of the farm acreage alone creates an environmental concern. Why are we looking any further?Winnebago, IL
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(printed as 4/22/2016)CommentEI-25713EmilyThe noise from the train will be very distributive to the students at Morgan Township School.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/22/2016)CommentEI-22688Scott NystromFrom: Nystroms Nursery <scott@nystromsnursery.com> To: <Adam.Assenza@stb.dot.gov>, <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov>, <rutsonv@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/22/2016 04:09 PM Subject: Frank Pattons Legacy Vicky, Phyllis and David, You will be making the worst decision of your life if you don't stop this application process immediately. This project will affect lives and the environment negatively for centuries to come. For personal profit. We all are parasites of some sort, but the worst of the worst not only take from the ones that feed them- they destroy them. Frank, you have almost killed your first human being on 4/20/2016 8PM in Rochelle, Illinois, and not one track has been laid. Vicky, Phyllis and David- Stop this Its your Duty Scott Nystrom Nystroms Nursery, Inc. 4910 Stone Quarry Rd. Belvidere, IL 61008 815-547-1000 office www.nystromsnursery.com
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(printed as 4/22/2016)CommentEI-22663Scott NystromVicky, Phyllis and David, You will be making the worst decision of your life if you don't stop this application process immediately. This project will affect lives and the environment negatively for centuries to come. For personal profit. We all are parasites of some sort, but the worst of the worst not only take from the ones that feed them- they destroy them. Frank, you have almost killed your first human being on 4/20/2016 8PM in Rochelle, Illinois, and not one track has been laid. Vicky, Phyllis and David- Stop this Its your Duty Scott Nystrom Nystroms Nursery, Inc. 4910 Stone Quarry Rd. Belvidere, IL 61008 815-547-1000 office www.nystromsnursery.com
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(printed as 4/22/2016)CommentTwo concerns to share regarding proposed rail line through Porter County, Indiana: 1) Tracks will consume property that brings revenue to our non-profit agency. A one-time buyout will not replace the money we have relied on for sixty years. 2) The tracks will be only a tenth of a mile from our campus homes. Besides the noise factor due to that proximity, I am concerned one of our troubled teen residents will attempt to jump a train in order to runaway, and be seriously injured or killed. Not an issue anyone would like to see in the media.James Powell · Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/22/2016)CommentEI-22216Amanda Olson-KochPlease stop the railroad !! You live in IL and eat everyday ... we should be thanking farmers not taking away the land that is rich in nutrients and grow food for everyone.Bozeman, Montana
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(printed as 4/22/2016)CommentEI-22201Bob SchultzMr Navecky I sent the letter below to you via email but am sending again here to be sure it is filed properly and my input is on record and considered. Dear Mr Navecky, I am writing to express my complete and unequivocal opposition to the proposed railroad. In addition to the devastation it would cause to the value of our farm I am very concerned about hazardous waste materials being carried and spilled on our farm. Also, our farm drains excess surface and tiled water from south to north and eventually to a creek to the north. A railroad right in the middle of the field would ruin the tile and prevent surface water from draining to its natural south to north flow resulting in very wet ground no longer suitable to grow productive corn and soybean crops. I am also concerned that the proposed rail line would result in road closures reducing and slowing access of emergency vehicles. Additionally, our 40 acre farm, which is located at N 17000 Rd / W 2000 Rd in Kankakee County, would be split into two approximately 18.5 acre fields. Farmers with 16 to 24 row equipment would not be interested in renting or in the future buying the farm. The value would plummet. The grain harvested currently is transported approximately 1.5 miles to our grain bins on Route 17. If that road is blocked, either permanently, or with parked or heavy train traffic our tenants would be forced to re route to the bins down the Essex Rd making the trip over 5 miles one way. Time in transit would more than triple increasing labor, equipment, and fuel costs. It is safer for slow moving farm equipment to move down the road currently used with less traffic than would inevitably be routed down the Essex Road. Simply put, the railroad, while possibly being profitable for a group of private investors, would be a potential environmental, and financial disaster for our farm and our neighbors. I do not believe private property should be taken away from private citizens for the gain of a group of probably well connected private investors. It is also my understanding that currently no railroad companies have expressed interest in using the rail line. Please consider the rights of and negative impacts this project would force on current owners when considering this proposal. Sincerely, Robert L Schultz PO Box 104 206 E Lincoln St Reddick, IL 60961 Phone: 815-365-2243Reddick, IL
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(printed as 4/22/2016)CommentEI-22200Roger MilhollandMr. Novecky, I attended the Seneca Scoping meeting on 4/21/2016. It was quite emotional for several , if not all people who attended. I chose not to speak until I verified some information. A lot of things were mentioned, some just not as detailed as they could have been. I am not a farmer. I am just a property owner on a couple rural acres. However, having said that, my property value will directly impacted by this proposed railway being 200 feet from my driveway. Impacted negatively I might add. As was mentioned by Fire departments and schools, travel times and response times are an important factor. But what they didn't discus was Who pays for these operations?" I would like to point out that this railway will not be "Taxed" as our local business's and residences are taxed. It will go to a state fund, to an already financially broke state. Thus, removing this "Cash flow" from our local property tax base. This tax base pays for our Fire Protection, Police Protection, Libraries and schools. I would also like to point out that the majority of school districts impacted by this railway are school systems who regularly have High School graduation class's of LESS than 100 students. These school systems have already had to cut Arts, Sports and many trade programs. This railway is a great disservice to all these students, and the future of our county's, state and nation. As the devaluation of property occurs the base fair market property value goes down. As this number goes down, so does the property taxes collected from the existing properties. Anyone within eyesight or ear shot of this railway will suffer. This money will not be coming back, and this railway makes no provision to offset this loss in any way. Regardless of WHERE this railway is located, this impact will be the same. As one man stated at the Seneca Scoping Meeting "The days of open range have been gone since the 1890's". This railway is nothing more than a death spiral for the local impacted communities "No Matter Where" it would be located. This consideration in conjunction with the adamant opposition by affected residents should be enough to stop this now. As stated over and over, Great Lakes Basin Railway is nothing more than a "Big Kid" with money, that wants to TAKE private property for a private company, so he can play with a life size train set. He does not even have a market for his product, he has no regard for other business's, nor does he have any respect for the land. I hope this will be taken to heart in your consideration. But remember while you assess this, It does not matter the location. Here, there or anywhere in the state of Illinois, the tax impact on the schools, fire and police protection, libraries and any service covered by local property taxes will negatively impact already stressed and suffering communities. Also consider this. These small schools don't just produce farmers, truck drivers and laborers. They produce doctors, lawyers, CPA's, engineers, physicists small business owners.......They are our future."
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(printed as 4/22/2016)CommentEI-22198Rock Against the RailI urge you to not allow this rail line. I personally farm 300 acres and this line doesn't cross my land but I'm aware that if it can't get approved on the proposed area that its up to be relocated within 30 miles which could include my families farm. I along with a very large majority of my community members do not approve of this line, please consider this in your decision.John Alf · Edgerton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25306Mary Auchstetter[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25305Mark Melin[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25304Boone County Fire District[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]Kerry Kenney
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25303Kerry Kenney[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25302Kathy[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25301Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]Julie Newhouse
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25300John Mitchell[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25299Jan Moyer[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)Comment[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]John Anthony
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25297Douglas Stockley[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25296Brad Temple[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25294SOAR Illinois[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]Bernadette Richter
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25293Anonymous[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25292Anonymous[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25291Andrea Rackmeyer[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25290Toria Funderburg[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25289Stanley Motter[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25288Shelley[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25287Sharon Danielson[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25286Rod Larson, Nancy Larson[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25285Winnebago Boone Farm[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]Richard Beuth
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25284Richard Beuth[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25283Mike Bratt[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25282Anonymous[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25281Anonymous[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25280Anonymous[attached document submitted during public scoping meetings held between April 11, 2016, and April 21, 2016.]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25232Stanley Motter
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25231Sharon Danielson
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25230Mary Auchstetter
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25229Kathy Lowry
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentJohn Anthony
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25227Douglas Stockley
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25226Brad Temple
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentBernadette Richter
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-25224Andrea Thryselius Rackmyer
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22725April Gerstung
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22724Mary Auchstetter
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22723Richard and Gloria Sims
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22722David Macak
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22721Peter Rackmyer
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22720Anonymous
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22719David Packley
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22718Matt Cook
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22717David Allen Welter
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22683Amy NystromFrom: Amy Nystrom <anenjn@yahoo.com> To: Dave Navecky <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/21/2016 12:06 PM Subject: MP 186-188 Nystroms It won't let me email video. If there is a way I can send you a couple short noise videos please let me know. It will conclude your noise study on the environmental impact in this area. Thanks Dave Amy Sent from my iPhone
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22681Adam GierkeAlthough the rail line will not pass directly through our land, our home value will absolutely decrease due to nearby train traffic in the area should this project come to fruition. A $20,000 compensation for a 20-30% decrease in home value hardly seems fair. Also, using eminent domain to obtain property that will profit a private business is an atrocious use of government priveleges. I bought the land, I maintain it, I own it. No freight trains!!!
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22680Adam GierkeAlthough the rail line will not pass directly through our land, our home value will absolutely decrease due to nearby train traffic in the area should this project come to fruition. A $20,000 compensation for a 20-30% decrease in home value hardly seems fair. Also, using eminent domain to obtain property that will profit a private business is an atrocious use of government priveleges. I bought the land, I maintain it, I own it. No freight trains!!!
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22679Amy NystromFrom: Amy Nystrom <anenjn@yahoo.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/21/2016 11:58 AM Subject: Scott and Amy Nystrom MP 186-188 Hi Dave I hope that we were able to give you enough information about how this is completely not feasible in this location. I am sending you a few pictures so that you can see this is not just a farm, but a multimillion dollar estate that we are creating and working very very had at to leave a legacy for our children. I know you said you are not from the area, so I am sending you a few short videos so you can see that as far as a noise study, if more than 5 cars go by - it's a noise problem out here. Hopefully that will save you time and energy on a noise study in the area. We hope that all of you on the board and whoever else is involved in making the decision to allow this or not, realize what a great burden is put on your shoulders. Two men, who have no business running multiple tracks and hauling toxic material are asking you for permission to do so. In the heart of the Midwest. Frank doesn't understand that whether he wants a glass of milk, hamburger on the grill, or a fancy steak- he gets those options because of the people he is trying to destroy. We hope you see there is NO public need for this. This is only money in some pockets and some unwanted tax dollars maybe. The burden placed on you guys is either the decision to help Frank and Jim single handedly destroy tens of thousands of innocent people that have dedicated their lives to helping the environment and feeding our children, or telling them NO. It's really easy to see the right answer here. More studies are not even needed. The environmental impact here would be catastrophic! Please don't be bullied by people above you to push this through. You seem very genuine. And I'm a pretty good judge of character. Please do the moral, ethical and environmental duty you have in front of you and say NO. I'm a trauma nurse in the operating room across town and we have a saying that is also very appropriate here- just because you can do it- doesn't mean you should. It doesn't matter if Warren Buffet is behind this. The environmental impact that this project would have is astronomical. The answer is clear here- NO. Sorry Frank. Games Over. Please let me know that all of the packet of information and pictures I gave you at the meetings will become part of the record. Please let me know as soon as this will be moved from MP 186-188. My husband is physically sick over this. Please call me or email me anytime. Thanks Dave Amy Nystrom 815-509-0445 anenjn@yahoo.com Sent from my iPhone"
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22678Karen Ritchie[comment from Karen Ritchie, forwarded by Jillian Hawkins] From: Hawkins, Jillian" <Jillian.Hawkins@illinois.gov> To: "david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/21/2016 09:37 AM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Rail Line Project Comments Mr. Navecky, I am passing along a comment letter that the Illinois EPA received regarding the Great Lakes Basin high speed rail project Thanks! Jillian Hawkins Office of Community Relations Illinois EPA 217/524-0922 jillian.hawkins@illinois.gov"Paw Paw, IL
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22676The Dunklau FamilyFrom: Dunklau, Samuel" <samueldunklau13@augustana.edu> To: NaveckyD@stb.dot.gov Cc: Janis Dunklau <jfd528@gmail.com>, Mark Dunklau <mdunklau@hotmail.com> Date: 04/21/2016 03:11 AM Subject: CONCERNING FD35952, GREAT LAKES BASIN RAILROAD Dear Mr. Navecky, My name is Sam Dunklau and I represent four Northern Illinois voters living in Paw Paw, IL, one of the many towns in Illinois that would be affected by the recently-proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I would like to first thank you sincerely for your time and attention to the following concerns I wish to bring forward to you. I firmly believe, after due consideration and considerable research of this proposed railroad and its effects, that the GLB Line is without question a poor environmental and economic proposal which would damage the livelihoods of the citizens of Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana irreparably. As a reminder of the thesis of this proposed railway project, I quote the following from the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line website: "Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. (GLBT) plans to file either a petition for exemption or an application seeking authority from the Surface Transportation Board (Board) to construct and operate an approximately 278-mile rail line. According to GLBT, the proposed rail line would extend generally from La Porte, Indiana through Illinois to Milton, Wisconsin and would connect with existing Class I railroads. GLBT states that the project is intended to relieve Chicago-area shipping congestion by creating a bypass for through traffic not destined for or originating in the Chicago area." Firstly, I would like to point out that this company is wishing to petition for an exemption to transportation safety and environmental laws that already protect life and property from harm and commercial greed. The very fact that this company is looking to circumnavigate those laws by asking for an exemption is one of many ways that their proposal is suspect. To continue, I put forth the following environmental and economic concerns, which you no doubt have already received from countless other concerned citizens from across the affected area.: 1. The possibility of a train running near our town poses immediate land, water, and noise pollution problems. -Commercial freight trains carry a myriad of goods and products across our nation, but many of those products (especially those that are shipped across Northern Illinois) include crude oil, refined ethanol, coal, and other pollutants. -The mere presence of these products comes with the risk of permanent land, air and water pollution in the case of a derailment or other train accident. Fields and farms that have been worked for generations would be ruined beyond reclamation. Homes, properties and livelihoods would be destroyed and property values would plunge. -With the aging U.S. rail infrastructure, such occurrences are not uncommon. Several have occurred within the past year, and all have been nightmares for the rail industry and such organizations as the NTSB, EPA, and STB. I, as a taxpayer who proudly supports these institutions, would hate to see any further risk introduced by the addition of an unnecessary railway. -In addition, the noise of trains running to and fro will disrupt daily activities and the quality of life in our community. Paw Paw, IL is attractive to many homeowners because of its relative peace and quiet, which would as such be destroyed with the presence of this railway. 2. The train, while immediately profitable for the rail industry, would be an economic blight on the communities it would affect, Paw Paw IL being included. -The rail way proposal is entirely unnecessary. Great Lakes Basin, L.L.C. argues in their thesis that the rail line would de-congest rail traffic not bound for Chicago, when there are already multiple rail lines operated by BNSF, UP, and CSXT that crisscross the Northern Illinois area outside of Chicago. There are already multiple alternatives to rail traffic that does not wish to involve itself with the Chicago area. For a full map of these routes for your own consideration, enclosed is a link to a 2012 Illinois Rail Map: http://www.idot.illinois.gov/assets/uploads/files/transportation-system/maps-&-charts/railroad-maps/il%20railroad%20map%202012.pdf -The proposed rail would cut through 278 miles of what is very clearly Midwestern farmland. The Farm Bureau, Farm Advocacy Groups and farmers themselves will stress to you the importance of their land, as a source of food for their communities and the world ,and as a source of income on which they depend. The addition of noisy, dirty freight trains, carrying nearly 100 cars and cutting through their lands, would immediately and permanently disrupt their ability to perform this vital work. The local Paw Paw, IL and national economy would suffer greatly. This is surely of no great concern to the aforementioned Great Lakes Basin, L.L.C., who are pretty convincingly attempting to make a quick buck at the expense of taxpayers. -The Paw Paw IL community relies greatly on its main road infrastructure to carry out daily economic and emergency response activities. This rail way will, according to several map renderings I have seen, cross over our main west-bound road out of town. Paw Paw is connected to the rest of the state via I-39, and the two are joined by this east-west road. This limits, if not entirely hinders, interstate commerce and emergency responders, who also rely on this road to transport patients to the nearest hospital. In total, this would severely and permanently affect our town's quality of life. To sum it up, this proposal is damaging in nearly every conceivable way to voting taxpayers and brings the unnecessary risks of environmental disaster, congestion, property devaluation, and lifestyle damage to thriving Northern Midwest communities, including Paw Paw IL. I strongly encourage you and the other concerned parties of the Surface Transportation Board to stop this proposal in its tracks. No amount of personal economic gain and greed is worth environmental and personal risks to taxpayers. There exist many potential, alternate solutions to the problems that Great Lakes Basin, L.L.C. has brought forward. I would encourage that organization to look more closely at those solutions before proposing something so flippantly irresponsible. Sincerely, Sam G. Dunklau On Behalf of the Dunklau Family"Samuel Dunklau
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22661EcologistThe concept of social sustainability as Littig and Griebler (2005), “signifies the nature-society relationships, mediated by work, as well as relationships within the society.” They expound that social sustainability can be reached if the work done “within a society” meets the criteria to “satisfy an extended set of human needs, and are shaped in a way that nature and its reproductive capabilities are preserved over a long period of time and the normative claims of social justice, human dignity and participation are fulfilled (p. 72). These complicated and multifaceted issues are often referenced as the pillar models of sustainable development. Littig and Griebler (2005) define each dimension and explain the logistics. In the multi-pillar or three pillars model, they explain how the three pillars - ecological, economic, and social - must be balanced if sustainability is to be reached. In their definition of the one-pillar model, it is explained that the ecological dimension takes precedent, but they conclude that, “human needs cannot be sufficiently met just by providing an ecologically stable and healthy environment, but that—if a society is indeed committed to sustainability—the equally legitimate social and cultural needs ought to be taken care of as well” (pg. 67). Therefore, perhaps the most useful definition of sustainability focuses on balance and compromise – that all aspects must be considered, and no one group or aspect is more important than another when trying to achieve sustainability. Lee (1993) would add that “sustainability is a goal, like liberty or equality: not a fixed end point to be reached but a direction that guides constructive change” (p. 563). A useful definition of sustainability that the authors Vucetich and Nelson (2013) reach is, “meeting human needs in a socially-just manner without depriving ecosystems of their health {or populations of their viability}” (p. 12). All of these definitions have the concepts of balance, compromise, and equality in common. The problem with “sustainability” is that our terminology will almost always need to be modified. If we are to understand that language is fluid, the dynamic tendencies of human behavior will always need to be reviewed. It is becoming clear that “sustainable development” is already a buzzword in community planning – or perhaps another “figleaf”. But it is yet unclear if any of this new environmentally-conscious development is truly sustainable, or if simply our mere existence and reproduction on this planet is sustainable. It is also uncertain if the compromise and balance used to define sustainability is truly a 50-50 split between humans and the environment; is there one half of this equation that gets less than half of the benefit consistently over time? How does that impact the result? Therefore, sustainability may, over time, prove to take on new meaning as we “do the work within society”. As Leopold, (1949) pointed out, “A thing is right when it tends to preserve the integrity, stability, and beauty of the biotic community. It is wrong when it tends otherwise” (p. 224).Greg John Keilback
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22499Robert Jornlin[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22473Herb Renner, Jr.[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22471Robert and Agnes Fay[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22470David and Barbara Guest[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22469Rebecca Perry[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22215Lake County, IN Plan CommissionFind attached a resolution passed by the Lake County, IN Plan Commission. We believe the resolution is self-explanatory and contains several environmental concerns and transportation corridor concerns and alternatives. Thank you for the opportunity to respond to this very serious matter. Respectfully, Ned Kovachevich, Director Lake County Plan CommissionNed Kovachevich, Executive Director · Crown Point, Indiana
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(printed as 4/21/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22213Andy NekrasovI am very concerned for this proposed rail road. The RR will be within 600 feet of my home. (Electrical and pipelines even closer) 1. (Safety) I am deeply concerned for the safety of my children. They currently ride their bikes to a friend’s house down the street. Now there will be a very busy RR track in their way. With the amount of trains proposed crossing the multiple tracks would be very dangerous. 2. (Safety) The local school bus must now travel fully loaded with kids over two sets of tracts on the country road. This would pose a significant risk to the safety of the local children. 3. (Safety/Water Resources) Currently these trains go through Chicago at much reduced speeds not presenting major derailment or spill issues. This this proposed rail line the same trains will be traveling up to 70 mph. The risk of a derailment now becomes much more dangerous, especially considering how close these trains will be do homes. The homes by the rail line all have well water unlike city water in Chicago. If there was a major derailment or spill (or small leaks over time) the drinking water for a wide area would be affected and contaminated, posing a deadly risk to a lot of people. Additionally a train traveling at 70 mph has a lot more energy and in the event of a derailment could potentially destroy a lot of houses in its path with people still inside. 4. (Noise Vibration) I am concerned about the impact the noise will have to my horses. 5. (Noise Vibration) Everyone on the path of this train moved out to the country to get away from the noise of Chicago and now this project is brining that noise back. 6. (Socioeconomics) I am very concerned about my home value and the impact it will have on resale and being upside down on my mortgage. I’m sure this would impact everyone on the proposed rail path. The railroad will not compensate people that along the path for the decreased home values. This will have a major impact on the financial ability of all home owners along its path. Home owners will stop spending money on home improvements as there will be no return on investment this close to a major rail line. Home foreclosures will also affect the areas by the rail line as people will move away and will not be able to sell their home. 7. (Socioeconomics) The amount of land taken up from by the rail line and any land that will now become no longer farmable will pose a significant decrease in crop production. Leading to decrease in money generated from the sale of those crops. This could impact money generated for the three states and farmers. Potentially even forcing the some of the farms to close down and further impact the revenue generated from farming. A better plan would be to utilize the existing or abandoned rail lines and improving transportation time on them. This will have ZERO environmental impact as they already exist. As 90% of the project (about 7 billion dollars) will come from federal grants, can’t that money be used more wisely to improve the existing rail system in the area? In the long run this plan will not affect the environment as the rail lines already exist; it would be a much smarter use of the federal money and would not pose any additional safety concerns.Manteno, Illinois
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22212Julie KarpesI believe this proposed railway will harm our beautiful countryside more than it will benefit it. We will lose so much of our farmland. We already have a train that we can hear for miles away at the ethanol plant. We don't need to contaminate the farmland with more railways.Milton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22211Clifford FeipelI thinks this train line will have very bad environmental effects on the land it will be going thru, the air and land are so clean out here I moved away from the city to RAISE MY 4 YOUNG CHILDREN. this unwanted rail way will go less then 0.5 miles from my front door. not only will I now have to worry about my kids breathing in all the pollution but the noise will keep up the babies. what about the affect it will have on the ground water we are all on well now I will have to worry about what my kids will be drinking?? what about my people gardens to help feed their own families don't you thing all the rail dust will just pollute there food. now look at the long term how many people will be eating all this tainted food and now will be chronically sick. also there is miles of corn and bean fields by me that will all ne destroyed from this wont all this be tainted too now what about the livestock they feed with corn wont that all be sick and transferring to the people that eat it. there is so many long term effects on society. this train will be going over major rivers.. what happens if it derails this would be tragic. THEY KEEP TALKING ABOUT HOW THEY WANT THE TOXIC STUFF OUT OF CITY TO KEEP IT AWAY FROM PEOPLE. well I don't think running it thru some ones front yard will be keeping it away. if they keep building all over the farm land there will be no more left. like I said this will be very bad for the environment down on the farm. people moved out here to raise they livestock, farm and have a family in piece this will take that all away from them. thanks for reading this please just think if this was going thru you yard how you would feel? if you whole life you were a farmer and this is all you family did for years.. now its all going to be ruinedmanteno, il
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22210R.A.I.L.E.D[Lowell] Docket No. FD 35952 Environmental Comment Referencing the “Lac-Megantic” rail disaster, derailments are a serious concern as well as oil, fuel and chemical spills caused by trains transporting hazardous materials. In the case of the GLBR they are planning to build a high speed railroad track(s) with trains traveling up to 70 mph over tracks with many twists and turns along the route. This is a serious danger for school buses, farm machinery, protected water wells, sewage treatment plants, Buckley Homestead County Park and others traveling over these rail crossings. The route selected by the GLBR comes perilously close to schools and a natural gas pumping station. A derailment or accident would cause serious damage to the environment by contaminating ground water and killing vegetation. Wild life would be affected with a contaminated water source. Most fire departments in the areas this rail line is traveling are made up of volunteers. They are going to be faced with having to be trained to deal with methods to handle potential catastrophic incidents. The need for additional equipment would be inevitable at an additional expense to the taxpayers who would be losing tax revenue due to the loss of tax income from the included in the easement. This is a serious safety issue that endangers anyone living along the route, emergency service personnel and school children in the schools along the route and the buses transporting them. Patricia Mussman West Creek Township Lowell, Indiana 46356Patricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22209Amanda Olson-KochI am supporting my hometown and my father against this- please stop this !!Bozeman, Montana
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22208Kim WestfallDear Mr. Navecky: Here are two pictures of Bald Eagles that hunt and live in the area of the proposed railroad. They depend on the water and food that the rural area provides. This railroad would change their habitat. Good land needs to be left alone.... If we keep destroying good farmland and wildlife's habiat, we will not have any left. There is enough railroads and tracks to utilize. The construction of this new Railroad is not needed. Instead recycle and fix problems, don't create new ones. Sincerely Kim WestfallValparaiso, Indiana (IN)
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22207West Creek TownshipSee attached file. WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE HAROLD MUSSMAN, JR. TRUSTEE 11821 WEST 185TH AVENUE – PO BOX 84 LOWELL, INDIANA 46356 Email: wctpcts1-5@att.net 219-696-9432 RE: Docket No. FD 35952 April 21, 2016 RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED HIGH SPEED RAIL LINE BY GREAT LAKES BASIN TRANSPORTATION, INC. AT A MEETING OF THE WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP ADVISORY BOARD HELD ON THURSDAY APRIL 21, 2016, A RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE PROPOSED HIGH SPEED RAIL LINE BY GREAT LAKES BASIN TRANSPORTATION, INC. WAS APPROVED AND SIGNED BY THE TRUSTEE, HAROLD MUSSMAN, JR. AND BOARD MEMBERS MICHAEL McINTIRE, PRESIDENT; CHRISTOPHER KENDER, SECRETARY AND PATRICIA KOPAS, MEMBER. THE RESOLUTION CITES NUMEROUS REASONS WHY THE RAIL LINE IS BAD FOR THE RESIDENTS OF WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP. 1. EMERGENCY SERVICES WOULD FACE SERIOUS DELAYS AND OBSTACLES RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES DUE TO THE VOLUME OF TRAINS (UP TO 110 PER DAY) USING THE PROPOSED TRACKS AND POSSIBLE ROAD CLOSURES. THESE DELAYS WILL RESULT IN LOSS OF LIFE AND LOSS OF PROPERTY DUE TO FIRES. 2. TRI CREEK SCHOOL CORPORATION WOULD BE NEGATIVELY IMPACTED WITH THE HIGH SPEED RAIL LINE CARRYING OVER TWO THOUSAND (2,000) PLUS TYPES OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS BORDERING THE LOWELL MIDDLE SCHOOL AS WELL AS ONE OF ITS ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS. THE DANGER FROM POTENTIAL SPILLS, DERAILMENTS AND JUST THE PROXIMITY TO THE SCHOOLS IS A SERIOUS DANGER TO THE STUDENTS AND RESIDENTS IN THE AREA. THIS IS HIGH SPEED TRAFFIC WITH TRAINS TRAVELING AT SPEEDS UP TO SEVENTY (70) MILES PER HOUR. 3. STUDENTS AT ALL OF THE TRI CREEK SCHOOLS WILL SPEND MORE TIME TRAVELING TO AND FROM SCHOOL EACH DAY DUE TO THE VOLUME OF TRAINS THAT WILL BE RUNNING EACH DAY. STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES ATTENDING THE SCHOOLS WITH THE TRAIN NOISE WILL SUFFER FROM THE DISTRACTIONS. LOUD NOISES ARE HARMFUL TO STUDENTS SUFFERING FROM AUTISM. 4. FURTHER MORE, THE LURE OF THE RAILROAD TRACKS CAN RESULT IN ACCIDENTS OR DEATH TO STUDENTS WHO WALK ON THE TRACKS. SMALL CHILDREN WHO LIVE CLOSE TO THE TRACKS CAN WANDER AWAY FROM HOME AND END UP ON THE TRACKS. 5. THE ASSESSED VALUATION OF PROPERTY IN WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP WILL BE NEGATIVELY IMPACTED HURTING LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND SERVICES. THE LAKE COUNTY ASSESSOR WILL NOT BE THE ASSESSING BODY FOR THE PROPERTY TAKEN BY THE RAILROAD, INSTEAD THE INDIANA DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND FINANCE WILL BE DOING THE ASSESSING. THE STATE IS BEING ENCOURAGED TO TAKE MORE CONTROL OF OUR LOCAL ASSESSORS DUTIES. THE STATE WILL REAP THE REVENUES FROM THE PROPERTY AND PERSONAL PROPERTY FORCING OTHER TAXPAYERS IN THE TOWNSHIP TO PAY MORE TAXES TO MAKE UP FOR THE SHORTFALL. NO ONE WANTS HIGHER TAXES AND REDUCED ACCESS TO SERVICES. 6. THE DANGERS FROM POTENTIAL ACCIDENTS, SPILLS AND DERAILMENTS LOOMS LARGE AND WE OPPOSE PUTTING THE RESIDENTS IN WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP IN A PERILOUS POSITION. THE TRAIN WILL ENTER WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP ON THE STATE LINE JUST SOUTH ON 185TH AVENUE RIGHT NEXT TO THE NIPSCO NATURAL GAS PUMPING STATION THAT FEEDS TWO (2) THIRTY (30) INCH NATURAL GAS PIPELINES. THIS IS A VERY HIGH PRESSURE LINE AND THE PROXIMITY OF THE TRAIN TO THE PUMPING STATION MAKES IT VERY DANGEROUS FOR EVERYONE CONCERNED. THE RELIEF VALVE AT THE PUMPING STATION RELEASES NATURAL GAS INTO THE AIR AND THE DANGER FROM SPARKS OR DERAILMENT IS AN EXPLOSION THAT COULD BE CATASTROPHIC. AN EXAMPLE OF WHAT COULD HAPPEN CAN BE FOUND BY GOOGLING THE “LAC-MEGANTIC RAIL DISASTER” THAT OCCURRED ON JULY 6, 2013. WITH NO ONE REGULATION THE RAIL CARS, ENGINES AND MATERIALS BEING TRANSPORTED, THE DANGERS ARE VERY REALISTIC. WE OPPOSE THIS LACK OF OVERSIGHT. 7. LAND VALUES IN THE AREA WILL DROP DRAMATICALLY. FARMERS WILL LOSE THEIR LIVELIHOODS OR HAVE IT SEVERELY DIMINISHED IF THE RAIL LINE GOES FORWARD. MANY FARMS WILL BE DIVIDED BY THE TRACKS MAKING PORTIONS OF THEIR FARMS IMPOSSIBLE TO GET TO OR IF THEY CAN BE ACCESSED BY ANOTHER ROUTE THE DANGER OF CROSSING THE RAILROAD TRACKS WITH LARGE FARM EQUIPMENT WILL CREATE A SERIOUSLY SAFETY HAZARD FOR THE FARMERS. SOME MACHINERY COULD GET CAUGHT ON THE RAILS WHILE DRIVING OVER THE CROSSING OR THE VOLUME OF TRAFFIC ON THE LINE COULD MAKE CROSSING WITH ENOUGH TIME TO GET EVERYTHING OFF THE TRACKS BEFORE BEING STRUCK BY A FAST MOVING TRAIN. THE TRAINS PLAN TO TRAVEL AT SPEEDS UP TO 70 MILES PER HOUR WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR TRAINS TO PASS EVERY THIRTEEN (13) MINUTES. 8. MUCH OF THE INCOME DERIVED IN WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP COMES FROM AGRICULTURE. LAND TAKEN OUT OF PRODUCTION IS LAND LOST FOREVER. THE ECONOMY OF THE TOWNSHIP WILL BE HINDERED BY THE LOSS OF FARM INCOME. 9. NONE OF THE MAJOR RAIL CARRIERS PLAN TO LEASE THIS RAIL LINE FROM GREAT LAKES BASIN TRANSPORTATION, INC. THAT BRINGS INTO QUESTION PURPOSE AND NEED. WE SEE NO VIABLE PURPOSE AND NO NEED FOR THIS RAIL LINE TO GO FORWARD WITHOUT A COMMITMENT FROM SOMEONE TO ACTUALLY USE IT. 10. DRAINAGE IS A HUGE ISSUE WHEN SOUTH LAKE COUNTY AND SOUTHERN WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP IS IN A FLOOD PLAIN. BUILDING THIS RAIL LINE WOULD CREATE A DAM SEPARATING THE NORTH SIDE OF THE RAILS FROM THE SOUTH SIDE. OUR WATER SHED IN WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP FLOWS TO THE KANKAKEE RIVER. WATER FLOW WOULD BE REDUCED HURTING THE RIVER AND THE WILDLIFE AND ENVIRONMENT THAT DEPENDS UPON THAT WATER. FIELD TILES THROUGH FARMS WILL BE BROKEN CAUSING FLOODING OF FIELDS THAT WILL DESTROY CROPS. 11. TRAIN DERAILMENTS ALONG THIS LINE COULD EASILY CONTAMINATE GROUND WATER AND IN TURN THE WATER IN THE KANKAKEE RIVER. WATER IS OUR GREATEST RESOURCE, WE CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT IT. THE RESIDENTS OF THE TOWNS IN ILLINOIS ALONG THE KANKAKEE RIVER GET THEIR WATER OUT OF THE RIVER. THAT WOULD CREATE A DISATEROUS SITUATION. IN SUMMARY THE PROPOSED RAILROAD WOULD BE BAD FOR THE PEOPLE OF WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP AND ADJOINING AREAS. WE ARE REQUESTING THAT THE SURFACE TRANSPORTATION BOARD DENY THIS PROJECT. THEREFORE THIS BOARD HAS APPROVED AND SIGNED THIS RESOLUTION AND WILL PRESENT IT TO THE SURFACE TRANSPORTATION BOARD (STB). THIS RESOLUTION WILL BE ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE TRUSTEE OF WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP. SIGNATURES ¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬HAROLD MUSSMAN, JR. – WEST CREEK TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE, LAKE COUNTY, IN MICHAEL R. McINTIRE, BOARD PRESIDENT CHRISTOPHER KENDER, BOARD SECRETARY PATRICIA R. KOPAS, BOARD MEMBERHarold Mussman, Trustee · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22206Barbara Taylor ParrishI oppose the proposed GLBRL due to the destruction of the Conway Observatory and integrity of the Buckley Homestead, drainage issues, and risk of contamination of municipal and private wells. Thousands of volunteer hours have been logged to maintain the history of the Buckley Farm and educational experiences for children and adults. A preserved green space for future generations. The Conway Observatory is unlike anything available in Indiana and the Chicagoland area. It is dependent upon the stillness and unobstructive night sky. It's home is on the Buckley County Park, for just that reason. Such a learning experience for the citizens, all available by the generosity of the volunteers. The area east of the Observatory and Chase St., is very low-lying and marshy. In fact Spring Run ditch runs through it. It is home to many species of flora and fauna. Migratory birds flock there. Belshaw Rd. was once an Indian Trail and I have found many Indian artifacts on my property, one estimated to be 2000 B.C. I am concerned about the enevitable contamination to our wells, and the municipal wells of Lowell. I implore you to listen to those of us who have lived on this land for generations.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentThe attached resolution in opposition of the Great Lakes Basin Railway was adopted by the Lake County, Indiana Board of Commissioners and made a matter of public record on April 20, 2016.Ned Kovachevich · Crown Point, Indiana
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22204KnutsonDear Sir, I am writing to ask the STB examine a number of issues in the EIS that will be completed for the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line (GLBRL) project. I live in a rural development of 33 homes next to STH 140 just north of Clinton Wi. The GLBRL is proposed to pass less than 1/2 mile south of our development. I have concerns that the noise, air pollution and visual impact of the rail line will negatively impact the property values of the 33 homes in our development as well as other properties near the line. Further, the immediate area has bedrock very close to the surface. The vibrations from rail traffic will likely impact our properties. Will the vibrations be strong enough to be felt and could they potentially crack foundations or swimming pool concrete where residences have in-ground pools? If there is a chemical or oil spill what is the potential for ground water contamination? Does the fact that bedrock is close to the surface increase the chance that the 33 private wells in our development would be contaminated? I ask that each of the issues raised be throughly investigated. If these issues have the effect of reducing property values what would the STB propose to mitigate that taking of property value? Will GLBRL be required to make us whole? The reduction is property value as well as taking 600 acres off the tax rolls in Rock County will have a negative impact on the ability of local governments to raise necessary funding to provide services. Will this be mitigated by requiring GLBRL to make payments in lieu of taxes" to each of the effected jurisdictions? Local emergency services will be seriously impacted by road closures and delays at crossings. This may require additional resources for local fire, EMS and law enforcement agencies. In addition, the County of Rock funds the Level B Hazmat Team operated by the City of Janesville fire department which responds countywide. Will the additional rail traffic require more resources be put into the Level B Team? I ask the STB analyze the impact the GLBRL will have on all emergency services and indicate mitigation strategies for any impact identified. Craig Knutson"Craig
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22203Kellíe PozilI am concerned with the GLBR proposal and ask that you deny the proposal. In the chance there is a derailment, especially by crooked Creek, which is 1/4mile from my house, the creek would be contaminated quicker than anyone could get there to contain it. Crooked creek s water moves quite quickly and I'm sure the contaminants would be to the Kankakee river before anyone could get there. Crooked Creek is home to trout and they would be done for. It would also contaminate my well water. Please deny GLBR. Thank you.Valparaiso, In
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentI flat out refuse to have my quiet rural serenity disrupted by 110 trains a day thundering next to my home. My property value will plummet. My peace will vanish. My environment is jeopardized by all manner of cargo. We live in the middle of nowhere for the very reason of avoiding the chaos and noise this railroad will bring. This cuts off my direct route to the only hospital available. Rerouting to avoid being caught by a train the crossing would cost 10 minutes in an already 20 minute trip to the hospital. This is unacceptable. The very idea of disrupting our quiet lives is unacceptable. Please do the right thing and refuse this railroad. This will destroy lives, homes, and family farms. Tamara CarlsenTamara Carlsen · Verona, IL
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22199Rock Agaist the RailI urge you to strongly consider using the old/abandoned rail lines and rail beds that are already existing throughout Rock County and the state of Wisconsin. There are hundreds of miles of railroad tracks already in Rock County. We also see many abandoned rail beds, which we feel is a shame. Those tracks have already taken irreplaceable farmland, and we believe existing rail beds have been abandoned then the proposed rail will be abandoned someday as well. We strongly suggest that the investor buy the abandoned tracks. We are aware it is easier for the investor to use eminent domain with farmland owners than it is deal with other railroad companies to buy their old tracks; but we argue that this plan of action is the worst way for landowners, environment, and communities. Yes we know it is cheaper for the investors to buy new land but it is not fair or right by all means. We beg you to save our farm land, to an investor it may just look like a clean unused slate, but they couldn't be more wrong. This rare farmland is our home, our income, our livelihood, and most importantly our way to feed the growing population with a decreasing number of farmers and tillable acres each year. Please strongly consider old rail beds.Jacque McNall · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22186Ken DaggettI am asking you to deny Frank Patton permission to run a rail line through northern Illinois. This is some of the best grain producing land in the country. The lose of revenue to the counties affected due to lose of crop production, the lose of depreciated land value on the right of way itself and the adjoining land for at LEAST a mile either side of the line would be an extreme hardship on an already cash strapped state, county and local towns.Morris, Ill
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(printed as 4/21/2016)CommentEI-22185Sam DunklauDear Mr. Navecky, My name is Sam Dunklau and I represent four Northern Illinois voters living in Paw Paw, IL, one of the many towns in Illinois that would be affected by the recently-proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I would like to first thank you sincerely for your time and attention to the following concerns I wish to bring forward to you. I firmly believe, after due consideration and considerable research of this proposed railroad and its effects, that the GLB Line is without question a poor environmental and economic proposal which would damage the livelihoods of the citizens of Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana irreparably. As a reminder of the thesis of this proposed railway project, I quote the following from the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line website: Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. (GLBT) plans to file either a petition for exemption or an application seeking authority from the Surface Transportation Board (Board) to construct and operate an approximately 278-mile rail line. According to GLBT, the proposed rail line would extend generally from La Porte, Indiana through Illinois to Milton, Wisconsin and would connect with existing Class I railroads. GLBT states that the project is intended to relieve Chicago-area shipping congestion by creating a bypass for through traffic not destined for or originating in the Chicago area." Firstly, I would like to point out that this company is wishing to petition for an exemption to transportation safety and environmental laws that already protect life and property from harm and commercial greed. The very fact that this company is looking to circumnavigate those laws by asking for an exemption is one of many ways that their proposal is suspect. To continue, I put forth the following environmental and economic concerns, which you no doubt have already received from countless other concerned citizens from across the affected area.: 1. The possibility of a train running near our town poses immediate land, water, and noise pollution problems. -Commercial freight trains carry a myriad of goods and products across our nation, but many of those products (especially those that are shipped across Northern Illinois) include crude oil, refined ethanol, coal, and other pollutants. -The mere presence of these products comes with the risk of permanent land, air and water pollution in the case of a derailment or other train accident. Fields and farms that have been worked for generations would be ruined beyond reclamation. Homes, properties and livelihoods would be destroyed and property values would plunge. -With the aging U.S. rail infrastructure, such occurrences are not uncommon. Several have occurred within the past year, and all have been nightmares for the rail industry and such organizations as the NTSB, EPA, and STB. I, as a taxpayer who proudly supports these institutions, would hate to see any further risk introduced by the addition of an unnecessary railway. -In addition, the noise of trains running to and fro will disrupt daily activities and the quality of life in our community. Paw Paw, IL is attractive to many homeowners because of its relative peace and quiet, which would as such be destroyed with the presence of this railway. 2. The train, while immediately profitable for the rail industry, would be an economic blight on the communities it would affect, Paw Paw IL being included. -The rail way proposal is entirely unnecessary. Great Lakes Basin, L.L.C. argues in their thesis that the rail line would de-congest rail traffic not bound for Chicago, when there are already multiple rail lines operated by BNSF, UP, and CSXT that crisscross the Northern Illinois area outside of Chicago. There are already multiple alternatives to rail traffic that does not wish to involve itself with the Chicago area. For a full map of these routes for your own consideration, enclosed is a link to a 2012 Illinois Rail Map: http://www.idot.illinois.gov/assets/uploads/files/transportation-system/maps-&-charts/railroad-maps/il%20railroad%20map%202012.pdf -The proposed rail would cut through 278 miles of what is very clearly Midwestern farmland. The Farm Bureau, Farm Advocacy Groups and farmers themselves will stress to you the importance of their land, as a source of food for their communities and the world ,and as a source of income on which they depend. The addition of noisy, dirty freight trains, carrying nearly 100 cars and cutting through their lands, would immediately and permanently disrupt their ability to perform this vital work. The local Paw Paw, IL and national economy would suffer greatly. This is surely of no great concern to the aforementioned Great Lakes Basin, L.L.C., who are pretty convincingly attempting to make a quick buck at the expense of taxpayers. -The Paw Paw IL community relies greatly on its main road infrastructure to carry out daily economic and emergency response activities. This rail way will, according to several map renderings I have seen, cross over our main west-bound road out of town. Paw Paw is connected to the rest of the state via I-39, and the two are joined by this east-west road. This limits, if not entirely hinders, interstate commerce and emergency responders, who also rely on this road to transport patients to the nearest hospital. In total, this would severely and permanently affect our town's quality of life. To sum it up, this proposal is damaging in nearly every conceivable way to voting taxpayers and brings the unnecessary risks of environmental disaster, congestion, property devaluation, and lifestyle damage to thriving Northern Midwest communities, including Paw Paw IL. I strongly encourage you and the other concerned parties of the Surface Transportation Board to stop this proposal in its tracks. No amount of personal economic gain and greed is worth environmental and personal risks to taxpayers. There exist many potential, alternate solutions to the problems that Great Lakes Basin, L.L.C. has brought forward. I would encourage that organization to look more closely at those solutions before proposing something so flippantly irresponsible. Sincerely, Sam Dunklau, on behalf of the Dunklau Family"
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-25243Cindy Brown[see attached map provided at Rochelle Scoping Meeting, 4-20-16]
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-25223Jason Shearer
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22682Bill BreitsprecherFrom: webmaster@clubtnt.org To: NaveckyD@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/20/2016 08:53 AM Subject: Docket No FD-35952, GLTB I demand you tell me how to get documents on the record for the phase of approval you have inconsistently represented (misrepresented?) as being about assessing the business plan. STB is dishonestly enabling this project that: 1. Has no need as stated in company filings & statements by GLBT 2. Cannot be a profitable business mode. 3. Is actually about shipping Bakken Crude and has nothing to do with re-routing current freight through Chicago. It is shameful that you are refusing to look at the true environmental impact of what this project is designed to do. It is also shameful that you constantly give misleading information. STB has no duty to have environmental hearings when: 1. The project is not a real business plan 2. The purpose of the project can be objectively demonstrated as being hidden from STB filings. Since you cannot maintain consistent statements and directives -- I demand you direct me to those at the STB that are looking at the business plan and need for this project. Bill Breitsprecher 608.556.2062 webmaster@clubtnt.org
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22677Greg John KeilbackFrom: Greg <g_keilback@hotmail.com> To: Jeffrey.Herzig@stb.dot.gov" <Jeffrey.Herzig@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/20/2016 09:17 PM Subject: Re: Submission Without a Docket Number This is in regards to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. I am not sure what happened during my submission, but please file this in the OPPOSED file. I am sorry for the confusion and as for the docket number- I left it blank as per your instructions. Thank you for your patience, Greg Keilback From: Jeffrey.Herzig@stb.dot.gov <Jeffrey.Herzig@stb.dot.gov> Sent: Wednesday, April 20, 2016 2:20 PM To: g_keilback@hotmail.com Cc: Andrea.Pope-Matheson@stb.dot.gov Subject: Submission Without a Docket Number We received the submission below, but I am not sure what the docket number it belongs under. In order for your submission to be processed and part of the record, it needs to have a docket number. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks. Jeff Herzig Surface Transportation Board Office of Proceedings (202) 245-0397 The concept of social sustainability as Littig and Griebler (2005), “signifies the nature-society relationships, mediated by work, as well as relationships within the society.” They expound that social sustainability can be reached if the work done “within a society” meets the criteria to “satisfy an extended set of human needs, and are shaped in a way that nature and its reproductive capabilities are preserved over a long period of time and the normative claims of social justice, human dignity and participation are fulfilled (p. 72). These complicated and multifaceted issues are often referenced as the pillar models of sustainable development. Littig and Griebler (2005) define each dimension and explain the logistics. In the multi-pillar or three pillars model, they explain how the three pillars - ecological, economic, and social - must be balanced if sustainability is to be reached. In their definition of the one-pillar model, it is explained that the ecological dimension takes precedent, but they conclude that, “human needs cannot be sufficiently met just by providing an ecologically stable and healthy environment, but that—if a society is indeed committed to sustainability—the equally legitimate social and cultural needs ought to be taken care of as well” (pg. 67). Therefore, perhaps the most useful definition of sustainability focuses on balance and compromise – that all aspects must be considered, and no one group or aspect is more important than another when trying to achieve sustainability. Lee (1993) would add that “sustainability is a goal, like liberty or equality: not a fixed end point to be reached but a direction that guides constructive change” (p. 563). A useful definition of sustainability that the authors Vucetich and Nelson (2013) reach is, “meeting human needs in a socially-just manner without depriving ecosystems of their health {or populations of their viability}” (p. 12). All of these definitions have the concepts of balance, compromise, and equality in common. The problem with “sustainability” is that our terminology will almost always need to be modified. If we are to understand that language is fluid, the dynamic tendencies of human behavior will always need to be reviewed. It is becoming clear that “sustainable development” is already a buzzword in community planning – or perhaps another “figleaf”. But it is yet unclear if any of this new environmentally-conscious development is truly sustainable, or if simply our mere existence and reproduction on this planet is sustainable. It is also uncertain if the compromise and balance used to define sustainability is truly a 50-50 split between humans and the environment; is there one half of this equation that gets less than half of the benefit consistently over time? How does that impact the result? Therefore, sustainability may, over time, prove to take on new meaning as we “do the work within society”. As Leopold, (1949) pointed out, “A thing is right when it tends to preserve the integrity, stability, and beauty of the biotic community. It is wrong when it tends otherwise” (p. 224)."
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22675Donna HowardFrom: Donna Howard <gardonho@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/20/2016 05:51 PM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Trans LLC Project Docket No. FD35952 Mr Navecky I am concerned about the possibility of so many trains carrying hazardous materials so close to my residence of 45 years. At this point in my life I do not have the option of picking up and moving somewhere else nor do I want to leave my home. Please consider the very real possible effect of hazardous material spills by this proposed railroad. I do not think it is fair for a group of private investors to confiscate private property for their own monetary gain. The proposed railroad will not benefit the public in any way. It is purely for the profit or private investors. The welfare of current property owners should supersede the potential profits of outside investors. I am also concerned about safety. Such a dramatic increase in railroad traffic will make our country roads less safe to travel and will create undue hardship and delay getting to and from our homes. Also, my husband is 70 years old and I am 67. At any time we could need an ambulance or other emergency vehicles that would most assuredly be delayed getting to and from our house. Another concern is our neighbors who are advanced in age at this point. One has had the ambulance out to their house three times in the past few months, and another has just undergone surgery for shoulder, plus they have heart problems. This would be a problem for ambulance to reach them in case of emergency. Most of the people living down our road are elderly and could need emergency help at any given time. Please do not approve this railroad with or without modifications and ruin our peaceful lives and the environment. Sincerely, Donna Howard
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22674Donna HowardFrom: Donna Howard <gardonho@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/20/2016 05:44 PM Subject: Proposed Railroad Mr Navecky I am concerned about the possibility of so many trains carrying hazardous materials so close to my residence of 45 years. At this point in my life I do not have the option of picking up and moving somewhere else nor do I want to leave my home. Please consider the very real possible effect of hazardous material spills by this proposed railroad. I do not think it is fair for a group of private investors to confiscate private property for their own monetary gain. The proposed railroad will not benefit the public in any way. It is purely for the profit or private investors. The welfare of current property owners should supersede the potential profits of outside investors. I am also concerned about safety. Such a dramatic increase in railroad traffic will make our country roads less safe to travel and will create undue hardship and delay getting to and from our homes. Also, my husband is 70 years old and I am 67. At any time we could need an ambulance or other emergency vehicles that would most assuredly be delayed getting to and from our house. Another concern is our neighbors who are advanced in age at this point. One has had the ambulance out to their house three times in the past few months, and another has just undergone surgery for shoulder, plus they have heart problems. This would be a problem for ambulance to reach them in case of emergency. Most of the people living down our road are elderly and could need emergency help at any given time. Please do not approve this railroad with or without modifications and ruin our peaceful lives and the environment. Sincerely Donna Howard
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22622Troy Rittschof
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22621Ogle County BoardDistrict One Representatives
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22620Anonymous
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22619Travis Akers
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22618Jan Austgen
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22617Perks' Ranch
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22616Mariah Rankin
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentDennis Shearer
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22549Patricia Robisky[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22544Harold and Sharon Pfeiffer[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22535Ken & Pat Wendtland[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22266Anonymous Letter[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22197Penny Good[Valparaiso] Dear Board, I am concerned about the Great Basin Rail line proposal. I view the potential for hazardous materials to leak into the ground and water sources in Morgan Township as a direct harm to my family. We are all on private well water and live within a 1/2 mile of the proposed freight line. Please consider moving the line to unpopulated areas. Thank you, Penny GoodValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22196Penny Good[Valparaiso] As a community member with teenagers I am very concerned with the proposed rail line. With this proposal, there is the potential for serious accidents at rail crossings with young drivers. Please consider placing the rail lines further south, in less populated areas. With the Morgan Township School so close to the proposal, there is the potential for many accidents. Thank you, Penny GoodValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22195Penny GoodDear Sir, I am a teacher at Morgan Township school, a school located within a 1/2 mile of the proposed Great Basin rail line. I have great concern about the amount of noise and vibration that will occur during the school day due to the constant travel of trains. Students will be unable to hear whistles blown on the playground, our special needs students will be upset and disoriented from the train whistles and unable to learn. In doing research, we have learned that students who attend schools in close proximity to rail lines are a full year behind other students their same age in other locations. Please consider moving this rail line elsewhere. Thank you, Penny GoodValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22194Michael LosinieckiMy wife and I own land, 35 acres, on 1298 west 500 south. Why am I just now finding out that the railroad wants to cut my land in two is beyond me. None of my neighbors have been aware of this either. This land has been my life long dream since I was a young boy, to own a piece of property I could hunt and enjoy nature. This will destroy all the value, not only money, but for the wild life that lives in my little patch of woods and wet lands. I am heart broken at the aspect of possibly loosing a dream I have worked my whole life to achieve. Further I'm rather pissed that in no way have we or anyone else been even contacted about this at all. To upset right now to get into more details, will continue my comments at a later date.LaPorte, Indiana
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22193Janet Hoisington[Rockford] MY farm is located at 7901 Kishwaukee Road, Stillman Valley. The railroad would traverse the length of it from front to back, then turn west and go across the width of it. Going in, it would cross a broad flood plain. In the back of the farm, it will first cross two natural gas pipelines that come across the Rock River. The land slopes down toward the river at this point. Then, it would climb up to the top of a wooded cliff, probably the highest point along the river in the county. This would destroy the woodlands that have been earmarked for future use by the forest preserve. If there is an accident, the pollution would flow directly down into the Rock River. We would have to sell what is left of our farm and take a huge loss because, with the loss of this tillable acreage, we could not afford the taxes and utilities to survive. This land has been in our family since the 1800's. It is unspoiled and beautiful. Another issue is that the railroad would block off the only two roads that we have to get to Rockford, 4 miles away. Kishwaukee is used as the main artery for ambulances and commuters from the town of Stillman Valley and rural landowners. The rails would block Condon and Kishwaukee for a large part of the day and would cause long delays, possibly fatal. To get the Rockford another way would involve driving to Byron and taking a 24-mile detour. Janet HoisingtonRockford, IL
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22192Linda PhillipsI am concerned about the negative impact on safety that a heavily used railway will have on the rural community of Morgan Township. Not only will traffic be affected, there is a risk of pollutants entering the air and ground water. As a resident and teacher in Morgan township I strongly oppose thus railway.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22190Sarah RedmondIf the proposed tracks are built so close to Morgan Township School, the noise of trains passing every 15 minutes or so will have a negative impact on student learning. All students will have difficulty hearing instruction. Students with impairments such as ADHD or autism could be highly distracted or disturbed, which interrupts the learning process for everyone in the classroom.valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22189Maria ShookPlease do not build the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line and disrupt what is indisputably some of the best farmland in the country. This railroad will separate farmers from their fields and make irrigation difficult, if not impossible. We need our farms intact in order to remain successful. Thank you, Maria ShookValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22188Maria ShookThe proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will have serious effects on the transportation of our children to Morgan Township School. This rail line will double the number of crossings that buses will need to cross, significantly increasing the danger to our children. It will also force children to remain on the buses longer and lengthens their day in a non-productive manner. We live in the country to minimize dangers to our children. Please help us keep them safe. Thank you, Maria ShookValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22187Maria ShookPlease consider the effects Great Lakes Basin Rail Line will have on the water drainage In south Porter County, IN. The train will disrupt the water that drains south from Division Road to the NIPSCO power plant in Wheatfield, IN. This means not only higher prices for over 1 million NIPSCO customers but disrupts the watersheds in the area. This is a high price to pay for us. Thank you, Maria ShookValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22184Linda PhillipsAs a teacher at Morgan Township Elementary I am very concerned that 110 trains per day passing by so near to the school will have negative impacts on student learning. The nearly constant noise & vibration will affect student learning. Because every child deserves to have access to good education I feel that placing heavily used track so close to a school is not a good choice.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22183Ronald HoffmanThe impact on our existing transportation network would be devastating for our community. We are a community of farmers and we depend our Rt 2 and our local backroads to move our machinery. If there is a supposed train running every 15 minutes or so ....how are they to get from field to field ? By the time the got through one train crossing , there would be another one to cross. If this rail line is to cross Rt 2 , how long would it take to get thru the crossing. Rt 2 is a busy work route and ambulance route. What if there were an emergency that the fire dept needed to get thru either Rt 2 or a backroad.?Hebron, In
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22182Ronald HoffmanAll water flows south from near us. Putting in this rail line would interrupt the flow of the water and could break down underground tile that is already in place. It could create new gullies especially in one of our fields because it is quite hilly.Hebron, in
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(printed as 4/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22180James EichholzLiving with in 3/4 of a mile from a railroad with so many trains going so fast with so much dangerous material is disturbing. These trains will expose hundereds of school kids grades K-12 to unneeded risk. In the event of an accident it would be extremely difficult to impossible to evacuate them safely. The danger to our water supply is a major concern to thousands of people in Boone County. Please do not let this happen to our quiet and peasful rural community.Capron, Illinois
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22171Richard HickeyI live with my children in West Creek Township my children ride the school bus which this railroad Would tremendously impede my children also play in and around West Creek which meanders through my small farm . This proposed railroad would go right over West Creek which also feeds into the Kankakee River this will greatly change our way of life . Thank you Rick Hickey West Creek Township 46356Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22170Kim WestfallDear Mr. Navecky: I am addressing the subject of noise pollution from a residential viewpoint. I have tried to include a short clip to illustrate two things: The beautiful night sounds and how a car can be heard coming more than a mile away. The road that the car is on is the same distance as the train will be from me. I moved to rural Porter County for the peace and serenity of nature and enjoy my horses. The sound of freight trains will be so loud and unbearable, I will have to move. This rail proposal is not a need it is a convenience at the price of many. An organization called CREATE is actively and successfully fixing the Rail traffic in Chicago. That is what should be done instead of creating many unnecessary problems that this rail proposal will do. I urge you to stop Great Lakes Basin Railroad in their quest to destroy for convenience!! Sincerely, Kim WestfallValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22169Patricia TrollerHaving attended the STB meeting in Valparaiso, I have certainly not changed my opinion of the proposed railroad. If anything, I am even more against it than before. I am terrified of the reports of leaks, accidents, crashes and explosions associated with freight trains. I guess it's something you don't really think about until it is coming so close to you. The concern with the DOT 111 cars is on-going and horrifying. Cutting Porter County in half for the benefit of a rail line is not justifiable. This railroad will cut farms in half, farms that have been in families for generations. It will alter agricultural and bus traffic, making each so much more fraught with danger. In an agricultural area, we are accustomed to farm traffic during peak seasons. I have heard farmer after farmer saying how it will destroy some of the best farmland in the country. Another issue is with the funding of the GLB line. Mr Patton states that it is privately funded. However, according to what I have read, it is railroad loans that will be paying for the bulk of this project. In my mind, that means taxpayer dollars are funding railroad loans to allow GLB to use eminent domain against the very tax-payers that will suffer the most from this railroad. It is hard to see any justice in this. I will continue to read and bone up on all aspects of this railroad as things are progressing. Thank you very much.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22168R.A.I.L.E.DDocket No. FD 35952 Environmental Comments I want to address issues of safety regarding the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. We are very concerned about the number of rail crossing on numerous primary and secondary roads and the volume of high speed trains that are projected to use the tracks. This will result in delayed response times for all emergency services, school buses and road maintenance vehicles. Lives and property will be lost due to the delays for ambulances and fire equipment. The people who will suffer these losses will primarily be taxpaying residents who fund these services. The rail road will severely hinder their access to the services they pay for to protect themselves. At this point there seem to be no good reason for this project to go forward since we have not seen where funding will come from nor do we know who will lease these tracks. Four major carriers have stated they have no interest in leasing these tracks or using them. If no one uses them, why build them and create serious safety problems for residents and traffic trying to use the roads. Patricia Mussman West Creek Township Lowell, Indiana 46356Patricia Mussman · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22167Linda HowardThere will have to be to many crossings on our rural roads that will slow response times for ambulances and fire departments. School buses will have to travel miles out of the way to pick up students. Please consider stopping with rail road completely. ThanksValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/20/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22165Rock Against the RailI am very much against the GLB rail line coming through my community. IT would have a negative impact on everyday life, affecting travel to and from work, access to fields and farms. Also the increase in pollution and the effect on the environment from the construction.Jonathan Peich · Avalon, WI
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22164Bernard I. Turnoy[please see attached file for comments with graphics]
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22131Nancy HulinI am attaching a letter in response to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. Thank you.Leland, IL
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(printed as 4/20/2016)CommentEI-22130Todd CockrellRegarding GLB Railroad. I am strongly against this railroad. It is of great concern of how close to my property it is. Not to mention the noise and damage to ground drainage tile. Also I feel if this goes in the property values will be reduced. I am already feeling the this due to my property is for sale and potential buyers are seeing the signs and asking questions. I am concerned due to 500w being an ambulance route of delayed traffic. Not to mention back up traffic in front of my driveway. Also if there ever be a derailment it could cause damage to my out buildings. I feel my property will be greatly affected due the route. Thank you, Todd CockrellValparaiso, In
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-25222Amy Nystrom
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-25221Toria Funderburg
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-25220Winnebago-Boone Farm BureauRichard Beuth
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-25219Mike Bratt
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-25218Boone County Fire District #4Kerry Kenney
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-25217Winnebago-Boone Farm BureauJulie Newhouse
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-25216John Mitchell
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-25209Tom and Sandra Kettle[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22749Justin KokosMr. Navecky, As far as environmental concerns, I am concerned about the devastation of thousands upon thousands of trees. With this devastation and loss of trees and other plant life, we lose good clean air in our atmosphere and replace it with air pollution from rail yards and locomotive engines. As well as the increase in urbanization and infrastucture, which will increase the greenhouse effect and global warming. On my mother's property in Sumner Township, Kankakee IL, she has AT LEAST 250 trees. All those trees would be destroyed by the proposed rail yard. The loss of trees and plants = loss of good clean air. The addition of a 278 mile railroad and rail yard = massive increase in air pollutionKankakee, Illinois
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(printed as 4/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22701Patricia A. Robisky[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22673Mark DunklauFrom: mdunklau <mdunklau@hotmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov, mdunklau@hotmail.com" <mdunklau@hotmail.com> Date: 04/19/2016 09:43 PM Subject: RE: Block GLB -------- Original message -------- From: janis <jfd528@gmail.com> Date: 04/19/2016 7:50 PM (GMT-06:00) To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Cc: Mark Dunklau <mdunklau@hotmail.com> Subject: Block GLB Dear Mr.Navecky, I am writing to voice my concern about the proposed new rail line BLB docket #FD 35952. I live in Paw Paw IL. This project could destroy the peace that envelopes this town. The environmental issues that face this proposal are numerous; noise pollution is an inevitable outcome, but not the most damaging environmental impact. Along the length of the proposed line, the division of the most valuable and unrenewable resource, namely, some of the best farmland in the world; land that has been turned into a productive, life-giving food factory by farmers who have cultivated and nurtured it for generations will be permanently altered, retired and put at risk for miles and miles. Routing the energy and resources for this proposed rail line along already established lines and intermodals should more than remedy the problems this line is supposed to resolve. I have yet to meet a single person in favor of this proposal. Consider what accepting this will mean for the multiple farms and towns along the way. A hypothetical derailment (a statistical liklihood) will have impact in proportion to the substance spilled, the location ie waterway/aquifer, town, tillage, drainage, farm etc, and spell disaster for numerous individuals and families. Please demonstrate your willingness to PREVENT THIS. Stop this project. Thank you, Mark Dunklau 322 Wiley Ave Paw Paw IL 61353 8157572356"
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22672Janis DunklauFrom: janis <jfd528@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Cc: Mark Dunklau <mdunklau@hotmail.com> Date: 04/19/2016 08:50 PM Subject: Block GLB Dear Mr.Navecky, I am writing to voice my concern about the proposed new rail line BLB docket #FD 35952. I live in a small rural town of Paw Paw IL. It is a beautiful farmland community This project could destroy that. T^he environment issues that face this proposal are numerous. Noise pollution coming from the number of trains, some suggest up to 100 a day! Valuable farnland that feeds our community, IL, the midwest, and even the world, could be threatened by derailments , dividing established farmsteads. Our area has a delicate balance of grading when it comes to grading for water flow. We have ALL our water provided by a deep well system . Worries of water contamination from accidental spills and destruction of precious topsoil from flooding are and could be a dangerous reality. Some of this rail will go directly thru our main road in and out of town, Chicago Rd. This could hamper delivery of goods, services, ambulance, Fire protection vehicles (We have our own fire dept), emergency exits due to natural disasters. As you can see this project would NOT benefit our community, in fact it would HARM it. Please join us and put a PAUSE to this project to address and investigate it further. WE ARE COUNTING ON YOU. Respectfully, Janis Dunklau 322 Wiley Ave Paw PAw IL 61353
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22671Elizabeth VarnesFrom: Elizabeth Varnes <evarnes@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/19/2016 10:51 AM Subject: Re: Environmental and wildlife concerns I am resending this email to show you what would change in the environment around us. My concerns are not only the environment but also the farmland which would be lost and that have meant a livelihood for generations, the farms have been in families for generations. Thanks for listening. On Wed, Apr 6, 2016 at 5:00 PM, Elizabeth Varnes <evarnes@gmail.com> wrote: I had previously emailed about our concerns regarding the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. I am sending along pictures of our wetland, Wildlife Sanctuary Certificate and the certification from the Illinois Audubon Society Sanctuary for butterflies and birds. There is also a nesting pair of owls in the woods where the tracks will run, we have several eastern wild turkeys (maybe have 30 to 40) we have counted feeding in the cornfield between our property and river. There are two pair of nesting eagles along the river. Please understand that we are only a small section of environment that will be impacted by the railroad, the scope of what chaos this railroad will bring to us is unimaginable to say nothing of the loss of the most fertile farmland in America. Will be a travesty to our State. That you for letting me share this with you. Sincerely, Elizabeth Varnes 2472 N. 3959 Rd Sheridan, Il 60551
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22670Elizabeth VarnesFrom: Elizabeth Varnes <evarnes@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/19/2016 10:46 AM Subject: Proposed railroad Another plea to stop the railroad. When talking about the environment, I can't imagine anything worse for the environment, than taking precious farmland. Respectfully, Elizabeth M. Varnes 2472 North 3959 Road Sheridan, ILl 60551
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22608Cindy Hardy
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22607Rich Pierce
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22606Rich Pierce
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22605Anonymous
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22604Loren Wilcox
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22603Deanna Larson
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22602Michael and Madelyn Paulson
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22601Karen Gill
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22600Scott and Amy Nystrom
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22599Bruce Heine
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22598Karen Kenney
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22597Sharon Charlesworth
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22596Scott Fowler
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22595Jesse Funderburg
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22594Meredith Williams
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22548Herb Renner Jr.[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22546Ms. Carol Pregont[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22462Mr and Mrs Dennis Edson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/19/2016)Comment[see attached letter and attachments]Jane E. Hardisty
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(printed as 4/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22239Cody Neal Watters[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22129Kent ConnessDo not approve the so-called Great Lakes Basin" rail line. To destroy thousands of acres of some of the most fertile farmland on the planet is wrong. Actually, in this age of increasing world population, and the concomitant increase in demand for food, destroying so much farmland would be obscene."
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22128Amanda VerHagenI am writing concerning the environmental impacts that will soon be seen next to my house. There is a nest close to my house in Boone County IL soon to be around where the Great Lakes basin railway will pass through about a mile. For these eagles maybe 4 miles of the proposed tracts. This is a beautiful mating pair and I would hate to see them leave or die due to the impacts of 100 trains polluting the area daily. I was wondering if there will be any sort of protection for these birds, yes they fall under the Migratory Bird Treaty. I will be scouting the are looking for other nests that may be destroyed during the construction of the train. I've already been in contact now with several researchers and government resources. This pair was photographed today 4-17-16 by Mike Deisinger On a more personal note I've spent thousands of dollars on my animals and livestock, the impact of the air and pollution they will be exposed to? They inhale toxins the same as a human, the noise is another concern. I'll have a bunch of ornery restless animals with trains passing through the area polluting the fields (which the 200ft margin will disrupt the field tiles leading to more flooding). Along Denny road and Marengo road lies some of the lowest ground in Boone county, the roads sometimes are covered by water, what will keep the tracks from washing out? Oil will be spilt polluting the local water ways (which the Eagles live and fish...) They survive on the healthy Eco system we have in Boone county. Thanks Amanda VerHagen 8650 Loveridge Rd. Garden Prairie, IL 61038Garden Prairie, IL
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(printed as 4/19/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22126David EnglundThe proposed GLB train line would cross over the Piscasaw Creek in Boone County, IL. I live in the first subdivision located 2 miles west and downstream of this location. 1. The creek has changed course over the last 30 years due to natural causes. I am concerned about further alterations that could be caused by constant train traffic and vibrations. 2. I am also concerned about possible contamination of the creek due to erosion or a chemical spill caused by such railroad activity. There is also an oil pipeline very close to the proposed track location. The possible risk of pipeline damage should be thoroughly studied. 3. The creek runs past our back yard, where there is a flood plain. Water for the subdivision comes from wells along this area. 4. Further downstream are 3-4 other subdivisions where 500-1000 people live. 5. Beyond that, the creek empties into the Kishwaukee River, and the tracks would pass over this river itself. The Kishwaukee flows past these locations through the center of the city of Belvidere, through a township park, and through a conservation district. Any contamination of the water in the creek or river would prove disastrous to all of these locations. 6. In addition, I am concerned about noise. At present, we can hear whistles from trains that pass on existing tracks four to five times farther away than the proposed tracks. The additional noise, vibration, and pollution caused by constant freight train traffic will destroy the quiet, rural environment of the area. Farm land, fish and wildlife are bound to be impacted negatively. 7. I see no counterbalancing benefit to the Boone County area that would justify such environmental risk and damage. Apparently, the applicants see Boone County as nothing more than high speed roll-over country. I hope and trust that the STB will view things much differently. 8. I do not believe that any mitigating conditions could be imposed that would sufficiently protect the area from these hazards so long as the tracks are located in this area. 9. The proposed route also crosses the Illinois tollway I-90 in Boone County. The impact of an overpass on this roadway and on the water table in Spring Township should also be carefully studied. Accordingly, I would request that the scope of the study involve all of these issues and that a careful field study be made of the entire area along and near the creek and river as well as the tollway area mentioned. Ultimately, I would ask that the application be denied so long as the proposed railroad is located anywhere in Boone County or near the Piscasaw Creek, the Kishwaukee River, or the high water table of Spring Township.Belvidere, IL
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22125Lynn KloosThe Great Lakes Basin Rail Line is proposed to run only 300 feet from my home that I am in the process of building. My husband and I picked Lowell, IN to retire there after working years and years and saving our money to live out in the quiet and peaceful country. Our plan for our 5 acres is to foster injured and unwanted animals. Dogs , cats, horses, etc. A rail line that close would destroy our hopes and dreams. Any and all oil and other spillings would go directly into our drinking water. We have only well water there. We would live in fear of constant contamination of our drinking water and the water of our animals. Not to mention all the wildlife in the area that would be harmed from the noise, vibrations and contaiminated water. How many animals would be killed from the 70mph passing trains? There are so many environmental reasons against this rail line, I don't understand why the public needs to state them all. Shouldn't the rail line people need to prove what environmental detriment a rail line going through the country side will cause? Is there any positive environmental impact of a rail line? Please don't allow a few people who want to make money destroy thousands of lives. It would ruin family farms, family homes , property values, and our peaceful way of life. Thank You.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22124Lynn KloosThe Great Lakes Basin Rail Line is proposed to run only 300 feet from my home that I am in the process of building. My husband and I picked Lowell, IN to retire there after working years and years and saving our money to live out in the quiet and peaceful country. Our plan for our 5 acres is to foster injured and unwanted animals. Dogs , cats, horses, etc. A rail line that close would destroy our hopes and dreams. Any and all oil and other spillings would go directly into our drinking water. We have only well water there. We would live in fear of constant contamination of our drinking water and the water of our animals. Not to mention all the wildlife in the area that would be harmed from the noise, vibrations and contaiminated water. How many animals would be killed from the 70mph passing trains? There are so many environmental reasons against this rail line, I don't understand why the public needs to state them all. Shouldn't the rail line people need to prove what environmental detriment a rail line going through the country side will cause? Is there any positive environmental impact of a rail line? Please don't allow a few people who want to make money destroy thousands of lives. It would ruin family farms, family homes , property values, and our peaceful way of life. Thank You.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22117Tri-Creek School CorporationPlease see comments in the attached link. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Vqz8-v-AYz0BfOXVXSLpEO0-HbRI01HfkCqzr4eCsm0/ edit?usp=sharingRebecca Pavich · Crown Point, IN
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22116Lake County ParksPlease see the attached resolution opposing the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Rail Line. The Lake County Park Board voted unanimously to approve the opposition resolution at its April Board Meeting on 4/14/2016.Jim Basala · Crown Point, IN
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22115dorothy heitke[Clinton] We live in Bradford Township, Rock County WI. The great Lakes basin rail line is proposing a route that passes parallel to our land anď is less than a mile as the crow flies. We disagree vehemently with this decision and today I will address environmental concerns. We have spent the last 26 years improving our property. We planted 3000 trees and hundreds of native shrubs and grasses to create habitat for Wild turkeys, deer, foxes, river otters and deer. We built habitat for fish native to turtle creek and the rock river. Migrating cranes, ducks, geese, great white owls stop at the creek and feed in the corn and soybean fields both spring and fall. Herons (that are particularly sensitive to noise) nest all along Turtle Creek. Eagles have been nesting along the creek for the first time in 50 years..and using a ten mile span for hunting. We know this because residents along the creek are very proud that being good stewards of the land has enabled eagles to return and thrive. For the sake of a railroad you expect us to give all this up? We created a private, quiet sanctuary for ourselves and the wildlife that call Bradford Township home. If we had signed up for all the noise pollution these trains will produce, we would have built our home under the interstate highway where land is dirt cheap...which is what the value of land will become with trains running through here all the time. You are destroying the way of life, the enjoyment of life for a train that will make it easier for some unknown entity (not negatively affected by the destruction of land and habitat) to more quickly move freight to chicago?????? eClinton, WI
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22114Tracy ThompsonWith regard to the proposed railroad development, I have the following question and two comments for your consideration. In winter, snow drifts several feet high can be prevalent in farm country. Drifts can accumulate quickly and impair rural road passage. In some years, the cold temperatures solidify them in place well into spring. How does heavy snow drifting and accumulation impact railroad tracks and running trains and are there safety risks? If a train should derail in the middle of a farm field in the dead of winter when snow depths are several feet, how do rescue and clean up crews access the site? Secondly, the track in Milton is proposed to cross Six Corners Road on its way south, and have a full stop installed between County Hwy M and Emerald Grove Road. Six Corners Road, as rural as it may be, has a significant number of commuters who utilize it daily. Seasonally, farmers throughout the entire area utilize this road to access fields. Its busier than one would think and a full stop on this road would cause congestion, noise and a nuisance. As well as safety risks to emergency vehicles that commonly utilize it to go from and through Milton to Johnstown, Bradly, Whitewater and the like. A stop on Six Corners Road would significantly impact emergency vehicles reaching rural residence in time. Lastly, my families property sits on a remnant oak savanna plot in the path of and this proposed track. It will impact the entire west side of our property. Not only will we lose grazing pasture, but the noise and disturbance of a high speed train will be of great distress to the cattle. A spooked animal in excess of 2000 pounds can create great safety risk to those around. I am highly opposed to this train because of the way it will immediately and directly impact our land, our view and quiet surroundings. Long-term and big picture, for the betterment of our local community and that of Rock County and southern Wisconsin, the benefits of this rail do not outweigh the negatives and it should not be approved for permit.Milton, WI
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22113Kelly BeaverWe are living in the heart of a large agricultural resource. While I understand that industries often compete for the same assets, in this case agriculture was here first. To upset the balance in a powerful agricultural community in a blatant land grab would be a disgrace. To think that this would be only to add yet another rail line in an already extensive network in northwest Indiana is shameful. My children would be within a half mile of this track while at school. This would be detrimental to their safety as there would be more crossings to bring the children to school. The long term effects to this line would also be damaging to this top rated school as the student base would be eroded as parents opt for schools not threatened by another railroad. Please refrain from scarring our community with the addition of ANOTHER rail line. Thank You Kelly BeaverValparaiso, in
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22112Mark BeaverI am strongly opposed to the proposition of a new freight rail line through the heart of our community. Having moved here just 2 years ago we chose the area for its tranquility and rule agricultural community. This rail line would cut through the very center of what we value here. My childrens school would be less than a half mile from the rail line. This would increase the danger for them getting to school and be a distraction with the noise. The rail system is already rather extensive in this area and it would seem the local cost for this line would far outweigh its benefits. Please refrain from desecrating our community. We are proud of what we have built here and to have it violated by an ADDITIONAL rail line would be travesty. Sincerely, Mark BeaverValparaiso, in
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(printed as 4/19/2016)CommentEI-22111Theresa AugleI am opposed to the GLB Railroad. There is no study on environmental impact and it seems this plan is being pushed through as fast as possible. It was only recently that our own local county government (Porter County) was informed about the plan. There definitely needs to be more discussion and testing done before eminent domain is pushed through.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-25215Juanita Hofstrom
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-25214Shelley Wellnitz
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-25213Rod and Nancy Larson
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-25212Mark Melin
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-25211Jan Moyer
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-25210William Breitsprecher
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-23771Barbara Ford[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22669D. Lynch DubovichSee attached comment to follow.
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22668Katie BoughtonFrom: Katie Boughton <kb.boughton@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Cc: Seth Boughton <seth.boughton@gmail.com>, Ashley Mirakian <ashleymirakian@gmail.com>, Sherri Fowler <sherri.fowler9425@gmail.com>, Mary Ellen Neumueller <mnvn@inwave1.com>, Holly Charlesworth <Charleswortholly@gmail.com> Date: 04/18/2016 09:21 PM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Railroad Proposal Dear Mr. Navecky: We would like to voice our opposition to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This project would be absolutely devastating to prime farmland and natural conservancy in our community and others in the Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin area. I was born and raised on a farm in Spring Township, Boone County, Illinois, and my husband and I have been Spring Township property owners for 33 years. The negative impact this project would have on our county land is immeasurable. Spring Township is named from the number of natural springs, high water table and wetlands native to the vicinity along with the rare rich, black drummer soil that comprises our neighborhood farms. To slash up this valuable asset with rail lines is unconscionable. The negative economic and ecological impact would be irreversible. Some of the detrimental impact would include: our neighbors' farm buildings would be cut off from their farmland small rural roads used to move farm equipment would be closed the creation of traffic congestion at railway crossings on major roads such as Genoa Road (which is THE main north/south road in southern Boone County and heavily traveled for people commuting to work and school) changes to the abundance of flora and fauna in the area; we have several protected wetlands misuse of some of the best crop soil in the world, drummer soil is vital to corn and soybean production Each spring we look forward to the sweet sound of the red-winged blackbirds nesting in the cattails and frogs hatching in the creek nearby. We urge the Surface Transportation Board to hear our economic and ecological concerns and deny this misuse of prime farmland. Sincerely, William and Katie Boughton 8505 Huber Road Belvidere, IL 61008
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22667Laura ConversaFrom: Laura Conversa <jconversa@aol.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/18/2016 03:56 PM Subject: Railroad project What street near Grant Park is this proposed railroad going near?
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22666Gail HaywardI am concerned about the safety issues that will come from the building of this new railroad. Some roads will be dead ends and buses, ambulances, emt's and fire equipment will have difficulties reaching certain areas. And who will train our first responders on train derailments and chemical clean ups? It will also cause the farm and home values to decrease. Who will also be responsibile for the cost of clean ups. Small town volunteer forces are unable to foot the bill. Please consider every aspect of this PRIVATELY owned railroad.
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22614Jim Porter
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22613Anonymous
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22612Jada Miller
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22611Carolyn Sime
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22610Ty Bollerud
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22609Joel Steinke
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(printed as 4/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22504Doreen Buza[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22503Beverly Kember[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22502Michael Mullooly[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22501Beverly J Fisher[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22500Jo Balogh[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22495Robert and Connie Watters[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22483Herbert Renner Jr.[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22468Karen Ritchie[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22467Linda Hinkston[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22466Kathleen Burke[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22464Amy L[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22463Cecilia Rands[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22461D. C.[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22459Angela M. Eisele[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22458Krieger[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22457David Vlasaty[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22456Penny Steadman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22455Ronald Steadman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22454Kathrine Gill[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22453Lois (Baumann) Broege[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22452Charlotte Heikkinen[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22451Sharon Douglas, Town Chair[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22450Donna Hall[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22449Jerry Olson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22448Sharon H. Davids[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22447Juanita Hofstrom[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22274W. Durant[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22272John Jones[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22271Charlie Jones[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22270Mark Langton[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22269Karen Johnson[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22268Janice Jones[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22267Perry Steadman[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22264Donna K. Donato[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22179Gail HaywardI am concerned about the safety issues that will come from the building of this new railroad. Some roads will be dead ends and buses, ambulances, emt's and fire equipment will have difficulties reaching certain areas. And who will train our first responders on train derailments and chemical clean ups? It will also cause the farm and home values to decrease. Who will also be responsibile for the cost of clean ups. Small town volunteer forces are unable to foot the bill. Please consider every aspect of this PRIVATELY owned railroad.Grand Ridge, IL
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22178Larry JohnsenThere is a new railroad route being proposed through Illinois. The location being proposed will interfer with services like Fire Department and Ambulance services to the areas west of the proposed route. Today all services come out of Morris Illinois and it there is a train on any of the tracks those services will be delayed. If this route is installed the rail company should provide a fully staff and equipped fire station and ambulance service for when access is inhidited by a passing train.
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22110thomas farley[Clinton] It feels like fiction, that a major rail artery could be in my back yard. There are many people with concerns and emotions, none that I have met are in favor of the GLBT project. Enough conjecture. The only real concerns I have are simple. 1) The safety of farmers and livestock crossing rails to get on the land divided by the rail. 2) If farm machinery or livestock damage the rail through normal use, would GLBT be responsible for the repair costs or would they try to take more from the farm owner. I have also thought that this rail seems to be overkill, a 70mph line that connects to 15mph lines. It reminds me of the people that stay in the left lane of a high way when just a mile ahead the lane ends. They didn't get ahead and they put others at risk of an accident.Clinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22109Sara PierceI work at the Buckley Homestead County Park in Lake County, Indiana. I am an interpreter who works, primarily, with the school children who visit the park. My thoughts and feelings regarding the desecration of the park and Conway Observatory by the proposed railroad are, admittedly, subjective. Perhaps my comments will give some indication of the importance of Buckley Homestead to the entire region. April is the month of our Hands on Tours. Fourth grade school children get to experience washing wool, shorn from the sheep grazing right next to the wash tubs. This year, we have three Mama Ewes with four lambs scampering in the field. The children learn that a sweater did not originally come off a hangar at Walmart. They also get some knowledge of animal husbandry watching the lambs nurse and chase their Mamas around. All of this is discussed with the children in a way that engages their minds and imaginations. Located in the barn, there is a site that teaches the children how to mix up biscuits, cut them out and put them in the skillet for baking. They see how things were baked in a wood burning stove. The children also bring fresh vegetables and watch as those vegetables are turned into a stew for lunch and cooked over an open fire. When they all sit down to eat their lunches, they have food they had a hand in preparing the way our ancestors did. In the school house, they all sit in desks that are over one hundred years old. The school house is an exact replica of the one room schoolhouse that sat on the very spot, for many years. The school graduated its last class in 1922. Mrs. Catherine Buckley donated the property to Lake County Board of Education in 1858. The deed reads, in part “…said land being the same that the school house now stands on to have and to hold said half acre of land so long as it may be used for school purposes…” . Catherine Buckley, who was also deaf, could neither read nor write, so having her children educated was vitally important to her. While at the school house, the children are given the opportunity to try their hand at Spenserian writing, that beautiful, flowing script used in 1900. They also take part in an “orthographic competition”, which in modern parlance means spelling bee, using words from the 4th grade reader from the period. The log house, it’s not actually a “cabin” because it has four windows and a wood floor, was found while a home nearby was being demolished. It was under plaster and was one room of the house. Fortunately, the demolition crew understood what they found and took it apart with great care, numbering each log as they went. It was donated to Tri-Creek Historical Society, who, in turn, donated it Lake Co. Parks for Buckley Homestead. While not original to the homestead, it is original to the area and a beautiful example of early pioneer living. While at the log house, the children learn to sew a button on, perhaps what chinking is all about by actually chinking the old pig sty. Weather permitting; they may help plant the pioneer garden. Is this a popular program? Yes. We have teachers who come back year after year with their class. There are those that, having been told they can have only one field trip, choose to come to Buckley. One comment a child made this year was, “I thought this was a field trip. But I learned too much for it to be a field trip!” We even had a group of German exchange students this year. Normal attendance is 100 children a day, for all eleven days. May, September and October, we conduct school tours that are not the all-day affairs the Hands on Tours are, but the two hour tours give the children a hint of what life was like when the settlers first came to our area. Inner-city children, especially, do not have a clue that applesauce didn’t always come from a plastic container on the shelf at a grocery store, or that bacon came from a live, walking, eating, pooping, squealing animal. These children, from all over the surrounding area have the opportunity to see, hear, and yes, smell farm animals. Again, school groups literally come from near and far for these tours. Last year, we had a group of homeschoolers from the south side of Chicago come down for the tour. Bear with me yet for I need to talk a bit about the house, and my true love, the barn. The front section of the farm house was built in 1853. It has two main rooms, with a small room the Buckleys referred to as the birthing room. Also the root cellar is under this section. In 1916, the middle section was added and supplied the house with a kitchen, bathroom and two additional bedrooms upstairs. The very back room was updated to a modern kitchen in the later 1990s. In 1916, when Charles Buckley set out to build his new barn, since the original barn had burned down, his neighbors told him he couldn’t build such a barn because it would fall down! The barn is built with plank and truss construction which gives the upper barn a massive tall area. This allowed for open, easily accessible hay storage. The other unusual feature of the barn, it is actually called a “Bank Barn”, is that it is built into the side of a hill. This allowed the lower barn, which was used for milking the dairy herd, to stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. There are so many inventive ideas used in the barn to help make the work easier on the workers and much more efficient. I tell the children the barn has secrets that I eventually explain. It is the first barn of this style built in Lake County, Indiana. Not only has the barn stood, but this year is the 100th birthday for the barn! The Lake Co Park Dept. has planned a huge two day event to celebrate. I have not even touched on the many programs and festivals held here. Our recreation of the Legend of Sleepy Hollow is just one more example of the thousands of people who use this park during the year. We do four nights of the production, 10 shows a night, with thirty people for each showing. That’s 1,200 people. The tickets are always sold out the first day they go on sale. The Buckleys were innovators. From the design of the barn, to the skylights in the pig barn, to the conveyor belt in the granary, everything created helped set new progressive standards for farming. This is a heritage that cannot be lost to the greed of one person. Sincerely, Sara PierceLowell, IN
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22108Rock Against the RailAs the University of Wisconsin Extension Agent, I have received many formal concerns about the impact a proposed rail would have to the area and agriculture production. The proposed loss of over 570 acres of highly productive crop land in Rock County Wisconsin would have a negative economic impact in the area through lost production and supporting sales exceeding $600,000 annually. Much of the farm land on the proposed route has annual yields more then 40% greater then the county average. Due to the high productivity of these lands the environmental impact seems excessive and would effect lands of great agricultural importance.Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22107Gail HaywardI am really concerned about the enviormental impact this GLB railroad will have on the farm ground along this route. I farm in LaSalle county IL, and I am concerned about the streams, ditches and creeks that will be altered on this route. When the natural flow of water is interrupted, flooding can occur. Large acres of soil will be compacted by the large equipment used on the project. Wildlife will also be affected by the disturbing of their natural habitat.Grand Ridge, IL
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22106Mike HerlitzThe railroad will have significant impacts to drainage and surface runoff in my area. I have attached some pictures showing the huge amount of water that could be held back by a railroad causing major loss of crops.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22098Amanda MillerTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: amanda miller <goritfw22@hotmail.com> Date: 04/08/2016 03:59PM Subject: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. Navecky, Re: Docket # FD 35952 Great Lakes Basin Transportation Request for an extension of time to file comments for this proposal Great Lakes Basin Transportation has had many years to study, research and refine their proposal. They have had only self imposed deadlines. The communities, consisting of the people most affected by this proposal, have been given no such opportunity. We have been granted just a 60 day period during which to voice our concerns. There are two problems here 1. There was no concerted effort made to inform the people in our communities of this enormous GLB proposal in a timely fashion? This has resulted in many people being totally in the dark about the GLB project even now. 2. In spite of the lack of outreach by either the STB or GLB we are given only 60 days to respond. The GLB project is immense and no such project has been undertaken in over 100 years. How do you expect people in our communities to comment on it if we are not given ample time to research it and discuss how it will affect our lives? That simply is not reasonable or even a serious attempt to get well reasoned comments. Further more, this comment period happens to coincide with the busiest time in a farmer's life, planting time. Farmers have the most to lose if this project were allowed to go any further. They did not ask for this, why should they be expected to take lots of time to research this project now, while their presence in their fields is critical. Critical for their income and critical to maintain your food supply. Our lives have already been negatively impacted by the GLB project. The playing field is not at all level, just like you, we have families, jobs, responsibilities. Already GLB has altered our lives because now we have to make time to think about, learn, and research all the effects this proposal will have on our personal lives as well as the life of our communities. We did not ask for this. Mr Vanecky, there is no need to rush this project, it is not a project in the public interest. Therefore I respectfully request that you will allow us to do our due diligence and extend the comment period for 90 days, from May 16, 2016 until August 16, 2016 at a minimum. This seems like a very reasonable request under the current circumstances. Sincerely Amanda Miller Sent from my iPhone"
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22095Thomas and Mary DunbarFrom: MARY DUNBAR <charliednb@msn.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/08/2016 03:29 AM Subject: Re:Docket No. 35952 Docket No. 35952 Mr Navecky, My name is Mary Dunbar, my husband is Thomas Dunbar, we live in rural Grundy County, a city block away from were this proposed GLB railroad is suppose to go through.(Docket No. 35952) My main concern is what these trains will be traveling with. What kinds of chemical, what if there is a spill, from what I have read ; if a spill happens, it can effect 5 to 10 mile radius. That is just people but what about the land and animals? I also am concerned for the first responders, this is very close to my husband and I, as last summer we had a barn fire- if not for the very fast response of all the fire departments we could have not only lost our barn , but everything we own. At times when life matters seconds mater! I request that you please say no to this train line. Thank you for your time, Thomas and Mary Dunbar e-mail charliednb@msn.com 815)252-8520"
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22094Daniéle MillerFrom: Daniele Miller" <daniele@ryecoinc.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Cc: "Amy McWilliam" <Katiemom24@gmail.com> Date: 04/07/2016 11:22 PM Subject: Docket#FD 35952 Dear Mr. Navecky: I was told to keep my letter to you short and sweet. That will be difficult. I may continually bombard you with emails and I'm sorry but our life and story is at stake. The proposed railroad, by a privately owned for-profit company, now having the possible ability to use eminent domain, will ruin our life's dream. We have 2 little boys and a puppy. We moved to the country for serenity and peace. Now, that could potentially be destroyed. We have RR tracks behind our house that could be utilized to perform the task proposed, but no, now we will destroy our life and our neighbors if this RR is approved. There are Safety concerns, Agricultural concerns, Water concerns, Soil concerns, Noise concerns, Economic concerns, Environmental concerns. The proposed RR would ruin family farms for miles and miles. Nurseries as well. Much more of course...... I won't burden you with any further details but will continue to contact you. Thank you for your patience, Daniéle Miller General Manager Ryeco, Inc. Direct: 608.313.8520 www.ryecoinc.com ISO 9001 certified"
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22093Travis LondonFrom: Travis London <travislondon.tl@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/07/2016 08:23 PM Subject: Docket # 35952 Great lakes basin Railroad : request for extension of time to file comments. Mr. David Navecky: I am writing to you with great concern, I just was made aware of the plans for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad to build a new rail line through my community in Clinton Wisconsin. This project will have many impacts on the community, specifically the environment in and around our town. The timing for the public scoping meeting is very aggressive, and quite frankly very short. Most of the people affected by this are farmers trying to get their crops in so that they are able to sustain not only their livelihood but also help feed a nation and world. I would like to request the deadline for comment on the scoping meeting be extended by a minimum of 90 days. This will allow myself and many other people in the community time to better research the impact this will have on our community Regards Travis London
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22091Mirjam MelinFrom: Mirjam melin <mirjammelin@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/07/2016 04:38 PM Subject: Docket # FD 35952 GLBT Mr. Navecky, Re: Docket # FD 35952 Great Lakes Basin Transportation Request for an extension of time to file comments for this proposal Great Lakes Basin Transportation has had many years to study, research and refine their proposal. They have had only self imposed deadlines. The communities, consisting of the people most affected by this proposal, have been given no such opportunity. We have been granted just a 60 day period during which to voice our concerns. There are two problems here 1. There was no concerted effort made to inform the people in our communities of this enormous GLB proposal in a timely fashion? This has resulted in many people being totally in the dark about the GLB project even now. 2. In spite of the lack of outreach by either the STB or GLB we are given only 60 days to respond. The GLB project is immense and no such project has been undertaken in over 100 years. How do you expect people in our communities to comment on it if we are not given ample time to research it and discuss how it will affect our lives? That simply is not reasonable or even a serious attempt to get well reasoned comments. Further more, this comment period happens to coincide with the busiest time in a farmer's life, planting time. Farmers have the most to lose if this project were allowed to go any further. They did not ask for this, why should they be expected to take lots of time to research this project now, while their presence in their fields is critical. Critical for their income and critical to maintain your food supply. Our lives have already been negatively impacted by the GLB project. The playing field is not at all level, just like you, we have families, jobs, responsibilities. Already GLB has altered our lives because now we have to make time to think about, learn, and research all the effects this proposal will have on our personal lives as well as the life of our communities. We did not ask for this. Mr Vanecky, there is no need to rush this project, it is not a project in the public interest. Therefore I respectfully request that you will allow us to do our due diligence and extend the comment period for 90 days, from May 16, 2016 until August 16, 2016 at a minimum. This seems like a very reasonable request under the current circumstances. Sincerely Mirjam Melin 8608 East Rye Drive Clinton, WI 53525 Sent from my iPad
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22090Lisa and Greg FlemingFrom: Lisa Fleming <flemingfeed@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/07/2016 03:48 PM Subject: Concerns on Great Lakes Basin Railroad Mr. Navecky- I write this email in reference to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad and the environmental issue I see. We farm in Lee County, Illinois and the proposed railroad would cut through a large field that we farm. This field has been deemed highly erodible decades ago by Lee County Soil and Water, a government agency. It contains terraces and small bodies of the farm land are supposed to be farmed a certain direction, and only minimal tiling is allowed. We abide by the plan because we know environmentally it is the right thing to do to preserve precious fertile soil, and protect the water basin that surrounds this farm. We take our job very seriously. If this railroad cuts through this field, I am not convinced the land will not erode and cause great havoc in preserving the precious topsoil, which will end up in the waterways. I worry that the years of work we have put into this land will be erased even before the first train cuts around Chicago. I feel this railroad has not taken seriously the environmental impact on the soil and the watershed in our area. This project will effect the area for many years to come. Thank you for your time, Lisa and Greg Fleming 9805 Tower Road Lee, IL 60530
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(printed as 4/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22087Roger &!Nancy SturmThe railroad would be behind our property and carry toxins which would be a concern. It would take large farm property away from the area and we need the farm lands. Our property would be cut off or make it difficult for emergency vehicles to reach us. When can not keep loosing farm land and still feed all of the peopleGrand Park, Ilinois
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22086Prudence TokarzA concern to consider is: Buckley Homestead. The purpose of this county park is educational by setting children back in time.....from turn of the century farming equipment and techniques...to a one room school house...to the farmhouse and the daily chores of a farming family ....to celebrating the different seasons and holidays. How horrible it would be to lose the atmosphere of this county asset.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22085Joshua ClementsI support the study of a freight rail route with the description provided by Great Lakes Basin Transportation, provided that modeling estimates significant energy and emissions savings by routing freight along this route, and; construction and operation of the proposed route constitutes negligible environmental impact, and; diverting freight on this proposed route will result in increased level of serve of passenger rail along existing routes.Eau Claire, WI
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22084Dale StraughenDear Mr. Navecky, I am commenting on the proposed Rail Line slated to be installed in south Lake County in Indiana. I have a number of concerns. Foremost is safety;the proposed line will be very near the Lowell Middle School. The distraction, as well as potential for accident is very concerning. In addition this is a rural area where the majority of students are bussed to school. The rail line will require numerous road/rail crossings and will result in a number of roads being closed. In addition to inconvenience, this will also cause longer response times for emergency vehicles. The entire south Lake County area is served by a single Fire Department in Lowell. Finally,I have a concern about the loss and damage to farmland that will occur. Most of this area has water drainage issues. Farmers have spent a large amount of money to install drainage tile to make the land suitable for farming. The construction of the rail line will damage these systems. Thank you for your time and consideration.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/18/2016)CommentEI-22083Anthony PundrichI and many others in my town are very concerned about the proposed routing currently in place for the new rail line. The rail system will be surrounding the town pretty much from all sides as well as many of our alternate routes. Just about the single most positive thing this town has is geographic location convenient to everywhere else. But more importantly our town gets its water from Wells with in the path of these tracks. We don't have any alternate locations to put these wells due to previous contamination by industry. This is no joke! The people in the surrounding communities are generally very understanding, but I fear that this could be a extremely bad deal for every one here. Please consider carefully before you condemn our little town that we all call home!! We are counting on agencies like you to watch out for every ones best interest. Thank you for your time Anthony Pundrich.Westville, IN
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(printed as 4/17/2016)CommentEI-22177Peter MaurerPlease finally adopt the European model on any new railway construction of non interference with pedestrian or vehicular traffic by insisting that any new track construction be above or below (better) current surface traffic. If in a ditch below, it would have the added benefit of containing any spills or other accidents. This should be our new standard. P. MaurerPoplar Grove, IL
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(printed as 4/17/2016)CommentEI-22176James and Pamela MilnerTo: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov" <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: jada milner <jadajobird@yahoo.com> Date: 04/17/2016 09:28PM Subject: Docket No. FD 35952 GLB Dave Navecky, I am writing this letter in regards to the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad system, Docket No. FD 35952. My family owns property in Bradford Township, Rock County Wisconsin, near the current proposed route, in which the railway would pass just feet from our property line. I want to make it very clear that we are AGAINST this railway coming through our backyards, for many reasons, which I will elaborate on below. Please take the time to hear me out, as this is crucial to the lives of my family, as well as many other's in our local community. The land in which my parents own has been in our family for generations. I intend on being the future owner of this property, and to be able to enjoy it in peace and quiet, and for it's intended use as a rural property. I am a licensed counselor and spend most of my time working with clients with substance abuse and mental health issues. Spending time on our land is a type of self-care that I have always been able to retreat to, without having to worry about noise, pollution, and environmental hazards that a railway would bring through. I will list below factual reasons why we are against the current path of this GLB railroad. Land-locked property and blocked fire lane- The number one issue for your consideration is that our land can only be accessed by one road, and it would be landlocked by a creek and other fields should the railroad be block, stopped, or worked on for maintenance. This can be seen on the map as 'Milner Road' in Bradford Township. This road would be impacted as it is shown on the current route map to have tracks laid down across it. If there is a train stopped, how will I be able to tend to my horse/animals in an emergency situation? How would we receive emergency care for any of our family members should a situation arise? There would be no way to get there. We have a neighbor who lives next to our property with the same concerns, one way in, one way out. They have animals as well. I have read in an article recently, that a Wisconsin community is having issues related to this specific situation which have severely affect their ability to be accessed by emergency vehicles, for children to reach the school bus without climbing through boxcars, and for residents to get to work on time. See link below. (If you have issues viewing it, it is from the Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune 'Trains block Wisconsin roads, lives.) http://www.wisconsinrapidstribune.com/story/news/investigations/2015/08/10/trains-block-roads-lives--regulations-stall/31135593/ The end of Milner Road connects to Turtle Creek, one of our areas main sources of water. This is a fire lane for the local fire department. What are alternate routes that would deter from having to land-lock our property and that of our neighbors, as well as block the fire lane from it's emergency use? This rail route could easily be redirected away from Milner Road. Wildlife and providing- Year round our property is utilize for hunting deer, turkey, and other wildlife as a way to provide food for our family. For many this may be shrugged off as insignificant, but for some, it is understood that this is a way of life. I take pride in knowing I can provide my family with animals harvested from our property and our neighboring farmer's and family's land. A railroad would devastate the area and rid it of wildlife necessary for us to sustain our current way of life. The noise, the pollution, the added tracks, the electric lines, potential spills, and maintenance of this railroad would cut through prime hunting land, just yards from my tree stand. This way of life would cease for us. I cannot even comprehend how it can be taken away so quickly, and without any consent of our own. I want to teach my children one day, the ways that my father and grandfather have taught me to live off this land. There are already limited habitats for many of the wildlife near our property, such as pheasants whose numbers have depleted in recent years. This current route would negatively impact the natural habitat of many animals. This land is rented out to local farmer's to grow crops to supply their local families, farms, and businesses. The income from this farmland is my parents' main source of income at this current time. Current renters may back out from renting due to the inefficiency to cross railroad tracks to get to the farmland, and having polluted soil from the railroad. How will my family be compensated for loss of income and loss of property value should this rail go through? Water quality- Water quality is another major concern, as we keep our horse(s) on this property, and have considered building a home there one day. How does this affect our property and the quality of water should there be a spill? How would this affect the water, the soil, the crop land? Turtle Creek, the main water source in our area would be affected by a derailment, should oil, or other chemicals leak into the water. How would this affect us? How would this affect the animals and livestock that drink from it? Property Value decrease and other concerns- With our property being near the current proposed route, this would surely decrease it's value dramatically. It's value would decrease, yet we would see no compensation from the railroad. Three weeks ago, before finding out about this proposed railroad project, I had talked with my parent's about building a home on this property, a lifelong dream of both theirs' and mine. This railroad would devastate those plans. Who would want to live that close to a railroad? How is this dream suddenly being taken away from us, for private gain of someone else? Having listened to local farmers plea for this railroad plan to be abandoned, I can see why they are fighting for their land as well. Cutting up their land into sections, only to make their already difficult jobs, even more time consuming and inefficient. Oil spills, run off, fumes, and debris would absolutely harm the environment of crops, those living in the immediate area, and the wildlife and livestock. I wanted to keep this letter short in hopes that you would read it's entirety. It is hard to put into words the detrimental affects this project would bring to our area. We have worked hard to keep what we have earned, and with every ounce of us want to keep it that way. Please consider rerouting this railway away from Milner Road, as it appears you have many other options and routes to utilize. Please stop this nightmare from happening to us. Sincerely, Jada Miller, MSAT, LCPC, ATR, CADC jadajobird@yahoo.com 608-290-5597 Written on behalf of James and Pamela Milner, owners of the above mentioned property. "
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(printed as 4/17/2016)CommentEI-22175Boone County BoardTo: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Sherry Giesecke <sebormann@gmail.com> Date: 04/17/2016 09:25AM Subject: April 19, 2016 Public Scoping Meeting Mr. Navecky, I am a member of the Boone County Board. I would like to comment at the meeting referenced above. How/when do I sign up to do so? I am being lazy and not going through tons of online docs, so please accept my apology. The registration form I have seen does not include the Belvidere/Boone County meeting. I sure hope I did not miss my opportunity. Thank you...in advance...for your patience with my request. Sherry Giesecke 20760 Poplar Grove Road Poplar Grove, IL 61065 815-721-0894Sherry Giesecke
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(printed as 4/17/2016)CommentEI-22081Rock Against the Rail[Clinton] Turtle Creek in Rock County The Proposed GLB railroad plans to cross Turtle Creek in Rock County although no bridge building has been mentioned. Turtle Creek is a year round navigable stream. The construction process will cause much disruption to the fish, fowl and animals thriving in the privately owned Turtle Creek area. The turtle creek warm water and spring fed flowage is home to clams,crawdads,numerous fish including bass, carp, bluegills and shiners and watermoccosin and rattle snakes. The mostly treelined shoreline is home to owls,hawks, eagles,ducks,geese,herons,turkeys,robins,sparrows and blackbirds to name a few.Turtle Creek and privately owned surrounding area is home to squirrels,raccoons,fox,chipmonks,weasels,turtles, coyotes,woodchucks, muskrats,opossum, and whitetail deer. As the trains roar past, the noise and vibrations will disrupt the wildlife. The wildlife will also disrupt the trains as they will go on the tracks. A derailed train in or near Turtle Creek could spill chemicals or oil into the water causing further damage. In the spring Turtle Creek always floods as it is the natural drainage for the surrounding area snow melting. The small brook flowing into Turtle Creek also floods. Some years of cold winters the thick ice on Turtle Creek breaks into huge floating slabs on the flooded creek causing dangerous ice jams that can be very destructive as they crash into the shoreline and pile up. Is the proposed GLB railroad prepared for this destructions? Turtle Creek is a recreation area with fishing,rafting,tubing, wading,swimming and ice skating inthe winter. The proposed crossing of the GLB is where four generations of our family and many others have enjoyed the beauty and recreation of Turtle Creek . Do not destory this.We want to pass the legacy on to future generations. Attached are pictures of Turtle Creek flooded and canoeing,rafting and fishing pictures.Kathryn Waite Braun · Clinton, WI
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(printed as 4/17/2016)CommentEI-22080Ken DaggettI am writing in response to GLB railroads proposal to run a new railroad through Grundy county and make a U shaped loop through northern Illinois. This proposal will destroy many thousands of acres of some of the finest farmland in the country, farmland that is desperately needed to feed an ever increasing population. This project will be of no value to the farmer, the land, the environment, the air, the water. It has the potential of poisoning the land for eternity should a hazardous waste spill occur with the unsafe tank cars. Land is the only thing on earth that is limited, we want to keep what is ours for future generations, not turn it over to someone to make an enormous amount of money for a few greedy people!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 4/16/2016)CommentEI-22162Ed EldredTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Ed Eldred <a08clfr@gmail.com> Date: 04/16/2016 12:07PM Subject: Ridership Dear Dave: I've seen the proposed route of the GLB rail line and I have one question. Who rides it and why? It goes no where near any industrial or heavy commercial areas, nor any substantial housing or metropolitan areas. It seems like another bridge to nowhere and until I witness some economic or social good, I'd have to file it under boondoggle.
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(printed as 4/16/2016)CommentEI-22161Amy NystromTo: David.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <David.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: Amy Nystrom <anenjn@yahoo.com> Date: 04/16/2016 08:35AM Subject: Sort and Amy Nystrom Impact Hi David I have a few more things to add. As you can see we are spending hour researching this and loosing lots of sleep. The impact this proposal would have goes much deeper. We also own a land in Boone County. My husbands nursery business is there. The route he takes back and forth to work, multiple times a day would be gone or a complete mess. With the train traffic Frank is talking about my husband would have to cross the track 3 times in order to get to work. Then 3 times to get home. And this happens multiple times a day. What a complete mess and nightmare. I have been a trauma orthopedic nurse in the operating room at Mercy Rockford Hospital for 20 years this year. I take call. Our farm now is just at my 30 minute limit to get to work when I get called in. I have to leave immediately to make it on time. I would have to cross train tracks in my driveway that would be gone and a mile down the road-3 times. 3 times David within a mile. I can't be late when I get called in. The impact of our jobs is huge. I would loose my job of 20 years for an unnecessary track hailing toxic chemicals, that creates NO jobs in the area. The only person this impacts positively in any way is Frank. Not to mention our multi-million dollar farm would be worth nothing!!! Please add this to your impact study. Thanks Amy Nystrom Sent from my iPhone"
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(printed as 4/16/2016)CommentEI-22079Aaron KelloggI am very concerned regarding the newline proposed to pass through the town of Lowell, IN. The proposed rail line would pass less than 1000 yards behind my home. I am very concerned both due to safety due to the number and speed of the trains, as well as the resulting noise and air pollution these trains would cause.Lowell, IN
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(printed as 4/16/2016)CommentEI-22078Rock Against the Rail[Cato] Farm land and National Security Issues The proposed GLB railroad will take at least 6700 acres of prime farmland out of crop production. How will we feed the world by 2040?" No Farms. No Food. No Future. There are plenty of existing and abandoned railroads already in Indiana , Illinois and Wisconsin that can be used and upgraded. Farmers and land owners in Rock, Boone,Ogle,Lee,Grundy,LaSalle, Winnebago,Kankakee, Lake, Porter and Starke counties of Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana do not want to sell their land or they would already have a for sale sign up.Offering $20,000/ acre of electricity usage is a total INSULT !!!. This would be farm land sold for Industrial purposes, which is in the triple digit numbers. Please protect these farmer's legacy of land to pass on to their children and grandchildren. It greatly bothers me that this project in volving FOREIGN INVESTORS would own a corridor of prime farm land across three states. This is a threat to our national security!It could be made into an airstrip before a train track is even built;it could be resold to anyone or any country; who is responsible for upkeep repairs or accidents or oil or chemical spills?This could be an open door for foreigners to get anywhere unchecked throughout the country. Please stop this GLB rail project."Ronald Braun
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(printed as 4/16/2016)CommentEO-2782City of WaupunB. J. DeMaa
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22472Herbert Renner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22160Amy NystromTo: Dave Navecky <David.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: Amy Nystrom <anenjn@yahoo.com> Date: 04/15/2016 11:35PM Subject: Scott and Amy Nystrom Estate Sent from my iPhone
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22159Kathleen LongTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Kathleen C Long <kathieclong@gmail.com> Date: 04/15/2016 05:23PM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Railroad Dear Mr. Navecky. I live in a small town in Northwest Indiana named Westville. We have just learned about the proposed railroad line that would border our town on two sides. I have looked at the Great Lakes Basin Railroad website and do not see any public comment meetings scheduled for Westville. There have been some in the towns around us, but none scheduled here when according to the map, Westville is the town that will be most impacted by the proposed route. Will you be scheduling a meeting here? Westville is a fast growing town and the home of Purdue North Central University and Westville Corrections Center (the largest prison in the state of Indiana). The community needs to know how the railroad will impact transportation in our area, since we already have busy roads, with an Indiana Tollway entrance/exit by our town. There are many concerns about the noise impact of a very busy railroad on the community, since it appears to run right next to the town on two sides. Sincerely, Kathleen Long phone 219-786-4442 or cell 674-876-5400
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22158Amy NystromTo: David.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <David.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: Amy Nystrom <anenjn@yahoo.com> Date: 04/15/2016 11:34PM Subject: Amy- please get back to me as soon as possible!! Hi David, My husband and I own the farm on the south east corner of Winnebago county in Illinois. Frank's proposed railroad not only denies us access to our 3 year new $600,000 dream home that my husband built with his own hands, but also goes within just a few feet of 5 private wells that risk contamination. The biggest problem of all is that it runs all the way through our 110 acre farm that is our kids future and goes through a 600-650 foot flood plain on the cleanest river in northern Illinois- the kishwaukee river. This river floods multiple times over the summer all along the back of our property. Flood waters are continuing to worsen each year due to increased development in Dekalb County. Right now I have multiple people drafting letters on how this is COMPLETELY not feasible on this property. The army corps of engineers in Winnebago county looked at the proposed track on our property and laughed- what a complete joke!! They said no way!! The state laws are very strict on this area of flood zone. There's not a bridge that would be safe enough in a flood plain of this nature. Especially carrying train cars transporting hazardous chemical, coal and fertilizer. Just a couple years ago a train a few miles away went through a SMALL flooded area of track on Mulford road. The flood waters derailed the train and it killed 2 people. It also spilled hazardous waste. Even another reason this is completely not feasible on this 110 acres is that the track runs through my husbands tree farm that is approximately 5 acres. It has established trees valued at approximately $500,000. Please contact me as soon as possible. We will be at the meetings Tuesday where I will present all of this information in more detail. If you are around Winnebago county this weekend, please come out to our estate and take a look. It will immediately show you that this route needs to be changed immediately if not sooner. Frank has wasted so much of my time and my husbands time. I have done hours of research on a track that isn't even necessary. There are multiple tracks that can be used for this purpose. Frank should look at utilizing existing tracks or running along existing tracks. Cutting right down the center of thousands of farmers property is immoral and unethical. What is he thinking? How selfish to think this is leaving a legacy for his kids- he's trying to destroy a legacy of THOUSANDS of farmers that put food on his table and feed his children. These farms are legacys to the farmers children. I am emailing you a picture of our farm. You will see that this needs to change right away. Please come out if you can this weekend. Amy Nystrom 815-509-0446 anenjn@yahoo.com"
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22157Westville Town CouncilThomas Fath
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22156Town of JohnstownTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: Mary <prairie_farmer@hotmail.com> Date: 04/15/2016 11:03AM Subject: opposition to proposed rail road (See attached file: rail road opposition resolution.pdf)"Mary Mawhinney, Town Clerk
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22077Lori ChildressI'm opposed to the rail line for these reasons. 1.impact that it would have on our schools. I'm a school bus driver the crossings concern me greatly. We try to eliminate rail crossing if we can. At times the lights don't work correctly or trains are stopped blocking the cross ways. Also the children that walk to school are greatly at risk. We are a rural community so the bus routes are long already as much as an hour and a half. Children are sitting on the bus already add train stopped blocking cross and u add another twenty to thirty minutes which has happend to me numerous times in Griffith Indiana. Our buses do not have air conditioning special needs children do not understand when it's ninety degrees out side it feels like a hundred and ten sitting in the bus. Try it in your car some time with the windows half way down but they are above your head and sit on a road sun beating down and your stuck there. Also with the tracks so close to the school the noise will set off special needs children to scream because of loud noises. The children with ADD will even have a harder time concentrating. 2. We have so much problem with drainage all ready with roads flooding. Also against the law for an Indiana school bus to travel through standing water. 3.Buckley homestead is a county park and learning farm. 4.Impact it would have on our homes value. 5.The acreage it would take out of production agriculture that feeds the people in the world. Pretty soon we keep taking acreage out of production we will be getting all our grains from China. Thank you for your time.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentMy overall concerns are with the Land Owners, Farmers, Residents that will be impacted by the Invasion of Eminent Domain. This proposed rail line will be less than half a mile from my property. The 24 hour noise, vibration, diesel fuel oil smell and track crossing interruptions were a priority for my moving my family out of Hammond Indiana to rural Eagle Creek Township.Andrew Vauter Sr. · Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22075Belmaree SkocI am very concerned about the need for another railroad coming thru our county, LaPorte. It will go thru farm land that belongs to long existing families, cause numerous problems for traffic and for busses needing to transport kids over more tracks. We are NOT the cure for Chicago's problems. I resent that we should or need to be responsible to lessen congestion in Chicago. I happen to like my wide open spaces and not have to deal with Chicago...after all if I wanted to live in that I would or if I wanted to live near another RR track, I would have but I live in the country and I would like to see it stay that way! Thank you.Westville, IN
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22074Melanie Hofstrom-Waite[clinton] I cant tell you how this is affecting all of us they say that doesnt matter what only matters is the eco facts.... well it will also cost us tons in hospital bills because this has everyone you will see in the room with high blood presure , and now depresion, stressed out, to all of those interested in in it its about money its not about helping rhe conjestion in chicago if it was they would use condemed or slow tracks and just re build them to be 70 mph tracks there is an underlying adjenda herewhen the investers wont be named and making it just a railroad with a 200 foot runway when it was perposed as powerlines and pipeline and railroad everyday there are chemical spills from derailed trains and we cant get the land back no one in our area sells were stuck with less land and it wants to go next to our barn taking our pasture spooking our sheep this isnt careing this isnt kind if you were a farmer you would understand we are loosing more land everyday to selfish greed my brother says this is going tword agenda 21 I think so too now please save our f arms our livestock our land for the future genoration if you dont like greenhouse food help us keep our land to farm for youand the rest of the country there is a road infront of me a highway in back of me a train to thefront of me a train to the left of me a highway and roads to the right what is left needs to be left to farm it looks like a lot to a townie who has a cement driveway a cement walk way a cement pool and a tinny strip of lawn to mow but the animals need alot of land to grow it takes cows a year to get to size to eat that is alot of land neededto feed it so you can after we work a year and get a low price for it than the butcher gets to double it for his 15 min cutting it up than you get to cook it on your grill the movement for grass fed will have to die because we cant put a cow in a pasture with no fence and a train going 70mph it would be on there grillclinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22073Melanie Hofstrom-Waite[clinton] I cant tell you how this is affecting all of us they say that doesnt matter what only matters is the eco facts.... well it will also cost us tons in hospital bills because this has everyone you will see in the room with high blood presure , and now depresion, stressed out, to all of those interested in in it its about money its not about helping rhe conjestion in chicago if it was they would use condemed or slow tracks and just re build them to be 70 mph tracks there is an underlying adjenda herewhen the investers wont be named and making it just a railroad with a 200 foot runway when it was perposed as powerlines and pipeline and railroad everyday there are chemical spills from derailed trains and we cant get the land back no one in our area sells were stuck with less land and it wants to go next to our barn taking our pasture spooking our sheep this isnt careing this isnt kind if you were a farmer you would understand we are loosing more land everyday to selfish greed my brother says this is going tword agenda 21 I think so too now please save our f arms our livestock our land for the future genoration if you dont like greenhouse food help us keep our land to farm for youand the rest of the country there is a road infront of me a highway in back of me a train to thefront of me a train to the left of me a highway and roads to the right what is left needs to be left to farm it looks like a lot to a townie who has a cement driveway a cement walk way a cement pool and a tinny strip of lawn to mow but the animals need alot of land to grow it takes cows a year to get to size to eat that is alot of land neededto feed it so you can after we work a year and get a low price for it than the butcher gets to double it for his 15 min cutting it up than you get to cook it on your grill the movement for grass fed will have to die because we cant put a cow in a pasture with no fence and a train going 70mph it would be on there grillclinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22072Roger MilhollandI am writing because I am absolutely against tis railway. Another derailment this pat weekend...just 10 miles from the proposed site of GLB. Fortunately this train was not traveling at 70MPH with crude oil behind it. But it again brings up more questions of the environment, private wells and property value decline. As well as Mr. Pattons honesty...What business school teaches you to write a business plan that virtually everyone of your prospective market customers have said over and over they are not interested in this railway? Yet you are still willing to invest 7-8 Billion dollars ( with a B")in it? HONESTLY NOW ...What is the real agenda for the 200 foot easement for these tracks, and/or is really for a utility access that has ran into just as much opposition? Which brings even more environmental concerns! NO GLB RAILWAY or any other utility access, and NO EMININT DOMAIN at tax payers expense!"
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22071Mike HerlitzI'm concerned with the safety of the private crossings proposed when fields are divided. The railroad divides my field on 450 S. in two. Over half of the remaining acres are landlocked. Many years at harvest the soil is not firm enough to support a truck so they have to be loaded on the road. Without access to the road with the combine, we will have to use a grain cart hooked to a tractor to move grain from the combine to the truck. On an average year it would take 8 trips to shuttle the grain over the tracks. That is 16 times to cross the tracks. I also have a job off the farm so a lot of farming is done at night. It scares me to think I have to cross that track, in the dark, with no warning gates, with the possibility of trains moving 70 MPH.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22070Olson-Farms (Jerry L. Olson)[Lee] please make sure this is stopped !!Amanda Olson-Koch · Bozeman, Montana
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22069Creston CCSD #161Please see the attached Resolution opposing the GLBT rail line project, which was unanimously adopted by the Board of Education of Creston Community Consolidated School District #161 on April 14, 2016. Thank you.Board of Education · Creston, IL
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22068Rock against the RailI'm local resident that is very concerned with the DE-valuation the RR will have on our home and land values. Being a realtor for the last 12 years in Rock County we experience on a daily basis what living near a RR does to the values. It makes homes very hard to sell due to loudness, safety and overall esthetics the RR does to the area near it. We are asking you to please due a study find the effects this proposal will have on land/home values in the area effected by this project. Thank-you for your time and considerationKim VanMatre · Milton, WI
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22067Carrie SmithJust when we finished fighting the highway, now we have to defend our way of life, our community, our environment and our land with a railroad. If Chicago needs a better transportation system, keep it in Chicago, stop turning to NW Indiana for answers.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22066Susan CoxonThis e-mail regards Great Lakes Basin Transportation's request to build rail lines through northwest Indiana. I live in Porter county Indiana and am against the line being built. We are all on well water and do not want our wells contaminated. Also I feel the value of our homes would decrease. We have all worked hard to keep up our neighborhood and our homes. I also feel that it is unwise to build the line so close to our schools. Thank You.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22065Kellie PozilI strongly oppose this project and wish it be denied. The proposed train route goes by at least 4 schools in Indiana. One being less than 1/2 a mile from Mogan Township school, where my children will go. The noise pollution will disrupt class, especially for the special needs children. The air pollution will put our children at recess, P.E. and outdoor sports at risk, let alone if there was a derailment with toxic chemicals near the school the outcome would be devastating. Our buses will also be on longer routes and have to cross more tracks putting our kids in more danger. Morgan school is a top school in Indiana, this railway will jeopardize that. Please deny GLBR proposal for our kids and future. Thank you.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22064Randal Klackle[Lowell] The volume of flammable liquids transported by rail has risen dramatically over the last decade. This year, rails are expected to move nearly 900,000 carloads of oil and ethanol in tankers. Each can hold 30,000 gallons of fuel. Based on past accident trends, anticipated shipping volumes and known ethanol and crude rail routes, the analysis predicted about 15 derailments in 2015. The 207 total derailments over the two-decade period would cause $4.5 billion in damage, according to the analysis, which predicts 10 “higher consequence events” causing more extensive damage and potential fatalities. With the proposed new rail line cutting close to schools, and bisecting an important watershed (Kankakee River Basin) we are rolling the dice on our children's safety, the future of their water supply, and farm land.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22063Patricia LarsenI am opposed to the RR plans to cut through this area, I am a hobby farmer and do not want this in our residential area, I suggest going south for less impactCrown Point, IN
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22062R.A.I.L.E.D.If you think a railroad brings money to an area, let's put this in your front yard and see if you feel the same way. The proposed railroad will run straight thru my family's farm, right next to a school, and Indian burial grounds. The noise will disturb the farm animals and people living in the area. Farm equipment won't be able to get to the fields easily. The volunteer fire department won't be able to get to fires as fast. The value of land will decrease. This will not bring money to the area but vice versa. Beautiful farm land will now turn into useless railroad tracks. Toxic chemicals will go by land protected by the DNR. People in this are live off of well water and that will get polluted. As you can see by the turnout of people at protests, there are not people for this railroad. Not a single person along this route is for it. That should speak volumes in itself. I will pray for you all that you may see money is the root of evil. That God will open your eyes so you may be put on the path of righteousness.Tami · Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/15/2016)CommentEI-22061Ashley Hedrickhttp://www.treehugger.com/cars/rail-versus-trucking-whos-the-greenest-freight-ca rrier.htmlUnion Mills, Indiana
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-25275Porter County[see two attached maps]
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22762Nancy Moldenhaller[please see attached cover page. The full 2040 Regional Comprehensive Plan can be viewed at http://www.nirpc.org/2040-plan.aspx]
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22660Scott Nystrom[no attachments included/visible] From: Nystroms Nursery <scott@nystromsnursery.com> To: <rutsonv@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/14/2016 10:04 PM Subject: Nystrom farm Vicky attached are accurate current use pictures. We have 7 wells in the area some being as close as 10' to existing flood areas and proposed track. We also have a CRP area and a tree farm that I own. The nursery tree stock on the 5 acres where the train track is proposed to run through, has an estimated value of $540,000,000. The track completely blocks the driveway to the $650,000 home that I built with my own hands 3 years ago. This blocks all access to my home and farm. Most important, the track goes over 730 flood land on the Kishwaukee River. The river floods more each year due to development in DeKalb County. There are state laws that prevent anything from being developed over flood plains that affect neighboring properties. There is NO way this active flood plain that increases every year is safe to build anything!!! DeKalb County published that nothing is to be built anywhere near the Kishwaukee River because it is all flood plain. It is obvious that the feasibility study has become unfeasible in this part of his project. I am asking you to please advise Frank Patton of this information so he can take this property out of his project and we can move on. Thank You Scott Nystrom 8155091000 cell Nystroms Nursery, Inc. 4910 Stone Quarry Rd. Belvidere, IL 61008 815-547-1000 office www.nystromsnursery.com IMG_2809.JPG (143.6 Kb) attached IMG_2810.JPG (107.2 Kb) attached IMG_2806.JPG (98.2 Kb) attached IMG_2803.JPG (98.7 Kb) attached IMG_2804.JPG (130.4 Kb) attached IMG_2805.JPG (98.8 Kb) attached ----- Original Message ----- From: Scott scott@nystromsnursery.com To: Scott Nystrom scott@nystromsnursery.com Sent: Thu 14/04/16 4:06 PM Subject: Fwd: No Subject IMG_2809.JPG (143.6 Kb) attachedIMG_2810.JPG (107.2 Kb) attachedIMG_2806.JPG (98.2 Kb) attachedIMG_2803.JPG (98.7 Kb) attachedIMG_2804.JPG (130.4 Kb) attachedIMG_2805.JPG (98.8 Kb) attached Sent from my iPhone
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22593Brian Albertson
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22592John Yonan
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22591Tracy Layton
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22590Matt Popp
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22432Scott NystromFrom: Nystroms Nursery <scott@nystromsnursery.com> Sent: Thursday, April 14, 2016 10:04 PM To: rutsonv@stb.dot.gov Reply To: scott@nystromsnursery.com Subject: Nystrom farm Vicky attached are accurate current use pictures. We have 7 wells in the area some being as close as 10' to existing flood areas and proposed track. We also have a CRP area and a tree farm that I own. The nursery tree stock on the 5 acres where the train track is proposed to run through, has an estimated value of $540,000,000. The track completely blocks the driveway to the $650,000 home that I built with my own hands 3 years ago. This blocks all access to my home and farm. Most important, the track goes over 730 flood land on the Kishwaukee River. The river floods more each year due to development in DeKalb County. There are state laws that prevent anything from being developed over flood plains that affect neighboring properties. There is NO way this active flood plain that increases every year is safe to build anything!!! DeKalb County published that nothing is to be built anywhere near the Kishwaukee River because it is all flood plain. It is obvious that the feasibility study has become unfeasible in this part of his project. I am asking you to please advise Frank Patton of this information so he can take this property out of his project and we can move on. Thank You Scott Nystrom 8155091000 cell Nystroms Nursery, Inc. 4910 Stone Quarry Rd. Belvidere, IL 61008 815-547-1000 office www.nystromsnursery.com IMG_2809.JPG (143.6 Kb) attached IMG_2810.JPG (107.2 Kb) attached IMG_2806.JPG (98.2 Kb) attached IMG_2803.JPG (98.7 Kb) attached IMG_2804.JPG (130.4 Kb) attached IMG_2805.JPG (98.8 Kb) attached ----- Original Message ----- From: Scott scott@nystromsnursery.com To: Scott Nystrom scott@nystromsnursery.com Sent: Thu 14/04/16 4:06 PM Subject: Fwd: No Subject IMG_2809.JPG (143.6 Kb) attachedIMG_2810.JPG (107.2 Kb) attachedIMG_2806.JPG (98.2 Kb) attachedIMG_2803.JPG (98.7 Kb) attachedIMG_2804.JPG (130.4 Kb) attachedIMG_2805.JPG (98.8 Kb) attached
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(printed as 4/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22174City of WaupunTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: William Demaa <bjdemaa@waupunpd.org> Date: 04/14/2016 11:25AM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Transportation proposed rail line Good morning Dave, I received a correspondence this morning regarding the proposed GLBT railroad. In reviewing the proposal and information posted on their website, it does not appear that the line has any intentions of extending north of Milton, WI at this time. Have you been provided with any information confirming that to be true? I appreciate your time and look forward to your response. Thanks, B.J. DeMaa Fire Chief / Emergency Management Director City of Waupun 16 E. Main St. Waupun, WI 53963 (920) 324-7910 – Office (920) 324-7854 - Fax (920) 948-9912 – Cell bjdemaa@waupunpd.org"B. J. DeMaa
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22155Deldun Farms LLCTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: James Marshall <jim1111@icloud.com> Date: 04/14/2016 03:56PM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Rail Line Project Dear Mr. Navecky I am writing you as a concerned land owner in Kanakee and Will Counties in Illinois to voice my opposition over the proposed plan to build the Great Lakes Basin Rail line. My family has been a land owner in the area of the proposed project for well over 100 years and we pride ourselves in supporting the needs of the agricultural community. Upon inspecting the details of the proposed rail line project I was shocked at the potential for environmental damage due to fact that the rail line will be transporting oil and other dangerous chemicals. To be sure, the environmental issues that surround this project are not entirely different than the environmental issues that surrounded the XL Keystone pipeline (which, as you know was vetoed by President Obama). Specifically, the risk of a spill and it's impact on the environment and on the population of the affected area. Further more, the area of the proposed project is also the location of an aquifer system similar to the system located in the Sand Hills area and just as important to the region. Above all, what I find most troubling is the fact that transporting oil and other hazardous chemicals by rail car is far riskier that transporting them by pipeline as I am sure you are aware. In reference to the estimates for significant spills associated with the XL Keystone Pipeline that ranged from 11 to 91 in the projected 50 year life span of the pipeline, I would be curious to know what the projected number of spills for this project will be. It should also be pointed out that pipeline spills generally occur at isolated spots where a train could derail anywhere! I have no doubt the STB will be taking a detailed look at this project and I am confident that the environmental issues that I have raised are already being considered. What amplifies my concern is the lack of rail road experience the leaders of GLB Rail Line have and their inability to develop a plan to respond to any safety concerns that no doubt will arise from the project. Also, I would think the question of why this project was not proposed by one of the major rail carriers who have the benefit of decades of experience when it comes to building rail road lines would need to be examined. In conclusion the last question that should be asked is spending $8 billion and disrupting the livelihood of countless agricultural professionals worth saving a meager 15-20 hours on a rail road shipment? Sincerely, James Marshall Deldun Farms LLCJames Marshall
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22154Bob SchultzTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Bob Schultz <schultzb@frontier.com> Date: 04/14/2016 03:32PM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Transportation LLC Project Docket No. FD35952 Dear Mr Navecky, I am writing to express my complete and unequivocal opposition to the proposed railroad. In addition to the devastation it would cause to the value of our farm I am very concerned about hazardous waste materials being carried and spilled on our farm. Also, our farm drains excess surface and tiled water from south to north and eventually to a creek to the north. A railroad right in the middle of the field would ruin the tile and prevent surface water from draining to its natural south to north flow resulting in very wet ground no longer suitable to grow productive corn and soybean crops. I am also concerned that the proposed rail line would result in road closures reducing and slowing access of emergency vehicles. Additionally, our 40 acre farm, which is located at N 17000 Rd / W 2000 Rd in Kankakee County, would be split into two approximately 18.5 acre fields. Farmers with 16 to 24 row equipment would not be interested in renting or in the future buying the farm. The value would plummet. The grain harvested currently is transported approximately 1.5 miles to our grain bins on Route 17. If that road is blocked, either permanently, or with parked or heavy train traffic our tenants would be forced to re route to the bins down the Essex Rd making the trip over 5 miles one way. Time in transit would more than triple increasing labor, equipment, and fuel costs. It is safer for slow moving farm equipment to move down the road currently used with less traffic than would inevitably be routed down the Essex Road. Simply put, the railroad, while possibly being profitable for a group of private investors, would be a potential environmental, and financial disaster for our farm and our neighbors. I do not believe private property should be taken away from private citizens for the gain of a group of probably well connected private investors. It is also my understanding that currently no railroad companies have expressed interest in using the rail line. Please consider the rights of and negative impacts this project would force on current owners when considering this proposal. Sincerely, Robert L Schultz PO Box 104 206 E Lincoln St Reddick, IL 60961 Phone: 815-365-2243
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22059Garry JunkerThis project will increase first responder time,decrease home and land values,increase noise and dangers from high speed trains,as well as remove some of the best agricultural land from production.grant park, IL
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22058GarryJunker[grant park] This project would most definitely alter the flow of water,crush drainage tile, and increase erosion and flooding,as well as create compaction during construction that would have a lasting impact for the future.grant park, IL
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(printed as 4/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22056Kevin PerryI am a citizen of Boone County IL and I am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. I am concerned about the negative environmental impact this will have on the local community and farm land. A major concern that I have are chemical spills that can contaminate our groundwater supply as well as the surrounding farm land. Thank you, Kevin PerryBelvidere, IL
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22055Janet HallDear Dave Navecky, I spend a half hour on the phone with Mr. Patton today. He tried to convince me how wonderful this project will be and how my home value will go up. The conversation started with road closures in our area. These road closures would be a significant safety hazard in our area. It would create fire and police to be five minutes further away from our home and many others in our neighborhood. Our school buses would be on the road longer and have MANY new crossings. I'm not sure why this railroad turns and weaves so often leaving LOTs of crossings and lots of potential for accidents. Having new drivers in the our in the next few years this is a significant worry. Please say no to the GLB Railroad. Its environmental, safety, and economic risks outweigh the need or benefits. Sincerely, Janet HallMonroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22054Andrea kampeWe oppose the freight train coming thru Lowell. We do Not wish to have train going thru the field behind our house going 70 mph. Daughter will be getting license in the next year. One more thing to worry about with her drivingLowell, In
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22053Steve SkalkaAfter looking at the costs versus the benefits of the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line I have concluded that this project is not in the best interest of my community. In conclusion I am opposed to the project. Our community will receive a short term gain during construction at the cost of a long-term burden. I feel the project advocates are rather short sided in their thinking or perhaps have their own monetary interests in mind. I do not believe this is a project that will help our community. In addition, the burden it places on local landowners is unacceptable. Many of the people that have moved to these rural areas did so in order to live in peace and quiet. Placing a rail line in their backyard is a nuisance that they should not have to endure. Not to mention the increased dangers it places on local citizens as a result of the toxins that will be transported as well as the transportation bottlenecks that it will cause.LaPorte, IN
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22052SHATTUCK RD. NEIGHBORSPlease rethink the great basin railroad. It will destroy our water our wetlands; our complete way of life. We have deer, ducks, geese, eagles and swans. Our water table in Spring township is so very high how can you come through it. The noise level itself would be so very high. We have I-90 to our rear and the railroad would be in frond and then to our right. The noise would be horrible. If they have a spill our wells would be ruined. We have pipe line all around in this area. There are different routes they can choose I-80 and 39and the Beltline railways. Please I beg of you to help us. Please give us an ectension so we can help ourselves. PleaseAgnes Fay · Belvidere, Il.
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22051RAILED[Valparaiso] The inclosed file shows the aquifer systems of Porter County, Indiana. It is in relation to an email I sent yesterday as the efiling system was experiencing difficulties. It appears that, as of this morning, the comments had not been updated I also feel that while GLBT has had five years to prepare for this project, the people in its path have only been given two weeks before the scoping meetings and only until June 15 to submit comments. I feel this tips the balance unfairly towards GLBT. I hope this file is helpful information for making a well thought out decision.Larry Randall · Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/14/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22049Olson-Farms (Jerry L. Olson)Please STOP THIS !! If you eat food, you need to stop this !!Amanda Olson-Koch · Lee, IL
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22048Rock Against The RailI am writing to voice my objection to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation Inc. new rail plan. The plan sounds like it is only proposed to bypass the Chicago hub and save the company time and money, while not considering the path of destruction it will lay on land and people affected by the rail line. It will drastically effect area farmland causing many soil and water issues, land locking farms and many other issues im sure we don't even know about yet, causing a huge decrease in production. What about the safety issues with the proposed plan so many trains at such high speeds will surely cause more accidents and loss of life. My route to work everyday will cross the proposed rail line in 2 different places. Those are a few concern i have i'm sure there are many other problems this plan will cause. I just wanted to list the few i thought of. Please don't allow this to go through. Thanks for your time Brad BrighamBrad Brigham · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22047Tierney W. BarkerI am writing due to my concern for the families and animals that would be displaced due to this railroad implementation project. Although I am one to support train transportation, I do not support one that destroys existing homes and families' lives, nor one that destroys a large amount of natural wildlife in it's wake. I urge you to reconsider a proposal that would personally effect myself, my family, my friends, and the future generations that would be effected by this project. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions. I would love to speak further on my feelings as to why this project should be re-evaluated.Colrain, MA
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22046Daniele MillerPLEASE don't ruin rural America! This rail will ruin livelihoods across 3 states. I could ruin soils, risk multiple safety issues, and simply ruin the countryside. Please consider that not everyone wants to live in a big city surrounded by polution and noise and that's what this rail would bring. It's not fair it can be taken away either; whether paid or not. Thank you.Clinton, WI
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22045Janet Koutelas[VALPARAISO] I was unable to attend the local meeting regarding the proposed 278 mile railway traveling through our South Porter County area. I am against this proposal for the following reasons: This area is rural farmland and by putting a railway through this area, you are negatively impacting the lives and livelihoods of local farmers. Drainage issues already exist in our area, so how will the railway help this? I am certain it will make it more difficult for the farmers, cutting their farmlands in half in some cases. By putting in this railway, you are endangering the safety and lives of the residents who depend on well water, which could possibly be contaminated due to chemical railway spills. The children and families it would affect are immeasurable. There are schools in this area and the safety of our children should be a #1 priority. You are increasing chances of bus-train and car-train accidents in our area, which already has car accident issues which we are regularly dealing with near 500 West and St. Route 2. Our first responders (police, firefighters, ambulances) already have issues getting quickly to rural areas and now we would require them to fight train traffic to get to emergencies, too. How many lives will be lost and how much property will be destroyed waiting for train tracks to clear? Our wildlife would be impacted, too, which already has issues with our roadways in our rural areas. Finally, there are so many unused railways in N.W. Indiana that could be used and refurbished if necessary. Why aren't those being looked at instead of bringing in a whole new railway to an area that currently does not have trains?VALPARAISO, Indiana
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22044Michael ReplinMr. Dave Navecky, After the public scoping meetings in Lowell, Valparaiso and Wanatah opposing the new freight rail line, you and the other board members should have a pretty good idea of the percent of local government officials, school officials, fire and police officials, farmers and local residents who are opposed to this rail line. This should be an easy no vote.Lowell, INdiana
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(printed as 4/14/2016)Comment[Avalon] The Town Board of the Town of Bradford, Rock County, WI has adopted the attached resolution concerning the impact of the proposed GLBT Inc. railroad project. Please consider this resolution in the scope of study of the environmental impact and any action regarding the proposed project.Sandra Clarke · Avalon, WI
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22042Richard Whittington[MORRIS] We like everyone else do not want these tracks running through our yard, we do not own property next to the tracks, but less then a half mile away. My biggest concern is we have deer and other wild animals in our area and I always take my grand kids down the road to see them. If these tracks come through with the heavy deer population. that they will be Killed and no longer able to populate this area.Morris, IL
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22041Deb Ekhoff[Grant Park] Mr. Patton is quoted as wanting to create a legacy for his grandchildren. REALLY???? What about the hundreds of legacy that will be destroyed by this debacle called a railroad/railroad terminal. The farms that will be split up or even destroyed. Many family farms will be there no longer. Is that really the price that must be paid for progress?? Money is the root of all evil and that is certainly the case for Mr. Patton and his investors. He will be getting rich off other people's pain and loss.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22040Rock Against the RailMy road, East County Road A, is a busy thoroughfare, connecting Janesville to Milwaukee. The vehicular traffic includes cars, motorcycles, farm equipment, and semi trucks. Having multiple trains crossing this road day and night will greatly impede the flow of traffic and ultimately lead to accidents. Thank you.Jan Bier · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22039Kristina HallbergI just wanted to say thank you for your time and coming out to meet with our communities. I have a few concerns about this railway; #1 route 2 is a major highway in our area and I noticed that the railway is only asking for one crossover on route 2. Then in Lowell they are calling route 2 181st. In our area and on our maps its known as route 2 not 181st. It is traveled a lot by cars and semis. In Lowell they are saying they are doing a crossover. With 65 not being to far away this is going to cause a lot of problems for emergency responders. #2 Our school buses already have a travel time of an hour or more. I'm concerned on what this will do to our kids and community. Is it going to effect when schools start and end? Will kids be losing sleep because they have to get up even earlier then they already do? #3 The tracks split our towns in half. On one side of the tracks you will have 2 volunteer fire departments and EMS. The people on the other side of the tracks will have no one. I fear for the lives and the buildings/homes that will be lost because the emergency responders will have more travel time and stops from the train. Already the hospital is a 15-20min drive. #4 Drainage our county has spent thousands of dollars to get all the water following to the south. If this railway comes in it is going to be like a dam and cause flooding by homes and in fields. It will also cause problems with the Kankakee river and power plants. #5 Wells. We all have wells in the area that the railway will be going over. If there is a derail how is this going to effect thousands of peoples water for families, livestock and crops. Thank you for your time in reading this and again thank you for coming out and listening to everyone! Kristina HallbergHebron, IN
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22038KellieI wish you will deny this project as it will affect so many farm fields drainage. Rail track will be built up and dam up our fields. We work so hard to get the drainage right, after all the land in Porter County used to be the great Kankakee Marsh. Not only will the train make 200ft unusable, but much more with the drainage problem. I hope this project is denied. Thank youValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22037John BrinkmanEnvironmental impact on south Chicago rail route. 1. All homes in the area are on ground water and run the risk of getting contaminated with chemicals. from leakage from the train engine, rail cars, and there hazardous cargo. There is the chemical that the railroad company uses to kill the weeds along the tracks that will also impact the well water. There is risk of train accidents with spillage and tankers are not 100 percent leak proof. 2. On our family farm the creek behind us was declared wet lands to preserve wild life. The family was unable to farm, cut wood, or disturb this land in any way. Now all of a sudden some one comes along and said there going to but a rail road through there? How can that be? The land was to preserve wild life. 3. We must preserve our water now before we will not have any more clean water to drink or to take a bath in, this time is coming soon! We also need to protect our wild life on the farms and the farm ground before it is too late. So please stop this train from going though Kankakee county and my family farm before it is too late and the land will be ruined forever! Thanks John Brinkman.Bonfield, Ill
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(printed as 4/14/2016)CommentEI-22028Rock Against the RailStop GLB proposed railroad across Waite's Farm My brother and nephew farm hundreds of acres to support four families in Rock County, WI. They are stewards of the land using crop rotation, minimum tillage, grass waterways for drainage, preserve wildlife areas and build the soil with organic manure and added soil nutients. They raise and pasture sheep, grow corn,soybeans,wheat, oats and alfalfa. They have prime farmland with fragmented areas of natural springs, a year round stream that flows to Turtle Creek,small wooded areas,and small wetlands that support wild life. Their land is flat deep sandyloam soil and rolling ,soil covered, limestone hills. Their land is zoned agricultural by the FARM LAND PRESERVATION ACT of WISCONSIN. The proposed GreatLakes Basin (GLB) railroad will cut diagonally across five parcels of land farmed by my brother and nephew. The first two parcels (130acres) were part of the original 560acres of the Wyman-Rye Farmstead that is recorded in the NATIONAL REGISTER of HISTORICAL PLACES by the UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT of the INTERIOR. In 1839, William Wyman was one of the first settlers in Bradford Township (Rock Co, WI) raising sheep and farming the land and built the existing historical house and barn. The third parcel (160 acres) has been in the Waite family for 133 years since 1883 and is recognized by the STATE of WISCONSIN as a CENTURY FARM. This land includes a mid-1800's limestone house. My grandfather Walter Waite was born here in 1895. The fourth parcel (43acres) is farmland and buildings purchased from my brother's inlaws that my brother and nephew farm. The fifth parcel (80 acres) is owned by my sister raising sheep and farmed by my brother and nephew. This proposed GLB railroad will destroy my brother's and nephews entire farm operation. The construction process will go all over the whole acreage making it impossible to farm. If and when it is completed it will leave diagonal fields on both sides of the track in all five parcels with no way to get to livestock and crops on both sides without driving miles. The trains going through will be noisy and cause vibrations disturbing the livestock and damaging the historical buildings and four farmsteads. The local roads will be blocked, and some discontinued, causing public safety issues and wasted time at planting and harvest. The natural watershed of this land will be disrupted causing polution in the wells, streams and Turtle Creek which is a navigable stream flowing to the Rock River. This proposed GLB railroad owned by foreign investors to move oil and nuclear waste through Wisconsin on our family's farmland and to store oil and nuclear waste train cars on the proposed 5 rail line on my family's land is NOT wanted. This will ruin their land, their livelihood, their family legacy and their life. Please stop this . They don't want to sell any of the land!!!Kathryn Waite Braun · Clinton, WI
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22763Vincent Kuznicki[See attached comment]
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22727Robert Cauffman
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22716Herbert E Renner Jr.[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22658Kevin W. PanizziNo one wants this railroad in our community with it's noise and air pollution. I cannot believe this will be allowed to cut through the Kankakee River State Park, home of nesting Bald Eagles. I propose you ask Frank Patton if he would want this monstrosity near his home in Texas.
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22589John Bryant
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22588Dan Steinhilber
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22587Mark Scarborough
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22586Jami Erdmann
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22584Town of WestvilleTom Fath
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22583East Porter County School Corp
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22572James Lee
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22569James Lee
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22568E.C. McKern
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22543Beverly Renner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22542Herb Renner Jr.[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22541Shirley Renner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22433AnonymousFrom: etech47 <etech47@frontier.com> To: MILSS@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/13/2016 05:26 PM Subject: FD 35952 The Great Lakes Basin railroad project will, based on Indiana Department of Environmental Management studies, pass through the Valparaiso Outwash Apron Aquifer System. This region has deposits of fine to medium grained sand intermixed with shale rich gravel zones. Static water levels are typically less than 20 feet. Because there is no clay rich cap, the aquifer system is highly susceptable to surface contamination. This is the water that is used for irrigation, industry, rural use and public supply." Even a small spill can contaminate the water that my family and all the families in the Malden area now use on a daily basis. Thanks for taking our comments. Sent on my Samsung Galaxy S® 5"
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(printed as 4/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22173Julie NewhouseTo: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Julie Newhouse <newfarm@t6b.com> Date: 04/13/2016 07:49AM Subject: Re: info on winnebago-boone routes for GLB? And I apologize for the conjecture on my part- Ms. Johnson-Ball did not state that mitigation cost was an issue. I just assumed that would be the reason one could not build a train across environmentally sensitive areas (likely wetlands I assumed). I have watched zoning for many years- only to discover farmers are not allowed to change wetlands- but development sometimes is allowed to engineer around them. On Apr 13, 2016, at 6:34 AM, Julie Newhouse <newfarm@t6b.com> wrote: That clears up a great deal- thank you- How he informed both you and Boone County- through the media- displays to me a great deal about his business style and character. Happy Trails through the midwest, I wish we were lush with growing crops right now- we are much more beautiful for traveling. On Apr 12, 2016, at 10:43 PM, David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov wrote: Ms. Newhouse - Mr. Patton, with Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc., did not provide us with the revised route until March 7, 2016. However, we were aware that the route may have been shifted to the east side of Rockford into Boone County sometime in January or February, I don't recall specifically. That's because Mr. Patton did not relay that information to us directly. Rather, we saw pictures of a revised route in news articles we saw posted on line. Apparently he was showing the revised route to reporters or other interested people before he eventually provided it officially to the STB on March 7, 2016. You can find the material that was provided to us on March 7, 2016 (via its legal counsel, Venable) here on our project website: http://www.greatlakesbasinraileis.com/links_docs.html It's under Selected Applicant Filings." By the way, in November, we asked Mr. Patton to look for ways to avoid an environmentally sensitive area we discovered during our field trip. We did not mention costs for mitigation nor did we suggest he move his proposed route out of northern Winnebago County. He and his team came up with the revised route in Boone County on their own. Thanks, Dave Dave Navecky Office of Environmental Analysis Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423 202-245-0294 www.stb.dot.gov -----Julie Newhouse <newfarm@t6b.com> wrote: ----- To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Julie Newhouse <newfarm@t6b.com> Date: 04/12/2016 10:42AM Subject: info on winnebago-boone routes for GLB? Dear Mr. Navecky, We spoke briefly last evening in Manteno. I also spoke to Ms. Johnson-Ball. She mentioned the story of how and when the project got transferred to Boone County. Saying it was November 2015 that an on-site investigation by the STB believed that the Winnebago route would be too costly to mitigate and told Mr. Patton he should determine an alternative route. Ms. Johnson-Ball could not recall the date if it was late January or early February when Mr. Patton returned with the Boone County route. But the timing of that date and then how and when that was made public is the information I am looking for. She said the documentation for that decision could be found on the internet site- and I am unable to locate it. I am particularly interested in the timing- Some people in our county seem to be distracted by the issue of who knew what and when and are failing to focus on the task you have given us. I am hoping they can buckle down and grant you the information that would be helpful in your quest to draft a quality environmental impact statement. I do have one question on procedure. In our county if a special use is considered the applicant must contact all those properties involved and the neighboring property. If the STB had required GLB to do that we would not have some of the anger that exists because people were not informed. No one- not the county board nor landowners wants to read something in the newspaper or hear it on the TV that their rights may be taken away. It is impossible to submit environmental concerns or questions if the landowner- who may live in another state or residing in assisted living, etc, is not made aware their property is being examined as a potential development. Thank you for your time. You were very professional last night and I was thankful to travel the two hours to greater understand the process and what is helpful. Julie Newhouse Capron, IL"
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(printed as 4/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22163John LazorikTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: John - Rabbit <cruizinamerc@hotmail.com> Date: 04/13/2016 02:25PM Subject: 35952 GLB Railway Comments Dave, I tried going to ww.stb.dot.gov and then e-filing but there was not a section for environmental comments. I also got a message saying that portion may have moved? Is the comments section on the web site not working? I wanted to bring up an idea or option for some farms and trains to co-exist if they must. I am opposed to the railway but I wanted to float the idea anyway. Please let me know if the comment section has moved to another location. Cordially, John Lazorik 654 South State Road 2 Hebron, IN 46341"
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22153James and Marilyn PottsTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: mjpotts5 <mjpotts5@charter.net> Date: 04/13/2016 10:39PM Subject: POSTPONE deadline Mr. David Navecky: RE: Docket # FD 35952 Great Lakes Basin Railroad: Request for extension of time to file comments for this Proposal Many in the affected area have a grave concern about how quickly this process has been announced with meetings scheduled and comments required in such a short period of time. The March 18 notification of this proposal with public scoping meetings scheduled from April 11 through April 21st with comments due May 16, 2016 is a very aggressive time frame. This timeframe is especially troublesome for an issue that is not critical and not in the public’s best interest. Considering the scope, complexity and impact of this proposal, this timeframe does not give much time for the affected residents to do their due diligence and research for such a major undertaking. This time frame is especially troubling as it comes at a time when the affected parties are starting one of the busiest times of their year, the planting season. If you know anything about farming, planting has to be done quickly as the weather permits. If local residents take time to deal with this issue and lose their planting season, it negatively affects the meager profits they make in even a decent year. We are talking about the people who provide the food, milk and nourishment for the families of our country. I hereby respectfully request that the date for filing comments be extended for 90 days from May 16, 2016 until August 16, 2016. Thank you so much for considering this! This request is very reasonable in light of the extenuating circumstances. Very Truly Yours, James and Marilyn Potts Bradford Township Residents Clinton, WI Sent from my U.S. Cellular® SmartphoneClinton, WI
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22152Rock Against the RailTo: Mr. David Navecky" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: Nancy Larson <larsnjl@sbcglobal.net> Date: 04/13/2016 08:09PM Subject: Docket # FD 35952 EIS - GLB Rail line Comments (See attached file: Comments GLB Rail-JohnstownTwp. Rock Co..docx) REF: Docket # FD 35952 EIS - Proposed GLB Rail line Attention: Dave Navecky Group Name: Rock Against the Rail Affiliation: Applicant Environmental Comments Please see our attached comments in regards to the Environmental Impact Study to be done of the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line, to be built in the Town of Johnstown, Rock County, WI. 53546. Sincerely, Rod and Nancy Larson 8504 E. County Road A Janesville, WI. 53546-9717 (608) 756-1460 Email: larsnjl@sbcglobal.net Attachment"Rod and Nancy Larson
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22151Town of BradfordTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Sandra Clarke <townofbradford@gmail.com> Date: 04/13/2016 05:13PM Subject: Resolution on Scope of Study for the Environmental impact Statement for the proposed GLBT Inc. Railroad Project (See attached file: Resolution No. 2016-58.pdf) Dear Mr. Navecky, I am submitting the attached resolution adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Bradford, Rock County Wisconsin on April 11, 2016. Please consider this resolution in any action involving the Scope of Study for the Environmental Impact Statement for he proposed GLBT Inc. Railroad Project. The Docket No. is FD 35952. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Sandra Clarke, Clerk Town of Bradford Rock County, Wisconsin 11100 E. County Road MM Avalon, WI 53505-9752Sandra Clarke, Clerk
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22150Kathy SmithTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Kathy Smith <krafty23kathy@gmail.com> Date: 04/13/2016 05:12PM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Transportation - IN FAVOR!! Dear Mr. Navecky: I've read a little bit here and there in my local paper, The Times, about the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation Inc - Authority To Construct And Operate A Rail Line In Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin -- STB Docket No. FD35952 and SUPPORT the construction and operation of the proposed rail line. I live in Illinois at the north end of the county where this new rail line is proposed to be built and TOTALLY SUPPORT the new rail line at the south end of Lake County, Indiana. The northern end of Lake County, Indiana is snarled by train traffic and has been for years. Not a day goes by that we aren't getting stuck in train traffic, or have to deal with the train horns constantly throughout the day and night, even so much as to wake me from a sleep -- and that's with the windows closed (and I live about a mile from the nearest crossing!!!!). South Lake County residents are all a bunch of protesters -- they protested a regional airport that was going to be built in Illinois at one time. They protested an expressway/toll road through their area because they said it would be noisy and there would be garbage all over. And now they are protesting the railroad. Rail traffic in south Lake County Indiana isn't going to bother anything -- except what? Ears" of corn -- because that's basically all that grows down there along with soybeans and a sod farm -- fields and fields of corn. I give my SUPPORT to this new rail line in south Lake County, Indiana. I say let everyone share in being inconvenienced -- whether by crossing gates or train horns! Sincerely, Kathy Smith Cook County, Illinois resident krafty23kathy@gmail.com"
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22149Donna BukowskiTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: D B <music.teech01@yahoo.com> Date: 04/13/2016 09:00AM Subject: Railroad question Exactly when are we the people going to find out who the investors are? Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android"
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22036Amber LadeI absolutely do not want that railroad going through Grant Park i don't want us to loose our farm land we have some of the best land in Illinois we have farms that have been family farmed for over 100 years I don't want the train traffic or the noise or that terminal here it will bring down my property value I don't care about Chicago train congestion go some where else !Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22035Francine BarlassDear Dave Navecky, I am writing to you to voice my concern about the proposed route of the GLB rail system. We own a house that will be close to the proposed route of the rail system. I am concerned about the abuse the rail system will have of the environment surrounding it. In particular what will the long and short term effects of vibrations have on structural foundations of houses and buildings. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Francine BarlassJanesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22034Francine BarlassDear Dave Navecky, I am writing to you to voice my concern for the GLB rail system that will be traveling through Rock County. As a resident that is very close to the proposed route I am concerned about the effects the rail system will have on air pollution and noise. These will both have lasting effects on our daily lives and potentially health. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Francine BarlassJanesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22033Francine BarlassDear Dave Navecky, I am writing to you to voice my concern regarding the GLB railroad this is proposed to come through Rock County. There are many natural water ways that they proposed route is cutting through. I am concerned about what this might do to the natural water system. Water drainage effects many aspect of the ecosystem. I am also concerned about what would happen to the many of private well systems that home owners have in place and the effect it would have on drinking water. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Francine BarlassJanesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22032Francine BarlassDave Navecky, I am writing to you to voice my concern for the proposed GLB rail system. As a mother of small children my husband and I are concerned about the traffic safety. We utilize the roads that the proposed route will cross multiple times daily. The county highway that is closest to us is not planned to have a bridge crossing. 70 mph trains and 55 mph highway make for a great danger to traffic and pedestrians. It would also impose danger to school buses, first responders, commuter traffic, and farm equipment. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Francine BarlassJanesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22031Francine BarlassDave Navecky, I am writing to you to voice my concern for the proposed GLB rail system. As a mother of small children my husband and I are concerned about the traffic safety. We utilize the roads that the proposed route will cross multiple times daily. The county highway that is closest to us is not planned to have a bridge crossing. 70 mph trains and 55 mph highway make for a great danger to traffic and pedestrians. It would also impose danger to school buses, first responders, commuter traffic, and farm equipment. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Francine BarlassJanesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22030francine nieman[Grant Park] Concerning the Railway Construction that is proposed for our area. This is a major impact in our safety for our area. We are concerned with the emergency vehicles that may be impacted with the amount of trains in our area. The noise and pollution that will arise from this. The impact it will have on our wildlife, farming and water retention. This will disturb the natural resources of the land itself. It will make a huge impact on land/housing development and deflation. We moved to this area to have the fresh air to have our children breath in. Land and cattle/wildlife to enjoy visibly and to be raised in a clean environment. You are taking that away from so many people and impacting our lives in so many ways if this proposed railroad goes into effect. I am pleading for a reconsideration in this project. Think of the people that matter in this decision.Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22029Deb Ekhoff[Grant Park] This railroad will destroy valuable farmland that is needed by the people of this U.S. The terminal is taking 23 square miles of good farmland. How can that be replaced? There has to be another way to use land that is not already used as valuable farmland.Grant Park, Illinois
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22027Amber LadeI absolutely do not want that railroad going through Grant Park i don't want us to loose our farm land we have some of the best land in Illinois we have farms that have been family farmed for over 100 years I don't want the train traffic or the noise or that terminal here it will bring down my property value I don't care about Chicago train congestion go some where else !Grant Park, IL
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22026Michael ReplinI realize your decision isnt based on property values, but it should be. The reason why is, that if a train derails around Lowell that is carrying toxic chemicals, all of Lowells wells and ground water would be contaminated. The town of Lowell, its businesses and residents would be without water. Lowell would become a ghost town."
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22025Kimberly MouratidesI strongly believe that a railroad should not be permitted to pass through Porter County. There are many existing railways which are not being used in the area and it would be better for the residents and the environment to make use of them, rather than build new railways. The new proposed railway will essentially box in our town and cross the two main roads leading to/from town, making commuting a nightmare. 90% of our working population commute. It will negatively affect our drainage - the entire area is low/marsh. The houses on the north side of town are flooded so frequently and severely that litigation has been threatened multiple times, and if the railway is laid just north of those houses it will worsen the situation. Our town is currently working on a million+ drainage project to improve the drainage on that side of town, but the rail project may defeat our efforts. Additionally, our water treatment plant is on the north side of town and very close to where the proposed rail way would run. The town would be forced to move the water treatment plant for the safety of its citizens. The noise would also greatly impact the residents of Hebron as the railway would pass very close to homes which are currently surrounded by county park, forest, and farm fields. There aren't enough buildings or trees to block the noise. Please say no" to this rail line!"Hebron, IN
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(printed as 4/13/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/13/2016)CommentEI-22023Brian R. Hall[Monroe Center] Dear Dave Navecky and the Surface Transportation Board, We are writing to object to the GLB Transportation Line that is proposed coming through our area. I am concerned about its environmental affect on our area. It is proposed to go through a field behind our house that is notoriously wet. It is always the last field to dry each spring after rains. The water pattern runs diagonally behind our house. The proposed train route would run right through its drainage route. This could cause the drainage patterns to change. This could cause water to end up around our home instead of its normal drainage areas. This is a concern. We hope that you make a decision not only for our well-fair but also in the favor of all others who will have been affected by this project. Sincerely, Brian HallMonroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22746Debra Lynch Dubovich[Please see attached documentation Native American Burial Mounds and Other Issues, Supporting Documentation in Opposition to Great Lakes Basin Rail Line Project"]"
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22565Kristen Andrysiak
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22564Betty Balcerak
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22563Karen F.
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22562Rroy Balcerak
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22561Anonymous
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22560Dennis Martz
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22559Andrew Kantroski
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22558Calumet Astronomical Society
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentDebra Howe
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentDebra Howe
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22554Sandra Basala
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22553Erik Hildebrandt
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22552Elden Hildebrandt
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentGerry Scheub
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22148Julie NewhouseTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Julie Newhouse <newfarm@t6b.com> Date: 04/12/2016 10:42AM Subject: info on winnebago-boone routes for GLB? Dear Mr. Navecky, We spoke briefly last evening in Manteno. I also spoke to Ms. Johnson-Ball. She mentioned the story of how and when the project got transferred to Boone County. Saying it was November 2015 that an on-site investigation by the STB believed that the Winnebago route would be too costly to mitigate and told Mr. Patton he should determine an alternative route. Ms. Johnson-Ball could not recall the date if it was late January or early February when Mr. Patton returned with the Boone County route. But the timing of that date and then how and when that was made public is the information I am looking for. She said the documentation for that decision could be found on the internet site- and I am unable to locate it. I am particularly interested in the timing- Some people in our county seem to be distracted by the issue of who knew what and when and are failing to focus on the task you have given us. I am hoping they can buckle down and grant you the information that would be helpful in your quest to draft a quality environmental impact statement. I do have one question on procedure. In our county if a special use is considered the applicant must contact all those properties involved and the neighboring property. If the STB had required GLB to do that we would not have some of the anger that exists because people were not informed. No one- not the county board nor landowners wants to read something in the newspaper or hear it on the TV that their rights may be taken away. It is impossible to submit environmental concerns or questions if the landowner- who may live in another state or residing in assisted living, etc, is not made aware their property is being examined as a potential development. Thank you for your time. You were very professional last night and I was thankful to travel the two hours to greater understand the process and what is helpful. Julie Newhouse Capron, IL
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22147Jim VoigtTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: Jim Voigt <jvoigt53@yahoo.com> Date: 04/12/2016 03:36AM Subject: Proposed GLB R.R. Surface Transportation Brd. 12 April 2016 David Navecky, et al: NO to proposed "GLB" railroad. Demonstrated 100% opposition to GLB at last night's meeting in Manteno and elsewhere. Business, farms, families,etc. are already there and do not need : GLB, "3rd" airport, illiana tollway,bypass, etc. Merely repair the roads that currently exist. Sincerely, James Voigt, B.A. Farm Bureau Member (Copies to concerned Organizations)"
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22022Dan MillerDear Mr. Navecky: I'm sending a quick note to inform you of my opposition to the proposed railroad that would run right next to our house, and throughout many friends and associates' properties. A few key points for now: *We have multiple friends/family affected by this proposed railroad that result in major issues with small, family farms. The issues will be noted later but should be obvious. *We have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars rehabbing" our home, only to possibly lose everything. This is the house we vowed to raise our little boys in and enjoy country life (ages 7 & 11 now.) *I have concerns about some endangered wildlife in our area. I will be in contact once information is confirmed. Thank you so much for your time. Sincerely, Dan Miller"
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22021Richard AmRheinWhile I am not opposed to the idea of such a rail line, I see no detail of what sections of the rail will have underpasses or overpasses for vehicular traffic. This is not simply for convenience, but for safety. Based on the frequency of trains and the certainty that trains will occasionally be stopped on the tracks across roads (this happens daily in our area), important roads, such as Rt. 49 in Indiana, which are a direct route to the hospital, would be blocked. I would also imagine the road such as Rt. 30 and Rt. 2 in the same area would be critical in emergencies. Furthermore, the desire to avoid poor soil areas is based on cost savings for the company building the rail and would not benefit the farmers (which constitute almost the entirety of the route). Poor soil areas would be ideal for the building of the rail line, as they would be unsuitable for farming. I see a clear profit motive for the company building this rail line, and I understand it, but I fail to see any benefit whatsoever for the farmers who live along your proposed route.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22020Deborah evansI oppose the Great Lakes basin transportation project with every fiber in my being. The quality of our lives will forever be taken away from us. This is not a project for the good of the people". It is a project for a few greedy people who have no idea about our quality of life with nature. STOP"
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22019Andy MckayWhy would they be allowed to run 110 trains per day with all the pollution that comes from the trains. Lake and Porter County still have Emission testing because the Government claims our pollution levels are to high now.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22018Pete DalessandroReference: Docket No. 35952 For the attention of Mr. Dave Navecky: Dear Sir, I am writing in reference to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line and the impact that it would have on students who attend Lowell Middle School and Lake Prairie Elementary School. I have examined the plans, and I am well-aware of the areas that it would encompass. I strongly oppose the development of the new rail line for a number of reasons, but I will focus on the problems that it will and could possibly cause if it is approved. My stepdaughter attends Lowell Middle School, and I am greatly concerned about the impact that it would have on buses, student pick-up, and the level of noise that it would generate. Even with safety gates and other necessary precautions in place, it would put those schools at risk. If a derailment of hazardous material ever occurred, hundreds of students and faculty would have to be evacuated. The Town of Lowell is not equipped for an emergency of that magnitude. Sincerely, Pete DalessandroLowell, IN
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22017Dennis SchepplerI am very concerned about how, in the event of an accident on the Great Lakes Basin Railroad line, the almost 2000 inmates at the Sheridan Correctional Center will be evacuated. Thia line is dangerously close to the prison. Where will the immates go if there is an emergency?Mount Prospect, Il
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22016Melanie Hofstrom-WaiteWhen you hold these meetings please have buildings big enough to accommodate the concerned citizens a lot of them are older also a lot of them have been farming all day long and are tired and need a place to sit. I've noticed it Is standing room only at almost every meeting ....this is also a sign of hoW many people feel so strongly against this RailRoad please take notice alot of farmers wont speak but there presence after a long day of work show that they are not interested in this railroad at all. if you ask that every single stb meeting who is interested in the railroad please stand there may be only one or two if you ask who is not in favor of this railroad the rest of the crowd will stand upclinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentIn frank pattons video he said the railway hauls over 6000 toxic chemicals a day I dont want this in our state much less in our town this is not healthy for anyone and going 70 mph with liquid containers rails on curves like the one on milner road right by turtle creek this is going to effect everyone forever not just my familyMelanie Hofstrom-Waite · clinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22014Kevin GarlingAs a Board member for the Lake County Soil and Water Conservation district, I am opposed to this location for the harm it could cause to the water resources of South Lake and Porter counties. The drainage tile system and conservation efforts of the farmers are at great risk with the destruction or damage that will be caused to field tiles, water ways and the natural drainage to the river. This area of rich farm land will be lost and will also increase the flooding threat. I am fearful of the impact it could have on the wildlife should just one accident occur. Thank youCedar Lake, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22013Craig BirkyDave - I stand in opposition to the proposed Great Lakes Basin railway project - this project will have a permanent negative impact on land use. I currently deal with utility towers that were placed on our family farm under eminent domain many years ago. I continue to feel their affect today in various ways related to land use (irrigation system unfeasibility to mention one). A railroad project would be FAR more invasive and include the HIGH probability of damage from de-railment and related commodity spills to those who are in it's path. The utility lines I mentioned at least carry needed electricity that everyone benefits from - the rail system benefits, to those most affected, would be practically zero. Thank you for your careful consideration of my concern.Kouts, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22012Kevin GarlingI am against the proposed location for this rail way as everyone living in this community relies on drinking water from wells , many of which are very shallow due to the proximity to the grand kankakee river/ water shed/ marsh. Just one tanker spill or hazardous waste accident and the whole towns water supply could be destroyed. This town has no other choice for its water supply. Thank you for your considerationCedar Lake, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22011Kevin GarlingI teach and drive bus in the proposed rural area and the safety of my students traveling these routes will be decreased greatly. We get a lot of fog in the fall and spring and having to cross multiple crossings guarantees that lowell students will be injured or killed do to the increase probability and risks. For these reasons I am against this location. Thank youCedar Lake, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22010Deborah Niedermeier30 years ago we found our dream home in the country. We look out our window and enjoy counting the turkeys and white-tail deer. We will not enjoy counting the rail cars that will run in the same place. We say NO to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project.Milton, WI
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22009Angela OsburnPlease consider our comments and the impact this would have on our family and vote NO. Thank you kindlyHebron, IN
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22008Jill AtkinsPlease think twice about approving the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. It has the potential of becoming an environmental disaster to our farming community. Farming is the way of life here and would be affected deeply by the decision to move forward with this project.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22007Dennis FidoneI believe having a rail that close to us is not going to benefit us It would hurt our fire department and our Police Department's It will decrease our property value as hard as we work for a piece of property we don't need something like this to come in to bring the property downHebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22006Ruth NicholsonMy grandchildren could go to school with 1/2 mile of this proposed railroad that could carry hazard material. This is in northwest Indiana. Thank you for your time.Valparaiso, In
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22005R.A.I.L.E.D.I do not think the GLBR have a very well thought out route. It appears they took a satellite map and drew a line from point A to point B with the least amount of resistance for them. If they would have done any field work they certainly would not have put this route so close to so many schools. I hope you can come visit this entire route to see what a horrible impact this would have on our lives. I request that you deny this request. Thanks!Linda L Howard · Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22004Edward SchreyI feel an alternate route should be investigated before we have so much destruction of land and its interference with farming, in a mainly farming community. I am a big rail fan myself but the impact of this line with 110 trains a day, I feel would disrupt the wildlife, air quality, and the quality of life for the people in the impacted area.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22003Edward SchreyI feel an alternate route should be investigated before we have so much destruction of land and its interference with farming, in a mainly farming community. I am a big rail fan myself but the impact of this line with 110 trains a day, I feel would disrupt the wildlife, air quality, and the quality of life for the people in the impacted area.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22002Linda L HowardCrooked Creek is the main drain for the eastern half of Porter Co. It's a fast running stream. It runs through my family farm. The proposed GLBR is running over Crooked Creek. If there is a derailment and a chemical spill, the contaminate will be in the Kankakee River before anyone can get to the derailment. Please do not approve this request from GLBR. Thank you!Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-22001Erica RepaalI am writing to express my opposition to the proposed GLB Railroad. I currently live in Bradford Township, Rock County, Wisconsin, an area where the proposed railway route is located. I have many reasons I oppose the railway. One of those reasons is safety. I am concerned about the safety of the road/rail grade crossing safety for the traffic driving on the many roads the railway will cross. I am concerned about the potential for train accidents. I am also concerned about the rail traffic causing delays/disruptions to emergency vehicles. Thank you very much for your time. Erica RepaalClinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21998Michelle GrantI am write to express my opposition to the Great Lakes Basins railroad that will be crossing Porter County Indiana. I oppose the rail due to safety, noise & environmental concerns. The rail will be within a few miles of my children's school, Boone Grove Middle School, the rail is a few miles from our home, it is also very close to Stoney Run County Park. I am concerned about the teen drivers who travel these country roads that may possible try to drive around the tracks. I am concerned about hazardous waste, chemicals or other dangerous items that maybe transported by these trains. This may appear to be a rural area with little impact, but it is on the edge of very densely populated area of lake & porter counties in Indiana. This area is still heavily traveled. Please reconsider the route of the train. Moving it further south to a less populated area maybe a good solution. Sincerely, Michelle Grant - concerned parentHebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21997Christine SchreyI am very concerned about the proposed rail line to come through Hebron. The potential of being land locked is high, considering the number of trains planned to travel on these rails. The ability to get to work, to school, and especially for emergency vehicles to get to hospitals is severely limited. The possibility of derailment threatens safety. The planned route threatens the economy of the area -- which is farming and livestock. I do not want the construction of this rail line to proceed.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21996NobleAs local government was not a choice, I chose Citizens Group as my affiliation on this form. I am the city Engineer and Director of Community Development for the City of Ottawa. I have two comments. First, as Ottawa City Engineer, I would like to commend the relocation of the proposed rail to the north and away from Skydive Chicago Airport. Skydive Chicago has hundreds of skydivers each week. Having another rail line nearby would be a threat to the health and safety of these sporting enthusiasts. Skydive Chicago is the premier skydiving facility in the Midwest and maybe in the entire United States as evidenced by the INTERNATIONAL championships being held here this fall. Placing a rail line nearby which has trains moving at high speeds would not only endanger the participants, but also threaten this economic generator for our entire area. I applaud the decision to move the rail line to the north. Secondly, as myself, I see that near rail mile post 79, the rail is proposed to bisect the Kankakee River State Park. This is a jewel in the State park system. The proposed rail will interfere with the enjoyment of walking trails and fishing areas enjoyed by thousands annually. The rail will separate the camp ground to the west from the hiking canyons to the east. With high speed trains thundering past all day and night, the campground will be directly impacted. Even though walking trails can ber placed under the bridge, the natural attractiveness that draws visitors to the state park each year will be severely diminished. Futhermore, the location of the bridge is precisely where ice jamming has been a severe problem in recent years. Adding additional piers in the river for the rail bridge will exacerbate the problem. The rail should NOT go through the state park. Rather, it could be placed two or three miles to the west and cross the Kankakee River near where a pipeline crosses, as shown in the Google Earth Complete Route Map". The proposed rail line also runs RIGHT NEXT TO the Camp Shawanasee. This pristine camp adjacent to the Kankakee River State Park and sharing Rock Creek and the Rock Creek Canyons would also have trains going past throughout the day and night totally destroying the usefulness and attraction of this historical camp. The rail should be located a mile or two to the northwest of the camp to avoid this area altogether. Our state parks and natural areas must be protected. They can never be replaced."David
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21995RAILEDWe don't want the proposed railway here! It will cause numerous disruptions to our way of life and we are all on wells of various depths. If there is a wreck and spill of some chemical it will pollute the ground water! We have no alternative for water. There are different streams through out the aquifer some can be just below the surface and flow into the deeper underground water. If there is just one spill the whole water system in the area can be destroyed. We also have a lot of wildlife. Deer and coyotes and they don't know how to get out of the way of trains. I moved out to the country 27 years ago from the noisy polluted region. This is the last vestige of peace in Lake County. My husband commutes to the mills so we can't move any farther. The sound here is very magnified like on a lake. It would be worse than being in a flight path! The ground rumbles whenever the train in Lowell goes through a few times a day and that's 5 miles away! We cannot get away from the noise in the house if that railway is allowed to go through. So please! With all that is human, vote no. Our farmers would be devastated our water and way of life would be ruined. Thank you for your time. Sincerely Dawn Straughen.Dawn Straughen · Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21994Diane Sieg[Rochelle] My concerns with this project include: Soil Water Safety Please oppose this proposal!Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21993Rock Against The RailThese two articles from the Janesville Gazette fully address the need to preserve the Rock Prairie soil and also what has already happened to countless acres of Wisconsin farmland.Jacob Ford · Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21992Jill RedmonI am writing to express concern about the proposed railway that will directly impact my county, my city, my local school, and my own home. I am adamantly opposed to the building of this railway. It will present a negative impact on current transportation, safety, use of farm land, and recreation. IT will also negatively impact many biological and water resources, geology and soil in more ways than can be expounded in the space provided. IT will also negatively affect our current air quality and climate. I moved into Morgan Township for the open air, the quiet,the peacefulness - not the noise and pollution of a freight train. This track will be almost directly in front of my home and it is not welcome at all.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21991Rock Against The RailJacob Ford · Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/12/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21988Jan BierI have a safety concern about the proposed GLB railroad project. With increased train activity blocking our rural roads, it will take longer for our emergency personnel (sheriff, volunteer fire dept., etc.) to reach their destinations. In cases like this, minutes count! Thank you.Janesville, WI
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21986Kristin AndrysiakFrom: Kristin Andrysiak <ms_nitsirk@yahoo.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/07/2016 03:48 PM Subject: RE: Docket #FD 35952 Great Lakes Basin Railroad: Request for extention of time to file comments for this Proposal RE: Docket #FD 35952 Great Lakes Basin Railroad: Request for extention of time to file comments for this Proposal Mr. David Navecky, I am gravely concerned that many residents who might be affected by the GLBR will not be able to be heard because of the short time between the notification on March 18th and all comments due by May 16th. This is not enough time for affected residents do their due diligence and fully research and understand the scope of this major project. Please consider extending the deadline for filing comments 90 days until August 16th. I believe this request is very reasonable considering the size and scope of this proposal. Respectfully, Kristin Andrysiak 688 E 700 N Westville, IN 46391 Porter County 219-629-6381"
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21985John LazorikFrom: John - Rabbit <cruizinamerc@hotmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/07/2016 02:13 PM Subject: Railway Dave, I am just hearing about the railway going through Porter County, today, April 7, 2016. I own 100 acres just south of the Wolfe farm on route 2 in Hebron. I have not been able to find a map distinguishing the route of the railway, but I am opposed to it running on or near my farm. There are is an abandoned railway line that used to run through Porter County, why is that not the proposed site? Cordially, John Lazorik 654 South State Road 2 Hebron, IN 46341"
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21980Roger Clark FarmWe are concerned about the safety of the school children at the grade crossings. Nine or more school buses cross an angle railroad crossing twice a day.Roger Clark · Hebron, IN
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEI-21979Frank R. GonzalezDear Mr. Dave Navecky, I’m writing today for your support in the opposition of the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Corporations Railroad plan through Northwest Indiana& specifically through the land directly south of my home in Porter County. My family & I have been in this location for the last 16yrs. I want to point out the specific concerns we have as it pertains to the project in whole and this location on County Line road in Hebron, In. My first concern is the proximity of the route & the safety of my family and the community of Boone Township and Hebron. It is my understanding that the railroad cargo that would travel this path would include highly toxic chemicals in addition to other hazardous material & pollutants. In the event of a derailment, failure of a cargo car, or rail crossing accident, it would be virtually impossible for the local emergency responders to properly address the catastrophic event in a manner that would protect my family & the community from the effects of a release of toxic fumes, fire, explosions, up to and including loss of life. If the trains were to travel through the area at the rate of 1 every 15 minutes, emergency response to a fire, life threatening medical event such as, heart attack, or major injury from an accident of any type, and/or the immediate need for Police response, ambulances, fire trucks, would be delayed to point a life or death situation could be in effect fatal to my family, neighbors and the community. Within .1 mile of our driveway is a proposed grade level rail crossing. Standing traffic and vehicles attempting to avoid the constant stoppages would increase traffic congestion and the probability of train vs. vehicle accidents. In general, vehicle accidents/incidents would increase exponentially directly in front of my home further decreasing the safety of my family, my neighbors and the community. Our community’s children will spend longer time travelling on school buses and now be exposed to the possibility of an accident that would include rail traffic. The road will become a constant area of poor repair as train crossing are always in need of repair causing unwanted or warranted damage to vehicle traffic that would pass through this area. The trains, if this were to be allowed to pass would travel within 200ft of my home. (I have attached a photo of the proposed path. My home is at the top photo)There are many studies that tangibly and statistically document the ill effects of train noise, vibration, & light to heart rate, cardiovascular health and asthma as it relates to the pollutants introduced to an area. These studies show the noise, vibration and pollution all have negative effects to people that live within this proximity to active rail traffic. In addition to the noise, vibration, pollution, and flashing lights, the area water supply is directly beneath us in the means of wells. These trains will disrupt the natural flow of water & in the event of any toxic or chemical spill the supply of water could be completely decimated to the point it becomes contaminated & unusable. Additionally, we have 7children, their families & 14 grandchildren that spend time visiting and enjoying the recreational advantages of our property. These include the 3.5 acres of land for riding ATVs, swing set use, swimming in our pool and activities with the horse we have on our property. The constant sounding horns, rumbling of trains & pollutants will adversely affect our ability to enjoy the recreational activities that have become a standard at our home. We also have a special needs grandson that spends time at our home and the noise, vibration, sounds of the constant passing trains and flashing lights are known to adversely affect those with special needs & will detrimentally affect the health & well-being of our grandson. This area of Boone township is home to wildlife as follows, Red-tailed hawks that nest all along the East end of my property line, along the drainage canal, that divides my property with the adjoining farm tract, White-tailed deer that have a direct travel track that runs directly through the path of the proposed train path, Birds of multiple varieties including Eagles, Canadian Geese, ducks , Heron, Cardinals, blue-jays and many more, not to mention several of these are Federally protected species. Mammals of various species including, raccoons, squirrel, rabbits, chipmunks and many more are natural residents to the land surrounding my property and the train path. The coyote’s also make this area home and natural sound of their howls and the habitat of all these creatures will forever be silenced to this area if this is allowed to go through. I have attached two recent photos, taken by my daughter, of a Bald Eagle that was sited not more than 1.5 miles from my home in her back yard and a hawk along the road. (The hawks are a daily & common site in all of the Boone township/Hebron area) The natural drainage of the land goes directly across the train path and would be disrupted beyond repair. The drainage canal directly adjacent to my property would be disrupted and will surely cause back up and flooding that will negatively impact the entire Boone township area, my property, and the surrounding community. In conclusion, I implore you to consider these facts as you formulate your decision as it relates to this proposed train path. This has so many negative affects to the environment, ecology of the area, natural habitat of wildlife, and the safety of my family & our communities. The surrounding areas will become a complete wasteland due to the effects of this proposed route. The vibrant communities along the path would be ruined and travel would become a virtual standstill driving businesses, agriculture, and families out of the area. I cannot find one local or National benefit that will come from this proposed plan. I see only the degradation of the Counties, communities, great States of Indiana, Illinois, & Wisconsin and the families that will be impacted by the Great Lakes Basin Transportation Corporation Railroad plan. Thank you for your support & feel free to contact us at any time. Respectfully, Frank R. & Amber Gonzalez 635 S. 800 W. Hebron, In. 46341 Home ~ 219-299-7001 Cell ~ 847-366-4670Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEO-2781Julie Newhouse
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(printed as 4/12/2016)CommentEO-2780Donna Bukowski
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22585Westville Utility SuperintendentDaniel Anderson
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22566Emily Remster
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22539Herb Renner Jr.[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22536Herbert Renner[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22498C. Weeks[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22497Herbert Renner Jr.[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/11/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/11/2016)Comment[see attached letter]Edmond Soliday, State Representative, District 4 · Indianapolis, IN
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22146Donna BukowskiTo: <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: D B <music.teech01@yahoo.com> Date: 04/11/2016 10:12PM Subject: Great Laes Basin Rail Line Question My name is Donna Bukowski, I am a Manteno resident and want to know IF I collected signatures against the proposed railway from Manteno residents and farmers and submit them to the board at the next meeting before June 15th.....can this help in any way, shape or form from allowing this proposal of this railway to materialize? I mean, there are only 9,200 people in Manteno....and I'm pretty darn sure 90% of those people would be happy to sign a petition against this railway. Thank You in advance for your answer. Donna Bukowski Manteno, IL
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22145Donna BukowskiTo: <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: D B <music.teech01@yahoo.com> Date: 04/11/2016 10:32PM Subject: GLB Commen My name is Donna Bukowski and I have a comment regarding this railway.... 12 years ago I was in the market to purchase a home for myself. I could have bought a home anywhere I wanted....with some research I choose to move to Manteno. It was like Mayberry... small town, friendly people, fresh air, green grass, good schools, state park was near by, a real country setting, but 60 miles from Chicago. Well, I choose to make the sacrifice and moved to the country, knowing that I would have a 60 minute drive every day to work and home again. But, it was worth it... having what I have..... I can see the sun rise and the sun set in my own backyard. Not many people can say that. Watch the rain storms roll in... the birds.. bunnies... watch them play in my backyard... All of my family and friends can't believe how beautiful it is in Manteno... And some brainy investors want to take it and destroy Manteno, along with other small towns along the way? Making a rail yard that is 3 x 5 miles only a mile from my home? Bringing along the dirt, grim, noise, turning Manteno into a railyard just like in Chicago? Having trains traveling 70 mph only feet from my house? The sound of a train traveling at those speeds, how dangerous to the children that ride their bikes on my block. We all have 5 acre parcels, some with horses, some with small children, grandchildren... out and about... it's like the good old days when you didn't have to worry about your children playing outside... and you want to ruin that? These investors must be heartless... God bless them if they can lay their heads down on their pillow at night and be at peace. I sure couldn't. Shame on them... So, it's all about money? What are they going to do if there is a hazardous spill? What are they going to do when a child gets hit by a speeding train? What are they going to do when we have flooding because they have altered too many of the farmers fields and the spring rains come? I think if the investors families were influenced by this negatively one ounce, they wouldn't be pushing for this. They wouldn't even be discussing it. Why don't they build it in their own backyard??? Donna Bukowski
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22144Matt PoppTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov>, "Senator.charbonneau@iga.in.gov" <senator.charbonneau@iga.in.gov>, "H4@iga.in.gov" <h4@iga.in.gov>, "h11@iga.in.gov" <h11@iga.in.gov>, Matt <mtdkk5@hotmail.com> From: Matt <mtdkk5@hotmail.com> Date: 04/11/2016 09:31PM Subject: NO the proposed railroad by GLB Hi my name is Matt Popp and I live in Westville Indiana. Great Lakes Basin Transportation, inc. has proposed a new railroad that will go from Wisconsin, through Illinois, and into Indiana. Along its route it is going to split into 2 lines right before the community of Westville Indiana. Basically it is going to split the WHOLE community into almost 3 equal parts. meaning that all environmental issues that will come with the railroad will have an effect on the ENTIRE community. You have health issues # 1. adding an estimated 20 new crossings in a small area increasing the possibility of train-car collisions. not to mention all of the student drivers, and our loaded buses, that will have to cross these to and from school. Not to mention more crossings outside the area that will be encountered as students travel to sporting events from school to school. # 2. I have also read many health related issues from the noise from the trains themselves and the horns that the trains will sound at each crossing 24 hours a day. and since the community of Westville is split into thirds the whole community will suffer from these effects. The worst being the effects the noise has on the common persons body during their sleeping hours. #3 if there is ever the disaster of a derailment, again, the WHOLE community with reap the effects of the many hazardous chemicals that these trains could release into the environment. And what I understand a lot of them are quite deadly. These small communities that are effected do not have the means to handle such a disaster as a derailment nor do they have the funds to prepare for such huge catastrophe. #4 you have to consider that there will definitely be huge delays in response time for EMS to any 911 calls for any area residents, and in those circumstances time is the biggest difference between life or death as we all know. I also just cannot think of all the local farm land that will be ruined by he railroad. It may only cut through the fields but the impact on drainage ( possible long term flooding in parts due to the railroad bed acting as a dam) not to mention all of the irrigation systems that the community has put in over the years to help build our economy. I ask you to please help our community of WESTVILLE, INDIANA. I truly believe that the whole community of Westville is at risk here. I do not want to see an entire community wiped out either over a slow period of time or from a deadly chemical accident. PLEASE SAY NO TO THE NEWLY PROPOSED RAILROAD IN WESTVILLE INDIANA. I send this message not only for myself, but my wife, my kids, and other family and friends that all live within this small community. Sincerely, Matt Popp"
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22143Bernard I. Turnoy[please see attached file for comment with graphics]
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22142Steve MerriamTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: smerriam <ss2merriam@gmail.com> Date: 04/11/2016 03:37PM Subject: Document FD 35952 The Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal to be built in eastern Rock County through prime agricultural soil raises environmental and financial concerns. The concerns are derailment and polluting of the soil and ground water system; added noise interfering with livestock production and performance; change in wildlife (deer and turkeys) habitat; and will create problems by lowering the value of the farm and potentially more farmer expense to farm the divided land. Many of the farms involved are family farms that are dependent in maintaining the entirety of the farm for its value, production capacity and income to maintain the current status of the family farm. I am son of Barbara Merriam and brother to Carol Pregont that appear to be involved with land ownership for the proposed Great lakes Basin Railroad. The proposal would create a major loss of the wooded area on these properties with major loss of wildlife in the area. I totally object to having the Great lakes Basin Railroad to be built under the present proposal in eastern Rock County. Steve Merriam 3256 Sagewater Court Fort Collins, CO 80528
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22141Douglass and Kathleen LoweryTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: Kathy Lowery <dkl1028@sbcglobal.net> Date: 04/11/2016 02:13PM Subject: Docket No. FD35952 Re:DOCKET No. FD35952. April 11, 2016 ATTN: Dave Navecky We want to express our concerns about the proposed Great Lakes Basin railroad that could be cutting our county in half with its suggested route. Grundy County, Illinois contains some of the most fertile soils in the U.S. and the land these railroad tracks would cut through will be permanently destroyed, during and after construction. Farming roots run deep in our family and we've been proud to be involved with agriculture. We've worked hard to preserve and protect the land we've had the privilege to farm and want to pass that legacy on to future generations. BUT... Grundy County, IL...and others along the route...have many land owners and farm operators that are involved with the USDA's Conservation Programs...including CRP that are usually 10-15 year contracts. Some new contracts were written after the 2014 Farm Bill was written; others were already in force. These quoted reference points are only some of the provisions agreed to when signing a contract. How many will be adhered to by the Great Lakes Basin Transportation group? (The following were taken from an actual signed 2015 contract.) "Participants agree to not harvest or sell, nor otherwise make commercial use of, trees or forage or other cover on CRP land, including the shearing or shaping of trees,...(and so on)." (#4 Agreement portion, part 5) "Participants agree not to undertake any action on land under the participant's control which tends to defeat the purpose of this contract, as determined by CCC." (#4 Agreement portion, part 6) "Participants agree to control all weeds, insects, pests and other undesirable species to the extent necessary to ensure that the establishment and maintenance of the approved cover is adequately protected,...(and so on)." (#4 Agreement portion, part 8) "Participants agree not to disturb the acreage under contract during the primary nesting and brood rearing season for wildlife, except if approved by CCC." (#4 Agreement portion, part 9) Other USDA conservation programs, intended to protect land and waterways, will be affected by a railroad project of this magnitude. PLEASE deny this group, Great Lakes Basin Transportation, from moving forward with their railroad plans. This family STRONGLY OPPOSES the GLB railroad! Thank you for listening. Sincerely, Douglas and Kathleen Lowery...1635 S. Dwight Rd., Mazon, IL 60444"
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22140Richard F. Tyler, DVMTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Richard Tyler <rtylervet1@gmail.com> Date: 04/11/2016 11:10AM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project Docket No. FD35952 Dear Mr. Navecky, I am writing this letter to you to voice my opposition to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. We live in Monroe Center, Illinois which is in eastern Ogle County. You are probably not familiar with this area but it is a rural farming community in which many of the farms affected by this project have been in families for decades. This project will take several thousand acres of prime farm ground out of production along its projected route. In addition several thousand more acres could be damaged by disruptions to the natural drainage of water and to the damage to existing field tiles. The investors make the claim of an economic boom to the areas along this project. I do not feel that this project will benefit anyone economically except those investing in it. Please take a close look at the damage this project will do to our area and deny it. Thank you!! Richard F. Tyler, DVM 4199 N. Mulford Rd. Monroe Center, Illinois 61052
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22139Gary Tagtmeier CPATo: <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: Gary Tagtmeier" <garyt@prosperwithfai.com> Date: 04/11/2016 08:58AM Subject: GLBR Link Not Working Dave, Thanks for the 30 day extension. This link on your page is not working. www.GreatLakesBasinRailLineEIS.com It is on this page: https://www.stb.dot.gov/stb/environment/key_cases_GreatLakesBasin.html Gary Tagtmeier CPA Financial Awareness Institute (w) 630-963-7000 (c) 630-776-6751"
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-22138Sharon McKayTo: <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: Sharon K. McKay" <twoofus@netnitco.net> Date: 04/11/2016 08:26AM Subject: 35952 thru NW Indiana & Porter County The proposed route would definitely lower the property values of property in Boone Twp, Porter Twp and all the adjacent Lake and Porter County areas. There is an existing train track thru Jasper County going to the Nipsco plant in Wheatfield. Wouldn’t it be better to use an existing track then to disrupt the lives of people in the proposed route? It would not benefit our area, it would only lower our property values and disrupt our lives. It would also block off Hebron from the rest of Porter County. Our area is already polluted and the Great Lakes Railroad would futher pollute the area. It would also be too close to the schools in Lowell, Boone Grove and Morgan. Hebron use to have a train track thru the town. I’ve been in the Real Estate Business since the early 1970’s. Before the train tracks were abandoned, it was extremely hard to sell property near the tracts because of noise and pollution. Our area is unique that it has generations of farm families that want to continue having their younger generations continue farming the land. Please reconsider going thru Lake and Porter Counties in Indiana. Thank you. Sharon McKay Hebron, Indiana 46341"
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21978RAILED[Valparaiso] Dear Surface Transportation Board, looking at the current path of the proposed railroad by the Great Lakes Basin Railroad it is apparent that the chosen route places an unfair burden on the family farms of this region as opposed to corporate farms. As we have seen in the past, family farms have faced tremendous economic pressures to abandon their farms and give in to a quick monetary gain verses longterm stability. Most family farms locate in the exact pathway GLBT has chosen as it's path. This is because family farms need yo locate close to metropolitan areas in order to reduce travel costs and have a viable market in close proximity. This rail line carves a a path through the very fields that define income from loss. I don't farm but I admire the integrity of the people who face the challenges of weather, futures pricing, and the whim of the changing world around them. As I see it, it is a noble venture and this project places them, once again in an unfair disadvatage. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.Larry Randall · Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21977Melissa King[Rochelle] Im very concern with the air pollution, noise pollution that another rail road will cause going through Ogle Co. Illinois. Beside whatever will be carried on this new" rail road. We already have plenty of rail roads through this area. we do not need another one. They can use the rail lines we already have. The destruction of farm land will be enormous. We have beautiful grass lands, farms, waterways and wildlife here. I would like for us to keep it. No more pollution."
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21976MattOn the proposed route of GLB railroad. I have some concerns on the first branch in Westville after it splits up at CR 600 S. Where it would cross Wozniak RD. The land that it rides on between Hwy. 6 and the old rail bed has some potential safety issues. Part of the land is a registered wetland, another part is actually a wet type of swampy land and is that way year round, in fact I have never seen it farmed in my 17 years here because of the high water table. And one more concern , believe it or not, is that other parts of the land are dry peat beds. In my 17 years of living here I have witnessed 2 MUCK" fires in this area. A "MUCK" fire is where the dry peat burns (one from a campfire and the other was a possible ember from a local burn pile) or rather smolders down in the ground, downwards of 5-6 feet then starts to burn outward under the ground until the ground collapses. The only way you can tell such a fire is going is just a smokey haze in the air. The problem with that is once that is detected its most likely been days burning down and outward. The only way to put it out is to dig a deep moat around it and fill it with water to smoother out the smoldering. I know it sounds made up, but it is really a dangerous fire because its under ground where you really cant tell how far it has burnt or whats on top that might fall through. Another MAJOR concern is that the crossing will be right after a 90 degree turn in the road. And if you do not know the area very good, and more so at night, it is possible that someone might not have the time to stop before its to late. Wozniak rd. is a highly traveved road and believe me people do not drive slow."
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21975Rock Against the RailPlease pay attention to the fact that Town of Bradford has Horned Owls and Bald Eagles nesting along Turtle Creek. There are also several bat colonies in the area. We would like to see these species protected and allowed to remain undisturbed in their habitat.William Rossmiller · Clinton, WI
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21974Donna BreaultAs a resident of Lowell Indiana with three children, my husband and I are against the proposed railway for several reasons: 1. The tracks will be too close to the schools. The amount of trains expected will make learning difficult (due to the noise) as well as being a safety issue for the children. 2. The frequent number of trains will impact travel, as well as accessibility to emergency vehicles. 3. Disruption of our way of life. Noise, pollution, destruction of farmland and homes. We do not forsee any advantages to this proposed railway and we do not want it. Thank You, Donna and Ray BreaultLowell, IN
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21973Amy Pribyl WerthmannI am writing to express my opposition to the Great Lakes Basin (GLB) Railroad that is proposed to go through southern Porter County. My parents will be impacted by this along with several friends who have children at Morgan Township School. Reasons include: safety - the proposed path is merely a 1/4 mile from the school. That is too close for the safety of kids. There is also a volunteer fire department housed by the school - how will emergency vehicles be able to get through if they're waiting for one of the hundreds of trains passing through? That is very dangerous. My parents depend on these emergency vehicles - if a train is going through, that could cause a delay on help needed for the many rural residents. I doubt the Great Lakes Basin company cares about the health and welfare of these citizens. In addition, the noise and vibration will have an extremely negative impact on Morgan School - which is one of the best in the state. Putting a railroad that close could greatly reduce the students ability to get an education - they will be distracted by the proximity of the train and the noise pollution it will produce. Porter County, and in particular, Morgan Township values family, education, peace and a quiet lifestyle. My parents moved from the city of Chicago to escape the noise, the pollution and the congestion. If this railroad is approved, that is exactly what a tranquil area like Morgan Township will turn into - please oppose this railroad in this wonderful area of our country.Oak Park, IL
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21972Kevin Garling[Cedar Lake] This is some of the best farm land in Lake County. The North half of the county is industry/population heavy. We already have water issues and this area being so close to the kankakee river is an environmental hazard waiting to happen. Farm land is becoming an endangered natural resource and changing water flow and the effect on wildlife is a great concernCedar Lake, Indiana
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21971Donald ScheberleThis extension from Westville to Kingsbury Ordinance Plant goes thru my property. 56502 S 500W Laporte IN. Of coarse like everyone else I don't want to have my property taken from me. What really upsets me, is the Grand Trunk Western crosses your proposed tracks just North of Wanatah and goes right to Kingsbury. Shouldn't you use as much existing track as possible?Michigan City, Indiana
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(printed as 4/11/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21969Judith ReplinThe proposed Great Lakes Basin transportation rail line will cross farm land and their field tiles and drainage systems. If a rail line divides a farmer land, how will the farmer be able to get to his other field with his farm equipment? When Great Lakes Basin builds tracks and foundations is there any guarantee they won't break the field tiles? Will Great Lakes Basin be responsible for the cost if they do? If the south Lake county drainage system is interfered with to the Kankakee River, farm fields will become wet lands. In case of a toxic chemical spill near a farmers filed, that field will be unusable. Is it worth the risk to our farm land when there alternative routes? Across Lake Michigan for example.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21968Mike HerlitzThe purposed rail line divides Porter Twp. in Porter County, IN in half. Every crossing in Porter Township will be at Grade. In addition to emergency vehicles being delayed by a train, emergency vehicle dispatch could be delayed because volunteer firemen could be delayed even getting to the station. Also with no fire hydrants, in a major fire event tanker trucks are the only source of water. Firemen could be helpless at a fire if the water tankers are being delayed by a train. The railroad at its current location divides the fire station from the majority of homes it serves.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21967Ray BreaultDear Mr. Navecky I live in Lowell and I have many strong concerns concerning the proposed rail line. The first of my concerns include public safety with as many as 113 trains per day this can only increase 1st res ponders response times and commute times to and from work. I have three childern which will all be affected by this rail because of increased travel times to and from school. One of my children attends a school which would be in close proximity to the proposed tracks. How are the childern to concentrate with trains roaring by all day, shaking the ground and blowing their horns. Our children's education and well being will certainly suffer. Respectfully, Ray BreaultLowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21966Thomas J Alelunasre: GLB Railroad - We are expressing our opposition to the proposed new railroad construction in Northwest Indiana in and thru the counties of LaPorte, Porter, and Lake near our schools and population centers ... Thank youValparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21965Michael Blink[Crown Point] The proposed rail line is proposed to pass through my family's farm. I am concerned that with this high speed rail many small communities will be put at risk due to limited road crossings. EMS services will have to take longer routs for people in need in the rural parts of surrounding communities. My parents are at risk due to old age and diminishing health. Another concern is that with changing the natural flow of surface run off water, this will cause flooding in areas that were not previously at risk.Crown Point, Indiana
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21964Mary Pfeifer[Gardner] In the attached picture, the proposed GLB RR line is shown crossing Interstate 55, Old Route 66, the high speed Amtrak train track to Chicago, a frontage road and the access to Gorman Road from old Historic Route 66. This is crossing 7 lanes of traffic all at once. Is Mr. Patton proposing going OVER these routes? How dangerous would that be? How much approach from both sides would consume the farmland there, in order to span so much distance? What will this do to the drainage in the area? What is the danger to the daily commuter on these roads and on Amtrak with high train traffic volume daily overhead?Gardner, Illinois
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21963Rock Against the RailI have grave concerns about the proposed railway coming into my neighborhood. Our farmland and roadways will be affected in a negative way. Who we are as a community will be greatly affected. Please reconsider and stop rail from going through Rock CountyDebbie DuCharme · Clinton, WI
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21962Sue Anne ParkAs a resident of Boone County, Illinois, I am writing to advise you of my position regarding the Great Lakes Basin Rail Project. I believe that this project, as it is envisioned, will not only not deliver the benefit that it claims to offer, but will in fact, impose catastrophic hardship and inconvenience upon the territories wherein it would be located. I have a home and 38 acres of farmland just west of Capron. Although the proposed route for this rail line would be west of my land, if it is built, there could still be considerable negative impact on me. I rely on the rental of my farmland for my retirement income and the value of that land depends primarily upon it's quality and accessibility. It is very likely that such a project would negatively impact drainage patterns and it would most certainly make it more difficult for the agricultural equipment to be transported from surrounding areas. Such things could negatively impact me in a manner that would be extremely difficult to quantify. I have additional concerns regarding the potential for an adverse affect on our local aquifer. So much of this area is rural and all of us outside the villages depend upon it for water from our wells. Any spillage of toxins or chemicals could compromise its safety and accordingly our ability to remain here at all, much less farm the land. The fact that no major rail line has expressed any interest whatsoever in this project would seem to indicate that the investors behind this proposal have not performed due diligence regarding its actual desirability. I'd suggest that even if there is an efficiency issue which requires some solution, there has been no objective determination that this is the one that should be selected in lieu of others being considered by the rail lines themselves. I encourage the board to require a full review of the GLB project and not grant any exemption from that even if it is requested. I believe that thorough scrutiny will reveal this proposal to be what it truly is, a device of financial opportunism designed to benefit no one but its financiers, while disrupting the environment and the local economy with enormous potential negative impacts upon life styles, land values, and income strains.Capron, IL
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21961Bruce BakerI am writing to voice opposition to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad, and to urge the STB to deny their request. In our area, there are numerous abandoned coal mines with underground shafts. The proposed route goes right through these abandoned shafts, causing me to question the viability of construction. These shafts are in the area of Verona, IL and South Wilmington, IL.Verona, Illinois
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21960Sonja JacksonI am opposed to the GLB railroad because it will devalue outdoor enjoyment. My friends, family and I canoe, kayak and tube Turtle Creek. A railroad crossing may cause this creek to be unnagivable not to mention how irritating the sounds of passing trains would be.Clinton, WI
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21959Nancy L HawkinsMr. Navecky, I am submitting a second comment because I forgot to mention one other important issue in my first correspondence. I believe there is another potentially large safety issue of the GLB railway proposal. The projected path also takes it on State property, The Westville Correctional Facility in LaPorte County, IN. Sometimes prisoners work outside of the perimeter of the electrified fence, and putting a railway there gives another opportunity for an escape route for a prisoner. To me, this is a safety issue for our entire community. Thank you for reading one more important concern that I have and my apologies for not including it in my first correspondence. Sincerely, Nancy HawkinsWestville, IN
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21958Richard L. TurnerDear Mr. Navecky, My concern with this proposed railway route is the environmental impact it will have. The farmland in this area is a national resource. It is some of the best in the country. We all know derailments occur and this railroad will be carrying hazardous materials. It would seem to be the squandering of natural resources for monetary gain. We also have a huge glacial drinking water aquifer running beneath our area. This should be protected from hazardous contaminants at all cost!Safety issues with railroad crossings and derailments in our remote area are yet another concern. Please do not approve this railroad route!!!GARDEN PRAIRIE, Illinois
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21957John McclevertyThe proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail project Docket no. FD 35952 as seen on the overlay comes within 150 feet of my house. I have concern regarding ground movement and noise. The house is 103 years old and not on a typical foundation as found today. The house is set on field rocks cemented together. The house also has a well for tap water and the normal residue run off from railrods is a concern. No city water is available. The access to the property is from State route 2. The grade crossing will have to go under or over State route 2. A bridge over will cut off access to my property without a frontage road. A bridge and the trains will also cut off the currently unobstructed views which is a major reason we purchased the house.I purchased this property in November 2015. I feel this project will devalue my investment substantially. It was also not disclosed that there was any projects of this scope in process. Please do not hesitate to contact me at any time as I would like to help resolve any of these issues. Thank you for your time.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21956Kim WestfallDear Mr.Navecky: In total opposition of the above docket number, I would like to add a concern. An evacuation would require for me to leave my home. How would I take all my horses, I only have room to take three. There are 7. Plus where could I go with 3 dogs, 3 cats, 2 birds and 7 horses? Thank you for your consideration.. I LOVE Porter County just the way it is!!!! Kim WestfallValparaiso, In
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21955Daniele MillerDear Mr. Navecky, I'm not well versed when it comes to the ins and outs of the ladders of politics, but my heart tells me that you ARE a part of being a valuable resource regarding the proposed railroad project from Indiana through Rock County. You're smart enough to know the arguments. People who can be affected have family farms, nurseries, and so on. My husband and I moved to Clinton for peace and quiet to raise our 2 little boys. We have a small 3 acre parcel and many friends in our area. This railroad proposal by GLBT is horrifying to me. I don't understand how a for-profit company can impose eminent domain and start ruining small towns and farms, etc.? Our neighbors have a small dairy farm that's been passed down for generations. This proposed railroad would travel right through the land they grow their corn on to feed their cows. This proposed track would be about 10 feet from our driveway. At 110 diesel trains per day, going 70 mph, carrying millions of gallons of hazardous materials, our dreams are ruined. Our property value will plummet and we won't even be able to sleep with our windows open. In addition there are environmental issues to consider and water flows being disrupted. I truly hope there is a way that you could help or try to understand our position. Thank you for your time. Daniele MillerClinton, WI
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21954Gene EldridgePlease consider the safety of our school children when locating the proposed freight rail tracks and closing county roads. In Porter Twp. the K thru 3 Grade School is located just south of 100 S on 725 W, the 4th thru 8 grade is located on 550 S and the High School is located on State Rd 2 at 500 W. The buss barn is located adjacent to the school on 550 S. for all students. Please consider an alternate route for the project that would protect our children. Thank youValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21953Nancy L. HawkinsMr. Navecky, I am writing to inform you of some concerns I have about the proposed railway by the Great Lakes Basin. I live near the Porter Co./LaPorte Co. line. I am just inside of Porter Co. in the northeast corner of Washington Twp. The railway would cut through my neighbor's property that is divided by the two counties. It will be very close to the eastern border of my property, and at it's closest near the southeast corner. I have many concerns. I would like to address many of those concerns in no particular order. There is already a double railway to the south of my property line, and there is a ditch/creek dividing my property and the existing tracks and my neighbors property and the existing tracks. These tracks have a higher elevation than that of my property and my neighbor's property in which the new proposed railway would most likely have to go up and over these tracks and creek/ditch, if it were passed and built.( A possible better route or option may be to cross this existing track closer to highway 421 where the track is at ground elevation, if it has to be built at all) Our properties are pretty low and somewhat of what you call muck ground". In order for my husband and I to even build our house here we had to install a perimeter drain to help dewater the area to make it suitable for building and installing a septic. This leads me to my next concern over drainage issues. Bordering the western side of my property is another creek/drainage ditch. Water does run from my neighbors property across mine and into this ditch. If this railway is built, this would essentially, in my opinion, back up the normal flow of water and drainage causing many problems with his farm ground. It also concerns me that we would then get run off from the railway on our side into our hay field. At that point, the train would be coming off of an incline and getting ready to make a gradual turn slowing from 70 mph to 40 mph. Derailments can happen and if it does, will end up pouring any hazardous/toxic chemicals right across my property, possibly contaminating my well, and into the creek/drainage ditch thus polluting everything downstream. Also, my driveway is a school bus turnaround for Washington Twp. School at the north side of my property. My husband stepped off the distance from our driveway to where the proposed railway would have a crossing on our road, and the distance was approximately 630 ft. A railroad crossing with a train crossing it will have traffic backed up, especially in the mornings with higher amounts of traffic. To me, it sounds like a huge safety issue trying to back a school bus with children inside into my driveway to turn around. The timing of that task could be impeccable or detrimental. When we built our home roughly 18.5 years ago, we were well aware there was a track behind our house, there is not an intersection there so the horns are generally not blown near our home. If the new railway goes in we could possibly be hearing a train horn/whistle 110 times a day, vibration from the new railway would almost be a constant. I am a very light sleeper as is my daughter, I cannot even imagine listening to this and how much it is going to disrupt our lives from the relatively quiet atmosphere we are used to and chose for ourselves when we purchased this 24.95 acre field 19.5 years ago. It was just that, a field. We now have a home, 2 barns, a couple of pastures, a nice large garden area, and a crop of hay, all that we have built over the years as we could afford it because this is the life we wanted and so badly wanted for our children. We do raise feeder pigs, and our children are in 4-H. They are often out walking/exercising their pigs in the early morning hours, no leash, no halters, no ropes, because that is how you show and get your pigs ready for show. The thought of these projected trains zooming past my kids and our livestock makes me sick to my stomach because of the obvious dangers it would pose. My son also suffers from many environmental allergies. We know and understand the ones that he is been tested for, but it concerns me to think of what the trains would be hauling, and what it is going to emit and how much that we don't know my son is allergic to, in such close proximity to our home, barns, children, and livestock. I would like to thank you for taking the time to read over some of my concerns, and ask that you and the STB please take these into consideration when making your decision. I understand that you and your peers do not take your decisions lightly and an extreme amount of work and time go into making your decision. I hope and pray that some of my concerns help in shedding light on some of the detrimental effects in this area of Porter and LaPorte counties. Thank you for your time. Respectfully submitted, Nancy L. Hawkins"
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21952Julie Mink[Hebron] We have very serious concerns about ground water contamination if there were an accident. Everybody in this area is on a well. Additionally, I believe that drainage would be an issue because of all the tiles in the field. They would not be able to hold the weight of multiple freight trains.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21951Patricia TrollerI have been reading all of the information coming out about the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad that will be traveling from WI to IN. I live about 1/2 mile from where the railroad will cross Rt 49 in Porter County, IN. It is very easy to to take a not in my back yard" stance on this. However, in looking at the route, I am terrified of how close this will be passing to two schools along the route. In Lake County, IN, it passes 1/2 mile from the Lowell IN elementary school and here in Porter County, it passes about 1/4 mile from the Morgan Township School system. This is far too close for comfort. Not just in my area, but in all areas involved, there is insufficient knowledge and preparation to deal with a rail disaster. I have seen the footage from Lac-Megantic, QC and am horrified at the destruction wrought by the crash of a single freight train. And if this is near one of our schools??? These DOT-111 cars that are included in virtually every freight train do not belong within 4 miles of a town like Valparaiso, IN. The proposed route in IN would cut off Hebron and Kouts from the rest of Porter County. I have so many objections to this proposal, I hope that this has not been too dis-jointed! Please take these into consideration when the time comes to think about this railroad proposal. Thank you very much."
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(printed as 4/11/2016)CommentEI-21950Ken DaggettI am asking you to deny GLB railroad permission to operate a rail line through Illinois, The project sounds like a money making deal for a handful of investors at the expense of hundreds of long time land owners. The route goes through some of the best farmland in the country and removes this land from the tax roles leaving the resident of the county to make up for the lose. It also reduces the property value of the property owners which is even less revenue for the county. The intended route goes directly through Shabbona Indian Reservation in Grundy county, close to burial grounds. Thank You, Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-25711Pat MulloolyDear Mr. Navecky, I am very concerned about the proposed railroad project, as this will disturb many conservation practices that have been implemented on our prime farmland. These practices include waterways for surface drainage, tile drainage projects, farmland preservation practices, Conservation Stewardship Programs to name a few. These projects have been funded by Farmers, Landowners, Local,State, and Federal Government Dollars. It would be a shame to have these disturbed. Thank You for your time and consideration.Clinton, wi
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-22137Diane SiegTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: Diane Sieg <dianesieg@rocketmail.com> Date: 04/10/2016 10:19PM Subject: Docket #FD35952 Dear Mr. Navecky, I would like to express my concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation, LLC rail line project. Docket #35952. I oppose this project and ask the Surface Transportation Board to deny the proposal. These are some of my concerns: ~The destruction/loss of prime farm ground ~With the proposed number of trains daily, the increased possiblity of derailments and the resulting spillage of environmentally toxic substances ~How would this affect local water drainage ~How would it affect local water tables ~School bus safety at crossings Please oppose this project! Sincerely, J. Diane Sieg 3431 S. Woodlawn Rd. Rochelle, IL 61068"
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-22136Lisa MikulichTo: <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: mllm@netnitco.net" <mllm@netnitco.net> Date: 04/10/2016 11:19AM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Rail Line Mr. Navecky and Board, As a resident of Porter County, Indiana, I am required to have my vehicle tested for safe emission exhaust on a biannual basis. This is also required for Lake County, Indiana residents. We are concerned about the air quality in our area. Would the constant freight train traffic be defeating our efforts for clean air? Thank you for your consideration, Lisa Mikulich "
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(printed as 4/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21948Peggy Fowler[Lowell] We live down by the Kankakee River in Lake County, we have a daughter who is Moderately Mentally Handicapped and has Epilepsy. There are times when she has a seizure that she HAS to go to the hospital,with this railway wanting to go in, just how am i suppose to do this, with as many trains they are saying are going to run on these rails , i will have to wait a lot longer, if get across the tracks at all, this is a concern that i thought i would never have to think about,think about if it was your child, how would you feel about it, i really don't think whom ever wants to put this through as thought about the impact it would have on the lives of the people in the community, this is one of my concerns. Thank You Peggy FowlerLowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21947Anne BrandlThe proposed new railway is planned to go right through our dairy farm on Lake Shore Rd in Clinton, WI. The impact of this train going through so many of our country roads is a huge safety concern. A train every 14 minutes, 110 trains a day will make our roads almost impassable. Trying to get to and from work, school buses trying to pick up children in the morning and drop of in the afternoon. There is also emergency vehicles to consider. We don't know what will be on the train and feel that could be a hazard also. Thank youClinton, WI
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21946Lake County RailedDave, I wanted to let you know my concerns for the possible rail way. I am concerned with the increased time it may take for emergency vehicles to get to accidents, fires and to the hospitals in our areas if the rail lines are added. We live in the country and are by a busy intersections at route 41 and Belshaw road. There have been multiple accidents with severe medical injuries or deaths. It takes our volunteer fire department/EMT time to get to us because of being in the country. If the rail lines are put in our community it will increase the time for the emergency vehicles/staff to get to the scene of accidents. I am also concerned with the close proximity of the rail line to our middle school and housing. I am a teacher and I know that it will be difficult for our students to concentrate and learn with the amount of train traffic that is expected on these rail lines. I am a special education teacher and see the sensory needs of my students impacted by the noises of emergency vehicles, sirens etc in the community. I feel that the train noises, rattling in the building and shaking of a building would be a detriment to my special needs students causing them distress. I am also concerned about the close proximity of the rail lines as a safety issue for our children. In neighboring communities children have walked on the rail lines and been killed. Others have been hit in cars and been killed. These rail lines will cross many of our roads leading to and from our schools and community stores causing our children to cross them. I fear that our students will be in harms way with the number of crossing points in our communities. I have another concern if the trains should derail or spill toxic waste in our community. Many of our community members including myself are on a well. Lowell is on a well as well. Any toxic spills could cause poisoning of our wells and be a detriment to our health. I also fear since the rail lines are proposed to be within 3/4 of a mile of my home that the constant noise from the trains passing would be difficult at night and could cause medical problems with lack of sleep. I truly appreciate your time in considering my concerns and I hope that you will take into consideration the extreme impact these rail lines will have on our community. I have other concerns about how it will impact my neighbors/farmers that are my friends, however the concerns I have stated here are those that I feel directly impact me/my family. Again thank you for your time.Regina Chancellor · Lowell, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21945BrandlWe have a nutrient management plan on our farm implemented over the last tens years. The goal of this plan is to not over apply manure so that the excess will not run and enter our streams and ground water. Our farm also uses cover crops to help eliminate erosion. We try to be stewards of our land. The land the train will take if it goes through will have a dramatic impact on the nutrient management plan. Our farm is on Lake Shore Rd., Clinton, WI.David · Clinton, WI
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21944Nancy FickenWe own the farmland that the railroad would be on. We are concerned for several reasons. It would have a huge impact on existing land because of drainage. We live in the country to get away from noise and back up of traffic. Safety vehicles would be slowed down coming to our area. We are very against itValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21943Karen Biroschik[Sheridan] I am writing with my concerns about the GLB railroad project. I am afraid this will impact the wildlife in our beautiful Fox River Valley, along with our local farming community. I resent the fact it will bring excess noise and pollution to our quiet part of LaSalle County. I can see no benefits at all. Our land/home values will decrease and it is hard enough to sell property as it is now. Thank you for considering my comments and I hope you will not support this plan. Karen BiroschikSheridan, IL
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21942HoytMr. Navecky, As a 36 year emergency room nurse and a member of the medical division of the Porter County SWAT team for 11 years, I would like to express concerns regarding extended emergency response times in Porter County should the GLBT train be allowed to go through. Many of our south county residents already have an increased time in their travel to the hospital because of a recent move by the hospital to the north end of the county. Frequent trains bisecting the north and south ends of the county would increase this time in an emergency. The same would hold true for emergency responses by the SWAT team and other critical incident teams. Time is crucial in these instances and the shorter the better. Respectfully, Luann HoytLuann · Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21941Robert CauffmanMr. Navecky As a retired Conservation Officer for the State of Indiana, I have first hand knowledge of what happens during train wreaks. One of my major concerns are the facts that if this train was to derail in our local farm fields, the liquid material (hazardous material) would work its way into the farm fields tile systems and would not be able to be contained. This would cause catastrophic effects to our environment and eco system. Its one thing when the soils can be removed to stop it, however the majority of these fields are tiles for drainage. There would be no way to contain such a spill Respectfully Bob Cauffman Indiana Conservation Officer (ret.)Kouts, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21940Julie Mink[Hebron] Having 4 children, two of which are still living at home we are very concerned about the amount of time our children spend on the bus. Currently they are on the bus for no less than one hour. That is already extremely long for a 7 year old and to increase that waiting for trains to pass is very distressing for us and our children. They would cross the path of this train no less than three times.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21939Scott ThorsenPersonally I find Great Lakes Basin Transportation llc to be lacking on information to make quality comments for an EIS. Just how any roads does GLB intend to close? Having a broad statement advocating as many road closures as possible to limit traffic is not a specific plan. For those who live in committees effects, this will mean a vast reduction in quality of life issues. With township roads closed, access to schools and the cost of busing will increase dramatically. Access to emergency services will be limited. In many cases fire and ems districts will not have access to homes except for additional travel outside the district. For GLBT llc to list road closures as a safety benefit is a bit myopic. We have paid for our local roads through decades of taxes and it provides safe service and economic benefit. Yes, road closure provides economic benefit for the undisclosed investors of GLBT llc, but we are sacrificing that economic and safety benefit. How many more accidents and lives will be lost due to slower emergency service response time but for the profit of GLBT llc? We need more information to make a quality response. The website for GLBT llc will provide local HAZMAT training, but again lacks specifics. How many fire departments will be trained and at what level. Again, if out of area fire departments are trained for response to train spills, will these fire departments be knowledgeable on the limited road access. Just stating in a website GLBT llc will provide training and contractors is a vague commitment. Thank you for the consideration.Ottawa, IL
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21938Daniel AbbottI am commenting on GLB proposed route coming at the very property line of my residence.We are rural located, we recently purchased this property just to be far away from noise pollution where we can settle down and raise our family.My greatest concerns are of our water, the most precious resource we have to sustain our life here as we only have a well, and risk of farm land here being contaminated by a possible hazardous spill of any kind would be catastrophic to our well being, noise pollution right on our property line is another huge concern, we moved here to get away from this.Our property value will decrease,our farming partners will also be affected,and for the environmental concerns alone over the farm land decreasing and contamination possibilities, this should be enough alone,and eminent domain is unnecessary and unwanted by this community, we are strongly against this GLB railroad plan and are willing to fight it to the best of our ability. Thank you for considering the homeowner who just wants to not be affected by noise and the stresses placed upon this family and neighbors when all we want is to enjoy our safe place in peace.Monroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 4/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21936Kathleen BurkeDear Mr. Navecky, Regarding doc #FD-35952-0: I am totally against the Great Lakes Basin Rail Line project. The impact on farms around the area will be extremely destructive. Farms will be cut in to smaller fields without any road access. Farming equipment will be too big to use in these smaller fields even if they can get access to the field. More farm equipment will be on major roads to get to the fields at all. What will become of the country roads that people use now instead of main highways. Will they be abandoned? Also, Rochelle, IL is in a basin and has always had standing water and drainage problems; Messing around with the drainage tiles to build this railroad would create an even BIGGER problem for us. In addition, I understand that this project is being proposed to decrease the delays at the Chicago terminals. Please don't let Chicago's problem become Rochelle's problem. Please stop this Great Lakes Basin Rail Line project from ruining Rochelle. Thank you. Kathleen Burke Rochelle resident cswkab@gmail.com 815-520-8407Rochelle, IL
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21935Andrea kampeI am opposed to the railroad coming thru. We look at beautiful land behind our house. The train coming thru would cause noise and air pollution. Also, the fear of our daughter driving soon and worrying about all the crossings. It would disrupt and delay emergency vehicles.The train going right by the middle school would be highly disruptive to the students and teachers.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21934John BryantThe Great Lakes Basin railroad route passes through a 9.5 acre lake on the west side of Interstate Highway I-65. Filling the lake would destroy a water resource currently used for irrigation and fishing recreation. West of that lake are many soccer fields used by soccer teams from all over the Midwest. Those fields are directly in the path of the proposed railway.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21933Kathleen L. BryantI would like to comment about the safety of the proposed rail crossing at State Highway 2 just west of Clay St. and east of I-65 in Indiana. The rail line crosses both Clay St. and Rt. 2 with a quarter of a mile of each other and at each place, the rail line is at a sharp angle to the roads mentioned. This does not allow for a safe crossing. Visibility is a real problem, especially with two tracks. State Highway 2 is a very busy road and so is Clay St., a major north/south county road. Right next to the location is the Range Line Presbyterian Church, at the northeast quadrant of Rt. 2 and Clay St.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21932John BryantRegarding the proposed rail line in N.W.Indiana, the route does not consider changes in elevation which are very significant. Near the rail crossing at IN State Rt. 2 east if I-65, the elevation is 665ft. One miles north it is 43 feet higher, well beyond a grade allowable for easy rail movement. Excavating and filling earth in that area will create an environmental nightmare, since the drainage in that area flows from north to south. The cut thru the area north of Rt. 2 will be severe and cause much erosion of agricultural lands. The rail route crosses and renders useless several grassed waterways installed under the guidance of the NRCS, a federal agency. Northwestern Indiana is home to many abandoned rail right of ways which provide for minimal grade changes and have existing drainage systems in place. Some of these right of ways could be revived to provide a viable route that would cause little damage to the terrain in comparison to the proposed route. The snake like route of the line inundates viable agricultural sections which are laid out to provide for efficient planting and harvesting of crops by large machinery. Fields with irrigation systems bisected by the line could no longer be irrigated.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21931Roger Clark FarmDaming of surface water from my farm and two other farm owners. Will need outlet under railroad base.Roger and Elizabeth Clark · Hebron, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21930Patti Sherman BradyPlease read the attached letter concerning the proposed GLB Railroad. Thank you so much.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21929Kenneth JackowskiI am writing as a concerned citizen about the GLB Railroad project, which is supposed to pass through Porter County, IN. I am opposed to the project for several reasons. First, the railroads would pass by residential areas of southern Valparaiso, IN, creating serious safety concerns and impact recreational areas. Safety concerns are further elevated due to the close proximity of the K-12 school. Children will frequently have to cross the rail tracks, in particular as it is in an area that many children ride their bikes. Hence this rail project not only endangers the safety of citizens and children, but would also impact the recreational options in the area. Second, the rail project would seriously impact our water resources. The table water levels are high, and experts have advised that any spillage would contaminate the wells on which we all rely for our daily water supplies. Third, as residents, we are gravely concerned by the impact of noise and vibration on our homes and on the nearby schools. Frequent train passings will affect our quality of life, and affect our children’s educational potential. Fourth, we are concerned about socioeconomic effects. Our area is home to many families with young children, and the potential influx of construction workers and of construction traffic creates concerns for the safety of our children playing in the surrounding recreational areas. Fifth, the railway would divide Porter County in half. It would affect the social and economic network of Porter County, disrupting daily travel from home to work, from home to school, and from home to basic necessities such as doctors, banks, and supermarkets. Finally, the enormous capacity of the proposed railway—up to 110 trains per day— further underlines the severity of the aforementioned concerns. Exposure to trains would be almost constant, fundamentally changing the quality of lives for the County as a whole. As a concerned citizen and voter, I appeal to you to take into account my concerns as you make decisions that will affect my daily life for years to come. Sincerely, Kenneth JackowskiValparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21928Rita JackowskiI am writing as a concerned citizen about the GLB Railroad project, which is supposed to pass through Porter County, IN. I am opposed to the project for several reasons. First, the railroads would pass by residential areas of southern Valparaiso, IN, creating serious safety concerns and impact recreational areas. Safety concerns are further elevated due to the close proximity of the K-12 school. Children will frequently have to cross the rail tracks, in particular as it is in an area that many children ride their bikes. Hence this rail project not only endangers the safety of citizens and children, but would also impact the recreational options in the area. Second, the rail project would seriously impact our water resources. The table water levels are high, and experts have advised that any spillage would contaminate the wells on which we all rely for our daily water supplies. Third, as residents, we are gravely concerned by the impact of noise and vibration on our homes and on the nearby schools. Frequent train passings will affect our quality of life, and affect our children’s educational potential. Fourth, we are concerned about socioeconomic effects. Our area is home to many families with young children, and the potential influx of construction workers and of construction traffic creates concerns for the safety of our children playing in the surrounding recreational areas. Fifth, the railway would divide Porter County in half. It would affect the social and economic network of Porter County, disrupting daily travel from home to work, from home to school, and from home to basic necessities such as doctors, banks, and supermarkets. Finally, the enormous capacity of the proposed railway—up to 110 trains per day— further underlines the severity of the aforementioned concerns. Exposure to trains would be almost constant, fundamentally changing the quality of lives for the County as a whole. As a concerned citizen and voter, I appeal to you to take into account my concerns as you make decisions that will affect my daily life for years to come. Sincerely, Rita JackowskiValpariaso, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21927Kim WestfallDear MR Navecky: Please take in consideration that I along with my Porter County Community have wells as our only water source. I personally have to have a minimum of 70 gallons of fresh water A DAY for my livestock. In the case of contamination, that would become impossible. Thank you time and consideration!! Kim WestfallValparaiso, In
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21926Robert CauffmanMr. Navecky Have been in law enforcement for 25+ years, I have great concerns for the effects this rail line would have on the public safety of our community. With the proposed rail line, it would cut off this county from north to south. This would make for much longer response times during emergency situations. These rural areas relay on fire departments that are required to bring water to the fire scenes. With roads being closed, and having to wait on trains to cross these areas, there could be substantial lose of property as well as loss of life because of these delays. Further I can only imagine the catastrophic effects it would have if a school bus was to be struck by this train/ the law requires all buses to stop at every RR crossing to check for trains. This will cause bus routes to have increased times to and from schools as the rail line will cross every road in our areas. I would ask that you please look at these points and consider either denning the permit or move the rail line to an area that will not be as detrimental to the community. Respectfully Bob CauffmanKouts, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21925Robert CauffmanTo Whom it may concern In regards to the proposed rail line by great Lakes Basin rail line, I am very concerned about the amount of damage that this will cause to our drainage in our area. I install and repair field tiles in my business for farmers. I understand the importance of them and have seen first hand what happens when they become blocked or damaged. In our county there are several hundred miles of them that would be damaged by the construction of this rail line. A large portion of them are only two to three feet under ground and have been there since the 30's. Once they are damaged, it will cause a very large lose of farm ground, flooding of homes and roads in the area, as well as creating more wet areas for mosquitoes to breed. This rail line will basically build a dam across the Porter county area stopping all the surface water from going south to the Kankakee river basin. Once this happens it will have an direct effect on the eco system of our wetlands. I also fear that it will lower the level of the Kankakee river, which in turn could cause the Northern Indiana Public Service Co (NIPSCO) to have to reduce or stop the power plant from running. They are mandated by federal law to shut he plant down once the river reaches certain levels. This would in turn cause a power shortage for 1/5 of the county.Kouts, IN
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21924Judith ReplinPlease consider the well being of our children. The proposed Great Lakes Basin transportation rail line will pass close to schools and existing neighborhoods. Some children walk to school and will have to cross tracks. Wearing ear buds or texting is common among kids, also children are fascinated by trains and may play or walk along tracks, thus creating an increase for a child fatality. Special needs children will be susceptible to noise and vibration which will be detrimental to their health and well being. The potential of a chemical accident near a school is unthinkable. Please save our children. Thank you.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21923Rock Against RailOur taxes will increase to pay for the upkeep and maintenance of the roads and rail crossings. Our tax burden will also increase for fire department and ambulances. Our Milton fire department is volunteers; so would we have to pay for full time fire fighters? Due to increased accidents on railroad crossings which are bound to happen. Statistics support these facts. Thank you for your time.Marie McNall · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21922Rock Against RailThe proposed railroad will run right through our farm in section 19, Johnstown township Janesville, Wisconsin. This farm has natural springs that flow very heavy in wet years, just as in 2010. The water flows eastward right through the proposed rail tracks. The water continues to the Rock River. This is a huge environmental and safety issue. The water flowing will cause unstable rail beds. This will cause derailments; that will contaminate all our well water and affect people all the way to Janesville and the Rock River for many years. Thank your for your time to read my concern.Jacque McNall · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21921Rock Against RailWe live and farm in section 29 of Johnstown township Road County, Wisconsin. The proposed railroad would be right through 24 acres of our farms' most productive soil. We are against the proposed railroad coming through prime and fertile farmland. They are proposing building a rail system in a natural flow of water. One of our main concerns are the thousands of acres north and west of our fields that drain through our farm. The water flows through the rock prairie eastward all the way to Janesville's Greenbelt eventually going to the Rock River. By building a rail bed this would change our while ecosystem. Our farmland couldn't drain eastward. (Please refer to a map of our section in the 2009-2010 crop year). This would make our farm a standing pool of water and worthless to us. Thank for your time.Bill McNall · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21920Rock Against RailWe are very concerned about the safety of the railway crossings. Many high speed trains over our country roads would be very dangerous. Hundreds of cars everyday travel on County Road A. Many school buses would pass over these tracks multiple times a day. Along with many commuters use County Road A, County Road MM and County Road M to get to working surrounding communities. People travelling to Milwaukee from Janesville all use County Road A. We are concerned about the small back roads. The side roads are how we move our farm equipment. Thank you for your time to read my concerns.Bill McNall · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21919Rock Against RailThere is approximately 25 acres of woods on our farm that the proposed railroad would be cutting through. This woods runs along the ridgeline from Janesville to Walworth county. The woods is a huge habitat for various species. Including but not limited to: Whitetail, Fox, Coyotes, Turkeys, Geese, Ducks, Hawks, Rabbits, Squirrel, Owls, Whooping cranes, Bald Eagles (sighting the past couple days), Snowy owls(sighting this winter) and many other birds and animals. By having the rail line come through this woods, it will destroy great amounts of habitat and reduce animal populations. Our hunting land would be destroyed.Bill McNall · Janesville, WI
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(printed as 4/10/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21917John GayHello, STB Board. My name is John W. Gay III (Chip). I have enjoyed trains since I was a young child. I am a railfan. I have a college degree from Marshall University Huntington, WV in business, sales, marketing, and logistics. In relation to the private investor line WI/IL/IN/MI a few things. An article in the Chicago Tribune paints a nice round 8 Billion Dollars for a line over 270 plus miles in 4 states going through some of the very expensive land just west of Chicago. 8 Billion is a very, very, very low cost. The investment group could easily blow that amount of money in just a few miles. Please really go over with them where they are getting such a low number for cost. Just moving a natural gas pipeline or building a bridge over a main highway can balloon the cost. Add in any number of lawsuits... The article also mentions 110 trains a day would use the line. What trains? They should provide the rail community and the stb board with what trains that currently run today they are using vs ones they think" will use the line. Give the list of train symbols by railroads to your staff and to the staff at Trains Magazine and Railfan and Railroad to go over. Let journalists in the railroad community actually look at the numbers and what trains are running today. 110 trains seems like a very large number. At the peak of coal before coal traffic started going down you could see say 30 to 50 coal trains on some days that could go around Chicago. However, that number is down from what it was. There are also some unit sand/oil/ethanol trains that could go around. I am sure there are intermodal trains and some manifests. However, without providing symbols of current traffic there is no accurate way of coming up with how many trains. Ask the group why are they not instead providing a toll 6 lane interstate with the railroad in the middle? If they proposed this idea the concept would be more likely to pass as there is no good way to get around Chicago from WI to MI via IL/IN. It is almost impossible for truck and car traffic to navigate from Milwaukee/Fox Cities/Green Bay to get to northwest IN and lower MI without going via Chicago. To use 43/39 and then backroads off 80 is not available you still have to go via the burbs on 80. At least with a private road with the railroad in the middle you might have a group who will back the plan. Even without the railroad if the private group instead went road only the idea might have a better chance. The illiana was not well thought out it only solved a small issue vs the whole issue of the 4 states. I live in Peoria, IL. Why is the US Government, Private Investors, Shortline-Regional Railroads (G&W), and class 1s UP/BNSF/CN/NS doing more to route traffic via Peoria? I could poke so many holes into the idea of a private around Chicago Railroad it is not even funny. The track is already at Peoria it just needs upgrades, sidings, maybe signals if it got to that many trains, and track put back in a few spots. Even if 20 extra trains were routed via Peoria it still would take down 20 trains not going via the Chicago Terminal! For example Up has a main line from Nelson, IL coming south into Peoria. The BNSF has a secondary coming east from their main hub in Galesburg, IL. At Galesburg a bnsf line from the PNW-Minn-St. Paul comes in and a line from the west via Denver-Omaha as well as lines via KC and the southwest. If the BNSF peoria line would have more sidings put in... On the east side of Peoria you have the NS and CN. One has to use one of 3 G&W railroads to navigate TPW-IL Midland, TZPR from UP/BNSF to NS/CN. Put the second track back in on the river bridge. Right now the TZPR could use the second track without the extra traffic I am suggesting. Put an automatic switch from the BNSF to TZPR back in (could be a pad from the cab they dial in cab not even a ctc signal) or they request the tzpr dispatcher to dial it as the dispatcher is not far from the switch location. The ns main also needs sidings put in as would the cn main. The biggest issue for NS would be an investment of a wye put in at Bement, IL. With this added traffic maybe NS would finally put in the southeast track to their mainline. At South Pekin, IL UP and CN run feet away on the north side of town and south side of town. A new short track could be added to connect both lines. This would keep all up traffic off of the G&W in town with a direct connection between both Class 1s (there was one between both former CNW/IC years ago). So where am I going with this? Traffic from the Pac North West and Minn St. Paul on BNSF many west south west metros and Pac Northwest traffic on the UP main via Nelson, IL could come down to Peoria or over to Peoria. This traffic (if the wye was built at Bement, IL on NS) could then go via NS and CN to Ohio/Northeast/Canada/Southeast USA with out going via Chicago. If the TPW had track upgrades, tie upgrades, and new sidings and maybe signals if that was needed do to traffic increases that would also be a way to get traffic to the csx in Watseka, IL and Reynolds, IN. CSX traffic could also go via NS to Danville, IL and via CN to Decatur, IL. Please explain to the public, the railfan community, and the STB itself how the private railroad makes any sense when the track basically is already in place at Peoria and needs upgrades. The cost to the upgraded track most likely would come in at a much lower cost then to build 270 plus miles new in 4 states! Also with upgraded lines Peoria could maybe have Amtrak come into the city. The government at large, the railroads, and private investors are doing a bad job of not using what is already in place. Even if a small amount of traffic was diverted via Peoria the amount of traffic would not be going via Chicago. You take 5 to 10 trains out of Chicago that is huge! The iais and ns had been using Peoria to re route ethanol around Chicago. Right now it is just being used for grain trains. In a really odd move NS put the ethaonal traffic back via the burbs Metra/CSX (they claim to having great new upgrades in IN and Ohio to their track) Yes wonderful, but due to Metra and if Amtrak someday uses Metra instead of CN at Joliet to downtown Chicago why would you be adding 3 to 5 ethanol trains to that track? IAIS only has so many track widows to get ns traffic to them do to them using CSX/Metra track. If the wye was finished at Bement, IL this would solve a whole host of issues. Also a few sidings between Gibson City/Bloomington-Normal/East Peoria, IL would really solve the issue for NS traffic. The STB board needs to sit down with their Class 1 counterparts to do a better job of re routing traffic around Metro Areas. So put in a mid million dollar investment at Peoria for track upgrades coming into and out of town sidings added, track upgrades, signals, possible wye at Bement, IL on NS/CN/BNSF/UP I am sure will easily come in at a cost that is much lower then a hypothetical 8 Billion dollars (that most likely is a very low estimate of the actual cost). Please read my comments when the board has time and feel free to ask me via phone or email on any ideas. Thank you for your time John Gay (Chip)"
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21916RAILEDI am writing to voice my opposition to the planned Great Lakes Basin Railroad plans. Aside from losing some land personally, I am concerned about the effects the rail will have on drainage to the Kankakee river and the additional loss of prime farmland due to flooding north of the rail, where the southerly flow of water will be unnaturally diverted and or blocked. Thank you.Larry Randall · Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21915Randal Klackle[Lowell] Based upon the fact that virtually all Lowell residents are on well water systems, the proposed track going in close proximity to a Lowell middle school, and the following report, we find the proposal concerning.......... An alarming pattern across North America that helps explain the significant rise of derailments involving oil-hauling trains over the last three years, even as railroads are investing billions of dollars in improving the safety of their networks. A review of 31 crashes that have occurred on oil trains since 2013 puts track failure at the heart of the growing safety problem. Track problems were blamed on 59% of the crashes, more than double the overall rate for freight train accidents, according to a Times analysis of accident reports. Investigators and rail safety experts are looking at how the weight and movements of oil trains may be causing higher than expected track failures. The growing number of trains hauling crude oil from Canada and the Northern Plains are among the heaviest on the rails today, many extending more than 100 cars in length and weighing a cumulative 19,000 tons or more. Oil shipments by rail have soared — an 18-fold increase between 2010 and 2014 — as domestic oil production has escalated faster than the construction of new pipelines to carry it to market. Concerns about the safety of hauling crude began to rise after the horrific Lac-Megantic accident in Quebec in July 2013 that left 47 people dead and the city’s downtown in ruins. Sarah Feinberg, chief of the Federal Railroad Administration, said the agency is working hard to improve safety, but preventing accidents that result from defective track involves finding a needle in every haystack along thousands of miles of track. “We have been incredibly lucky that the accidents have happened mostly in rural areas,” she said. “Some of them have been very close calls.” The crashes have occurred as the nation’s railroad system is being asked to do more than at any time in history, putting additional wear and tear on the tracks. Since 2001, railroads have seen a modest 12% increase in the number of cars they haul, but a 24% jump in the more comprehensive measurement of cargo that looks at the weight and train mileage the system has to bear, known as ton-miles, according to industry data. Oil train accidents are a worrisome trend in the opposite direction and not fully understood.Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21914Marie WietbrockMr. Navecky, We are land owners directly affected by the GLB rail line, and the more I read, the harder the impact will be on us. First and foremost will be the destruction of the water flow onto our property. We have spent years and much money directing the water with waterways and tile work. This will be totally destroyed between the building of the rail line and the vibration of the trains. The water will be blocked from flowing south to the streams. Our farm ground will be flooded including our yard. The train is proposed to run facing our house, so the lights of the trains will shine right at us. The vibration of the trains will also be so close to our house it will shake the windows. Our sleep will be nonexistent! The proposed route will also land lock 2/3 of our property. Train wrecks are known to happen on a regular basis and the curve on our property would increase the chances of it happening here. We have a well supply our water and don't want it contaminated by a spill from whatever materials they may haul. Please do not let this happen to the people of Lake County !! Thank you, Jim and Marie WietbrockLowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21913Jo BaloghI am against this proposed railroad route for many reasons. First and foremost this track will be located a quarter mile from a school delivering hazardous freight of which my community is unable to handle. Being a retired RN I was on the open heart team and realize that time is essential for survival of a loved one. Since this proposed route goes through many of our back roads at the tune of a train every 13 min.,I see this as a big problem for first responders. Another concern is drainage issues for our farmers as well as easement to their fields as the new proposed track will be closing some roads. Noise pollution is another factor to consider especially next to school. If certain roads are closed off it could potentially affect our traffic tremendously when harvest time comes and the semis and tractors must take our highways to get to the grain elevators. At the very least I think it should consider rerouting the tracks a little more south with much less population and subsequently less impact.Valparaiso, In.
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(printed as 4/10/2016)CommentEI-21911Ken DaggettThis project is out to line a few rich men's pockets at the expense of a MANY hard working individuals who have worked long and hard on, to many, their farms that have been in the family for generations. These thousands of family's also have a right to leave their grandchildren an honorable legacy, not just Frank Paton. Please give everyone on the proposed route the right to keep their way of life in tact!!!! Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21910Rex GilmanEnvironmental impact to southern Porter County, and all rural areas the GLB RR wants to destroy is huge. Any number of communities, households, and farms in its path rely on well water/ground water. I rely on groundwater. I have NO OTHER SOURCE of water available to me. I am one RR car derailment away from losing all potable water. Southern Porter County has no other water source available; Lake Michigan water is not possible. 100 trains a day, times the number of cars they haul, each one potentially hauling toxic waste, oil based products, household use chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, and who knows what else. Tainted ground water supplies affect wildlife, people, other nearby rivers and creeks... all part of the environment GLB RR wants to destroy. Please do not allow this to happen.Hebron, Indiana
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21909Lisa Russakoff[Hebron] I sincerely hope the Great Lakes Basin Railroad is not permitted to build. Allowing them to do so will put my family at risk of losing its only water source. Where we live relies on well water and there is no other source of water for our home. We live too far south in Porter County (IN) to qualify for Lake Michigan water. One incidence of a train containing anything toxic derailing (or other disaster) in southern Lake and Porter County, and my drinking, cooking, and food-growing water source is gone. I am but one of thousands of residents who will be impacted for this same reason, many of whom grow food (or raise animals for food) for more than just themselves. I would also like to mention that no matter how safely they claim they can make the rail system, mother nature causes many tornadoes throughout our area, any one of which can pick up a toxic laden train and cause it to spill it's contents, destroying our water source. Some of the Lake and Porter County land that the GLB wants to use is prone to flooding, which makes a great resting area for many thousands of migrating geese, ducks, and other birds. This part of Porter County is also home to blue herons, hawks, owls, deer, fox, coyotes, and other wildlife that will be disturbed by the construction of and running of 110 trains daily. (And it would be hard to run trains on flooded tracks.) I realize that you only look at environmental impact, but there will be an impact to the human and animal life living here, as well as an environmental impact. I thank you for reading this and hope your decision is not in favor of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad.Hebron, IN Indiana
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21908Michael BernhardThe proposed railroad will have severe environmental impacts by disrupting wildlife, and the cutting of field tile lines in fields. If a tank car or another hazardous materials car were to derail, the impact would be enormous by poisoning valuable topsoil and ground water. Roads could be closed and that would mean slower response times for emergency personnel if there is a field fire, house fire, or if someone needs an ambulance.Mazon, Illinois
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21907JeanThe loud voices might crucify me for saying this, but the railroad will bring well paying jobs to our area and we NEED them!! Do it in a responsible manner but DO IT!Kouts, IN
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21906Walter MetzDear sir, Regarding the Great Lakes Basin Railway. I don't see how any positive of this railway project could out weigh the disadvantages of the communities it is going to intersect. Thank you Walter MetzLowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21905Tina StephensI have attached a letter explaining my stance in permanently Blocking the Great Lakes Railroad project. Thank you, Tina StephensEarlville, Il
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21904Judith ReplinAccording to the Great Lakes Basin Transportation proposed rail line thru Lowell, Indiana there will only be 2 overpasses, US 41 and I-65. Who will maintain them? The other county roads will have ground level crossings. Trains will be crossing roads every 15 minutes at 70 mph. That will impact school bus, farm equipment & ambulance travel times, plus general traffic flow. If there is an accident or major chemical spill the local fire department is not equipped to handle it. Schools and towns will be at risk from hazardous material and ground water contamination. Who will be financially responsible?Lowell, Indiana
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21903Stan MeloyOur family farm lies in the path of the proposed GLB train route. I will not refer to it as a railroad because it is just somebody's scheme to line their pockets with taxpayer's money. The proposed route passes through the most fertile cropland in the whole world and it is not something that can be recycled. Our rich black soil cannot be replaced once it is disturbed by gravel, steel, and concrete. I would also like to point out that a migration path for Whooping Cranes is in conjunction with the train route. If we allow this to happen, just imagine the people lining up to fulfill their legacies at the expense of our great nation. Thank you.Earlville, IL
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(printed as 4/9/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21901Brad BrownDisturbing Virgin rural lands in Lake and Porter county is a travesty. Not only will the sounds disrupt production of livestock, but the possibility of poisonous chemicals traveling through my area polluting the ground water with an accident is not tolerable! Train horns breaking the peace and quiet of our serene lifestyle is not acceptable either. There are plenty of non operating railways that could be built afresh. Lake and Porter counties of Indiana has vehicle testing facilities to reduce the air pollution which can be a financial burden to poorer citizens with older vehicles. The State has no problem making us follow this environmentally friendly mandate", however, There are those who worship money who want to pollute our air with diesel fumes from a very busy railroad. The estimate has come in at possibly running 110 trains a day here" that's about one every 12 minutes! That diesel fumes spewing out in our air supply on a constant basis. I bought 10 acres and have built our dream home and I have plans on developing my acres as a hobby organic produce farm. Now the threat of a railroad coming through near my property and my neighbors who have purposely moved to the country to live a cleaner lifestyle is being threatened. I know this is a big money maker for a few, and I hope there our still some in our federal government not selling out to the all mighty dolar. Please consider an alternative route through an already ndustrialized area. Don't pollute our precious farm lands! Brad Brown"
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21900Kari FreyenbergerI am very concerned about this railroad project! I'm pretty certain it will harm our farming community in so many ways. We are a crop farming family just like many others here. Our farm ground is prime land it produces very well. Destroying our farm ground by running freight trains through it is a horrible idea! It will also separate farmers from their farms! My husband will have a train track between us and his farm:( we just spent 2 years building a beautiful home and now this train threatens to make it a hazardous place for my children! We built here because it is quiet and close to the farm grain bins and sheds and this freight train will ruin that:( we choose to live here in the country because we do not want to live next to freight trains and toll roads etc.! We don't ever want to live in Chicago and now you are trying to bring Chicago to us and ruin our community! This freight is also suppose to run right next to my children's school! This school along with the rest of us use septic! If these freights spill hazardous chemicals and oil then it is endangering all of us and our children! Our fire departments don't even have the means to handle the dangers this freight brings! Cutting off and stopping our roads for trains non-stop is also scary for us! Getting emergency vehicles through will be very difficult! We live in the country so our children can ride bikes and play freely and if this freight happens it will be to dangerous for my kids to play outside. This freight will almost be in my back yard! Thank you for listening to my concerns!Kouts, IN
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21899Sheila SnookI am writing to express concerns in regard to the construction of the Great Lakes Basin Railroad, in regard to transportation of students to classes at Morgan School. I teach special needs children at Morgan and several of my students have to be bused in from other schools. Travel time on buses will be increased due to some 'anticipated' road closures and, of course, due to passing trains. It is difficult for these children to just sit calmly and wait, strapped into their seats, for lengthy periods of time as a train passes by. When these children experience anxiety, change in routine, increased 'wait time', it often ramps them up into full meltdowns. While that is horrible for the screaming child, it is even worse for the driver who has to remain focused and controlled to deliver children safely to school. I ask you to please think about where this railroad would run, how often trains would pass, how many crossings there would be, etc. all along our school route. This will definitely increase travel and wait times for special needs children who do not handle this well. For our sake, please compassionately consider this impact.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21898Sheila SnookAs a teacher of elementary special needs children at Morgan School, I am highly concerned about the Great Lakes Basin Railroad going through our area, so close to the school. I teach many autistic children as well as emotionally disabled, health impaired with ADD, and learning disabled children. Many of these children have heightened perceptions and reactions to sounds, lights and distractions. Having frequent train whistles,horns,rattling and vibrations from trains on tracks, etc. will be a constant disruption in our school day. My autistic children are greatly bothered by just the 'once a month' siren testing of the volunteer fire dept. Sometimes the screaming and head-banging begins over what we perceive as small factors; often I can't even hear what they hear and react to. Please, please consider theses special needs children and all our children being instructed at Morgan school We, the staff, and the children work hard to be top in the state of IN. Our special needs kids already start out life with the 'short end of the stick'. We can't jeopardize their learning and well-being by multiple trains crossing all throughout their school day. Thank you for taking their needs into your consideration.Valparaiso, Indiana
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21897Gary GilbankI feel that this review process needs to be extended so we (the citizens affected) can have proper time to review such a complex proposal. I have great concerns regarding the environment, public safety and quality of life that will be impacted by this proposed rail line. Please extend this review process by at least 90 days and give us time to fully realize the impact to our community. I feel this will have grave consequences for our environment and public safety as well as the loss of the best farmland in the country!!Clinton, WI
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21896Janet Hall[Monroe Center] Dear Mr. Navecky, It only gets worse. We read a document from the GLB railroad about the propose route and it says that Telephone Road will be Stubbed due to the low population on that road. If that would happen it would close our only paved avenue to a county road. It would force us to drive on a gravel road north or south from telephone road. My husband has a tractor trailer business in which he stores his truck at our home. This would force this heavy vehicle to travel on Bennett Rd which is gravel to get to the nearest township road. Bennett road is a mess in the spring and winter. It gets soft and gets lots of ruts. If they choose(as it seems they will have the power to do whatever they feel) to close Telephone Road. It will be a mess. Not to mention how difficult is would be for us to get during the winter. If Telephone Rd was closed it would be difficult to navigate the gravel roads as they tend to be difficult to clean of snow and ice. This will be a major safety concern for us and our neighbors. The housed that are on Bennett Road usually use Telephone Rd. to get to a major road. I also worry about what this means for our school children who will be on buses longer and will have more turn arounds due to closed road. Did I mention that not only will be have to travel down the gravel Bennett Road but also the trail will cross that road. We hope the STB will see this project only solves Chicago's problems but makes problems for everyone else. Sincerely, Janet HallMonroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21895Brian R Hall[Monroe Center] Dear Mr. Navecky, I look to inherit a peice of land that is directly affected by the GLB railroad. My grandfather purchased his land and my sisters and I plan to take over it and preserve it as a reminder of the hard work and legacy of a great man. The GLB railraod threatens to take it and ruin its meaning and productivity. My concerns are that this project will destruction prime farmland (Apprx. 6,700 acres: 20 per mile for 270 miles.) While only a few of those acres will be in my inheritance it is a huge impact on a already small hobby farmer. This small field will be divided into even smaller pieces which will decrease productivity. Due to shorter rows there will be increased compaction of soil. Farm implements may be too big to use on newly created smaller fields. A hobby farmer can't buy new machine just because of the train. The one time buy out award given from GLB is not enough. The land built and cultivated by my grandfather is priceless. Please stop the GLB railroad. Would Mr. Patton want his inheritance robbed and a trail through his back yard. He looks to make millions at the cost of our natural resources. Sincerely, Brian HallMonroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 4/9/2016)CommentEI-21894Ken DaggettAltho I do Appreciate the extension given by you I feel it is minimal to give use 3 months ( we just found out about it in mid March). They have been working on this project for seven years and we only get three months to try to catch up and figure out what they are trying to pull off and hide from the public, as when I found out about it, quit by accident, there was no one in the county that said they knew anything about it, There were no land owners ,politicians or public officials informed of this project. What are they trying to hide from all of us, you included. Ken DaggettMorris, Illinois
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served (printed as 4/8/2016)DecisionDECISION EXTENDED THE COMMENT PERIOD FOR THE DRAFT SCOPE OF STUDY UNTIL JUNE 15, 2016, AND ADDED TWO ADDITIONAL SCOPING MEETINGS.
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentDebra Howe
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-22540Barbara Beaver[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentThank you for the information. I see there is one POR on service list, so evidently one may file POR notice even though there are no filings yet. I'll contact STB if I need further assistance. Thanks again, Kathy From: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> Sent: Friday, April 8, 2016 6:17 PM To: Chung, Kathleen - DOT Cc: Adam.Assenza@stb.dot.gov; Alley, John - DOT; Phillis.Johnson-Ball@stb.dot.gov Subject: Re: WisDOT - GBLT Ms. Chung - You can file scoping comments on the EIS without being a POR. Those comments can be submitted through the Environmental Comments" hyperlink on the STB's e-filing page, or they can be sent by regular mail to my address below. You are correct, there are no formal filings or POC to date. If you have comments on the transportation merits and you want to file those as a POR, I don't have the answer for you on that. However, you can call the STB at 202-245-0350 and someone can asset you with those questions. That number is answered by a number of staff members so I can't give you a specific person to ask for. Thanks, Dave Dave Navecky Office of Environmental Analysis Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423 202-245-0294 www.stb.dot.gov -----"Chung, Kathleen - DOT" <Kathleen.Chung@dot.wi.gov> wrote: ----- To: "'David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov'" <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: "Chung, Kathleen - DOT" <Kathleen.Chung@dot.wi.gov> Date: 04/08/2016 04:48PM Cc: "'Adam.Assenza@stb.dot.gov'" <Adam.Assenza@stb.dot.gov>, "Alley, John - DOT" <john.alley@dot.wi.gov> Subject: WisDOT - GBLT Mr. Navecky, WisDOT will participate as a party of record in the GLB. I do not see any filings yet under FD35952, so didn’t file a POR notice. I did sign up for “mailings” under the GLBT eis website. Should I file a formal POR notice on STB docket, even though there are no other filings, or does that come later after GLBT files petition? Would we file scoping comments w/o filing POR then? Thank you for any guidance. Kathleen Chung Assistant General Counsel Wisconsin Department of Transportation (608) 266-8752 kathleen.chung@dot.wi.gov"Kathleen Chung
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentTo: 'David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov'" <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: "Chung, Kathleen - DOT" <Kathleen.Chung@dot.wi.gov> Date: 04/08/2016 04:48PM Cc: "'Adam.Assenza@stb.dot.gov'" <Adam.Assenza@stb.dot.gov>, "Alley, John - DOT" <john.alley@dot.wi.gov> Subject: WisDOT - GBLT Mr. Navecky, WisDOT will participate as a party of record in the GLB. I do not see any filings yet under FD35952, so didn’t file a POR notice. I did sign up for “mailings” under the GLBT eis website. Should I file a formal POR notice on STB docket, even though there are no other filings, or does that come later after GLBT files petition? Would we file scoping comments w/o filing POR then? Thank you for any guidance. Kathleen Chung Assistant General Counsel Wisconsin Department of Transportation (608) 266-8752 kathleen.chung@dot.wi.gov"Kathleen Chung
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-22135Heather AlderksTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Heather Alderks <hnhbb12@gmail.com> Date: 04/08/2016 06:36PM Subject: Docket No. FD 35952 Good Evening, Please accept this letter regarding the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. I will also be sending paper copies. Best Regards, Heather Alderks
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-22134Heather AlderksTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Heather Alderks <hnhbb12@gmail.com> Date: 04/08/2016 06:36PM Subject: Docket No. FD 35952 Good Evening, Please accept this letter regarding the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. I will also be sending paper copies. Best Regards, Heather Alderks
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-22133Heather AlderksTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Heather Alderks <hnhbb12@gmail.com> Date: 04/08/2016 06:35PM Subject: Docket No. FD 35952 Good Evening, Please accept this letter regarding the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. I will also be sending paper copies. Best Regards, Heather Alderks
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-22132Heather AlderksTo: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Heather Alderks <hnhbb12@gmail.com> Date: 04/08/2016 06:34PM Subject: Docket No. FD 35952 Good Evening, Please accept this letter regarding the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. I will also be sending paper copies. Best Regards, Heather Alderks
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-22123Sue MischkeTo: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov" <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> From: Sue Mischke <smischke1@yahoo.com> Date: 04/08/2016 06:02PM Subject: Request for Extension of Date for Public Comment, Docket #FD 35952 (Great Lakes Basin Railroad) Dear Mr. Navecky: Concerning Docket #FD 35952 Great Lakes Basin Railroad, I would like to request that the date for public comments on this issue be extended. I am presently employed in the Washington DC area, but purchased a home for retirement in Westville Indiana a couple of years ago. Just three days ago, I found out about this issue that will greatly affect my home. Since I am currently spending the bulk of my time at my job in Beltsville, Maryland, and can only intermittently get back to my home in Westville, it is very difficult for me to find the information I need to be able to anticipate the effects of this proposed railroad on my home. As far as I can gather from what little information I have been able to find so far, the tracks will split and surround Westville. It appears, from the one map I have seen, that one set of tracks will pass about a mile North of my home, and the other set will pass a couple miles South of my home, crossing my principal route of access in both cases. Please extend the date for public comments until October 31, 2016. Because I am employed by the federal government, I will be increasingly swamped with end-of-year paperwork until the end of the current FY. I need to find out if I have real cause of concern. This date would give me time for discovery and to prepare, if necessary, a reasonable public comment that is based on actual information rather than on the hurried speculation this last-minute notice is causing. Thank you very much, Sue Mischke Property owner (and tax payer) in Westville, Indiana 9 E. Valparaiso St. Westville, IN 46391 Currently residing at 4203 Wicomico Avenue Beltsville, MD 20705 "
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-22122Peggy CantwellTo: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov From: Peggy Cantwell <jandpcantwell@gmail.com> Date: 04/08/2016 04:09PM Subject: Re: Docket no. F2f 35952 Dear Sir There are several impacts of concern that I would like to submit at this time. 1. Staying the obvious is the decrease in property values 2. What are the decibel factors going to be with that many trains? 3. Responsibility for the rail road is primarily a private sector since the Federal Railroad Administration is understaffed and can only inspect 0.2% of the nation's railroads in addition slow-moving and stationary railroads are extremely vulnerable to terrorist and become an easy domestic Target especially if this rail system plans to haul chlorine it would only take an attack on one rail car of chlorine to cause lethally expose people to die at a rate of 100 per second according to the US Naval Research Laboratories in conclusion if said railroad should proceed what measures are going to be taken for the safety of our children and Community the town of Lowell does not have adequate officials and Rescue Personnel should there be a derailment or terrorist act and furthermore let's be honest the trains in these Open Fields are sitting ducks and Easy Targets in fact the probability of such a derailment or attack from a homegrown terrorist or used as a weapon is not out of the realm of possibility since we don't have the additional resources in the town should something horrific occur. I hope your staff will be able to address our concerns at the upcoming meeting. Thank you On Apr 6, 2016 12:21 PM, <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> wrote: Ms. Cantwell - I cannot answer your question specifically at this time because there is a lot of background work my team will need to do, as part of our environmental review process, to determine if a potential alternative route is reasonable and feasible. However, we encourage folks like yourself to provide us with detailed comments on potential impacts (e.g., why a certain area should be avoided because of reasons x, y and z), as well as suggested alternative routes for the proposed rail line that might avoid those potential impacts. We will take all the comments received and ensure that the potential impacts identified in the comments are appropriately addressed in our environmental review process. We will also evaluate suggested alternative routes (i.e, we assess whether the routes are reasonable and feasible) for inclusion in the environmental review process. Any alternatives that we add to the environmental review process will be studied equally to the route proposed by the applicant or railroad. Thanks, Dave Dave Navecky Office of Environmental Analysis Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423 202-245-0294 www.stb.dot.gov From: Peggy Cantwell <jandpcantwell@gmail.com> To: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/06/2016 12:00 PM Subject: Re: Docket no. F2f 35952 Is there an alternate route for this train to eliminate it's proximity to the Lowell water treatment plant and wells? On Apr 5, 2016 8:02 AM, Peggy Cantwell" <jandpcantwell@gmail.com> wrote: Thanks can you tell me with the close proximity to the Lowell middle school and water plant is there an alternate route to avoid those areas in case of a spill from the train? On Apr 5, 2016 7:58 AM, <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> wrote: Ms. Cantwell - Detailed mapping of the proposed rail line can be found on our project website. I have provided a link below. The map resources can be located by clicking on the "Maps" button in the left-hand column. http://www.greatlakesbasinraileis.com/index.html Thanks, Dave Dave Navecky Office of Environmental Analysis Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423 202-245-0294 www.stb.dot.gov From: Peggy Cantwell <jandpcantwell@gmail.com> To: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 03/26/2016 09:18 PM Subject: Docket no. F2f 35952 Dear sir Can you please tell me in regards to the above mentioned rail line once it crosses I-65 where will it cut over to porter county? Will it go up clay street/range line road, 173 rd, 169th, ???? Also will you have to procure any land for mitigation? Respectfully Peggy Cantwell"
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-22121Gilbank Construction, Inc.From: Gary Gilbank <garyg@gilbankconstruction.com> To: David.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <David.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/08/2016 11:41 AM Subject: Docket #FD 35952 Great lakes Basin Railroad: Request for time extension to file comments David, I have great concern about how quickly this process is being scheduled for review and comments. Many people in my area share the same concern. The March 18th notification of the proposal with public scoping meetings scheduled from April 11th through April 21st with comments due May 16th is very aggressive time frame. Considering how critical this issue is and what a huge impact it has on or area this is not enough time for affected resident to properly research such a complex issue. This also comes at a time of the year when those most affected are busy in the fields planting crops.. It only seems fair to give those affected a reasonable amount of time given their already busy schedules to give this the proper due diligence. I would respectfully request a 90 day extension to the date for filing comments. From May 16th to August 16th, 2016. This seems like a reasonable request given the extenuating circumstances and the gravity of this proposal. Sincerely, Thank You Gary Gilbank Gilbank Construction, Inc. Office: 608-676-2261 Fax: 608-676-4971 Mobile: 608-751-0294"Gary Gilbank
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-22097Amy LavalleyFrom: Amy Lavalley <amy.lavalley@frontier.com> To: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/08/2016 01:00 PM Subject: Question for you from the Post-Tribune Hi, Mr. Navecky, I’m a freelance writer for the Post-Tribune in Porter County, Indiana, and heard the deadline for the comment period for the Great Lakes Basin Transportation proposal has been pushed from May 16 to June 15. I wanted to get that confirmed for a story I’m working on. I also heard additional meetings have been added for the Environmental Impact Study. I know one was added in Valparaiso in Porter County for Tuesday morning. When and where else has a meeting been added? Thanks in advance for your time! Best, Amy Lavalley Post-Tribune correspondent (219) 644-5868 amy.lavalley@frontier.com
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-22096Elizabeth M. VarnesFrom: Elizabeth Varnes <evarnes@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Cc: evarnes@hotmail.com Date: 04/08/2016 12:00 PM Subject: Extension of time to file comments for proposal of Great Lakes Basin Railroad Regarding Docket #FD 35952, I am respectfully requesting that the filing date for comments be extended from May 16, 2016 to August 16, 2016. This request is due to the short period of time between having to have our comments in and when we were first informed the railroad's plan. More time if needed for the people to research the scope of the railroad; this is a major undertaking. It seems as though the short time frame was well planned to benefit the railroad and not the people that would be affected by it. We are having raining weather now and the people who it would most affect are the farmers planting their fields. This could take longer for the farmers and they are the ones that will be most affected by this. Lost of their planting season would affect all of us. We must protest out farmland. Please take time to consider this, it is very reasonable in light of the fact that we were all pretty much blindsided" by this, planned by the railroad or not. Respectfully, Elizabeth M. Varnes 2472 North 3959 Road Sheridan, IL 60551"
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentI oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposed route from La Porte, Indiana, to Milton, Wisconsin, with Grundy County farms as a pass-through. The many major public environmental issues which will affect my family farm in Grundy County, Illinois include: possible derailments of freight trains hauling hazardous materials which would lead to toxic chemicals in the soil, disruption of water flow and tile damage which causes flooding of our farmland and loss of fertile top soil. The Tesdal Farm in Grundy County, Illinois, is a centennial farm purchased by my wife's Great Grandfather Chris Hendrickson in 1890s. It has been farmed by her Great Grandfather, Grandfather, Father and brother for over 100 years. My family farm will be bisected by the Great Lakes Basin Railroad route. Everyone in our community will be impacted by the inability of first responders to travel to emergencies. The community will be exposed to excessive noise, noxious odors, and intrusive bright lights throughout the day and night. Please stop the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project from being constructed on valuable Illinois farmland which will significantly impact the corn and soybeans production grown on this farm because large areas of the corn and soybean fields will be rendered useless and destroyed permanently. Please stop the Great lakes Basin Railroad construction from La Porte, Indiana, to Milton, Wisconsin and the destruction of valuable farmland on my family farm in Grundy County, Illinois.Mark Gordon · Bethesda, MD
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21892Jill GroveI think it is so important to decrease the pressure on highways, as costly and inconvenient repairs as well as the dangers of heavy truck traffic make it expensive and difficult for people to drive on the interstates. If safety measures are in place, I think train lines are extremely important and should be increased whenever possible. Personally, I have significantly decreased the trips I have taken into Chicago and to Wisconsin in the past five years due to construction and heavy truck traffic, and I have often thought of how these issues could be relieved if more trains were in use.Belvidere, IL
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21891Bruce BakerI am writing in opposition to the proposed GLB project. As a farmer, I have land in the path of this proposal. The destruction of existing drainage is of critical concern. As a part of the EIS, I believe that a COMPLETE AND ACCURATE mapping of all existing field tile be done for all affected parcels of land. This is a must to help insure the future of our land.Verona, IL
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21890Angela OsburnPlease consider NO to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. See attached letter please.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21889Debby evansStop considering our area for the Great Lakes basin transportation project. Way too close to our schools..our volunteer fire departments are not equipped for disasters..we moved here over 40 years ago to get away from the noise & inconvenience of trains..use some of the existing train tracksCrown point, In
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(printed as 4/8/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21887Jennifer HannonMr. Navecky, I just recently moved to Morgan Township in Valparaiso, IN, where the Great Lakes Railroad proposed route is planned, less then an 1/8 mile from my house. I have some very grave concerns about the development of this railroad and the pollution it will cause. I have 3 children aged 12, 10 and 6, all who have pediatric asthma. My primary motivation in moving to this rural area was so that my children could have fresh in polluted air to breathe. In fact, since we have moved back, all 3 kids symptoms have improved drastically. Their health will now be in jeopardy with the building of this railroad. Not only do we live less than an 1/8 from the proposed build site, all 3 are students at Morgan Township elementary and middle school, which is less than a 1/4 of the proposed tracks. They will not be able to escape pollution at home or school. I plead that you please reconsider this proposal. The effects that it will have on the environment will negatively impact the community forever. Sincerely, Jennifer Hannon The nation that destroys its soul destroys itself." -Franklin D. Roosevelt"
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21886Byron/Darlene WilsonGreetings STB, Allow us to make several comments regarding the proposed new rail line “Great Lakes Basin Rail Line”. This intrusion into our communities will have far reaching and permanent negative affects. We are retired and our ages are in the mid 70s. We live northwest of Wanatah Indiana and the rail line routing as proposed will be about 0.6 miles due west of our home. This proposed rail line will have negative affects on our daily lives, and the lives of many many others: This is ‘open’ country and sound travels very far here, and we would surely hear the rumbling of every train. We have existing east-west rail lines within about 1.5 miles of our home in both a north and a south direction. Yes we do often hear those rumbling trains and their horns. However the closeness of the proposed new line would surely further disrupt our life in many ways including our health. Some studies indicate noise and or vibrations do have a negative effect on health. Because of the soil composition here, we can sometimes actually feel slight vibrations from these trains – what would a line much closer do to us and our homes. Much of the proposed route will be upon some of the best farm land in Indiana. Land that is very productive and has been drained and tiled and many plots already have permanent stationary irrigation equipment that would be disrupted. Dividing farm fields will make continued farming much less efficient and difficult. Vehicle and farm equipment traffic patterns will surely be disrupted on our non highway roads. There is no way to mitigate this issue. Waiting and waiting for rail traffic will result in drivers becoming impatient and doing foolish things. Can you say ‘deaths’. Access to rural homes, buildings, and fields by emergency services will also be disrupted and sometimes delayed in emergencies. Again, property damage and potential deaths. Time is crucial in any emergency situation. Lastly, our breathing air is now relatively pollution free, what will all these pollutant belching engines do to it? Surely can’t improve it. There must be a better way to solve the rail congestion problem, perhaps by utilizing property adjacent to existing rail lines. Much of this seems to be in under utilized urban areas. No we do not say NIMBY, we say stop this insane proposal. Respectfully, Byron and Darlene WilsonWanatah, IN
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21885R.A.I.L.E.D.My concerns with the proposed RR through NW IN. Closing of 2 roads would tremendously impact the farmers ability to get to the Malden Elevator. The close proximity to Morgan school could pose a big hazard along with noise and vibration issues. I believe it would have harmful effect on the creeks-streams and cause drainage problems. The at-grade crossings cannot be a good thing. It would greatly increase drive times, especially for school busses. thank you for taking these under consideration. Ken GriegerKen Grieger · Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21884Rachel ForneyI am very concerned about the proposed rail line running through Porter County Indiana and the negative affects it will have on my family. I have several concerns. 1. The safety of my children who attend Boone Grove (Porter Township) Elementary and Middle School. These tracks are not far from this school and with the potential to carry hazardous materials it is a scary thought to think of a derailment. A derailment that none of our local voluntary fire departments have the equipment to properly respond to. 2. The time it takes my kids to get to school could now be significantly longer than it already is not to mention not as safe with having to cross railroad tracks. 3. My daughter who has a learning disability and who is easily distracted will now have an even harder time concentrating on her work due to the constant train noise and vibration. My son will no longer have the ability to hear his classmates at recess nor will we be able to enjoy their baseball/softball games in the summer due to the noise. 4. There will be extended response times for emergencies all over our township due to Emergency responders having to wait for trains or go around them. Also, a lot of our fire departments have to rely on neighboring departments for back-up when a fire etc. is more than one department can handle. Now that backup could take much longer to arrive putting not just the residents and property in danger but our firefighters as well. 5. One of our favorite parks will be affected by the noise of this also. Stony Run will no longer be the peaceful place to go hiking through nature. 6. We moved to this area for the quiet open spaces. This rail line would destroy that. A train could go by every 13 minutes and last 3-5 minutes. 7. This process seems very rushed and there has not been an effort by this company or the STB to inform and/or involve the community.Crown Point, Indiana
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21858Laura SchepplerThe Great Lakes Basin Railroad would seriously harm the rural lifestyle in the affected areas. Please stop more suburban sprawl. We need our farms intact.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21857Abe HenkerThe Great Lakes Basin Railroad is a bad idea. This line will create a lot of noise pollution and would be bad for the many people held at the Sheridan Correctional Facility, in Sheridan Illinois, this track runs extremely close to the prison and would create an undesirable living environment for people who have no other place to go.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21856Virginia GawOppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal. This line will reduce the ability of first responders to do their jobs and in the event of a derailment and possible chemical spill, what will happen to the animals, specifically livestock which has no other place to go.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21855Mary SchepplerI oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This line will create a lot of noise pollution in the area around the tracks.Serena, IL
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21854Mike HerlitzI am concerned with GLB's plan to stub 300 East near Malden, Indiana. Most of the year 300 East is not a heavily traveled road. However, during the busy times that road is used by farmers to keep farm equipment and grain trucks off of the state highway. The study needs to research the traffic on this road on a fall day in the middle of harvest heading to the grain terminal in Malden, IN. Then they need to take note of the traffic on Highway 49 during morning and evening rush hours. It would be almost impossible to find a break in the traffic large enough to get semi across northbound traffic and into the southbound lane and get up to highway speed without causing disruption. The farming community needs 300 East. It is a major safety issue forcing farm traffic onto the highway. Thanks for your consideration.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21853Fred SchepplerPlease oppose the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This line would harm hunting and fishing in the area around the tracks. This area is heavily used by sportsmen and these tracks would limit their ability to enjoy their sport. The tracks will also be accessible to sportsmen which could be dangerous.Serena, IL
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEI-21852Dennis SchepplerPlease oppose Great Lakes Basin Railroad's proposed new train line. This line would interfere with CREATE's plans that are already in place to solve rail congestion. CREATE is making the tracks safer and quicker, and all the GLB line does is move trains, it does not make the existing lines, that will still be in use safer, CREATE's plan does. GLB's plan could seriously limit CREATE's ability to complete it's goals.Mount Propsect, IL
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentKathleen Chung
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEO-2772Post-TribuneAmy Lavalley
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentMike Holan
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(printed as 4/8/2016)CommentEO-2770John Lazorik
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentJim Basala
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-22545Ronald C. Brotz[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-22120Lance FenaA private rail to save the few some shipping time at the expense of so many is appalling. To restrict safe crossing at country roads and safe passage for farmers to access their fields disregards everyday needs for many working people in the country. Every small detail of this rail idea should be inspected to ensure the safety and to limit the disruption in peoples lives that it will cause. This disruption will be there forever. That is why this board should take whatever time is needed, even if this means years, to do the right thing, for ALL people. thank youMilton, WI
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-22119Sandra L. BasalaSave Buckley Homestead FACT: Buckley Homestead is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. FACT: Buckley Homestead was founded in 1849 by emigrants from Ireland and remained in direct family lineage continually until it was donated to the park department in 1977 with the express purpose of it being a perpetual educational facility. FACT: The front part of the main house was built in 1853. The 1916 bank barn will be one hundred years old this year. FACT: The Buckley School is a replica of the original one-room school where students were taught from the middle 1800s until the 1920s. It sits on the original foundation site. FACT: All Buckley Homestead facilities, including the log cabin and the Woodland Indian settlement, are used to educate thousands of school children, adults, and families each year about Indiana history. FACT: The proposed rail tracks will run directly adjacent to the back 80 acres of the Buckley Homestead. Buckley Homestead not only represents history made, but is making history FACT: The Conway Observatory, dedicated in 2005, is a partnership between the Lake County Parks and Recreation Department, the Calumet Astronomical Society, the Lake Heritage Parks Foundation, and Purdue University Calumet (now Purdue Northwest) and hosts dozens of public events each year. FACT: In September 2010 the Northwest Indiana Robotic Observatory (NIRo) was dedicated by Purdue University on the same site as Conway. It was developed utilizing fund raising efforts and a grant from the National Science Foundation. FACT: PNW physics and astronomy majors, conducting research utilizing the NIRo telescope and camera, are contributing their findings to prominent worldwide publications and database outlets. FACT: The proposed rail tracks, slated to run within 100 feet of CAC, will destroy the purpose of the Calumet Astronomy Center When Rose Buckley Pearce donated her family’s heritage for educational purposes she trusted the Lake County Parks and Recreation Department to protect these precious resources for residents of and visitors to Lake County. The above facts should make it clear that Buckley Homestead Living History Farm should not be disturbed. Instead it should be supported in a continued effort to educate and to explore the past, the current, and the future. Sandra Basala (sandybasala@netnitco.net)Crown Point, IN
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-22092Sue RisseeuwFrom: Sue Risseeuw <suerisseeuw@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/07/2016 05:01 PM Subject: Docket # FD 35952 Mr. David Navecky: RE: Docket # FD 35952 Great Lakes Basin Railroad: Request for extension of time to file comments for this Proposal Many in the affected area have a grave concern about how quickly this process has been announced with meetings scheduled and comments required in such a short period of time. The March 18 notification of this proposal with public scoping meetings scheduled from April 11 through April 21st with comments due May 16, 2016 is a very aggressive time frame. This timeframe is especially troublesome for an issue that is not critical and not in the public’s best interest. Considering the scope, complexity and impact of this proposal, this timeframe does not give much time for the affected residents to do their due diligence and research for such a major undertaking. This time frame is especially troubling as it comes at a time when the affected parties are starting one of the busiest times of their year, the planting season. If you know anything about farming, planting has to be done quickly as the weather permits. If local residents take time to deal with this issue and lose their planting season, it negatively affects the meager profits they make in even a decent year. We are talking about the people who provide the food, milk and nourishment for the families of our country. I hereby respectfully request that the date for filing comments be extended for 90 days from May 16, 2016 until August 16, 2016? This request is very reasonable in light of the extenuating circumstances. Very Truly Yours, Sue Risseeuw Beloit, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21987Lisa FlemingFrom: Lisa Fleming <flemingfeed@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/07/2016 03:48 PM Subject: Concerns on Great Lakes Basin Railroad Mr. Navecky- I write this email in reference to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad and the environmental issue I see. We farm in Lee County, Illinois and the proposed railroad would cut through a large field that we farm. This field has been deemed highly erodible decades ago by Lee County Soil and Water, a government agency. It contains terraces and small bodies of the farm land are supposed to be farmed a certain direction, and only minimal tiling is allowed. We abide by the plan because we know environmentally it is the right thing to do to preserve precious fertile soil, and protect the water basin that surrounds this farm. We take our job very seriously. If this railroad cuts through this field, I am not convinced the land will not erode and cause great havoc in preserving the precious topsoil, which will end up in the waterways. I worry that the years of work we have put into this land will be erased even before the first train cuts around Chicago. I feel this railroad has not taken seriously the environmental impact on the soil and the watershed in our area. This project will effect the area for many years to come. Thank you for your time, Lisa and Greg Fleming 9805 Tower Road Lee, IL 60530
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21984Marcia LuetyFrom: Marcia Luety <mpluety@hotmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/07/2016 02:00 PM Subject: Docket #FD35952 Great Lakes Basin Railroad: Request for extension of time to file comments Mr. Navecky, I am writing to request that the date for filing comments for the above project be extended 90 days from the original deadline of May 16, 2016. Many affected landowners and concerned citizens are just now learning of the proposed project. The deadline of May 16 does not allow enough time for people to learn about a project of this scope, and certainly not enough time to formulate the kinds of input you are requesting as part of the Scoping process. Also at issue is the fact that these are agricultural communities just beginning the busiest time of their year. Planting cannot be put on hold in order to work on our responses to this project. Farming is reliant on the weather and must be accomplished when conditions are favorable. In order to properly address all of the issues of this proposed project, we absolutely need more time. Time to do the proper research and due diligence that is most certainly needed on a project that will affect so many lives and so much valuable farm land. Thank you for your consideration, Ken & Marcia Luety Cabin Creek Farms, LLC 6809 E. County Road J Clinton, WI 53525 mpluety@hotmail.com Cell: 608-751-0232"
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21983Peter SchafferFrom: Peter Schaffer <peterjschaffer@yahoo.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/07/2016 10:23 AM Subject: Great Lakes Basin Rail Line David, I am sending this note to you as you are called out as the contact person regarding Great Lakes Basin proposal. Will this new proposed rail line actually reduce the existing rail traffic in the Chicagoland metro area with enforceable measures? My quality of life has decreased significantly since the NTSB approved the Canadian National take over the EJ/E railway here in northeast Illinois during special session on Christmas Eve 12/24/2008. Seriously, demonstrate to me the motives of approving a major decision like this on 12/24 without some sort of pressure from others. The NTSB provided zero meaningful and measurable relief to the communities impacted by your decision to approve the CN/EJE merger. The EJE train line was never designed for the volume of trains and vehicle traffic for safe operation currently experienced. Train volume has increased exponentially along with noise at all times of day/night. This impacts hundreds of thousands of people in this metro area. We also have noticeable traffic congestion from blocked grade railroad crossings as well. I would suggest that any new track installed anywhere require 100% road/grade level separation for safety. Trains bring zero upside to the communities they roll through. The grade separation should be required to reduce the impact on the community. Regards, Peter Schaffer"
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(printed as 4/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21850Valerie FreyenbergerI have lived in Porter County, IN all of my 60 years and love and respect this farming community. I am very concerned about the implications the proposed railroad is going to have. Being a farmer I go to great lengths to take care of the land I have. I am concerned about pollution of the soil if there is a derailment. I feel that there will be a disruption of the water flow which will cause flooding and possible erosion issues. I am concerned for my family when we have emergencies that the first responders won't be able to come in a timely manner. Thank you for your consideration in this matter.Kouts, IN
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21849Ashlie CordovaI am concerned about the proposed railway for many reasons. First I am very concerned because the train route cuts right through our township. My children's bus route will be affected and I am highly concerned for the children's safety. Also I am worried because the proposed train will be running very close to my house and I am concerned about possible derailment which could poison the soil. We have well water and I plant a big garden every year. We also have goats and chickens . I am concerned that first responders will not be able to respond to emergencies. And finally I hate that they will be hauling hazardous material through our precious farm land!Kouts, IN
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21848Samantha TaberMr. Navecky, I am writing to voice my concerns with the proposed GLTB railroad. This railroad will cut through my family farm. My father works very hard to provide for my family, as my grandfather did before my father took over on the farm. Cutting through our fields will not only decrease the value of the field, it will create a dam causing water to not go where it needs to be in the field. This will cause the crop to either flood and not grow, or not get the water it needs to grow. The proposed route would cut through a field that currently has an irrigator on it. This very expensive piece of equipment would be trash, as they are custom to each field. It also concerns me that these trains will pollute our wells. We do not have city water or other means to obtain water. Another thing that really concerns me is the longer amount of time it will take for EMS and firefighters to reach a potential fire. Just in the past few years we have had more than one fire. I'm not sure if you're familair with farming at all, but equipment can very easily catch on fire. I really see no pros for this proposed railroad. Thank you for your time, Samantha TaberWanatah, IN
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21847Brandon P ReeveI am writing about the proposed train in indiana. I believe it will be a safety issue to dead end so many county roads and force farmers onto the highways in the rural areas. This is cutting off path I also take poultry to my local county fair, risking the safety of my poultry and myselfKouts, INDIANA
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(printed as 4/7/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21845Bruce Baker[Verona] I am writing in extreme opposition to the GLB railroad project. I find it unbelievably ironic that the efficiencies proported by building this bypass would come at the expense of those of us farming the affected parcels. By limiting our access to our fields, it would create huge INEFFICIENCIES to our operations, especially at harvest in getting large volumes of grain from field to storage. TIME IS MONEY, especially in a business in which the weather can turn on a dime.Verona, Illinois
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21844Melanie Hofstrom-Waite[clinton] Just in Rock county alone I have counted 11 fields Cut Diagonally 23 fields cut leaving a skinny long strip that will have to be worked and planted in one direction with more erosion very possible if on a hillS (ours is) 11 with cut corners 15 with small corners that will be highly un farmable because its small Un easy shape It crosses 19 roads It follows 14 fence rows but these may be dividing Farmers from other farm connected fields it crosses 23 water flows in fields that I could tell there are possibly many more depending on season or zooming in It crosses 2 larger creeks but alot of smaller streams that are hard to see unless while zoomed in I know 3 from bc townline clinton/ bradford to creek rd alone. I saw 9 wetlands they want to go under I 43 which is on a raised bed of limestone it is 2 lanes both directions the stability of the interstate could be compramised , 140 they say they will be having them go over them who pays to rebuild the road that has a drive and an intersection at it, they speak of hwy 14 will have to go over it there are 2 intersections in that area and a stream and it is a wetland area needing special drainage there are 86 homes that are close by and will need some sort of sound barier and protection for children grand children and the electric lines purposed must be high enough that all the farmers don't get killed useing augers on combines and grain wagons I know this is unsightly but if they have to invade us I don't want my fellow farmers to die an electrocution It will be hard if not possible for farmers to get to the devided farm areas drainage will be a problem saftey is a problem noise is problem this is only one county of the full route I feel it woul be a better use for this railway to take eminant domaine over a railroad that is un used or lowly used have them re build an existing track that has already taken the land from farmers dont take more Thank you for your time Melanie H-Waiteclinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21843Adrianne HallDear Mr. Navecky, I’m a fourteen old from Ogle County, Illinois. A proposed train will travel .33 miles from our house. As a new driver and a farm girl at heart, I hope the STB will say no to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I live on a country road. It is likely that a train on our road will not have markings. As a new driver this causes fear. With the speed and frequency of the train, I will have to deal with this safety concern many times a day. The train would also split my family in half. Currently we are able to walk to our two aunt’s houses, great aunts, and great grandmothers. The train is proposed to cut between our homes on a gravel road that will possibly be closed. The alternative route to get to their house is four miles. I am a member of 4-H and show pigs. The idea of a train traveling fast past my barn will cause animal stress and pollution. We moved to this area live in the peaceful country. Please say no to the STB. There are safety concerns and it will affect farm animals in our area. Sincerely, Adrianne HallMonroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21842Janet Hall[Monroe Center] Dave Navecky, Surface Transportation Board 395 E. Street SW, Washington, DC 20423-0001 Docket NO FD 35952 Dear Mr. Navecky, I’m writing to hopefully persuade the Surface Transportation Board that the Great Lakes Basin Railroad in not in our states best interest. This proposed railroad has many environmental, safety, and economic risks. I am an Ogle County resident and will be directly affected from this potentially devastating project. Coming from an agricultural family and also a family that will be directly affected by this proposal, the environmental concerns are plentiful. You are taking away valuable farmland that once lost will never be returned. The water flow patterns already established will be altered causing significant changes to the productivity of our lands and the potential for flooding in areas that have never before been a significant problem. There is a significant environmental concerns with the possibility of flammable materials and materials that could affect the ability to adequately produce crops. I could go on with the environmental concerns of noise pollution, air pollution, and the idea that forests of trees that line the Rock River will be decimated. Why not try to preserve our state’s natural resources? There are many safety concerns about this project. I live on a rural country road that will likely have a lights only or unmarked crossing. There are many concerns as these fast moving trains will come often and quickly. The likelihood of increased accidents is eminent. With the idea that I will have three young drivers who will have to use this road multiple times a day, it is terrifying to think of what could happen. I also have safety concerns knowing several of our avenues out of our area are gravel. The likelihood of those roads being closed or having unmarked train crossings is a great potential. This is concerning since our school buses must travel these roads to pick up the country kids for school. Our local volunteer fire department struggles to get enough help to run ambulance calls and handle fire calls. What happens when a trail derails or a vehicle is struck by the GLB train? The closing of the small gravel backroads in our area will also cause farm machine to take routes on busier highways with potential to cause accidents. Economic issues is another major concern that we have with this railroad. With this railroad passing by our home .33 miles away, our home value will plummet. We bought this house two years ago and remodel it to fit our needs. We did not hold back knowing that it would be our forever house and we were back in the lands that my husband grew up in. We will lose a significant amount of value in our home. Who wants to live that close to a railroad? It is different if you choose to buy a house by a railroad. You have prior knowledge knowing that it is already there. This project was a complete surprise to us. What happens when the railroad is allowed to take land and starts the project and it goes under? What additional costs will local government, county government, and state government have to pay in order to make roads safe and maintain the crossings? We all know Illinois finances are in danger. This train will bring little to no financial long term benefit for our municipalities. The private gain of these railroads will not help the residents of our county, state, or region. I hope you take serious consideration of saying NO to this project. It has a negative impact on our environment, safety, and our economy. Sincerely, Janet Hall 19003 Telephone Rd. Monroe Center, IL 61052Monroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21841Janet Hall[Monroe Center] Dave Navecky, Surface Transportation Board 395 E. Street SW, Washington, DC 20423-0001 Docket NO FD 35952 Dear Mr. Navecky, I’m writing to hopefully persuade the Surface Transportation Board that the Great Lakes Basin Railroad in not in our states best interest. This proposed railroad has many environmental, safety, and economic risks. I am an Ogle County resident and will be directly affected from this potentially devastating project. Coming from an agricultural family and also a family that will be directly affected by this proposal, the environmental concerns are plentiful. You are taking away valuable farmland that once lost will never be returned. The water flow patterns already established will be altered causing significant changes to the productivity of our lands and the potential for flooding in areas that have never before been a significant problem. There is a significant environmental concerns with the possibility of flammable materials and materials that could affect the ability to adequately produce crops. I could go on with the environmental concerns of noise pollution, air pollution, and the idea that forests of trees that line the Rock River will be decimated. Why not try to preserve our state’s natural resources? There are many safety concerns about this project. I live on a rural country road that will likely have a lights only or unmarked crossing. There are many concerns as these fast moving trains will come often and quickly. The likelihood of increased accidents is eminent. With the idea that I will have three young drivers who will have to use this road multiple times a day, it is terrifying to think of what could happen. I also have safety concerns knowing several of our avenues out of our area are gravel. The likelihood of those roads being closed or having unmarked train crossings is a great potential. This is concerning since our school buses must travel these roads to pick up the country kids for school. Our local volunteer fire department struggles to get enough help to run ambulance calls and handle fire calls. What happens when a trail derails or a vehicle is struck by the GLB train? The closing of the small gravel backroads in our area will also cause farm machine to take routes on busier highways with potential to cause accidents. Economic issues is another major concern that we have with this railroad. With this railroad passing by our home .33 miles away, our home value will plummet. We bought this house two years ago and remodel it to fit our needs. We did not hold back knowing that it would be our forever house and we were back in the lands that my husband grew up in. We will lose a significant amount of value in our home. Who wants to live that close to a railroad? It is different if you choose to buy a house by a railroad. You have prior knowledge knowing that it is already there. This project was a complete surprise to us. What happens when the railroad is allowed to take land and starts the project and it goes under? What additional costs will local government, county government, and state government have to pay in order to make roads safe and maintain the crossings? We all know Illinois finances are in danger. This train will bring little to no financial long term benefit for our municipalities. The private gain of these railroads will not help the residents of our county, state, or region. I hope you take serious consideration of saying NO to this project. It has a negative impact on our environment, safety, and our economy. Sincerely, Janet Hall 19003 Telephone Rd. Monroe Center, IL 61052Monroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21840Adrianne Hall[Monroe Center] April 5, 2016 Dave Navecky, Surface Transportation Board 395 E. Street SW, Washington, DC 20423-0001 Docket NO FD 35952 Dear Mr. Navecky, I’m a fourteen old from Ogle County, Illinois. A proposed train will travel .33 miles from our house. As a new driver and a farm girl at heart, I hope the STB will say no to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I live on a country road. It is likely that a train on our road will not have markings. As a new driver this causes fear. With the speed and frequency of the train, I will have to deal with this safety concern many times a day. The train would also split my family in half. Currently we are able to walk to our two aunt’s houses, great aunts, and great grandmothers. The train is proposed to cut between our homes on a gravel road that will possibly be closed. The alternative route to get to their house is four miles. I am a member of 4-H and show pigs. The idea of a train traveling fast past my barn will cause animal stress and pollution. We moved to this area live in the peaceful country. Please say no to the STB. There are safety concerns and it will affect farm animals in our area. Sincerely, Adrianne Hall 19003 Telephone Rd. Monroe Center, IL 61052Monroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21839janette waite moyerMr. Navecky, we are very concerned about the affects of major excavation needed to create a level grade for the proposed GLBrailroad thru our neighborhood. We have a steam,and several springs on our farm that are tributary to Turtle Creek that the RR will have to cross. Needless to say, we also we have a high water table in a limestone base. Our well has produced sand and a red colored water several times already in the last 7 years, when the local lime pits opened up periodically for road construction or repair. Also, The Waite family farm on the intersection of Hwy 140 and Townline road north of Clinton Wi of which we are owners of, still pastures our livestock on the hilly land, along with growing crops on the flattest land. How will we keep the livestock off of the track or move our farm equipment through our farm. The proposed GBLR splits the farm in half. It is dangerous now to drive equipment on Hwy 140 and certainly we cannot herd sheep or cattle down the HWY to fields that are proposed to be divided by the rail line. Please consider this destruction of our local watershed and ability to farm and support our families before you grant the GLBRail permission to rip thru Rock County Wi.-the best farmland in the state!. Thank you. Dave and Janette Waite Moyer and the entire Waite Family.clinton, wi
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21838Mark MelinMark Melin 8608 E. Rye Dr. Clinton, WI 53525 Docket# 35952 Dear Mr. Navecky, As you know the GLBT project was shifted from the West side of Rock Co. to the East side in mid March. We have been trying to increase public awareness of the project only to find that in some townships many citizens as of April 5 were unaware of the GLBT project. In many cases the GLBT project would have a direct impact on their lives. Citizens are still in the discovery process. In an agricultural community the coming weeks will be one of the most labor intensive times of the year with Spring planting. Intentional or not this GLBT proposal could not have come at a worse time. There have been no public presentations from the GLBT. People have been blind sided by the proposal and need more time.. In all fairness please consider a 90 day extension of the Surface Transportation Board comment period. Best Regards, Mark MelinClinton, WI
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21837Melanie Hofstrom-Waite[clinton] I have great concerns that Frank Patton wont be able to care for this for the long haul my brother too had a brain tumor and he thought he was all good at the 5 year mark it came back with a furry and killed him. He too may have this happen to him. I would think the process of building through 3 states will cost quite a bit i would hope he doesnt go to the cheepest bidder who isnt a profesional builder of 70mph trains. Who will take it over when he dies. How does each state get there share in taxes to pay for the roads that had to be rearainged for this project. if he hasn't done this type of project before how does he know the builders of this will be doing what is right they need to re build fences to keep animals in there pastures not to be spooked by the train. they need to be sure the firmness of the rail is stiff and sound they need drainage so the land wont fill with swamps the whole way they need to have the right tunnels for flooding rains and winter thaw on the streams and ones that wont contaminate the stream with out PBAs or other contaminants he sounds careless to farmers concerns and focused on industrial movement because that is where his money lays For him. I have heard from others that the developers promise a lot but once they are gone from building they don't come back to truly finish drainage problems and building flaws they are in it for the quick buck and nothing else the worlds food comes from only 8% that is left to farm if this is lost it is lost forever the signing of your pen has a lot of weight on it. It will effect thousands if not millions of people of this generation the next and everyone after that I hope money doesn't influance your pen and the future of millions of children does Thank you for you time I know you probably wont read it when there are so many projects your dealing with remember they are all deaply important its not just the signing of a pen Thank you for your time Melanie Hofstrom-Waiteclinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21832Laura Jane SchepplerI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This line will harm many endangered species of plants, like the Prairie Clover, and many animals like the Wild Turkey. This bird was extinct in Illinois in 1910 and is just starting a comeback in LaSalle County.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21831Abe HenkerOppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. It will harm the environment. I am very concerned about the trains crossing four major rivers and many smaller streams and seasonal waterways. It will also block many farm drainage tiles. The impact on the waterways will be permanent and this should be avoided.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21830Mary SchepplerI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal, and you should be too. This line will increase pollution in the area, spoiling the quality of life for the residents. The trains will force many farmers to move their equipment on busy roads, instead of the less traveled ones they currently use, this will increase local traffic and congestion. Farmers who's fields are cut in two by this track will be forced to travel miles to find a railroad crossing. greatly impacting their livelihood, increasing congestion, and increasing traffic pollution.Serena, IL
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21829David HallbergMy name is David Hallberg and my family has operated a farm in southern Porter County,Indiana for six generations. Our area has experienced a large population growth due to urban sprawl from Chicago and Gary with people seeking a better quality of life in the country. As a result, our county roads are becoming increasingly overburdened with traffic. It is our opinion that cutting across all our roads with a railroad will dramatically increase this problem, making travel highly hazardous for all involved. In addition, our rural communities rely on local emergency and fire departments to respond to disasters. The railroad will compromise the response time for these agencies, critically hampering to their ability to preform their essential services. Another major concern is the natural watershed of southern Porter County. All drainage from Valparaiso, south has to go to the Kankakee River. It is our belief that the proposed railroad would greatly influence the drainage by acting as a dike, prohibiting the natural flow of water and forcing it to limited relief points, therefore overburdening our current ditches and causing flooding and extreme soil erosion in the process. Much of our land is used as collateral for loans which provides capital for our business. We feel that the railroad will devalue our property by over 50%, therefore limiting our ability to stay in business. In most cases, the land represents life savings for the owners. Finally, I feel that the railroad's main source of income will result from hourly transportation of coal and oil. Both are commodities that our current scientists state need to be eliminated and replaced with alternate sources of energy. We see the railroad, if allowed to exist, going bankrupt in five years, leaving a disaster behind.hebron, INDIANA
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21828Fred SchepplerThe Great Lakes Basin Railroad needs to be opposed. The line will impact the surrounding farms negatively. Fields will be dissected by the tracks, field drainage tiles will be blocked, creating wetlands, and many road crossing will most likely be closed due to the cost of building a Railroad Crossing, which the Indiana Department of transportation indicates costs $250,000 per crossing. GLB will not be able to afford to give every existing road a crossing as the cost is too great. The lack of crossings will force farm vehicles onto more traveled roads, increasing traffic congestion and the risk of accidents. Please oppose this rail line.Serena, Illinois
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21827Virginia GawThe Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposal should not be supported. The line is not energy efficient and will just be moving existing trains to a new location, there does not seem to be a plan to improve their efficiency or the pollution the existing trains produce. This is a bad plan because it is just moving existing problems to a new location and not solving a problem. The harm to the environment is too great to allow this track to be built. The tracks will block waterways, create marsh lands, hinder animal migration, and impede the comeback of many endangered species in Illinois, like the Wild Turkey.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21826Dennis SchepplerPlease do not approved the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This plan will just be moving the existing train traffic to a new location and this mode of transportation relying on fossil fuels for fuel is becoming outdated. Most of Europe is moving to electric trains and we should be following suit and not simply moving existing trains to new tracks that will be outdated soon.Mount Prospect, Illinois
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21825Kritstina HallbergI just have a few transportation questions in regarding the railway that is wanting to go through our area. I was told that a few of our county roads would be closed. How are buses going to be able to pick up the children with out making the bus route any longer than it already is? Are our schools going to be split because of this railroad? Thanks KristinaHebron, IN
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21824Sonja JacksonI oppose the construction of the GLB railroad. As a mother of 2 young children the health and safety of my growing family will be threatened by this railroad project. Currently the proposed route will be ~ ½ mile south of our house and ~1 mile west. There is only one road going through Clinton in the North/south direction and the tracks will intersect it. This could be a major problem, potentially life threatening, if there happens to be an emergency north of town and emergency responders are delayed by a passing train. There is also increased chances of vehicle or pedestrian accidents. According to Operation Lifesaver a person or vehicles in America, is hit by a train roughly every 3 hours and a motorist is almost 20 times more likely to die in a crash involving a train than in a collision involving another motor vehicle. These are statistics that will cross my mind anytime me or my family have to travel over railroad tracks. There's also concerns about railroad trespassing. Children in rural areas are often less supervised and could easily play on nearby railroad tracks and get hit by a train. A new railroad will negatively impact the air quality in our area. The GLB projects that 100 trains per day would use the proposed tracks. That kind of rail traffic will create harmful diesel emissions, poisoning anyone that breathes the air near in the area. A study completed by the Mayo Clinic found that asthma was 40 to 70% more prevalent in children who lived near railroads. Diesel pollution is also linked to increased risks of cancer. The trains will be able to travel at speeds up to 70 miles per hour, increasing the chance of a derailment and exposing nearby communities to soil, drinking water, and air contamination from hazardous materials. The noise caused by 100 trains a day, traveling at 70 miles per hour will be disruptive to the daily lives of everyone in the area, including local wildlife and livestock. To conclude the increased health and safety risks of the proposed GLB railroad is a huge concern for vehicle/train collisions, emergency response times, pedestrian/train collisions, pollution, potential derailment, and noise pollution. These are risks that I do not want to expose my family to. For these reasons, I oppose the GLB railroad.Clinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21822Michael HerlitzI provide an free outdoor show at my property over 30 nights per year. Some nights I have over 100 people come to watch. People have driven over an hour to watch. I am concerned about the noise and interference of my show. The tracks are within 750 feet of my audience. Being an outdoor performance there is nothing to block the interference. If the railroad takes the current path, and my performances are interrupted, it will be a loss to our local community.Valparaiso, IN
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(printed as 4/7/2016)CommentEI-21817Melanie Hofstrom-WaiteI know the people havent driven around to see what they have drawn up on paper they say they will go under I 43 in clinton wi...well it was built up because of sink holes and springs and the spot they say they will go is on a hill so will they close 43 to cut under it? it is 2 lanes on each side and they want a 200 foot tunel to go under it in that area there have been countless axidents already I dont know if it is because of a dip in the highway maybe a wet spot? The hwy is rough there and they say they will have 140 go over it 140 (is north south)by bc town line this is crazzy are they going to tunel under on both sides of town line or leave a huge cliff that snow will fill over the track ?it may look flat on google earth but it is a huge hill on both sides of the road this makes no cents at all. To who sticks them to there word if they arent even in the same state they say they will give farmers acess to there cut up fields to get to the other side...will they truly do this?there are lots of land locked fields Thanks for listening Melanie Hofstrom-waiteclinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-22550Lisa Fitzgerald[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-22118Elizabeth VarnesFrom: Elizabeth Varnes <evarnes@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/06/2016 06:00 PM Subject: Environmental and wildlife concerns I had previously emailed about our concerns regarding the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. I am sending along pictures of our wetland, Wildlife Sanctuary Certificate and the certification from the Illinois Audubon Society Sanctuary for butterflies and birds. There is also a nesting pair of owls in the woods where the tracks will run, we have several eastern wild turkeys (maybe have 30 to 40) we have counted feeding in the cornfield between our property and river. There are two pair of nesting eagles along the river. Please understand that we are only a small section of environment that will be impacted by the railroad, the scope of what chaos this railroad will bring to us is unimaginable to say nothing of the loss of the most fertile farmland in America. Will be a travesty to our State. That you for letting me share this with you. Sincerely, Elizabeth Varnes 2472 N. 3959 Rd Sheridan, Il 60551
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-22104Arthur Thomas LeDoux[GLBRR Ogle/Winn. rock river crossing] I sent this previously to Dave Navecky and did not receive confirmation. The route as proposed will destroy over one mile of riparian buffer on the Rock River, there is also a question of endangered species in that area. http:www.dnr.illinois.gov/conservation/IWAP/Documents/Mussel Basin Surveys/Rock_mussels.pdf It also crosses a gas pipeline by the river. It comes within 400 feet of SM&Sf park club house and trap range. It will eat up all the camping area from that park and activities such as Kick it for cancer and many other benefits which happen through out the year will no longer be feasible. The quality of life for those who occupy the 20 homes along Condon and Kishwaukee rd that are 400 feet or less will be non existent. By using my re-route proposal you will eliminate 3 sharp turns and a road crossing on condon( which is not even on the crossing schedule submitted by GLBRR). the line will also be 1/4 mile shorter. will not pass through exiting wetlands(tributary to Kishwaukee river which flows into the Rock River) Thank you for your consideration. Arthur LeDouxStillman Valley, IL
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21982Lauren HintzscheFrom: Lauren Hintzsche <phyed1@yahoo.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/06/2016 03:04 PM Subject: Docket No. FD35952 Dear Mr. Navecky, I would like to express my concerns over the proposed Great Lakes Basin Transportation Rail Line Project. (Docket # 35952) I oppose the project and ask that the STB deny the proposal. Here are my concerns: *top soil being moved and used to build flyovers of highways, bridges and other rail lines *drainage of excessive rainwater *field tiles being crushed by construction and affecting drainage *trees being cut down to make way for rail line *new erosion issues *loss of farmland due to compaction *ground water contamination due to derailment, leaking trains *clean up costs for such derailment, who is responsible *evacuations of towns due to derailments *cost to local fire departments for training to deal with haz mat and derailment *long term economic impact on small towns *decreased value of farmland and homes Thank you for your time. Lauren Hintzsche 815/761-8931"
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21816Jordan JorstadHello Mr. Navecky, I am writing about the great lakes basin railroad project. I think there has been a serious side step in the due process of the hearings in Illinois. I have not seen any information to the public other than from the Block the GLBR" groups about the meetings. Furthermore the meetings are all set to happen in April with the closing of May 16th. This is the busiest time for farmers (the ones most affected) because they are in the fields doing their jobs working long hours and cannot afford the luxury of time off. How can this be due process if we are given no information about the hearings and the window for submitting comments is only 2 months. My concern is that this was done this way and at this time specifically to remove those affected from having a voice. Please consider this when making your decision. If you do happen to read this before the May 16th deadline I also kindly ask for an extension into August so that the farmers can have more time to do their investigations into how this will affect their land, lives, and businesses so that they can come forward with the most well thought out concerns. Thank you, Jordan Jorstad"
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21815Janet Hall[Monroe Center] Dear Dave Navecky, Look at the destruction being made on the Ogle County and Winnebago County line by the Rock River. If this is the path of least resistance then GLB Railroad does not value wild life and our countries natural resources. If this mile long stretch of trees are removed and a 200 ft path is allowed it could change the water drainage and flooding patterns of the Rock River. Needless to say, we just started seeing eagles making their homes in our area. For many years this was not the case. By allowing a train in the area many eagles will not choose to call that area their home. Please say no to the GLB Railroad. Boaters on the Rock River enjoy the wildlife and beauty of the trees along the Rock River. Thank you, Janet HallMonroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21814Brian R Hall[Monroe Center] Dear Mr. Navecky, I am a resident of Ogle County, Illinois. My home is in the path of the GLB Railroad. Our two generation farm and the farmland that I will inherit some day is in harms way. We live on a rural country road and it is likely we will have to travel many times a day across unmarked or ungaited tracks. This is a significant danger to all of those who travel, school buses, and farm machine. We have two gravel roads we use regularly that could be closed. This would force more farm machinery to use more major highways. Also the concern of flooding and water drainage issues is a large concern. Please vote NO to the GLB on May 16th. The CREATE program has already dumped 3 billion dollars of tax pay money into cleaning up this problem. It sounds like many improvements have already been made. Thanks, Brian R. HallMonroe Center, Illinois
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21813Bruce Baker[Verona] I am writing in adamant opposition to the Great Lakes Basin railroad proposal. The late date that this has hit the countryside is stunning. The comment period ending on May 16 is ludicrous! Usually comment periods are open for many months. Beyond that, the majority of affected landowners are farmers. With spring planting upon us, we simply need more time to properly respond to this threat to our livelihood and way of life. At a minimum, please extend the comment period!Verona, Illinois
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21812Joyce Splan[Beloit] I want to go on record that I am against the Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. constructing a rail road track through any part of Rock County WI USA. I am a citizen of Turtle Township but a tax payer of the Clinton Community School District, part of which includes Bradford Township. I also have elderly parents who own a home in Bradford Township and live near the proposed path of the tracks. Rock County has the best farmland in the world but that aside it will be a safety issue to my community. It will make bus rides for school children longer and make first response (ambulances fire trucks police) times longer, increase insurance rates, lower property values and interrupt the tranquility of of our community while at the same time bringing no benefits to our community. My concerns about that many trains passing each day is for the safety of everyone in the event of a derailment. Please do not allow this to happen in Rock County, WI.Beloit, WI
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21811Greg LitchfieldI would like to take the time to address the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad that is proposed to go from Wisconsin to Indiana, cutting through prime farmland areas in my home county of Grundy. The lack of information regarding this project before landing at the STB is in my opinion an attempt to avoid the rights of the citizens to be heard in this matter. The overall impact on the environment from a project of this scope truly needs to be considered. It will interfere with Eagle nesting grounds and crane migration, not to mention adding a potential for hazardous spills in one of the several rivers it will cross. It will negatively impact the agriculture industry in our county, land locking some parcels and completely destroying others. An agriculture industry and tourist destination such as the Olive Berry Acres farm in Mazon would be completely eliminated, a farm and agritourist company that has spent years of hard labor and countless dollars to provide safe and affordable produce to those who visit, often from hours away. This will have a negative impact on the numbers of tourists brought to the county who add to the economic growth needed to meet current budget issues within our county. The Mazon area where this line is proposed to go through already has a BNSF line that sees upwards of 80 high speed trains a day, the addition of the Great Lakes Basin line would add another 100 or more trains to the daily traffic. The noise and vibrations of over doubling the traffic will have adverse outcomes on structures as well as livestock grown in the area. The route of the proposed rail cuts across the county in a way that it will create numerous crossings in rural areas what could prevent fire district personnel from responding to a rural home in a timely manner. Mazon Fire Protection District as well as the Verona Kinsman Fire Protection District are volunteer based districts, providing not enough coverage in the case of a train related emergency in the area. I hope you will take into consideration these matters and deny the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposition from moving forward. Sincerely, Greg LitchfieldMorris, IL
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21809Abe HenkerI am asking you to please oppose the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This line would be harmful to the hunting and fishing community. The tracks would scare wildlife and take land away form them and the proposed bridges over 4 major waterways would impact the many people who fish and boat in these rivers. I can only imagine the noise of the train echoing in the river valley, seriously reducing my enjoyment of canoeing and fishing.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21808Virginia GawPlease do not allow the Great Lakes Basin Railroad to be built. This track will run across 4 major rivers and our waterways need to be protected from further development. We need space for the wildlife to live and this track will further infringe on where they can live.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21807Mary SchepplerI am very concerned about how the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad will be running its tracks over existing oil pipelines and that this track will haul oil tankers. The risk of an oil spill from a broken pipeline or tanker is too great. Please oppose this track.Serena, IL
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21806Fred SchepplerI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad, this proposed track will affect existing tile lines that drain farmland. The blockage or breakage of these tile lines would create marshland out of areas that are now dry and farmable.Serena, IL
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentEI-21805Dennis SchepplerI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad, because it will run over existing oil pipelines, specifically at mile marker 133 on their proposed map. This is not a good idea as the oil pipeline could be seriously damaged.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/6/2016)CommentSee attached file regarding docket number FD-35952Norman J. Tadt Jr. · Janesville, Wisconsin
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(printed as 4/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-22103Rock Against the RailJacob Ford
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(printed as 4/5/2016)Comment
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21883Gary TagtmeierFrom: Gary Tagtmeier" <garyt@prosperwithfai.com> To: <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/05/2016 03:49 PM Subject: RE: Docket NO. FD 35952 Dave, Thank you so much. This is very helpful. Thanks again for your expediency. Many in the affected area have a grave concern about how quickly this process has been announced with meetings scheduled and comments required in such a short period of time. March 18 notification with the first meeting April 11 and comments due May 16, 2016. This doesn't give much time for the affected residents to organize. As you can imagine there is tremendous opposition to this proposal. This time frame is especially troubling as it comes at a time when the affected parties are starting one of the busiest times of their year, the planting season. And if you know anything about farming, planting has to be done quickly as the weather permits. If they take time to deal with this issue and lose their planting season, it negatively affects the meager profits they make in even a decent year. We are talking about the people who provide the food, milk and nourishment for the families of our country. How do we go about requesting that the date for filing comments be extended for 90 days from May 16, 2016 until August 16, 2016? This request is very reasonable in light of the extenuating circumstances. Thank you once again. Gary Gary Tagtmeier CPA Affected Resident W9602 State Line Rd. Sharon, WI 53585 (w) 630-963-7000 (c) 630-776-6751 -----Original Message----- From: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov [mailto:David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 1:27 PM To: Gary Tagtmeier Subject: RE: Docket NO. FD 35952 Mr. Tagtmeier - The list is available on our agency website at www.stb.dot.gov. At the home page, place your cursor over the "Environmental Matters" button and select "Environmental Correspondence" in the drop-down menu. At the next page you can search incoming and outgoing correspondence by STB docket number and letter date. For your convenience I have provided a direct link to the list here: http://www.stb.dot.gov/ect1/ecorrespondence.nsf/PublicOutgoingByDocketNumber /5DDFAD56678FF9E185257F8C005D7FAD/$File/GLB_NOI%20Notification%20Letters%20a nd%20Distribution%20Lists.pdf?OpenElement Thanks, Dave Dave Navecky Office of Environmental Analysis Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423 202-245-0294 www.stb.dot.gov From: "Gary Tagtmeier" <garyt@prosperwithfai.com> To: <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/05/2016 11:50 AM Subject: RE: Docket NO. FD 35952 Dave, Thank you for the quick reply. Could you please send me an electronic list of the approximate 1900 federal, state, and local agencies and other interested parties in the project area who were sent letters informing them of the availability of the NOI? Or do I need to do a FOI request for that list? Inasmuch as it appears that someone is trying to ram this project through with the short time frame between announcement and the series of scoping meetings, I would appreciate receiving this list at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your assistance. Gary Gary Tagtmeier CPA Affected Resident W9602 State Line Rd. Sharon, WI 53585 (w) 630-963-7000 (c) 630-776-6751 -----Original Message----- From: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov [mailto:David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 9:55 AM To: Gary Tagtmeier Subject: Re: Docket NO. FD 35952 Mr. Tagtmeier - My answers to your questions are: 1. Yes. On March 18, 2016, the Notice of Intent (NOI) with the dates and locations of the public scoping meetings was published in the Federal Register and also served as a Surface Transportation Board (STB) decision on the STB's website. Also on March 18, approximately 1,900 letters were sent to federal, state and local agencies and other interested parties in the project area informing them of the availability of the NOI. The STB also launched a project website on March 18, 2016 with the NOI and other project-related information. We also distributed flyers, issued press releases and purchased newspaper ads. The STB's project website can be found here: http://www.greatlakesbasinraileis.com/index.html 2. The STB is an independent agency and is not overseen by the U.S. Department of Transportation (Note: I have seen press reports about the proposed project incorrectly suggesting that the STB is an agency of the USDOT). 3. Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. (GLBT) has provided the STB with an inventory of roads intersected by the proposed rail line. The inventory identifies the roads that GLBT proposes to cross with grade separation (e.g., a flyover), at-grade, or closure. Again, these are GLBT's proposals and the impacts of these proposals will be analyzed as part of the STB's environmental review process. (Note: I believe there are some roads missing from GLBT's inventory. The STB will be following up with GLBT on this missing information). The inventory can be found here on the STB's project website: http://www.greatlakesbasinraileis.com/documents/route_points_of_interchange pdf Thanks, Dave Dave Navecky Office of Environmental Analysis Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423 202-245-0294 www.stb.dot.gov From: "Gary Tagtmeier" <garyt@prosperwithfai.com> To: <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/04/2016 09:20 PM Subject: Docket NO. FD 35952 David, RE: Great Lakes Basin Railroad I would appreciate answers to the following questions related to the project mentioned above: 1. Am I correct in the fact that the Surface Transportation Board (STB) announced the dates and locations of the public scoping meetings (the first to be held on April 11, 2016) on March 18, 2016 via the STB's Decision Document? 2. Who at the Federal Department of Transportation oversees the actions of the STB? 3. Where can we get a definitive list of all the roadways that will be permanently closed as this list is critical to the comments that will be received from residents? Without this list, the comments will not be complete and the STB will not be in a position to make a decision that reflects all interested parties' concerns. Regards, Gary Tagtmeier CPA Affected Resident W9602 State Line Rd. Sharon, WI 53585 (w) 630-963-7000 (c) 630-776-6751"
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21882Herald ArgusFrom: Jessica Campbell <jcampbell@heraldargus.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/05/2016 12:32 PM Subject: Maps for the GLB railroad Hello, I am a writer for the HA newspaper in La Porte, IN. I am asking permission to use one of the maps, EIS Project Location Map, on the site with our story of the upcoming project meeting dates for the railroad project. Thanks, Jessica Campbell Staff Writer 219-326-3887 jcampbell@heraldargus.comJessica Campbell
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21881Gary Tagtmeier CPAFrom: Gary Tagtmeier" <garyt@prosperwithfai.com> To: <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/05/2016 11:50 AM Subject: RE: Docket NO. FD 35952 Dave, Thank you for the quick reply. Could you please send me an electronic list of the approximate 1900 federal, state, and local agencies and other interested parties in the project area who were sent letters informing them of the availability of the NOI? Or do I need to do a FOI request for that list? Inasmuch as it appears that someone is trying to ram this project through with the short time frame between announcement and the series of scoping meetings, I would appreciate receiving this list at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your assistance. Gary Gary Tagtmeier CPA Affected Resident W9602 State Line Rd. Sharon, WI 53585 (w) 630-963-7000 (c) 630-776-6751 -----Original Message----- From: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov [mailto:David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov] Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 9:55 AM To: Gary Tagtmeier Subject: Re: Docket NO. FD 35952 Mr. Tagtmeier - My answers to your questions are: 1. Yes. On March 18, 2016, the Notice of Intent (NOI) with the dates and locations of the public scoping meetings was published in the Federal Register and also served as a Surface Transportation Board (STB) decision on the STB's website. Also on March 18, approximately 1,900 letters were sent to federal, state and local agencies and other interested parties in the project area informing them of the availability of the NOI. The STB also launched a project website on March 18, 2016 with the NOI and other project-related information. We also distributed flyers, issued press releases and purchased newspaper ads. The STB's project website can be found here: http://www.greatlakesbasinraileis.com/index.html 2. The STB is an independent agency and is not overseen by the U.S. Department of Transportation (Note: I have seen press reports about the proposed project incorrectly suggesting that the STB is an agency of the USDOT). 3. Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. (GLBT) has provided the STB with an inventory of roads intersected by the proposed rail line. The inventory identifies the roads that GLBT proposes to cross with grade separation (e.g., a flyover), at-grade, or closure. Again, these are GLBT's proposals and the impacts of these proposals will be analyzed as part of the STB's environmental review process. (Note: I believe there are some roads missing from GLBT's inventory. The STB will be following up with GLBT on this missing information). The inventory can be found here on the STB's project website: http://www.greatlakesbasinraileis.com/documents/route_points_of_interchange. pdf Thanks, Dave Dave Navecky Office of Environmental Analysis Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423 202-245-0294 www.stb.dot.gov From: "Gary Tagtmeier" <garyt@prosperwithfai.com> To: <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/04/2016 09:20 PM Subject: Docket NO. FD 35952 David, RE: Great Lakes Basin Railroad I would appreciate answers to the following questions related to the project mentioned above: 1. Am I correct in the fact that the Surface Transportation Board (STB) announced the dates and locations of the public scoping meetings (the first to be held on April 11, 2016) on March 18, 2016 via the STB's Decision Document? 2. Who at the Federal Department of Transportation oversees the actions of the STB? 3. Where can we get a definitive list of all the roadways that will be permanently closed as this list is critical to the comments that will be received from residents? Without this list, the comments will not be complete and the STB will not be in a position to make a decision that reflects all interested parties' concerns. Regards, Gary Tagtmeier CPA Affected Resident W9602 State Line Rd. Sharon, WI 53585 (w) 630-963-7000 (c) 630-776-6751"
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentFrom: Diane McNeilly <dmdianemcn@gmail.com> To: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/05/2016 09:22 AM Subject: Re: Can you direct me to the utube explanation of the proposed railroad system that Thank you. I finally found it again and passed on the word to our planning commission and city council so they can be more informed. I think this is a wonderful project and very necessary. Don't really want any more trains in our community but it is the right thing to do for lots of reasons. Diane McNeilly On Tue, Apr 5, 2016 at 7:01 AM, <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> wrote: Ms. McNeilly - I'm aware of an approximately 90 minute video but have not watched it. Do a Google search using Great Lakes Basin Railroad" and then select "Videos" from Google's top menu. You may need to click on "More" to get a dropdown menu containing the "Video" link. When I did this search the video you may be looking for appears near the top of the search results. Thanks, Dave Dave Navecky Office of Environmental Analysis Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423 202-245-0294 www.stb.dot.gov From: Diane McNeilly <dmdianemcn@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/04/2016 03:04 PM Subject: Can you direct me to the utube explanation of the proposed railroad system that will pass through Rochelle, IL? I was looking at it and got interrupted and cannot now find it. I am on the planning commission and think we should all look at this nice resource. Thank you for your help. Diane McNeilly"Diane McNeilly
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentI oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposed route from La Porte, Indiana, to Milton, Wisconsin, with Grundy County farms as a pass-through. The many major public environmental issues which will affect my farm in Grundy County, Illinois include: possible derailments of freight trains hauling hazardous materials which would lead to toxic chemicals in the soil, disruption of water flow and tile damage which causes flooding of our farmland and loss of fertile top soil. The Tesdal Farm in Grundy County, Illinois, is a centennial farm purchased by my Great Grandfather Chris Hendrickson in 1890s. It has been farmed by my Great Grandfather, Grandfather, Father and brother for over 100 years. My farm will be bisected by the Great Lakes Basin Railroad route. Everyone in our community will be impacted by the inability of first responders to travel to emergencies. The community will be exposed to excessive noise, noxious odors, and intrusive bright lights throughout the day and night. Please stop the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project from being constructed on valuable Illinois farmland which will significantly impact the corn and soybeans production grown on this farm because large areas of the corn and soybean fields will be rendered useless and destroyed permanently. Please stop the Great lakes Basin Railroad construction from Indiana,to Wisconsin and the destruction of valuable farmland on my farm in Grundy County, Illinois. Marsha TesdalMarsha Tesdal · Newark, Illinois
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentI oppose the Great Lakes Basin Railroad proposed route from La Porte, Indiana, to Milton, Wisconsin. The many major public environmental issues which will affect my farm in Grundy County, Illinois include: possible derailments of freight trains hauling hazardous materials which would lead to toxic chemicals in the soil, disruption of water flow and tile damage which causes flooding of our farmland and loss of fertile top soil. The Tesdal Farm in Grundy County, Illinois, is a centennial farm which was purchased by my Great Grandfather Chris Hendrickson in the 1890s. It has been farmed by my Great Grandfather, Grandfather, Father and brother for over 100 years. My farm will be bisected by the Great Lakes Basin Railroad route. Everyone in our community will be impacted by the inability of first responders to travel to emergencies. The community will be exposed to excessive noise, noxious odors, and intrusive bright lights throughout the day and night. Please stop the Great Lakes Basin Railroad project from being constructed on valuable Illinois farmland which will significantly impact the corn and soybeans production on this farm because large areas of the corn and soybean fields will be rendered useless and permanently destroyed. Please vote to stop the entire Great lakes Basin Railroad construction from La Porte, Indiana, to Milton, Wisconsin and the destruction of valuable farmland in Wisconsin, Illinois and Michigan. Cindy Tesdal KohlerCindy Kohler · Kewanee, Illinois
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21801Brad MaleMy concerns over the GLB RR are safety for our families, property value loss, and environmental. How close is to close for a 70 mph set train tracks 3 wide to a home. In grundy county alone there are a lot of homes that would be right on top of the RR. My house for example being one. The tracks would be 250 give or take from my house. The value of property would be a huge hit as well. Most likely putting me upside down in a house that I put 20% down in 5years ago. Over something I have no control over. Environmental concerns over my well. With it being so close to RR, in the event of a derailment the product spilled could leach into water source. Not to mention probably aost hit my house. Citizen in my situation are going to be forced to deal with the all of these consequences with no I'm put from us. Pleas take this in to consideration. Thank you for your time Brad MaleGardner, IL
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21800Fred SchepplerI fell the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad is environmentally unsound. GLB R.R, is not proposing a new environmentally friend electric track like they are using in Europe or anything other than moving existing trains to a new area and in the process creating a whole new track that will compact soil, block natural waterways and disturb many already strained ecosystems. This track is not a good idea given the fact it is doing nothing but taking trains that currently are running smoothly on their existing tracks and moving them. The existing railroads in the state have also said this track is unneeded. Please do nto approve this track.Serena, IL
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21799Mary SchepplerPlease do not approve the great Lakes Basin Railroad line. This line would create excessive noise pollution in the immediate area and this noise would make life unpleasant for many residents, including over 1,000 inmates at the Sheridan Correctional facility, by which this train line will run. These poor men have no way to escape the noise the train will create and will be subjected to trains 24/7/365.Serena, Il
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21798Virginia GawBeing 95 I have seen many changes that have helped out the world. The Great Lakes Basin Railroad is not one of them. This line is simply moving trains from one populated area to another. The area Great Lakes Basin Railroad wants to build in is very populated, they are still going to impact thousands of homes. This is just moving a problem that CREATE and the existing railroads have plans already in place to solve and moving it to a new area and in the process land will be lost, waterways blocked and the environment around the tracks will be forever harmed.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21797Abe HenkerI am opposed to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad project. This plan would create a large burden on the emergency services in the areas the train goes through. My very good friend is a volunteer firefighter in training and him and the other small crew of dedicated heroes would be at a great loss to deal with a derailment or spill, As you know oil spills from trains are on the rise nationwide and we need to all we can to prevent more form happening. I do not fell this track in this area would help the environment at all as the response time for a spill would be long and in the meantime land and possibly people would be harmed.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21796Dennis SchepplerI am opposed to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I fell this track would harm the local community and place an undue burden on the first responders in the event of an accident. Our fire departments are small and would be unable to handle a derailment and the closest railroad emergency response team is well over an hour and a half away on a good day. A derailment could be disastrous to the local environment and a spill or fire cold spread quickly given the limited first responders in the area.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21789PaulStout Sr.I have been looking at the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line with a good deal of interest. Having been born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, I have spent my life in close proximity to, or a short distance from, most of the major rail lines. If you look closely at the routine freight traffic, both the sheer volume, and the variety of products shipping through this area is quite impressive. In watching both the volume and the variety of rail freight one can literally gauge how well, or how badly, the economy is doing on a national level. With rail freight being such an important link to our overall economy, I feel that well planned new routing, such as the Great Lakes Basin Rail line appears to be, are critical to improving the efficiency, safety and reliability of our overall freight transportation systems. For many years I have seen and heard railroad executives, transportation experts and shippers of all varieties decry the bottleneck that Chicago has become for transcontinental shipping. I see it with my own eyes with freight trains sitting idle on local sidings for hours on end, and trains blocking thoroughfare crossings for sometimes 1/2 or more. The Project Information for this particular plan states that it can take 30 hours for a train to make its way through this bottleneck, but I have also heard from the experts mentioned above, that it can oftentimes take from 2 to 4 days. That this has not yet been corrected seems to me to be a serious error. For those reasons, and more, I am a proponent of this proposed bypass. Since this particular comment opportunity is to address Environmental related issues, I wish to state that my support for this plan is based on my strong belief that this is a net positive to the environment on a number of levels; (1) reducing the time for as many as 110 freight trains a day from as much as 4 days, to less than 8 hours significantly reduces the amount of fuel burned, and the emissions from that burnt fuel, (2) reducing the congestion in metropolitan areas that causes delays at railroad crossings can also significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions from the thousands of autos that sit idling waiting for the crossings to clear, (3) for perishable products being shipped to market these delays could make the difference between getting fresh products to the consumers and possibly spoilage of the products before they even get to market, (4) although there is certainly some impact on the environment during the construction of the new rail line, the impact over its lifetime is minimal especially when being compared to possibly having to build new roads to handle increased truck traffic. In closing I want to express my appreciation for the opportunity to provide my thoughts and opinions, and I hope to hear in the not too distant future that this much needed bypass has been approved and is moving forward. It would be a great benefit to us all. Paul H. Stout Sr. Crestwood, IllinoisCreswtwood, Illinois
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21788john johnsonI have 2 concerns. farm fields becoming land locked, if the rail splits a field, many fields have only one entrance, a safe and suitable crossing for trucks and machinery will need to be put in. my main concern is derailment, if this happens, the potential explosion and fire could be catastrophic. if there,s a home nearby or a school, the potential for disaster is enormous. the subsequent fire when crops are dry , especially near harvest time, could destroy hundreds of acres of crops. if a tanker car where just to rupture, the spill alone could be disaste rous to the environment not to mention the fertility of the crop land, noise is another factor, as the train horns can be heard for miles away, and this proposed route will be very close to many homes and towns. the roar from the rails will be bad enough, not to mention the horns.capron, il
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEI-21787Kim Westfall[Valparaiso] I oppose this railroad through Porter CO, In. A scoping meeting needs to be scheduled. Our County has the most footage of proposed tracks.Valparaiso, Indiana (IN)
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEO-2840Gary Tagtmeier
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEO-2839Gary Tagtmeier
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEO-2838Rod Gardin
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEO-2837Peggy Cantwell
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEO-2836Diane McNeilly
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEO-2769Herald ArgusJessica Campbell
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEO-2767Gary Tagtmeier
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEO-2766Gary Tagtmeier
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEO-2765Rod Gardin
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEO-2764Peggy Cantwell
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(printed as 4/5/2016)CommentEO-2763Diane McNeily
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-25710Dennis SchepplerThe Great Lakes Basin Railroad is an outdated and environmentally harmful proposal. Why allow them to simply move trains off existing tracks onto new ones? Great Lakes Basin Railroad is not proposing a new clean form of transportation, all they want is to take the existing trains and move them, creating environment problems as they build the new tracks. Great Lakes Basin Railroad needs to propose a new clean form of transportation and not just the moving of trains to a new area.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-22481Karen Gill[see attached letter]
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-22101Miami Tribe of OklahomaFrom: Diane Hunter <dhunter@miamination.com> To: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov" <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/04/2016 04:54 PM Subject: Docket No. FD 35952 Great Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc. Dear Mr. Navecky: Aya, kikwehsitoole. My name is Diane Hunter, and I am the Acting Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Federally Recognized Miami Tribe of Oklahoma. In this capacity, I am the Miami Tribe’s point of contact for all Section 106 issues. As this site is within the aboriginal homelands of the Miami Tribe, we request to serve as an interested party to the proposed project. In my capacity as Acting Tribal Historic Preservation Officer I am the point of contact for consultation. If any human remains or Native American cultural items falling under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) or archaeological evidence is discovered during any phase of this project, the Miami Tribe requests immediate consultation with the entity of jurisdiction for the location of discovery. In such a case, please contact me at 918-541-8966, by email at dhunter@miamination.com, or by mail at the address listed below to initiate consultation. I have attached your consultation questionnaire. Respectfully, Diane Hunter Acting Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Miami Tribe of Oklahoma P.O. Box 1326 Miami, OK 74355"Diane Hunter
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-22100Norfolk Southern RailwayJohn M. Scheib
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21981Ray and Brenda RainwaterMr. Navecky, my wife and I are writing to inform you that we are opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad that has been proposed by a private speculative business. The rail tract is proposed to be on our farm in Ogle county on Mulford Rd. Our largest concern is how it will affect the environment in our farm community. I have been a member of the storm water committee in our county for many years; and know what the effects of grade and amount of fall, does with rainwater. The crossings of Rt. 38 and Mulford will hugely impact flooding in that area due to changes in elevations. Wet fields that don't dry out properly,due to elevation changes and broken tile lines, will not produce a crop. Our family has farmed this farm for the last 65 years and we were able to purchase it 25 years ago after years of hard work and savings. The thought of a possible hazardous spill, that would ruin the soil, is painful. How can this be allowed to happen in a fertile farmland area? We appeal to you to not let this happen,and realize that our farmland needs protecting! Raymond and Brenda Rainwater 14676 Twombly Rd. Rochelle, IL. 61068. 815-562-8587
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21879Gary TagtmeierFrom: Gary Tagtmeier" <garyt@prosperwithfai.com> To: <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/04/2016 09:20 PM Subject: Docket NO. FD 35952 David, RE: Great Lakes Basin Railroad I would appreciate answers to the following questions related to the project mentioned above: 1. Am I correct in the fact that the Surface Transportation Board (STB) announced the dates and locations of the public scoping meetings (the first to be held on April 11, 2016) on March 18, 2016 via the STB's Decision Document? 2. Who at the Federal Department of Transportation oversees the actions of the STB? 3. Where can we get a definitive list of all the roadways that will be permanently closed as this list is critical to the comments that will be received from residents? Without this list, the comments will not be complete and the STB will not be in a position to make a decision that reflects all interested parties' concerns. Regards, Gary Tagtmeier CPA Affected Resident W9602 State Line Rd. Sharon, WI 53585"
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21878Ray & Brenda RainwaterFrom: Ray & Brenda Rainwater <rayrainwater@comcast.net> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/04/2016 03:46 PM Subject: Fwd: Docket No.FD 35952 From: Ray & Brenda Rainwater <rayrainwater@comcast.net> Date: April 4, 2016 at 2:13:35 PM CDT To: davidnavecky@stb.dot.gov Subject: Docket No.FD 35952 Mr. Navecky, my wife and I are writing to inform you that we are opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad that has been proposed by a private speculative business. The rail tract is proposed to be on our farm in Ogle county on Mulford Rd. Our largest concern is how it will affect the environment in our farm community. I have been a member of the storm water committee in our county for many years; and know what the effects of grade and amount of fall, does with rainwater. The crossings of Rt. 38 and Mulford will hugely impact flooding in that area due to changes in elevations. Wet fields that don't dry out properly,due to elevation changes and broken tile lines, will not produce a crop. Our family has farmed this farm for the last 65 years and we were able to purchase it 25 years ago after years of hard work and savings. The thought of a possible hazardous spill, that would ruin the soil, is painful. How can this be allowed to happen in a fertile farmland area? We appeal to you to not let this happen,and realize that our farmland needs protecting! Raymond and Brenda Rainwater 14676 Twombly Rd. Rochelle, IL. 61068. 815-562-8587 Sent from iPad
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentFrom: Diane McNeilly <dmdianemcn@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/04/2016 03:04 PM Subject: Can you direct me to the utube explanation of the proposed railroad system that will pass through Rochelle, IL? I was looking at it and got interrupted and cannot now find it. I am on the planning commission and think we should all look at this nice resource. Thank you for your help. Diane McNeillyDiane McNeilly
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21876Ben VowlesFrom: Ben Vowles <bavowle@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/04/2016 02:45 PM Subject: Proposed Railroad David, This proposed railroad is very alarming and concerning to my family and I. It goes right through our farmland, as well as a lot of our neighbors' and friend's farmland. Our land has been in our family for quite a while now. It is not only how we make a living, but it is our livelihood and why we get up everyday. It is also very concerning the number of crossings that school buses and ambulances would have to cross to get to a school or hospital. That will in fact cost a life at some point. Imagine someone coming and taking something away from you that you have owned for a very long time. Not only taking it, but taking it for their own personal gain. Last I checked this is the land of the free and the home of the brave. It doesn't seem very free for people who will lose their land, nor brave of the people doing the taking. Just wanted to share some thoughts with you about how much this land means to it's owners, me included. It is a very passionate subject. I know that when the dust settles that the STB will do the right thing and not allow this to go through. Thank you, Ben Vowles
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21875Steve AyersFrom: Steve Ayers <lew8317@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/04/2016 01:22 PM Subject: Meetings Where Where is the meeting for the Sheridan area? Steve Sent from Mail for Windows 10"
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentFrom: Alley, John - DOT" <john.alley@dot.wi.gov> To: "'David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov'" <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> Cc: "Chung, Kathleen - DOT" <Kathleen.Chung@dot.wi.gov> Date: 04/04/2016 11:59 AM Subject: FW: FD 35952, Proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line David: Kathy Chung asked me to forward you the names and email addresses of our invited attendees for the April 6 Webinar. They are as follows: Switzer, Aileen - DOT <Aileen.Switzer@dot.wi.gov>; Nestler, Joseph - DOT <Joseph.Nestler@dot.wi.gov>Chung, Kathleen - DOT <Kathleen.Chung@dot.wi.gov>; Simon, David - DOT <David.Simon@dot.wi.gov>; Morrison, Mark - DOT <mark.morrison@dot.wi.gov>; Kedzior, Richard W - DOT <Richard.Kedzior@dot.wi.gov>; Stern, Lisa - DOT <lisa.stern@dot.wi.gov>; Basten, Brad J - DOT <Brad.Basten@dot.wi.gov>; Etzler, John M - DOT <JohnM.Etzler@dot.wi.gov>; Yeh, Daniel - DOT <Daniel.Yeh@dot.wi.gov>; Hoesly, Colleen M - DOT <Colleen.Hoesly@dot.wi.gov>; Schmit, Sheri - DOT <Sheri.Schmit@dot.wi.gov>; Barth, Tony - DOT <Tony.Barth@dot.wi.gov> Thanks and please let me know if you have any questions. John John Alley Director Bureau of Transit, Local Roads, Railroads and Harbors Division of Transportation Investment Management Wisconsin Department of Transportation Phone: 608 266 2963 Mobile: 608 259 6169 Fax: 608 266 0658 john.alley@dot.wi.gov From: Chung, Kathleen - DOT Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 8:51 AM To: Alley, John - DOT <john.alley@dot.wi.gov> Subject: FW: FD 35952, Proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line THANK YOU! Kathy -----Original Message----- From: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov [mailto:David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 11:20 AM To: Chung, Kathleen - DOT <Kathleen.Chung@dot.wi.gov> Subject: FD 35952, Proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line Kathleen - Thank you for your call. This is to confirm that you'd like to be invited to the April 6, 2016 webinar for federal and state transportation agencies. The webinar will be held from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Central Time. In the near future, we will send out a webinar invite with the webinar number/address and pass codes. If you have colleagues within the WI DOT that you'd like us to add to this invite, please provide their names and email addresses. If you'd prefer to coordinate that internally, that's fine. But we'd be happy to add any names you provide us to the attendee list and agenda that will be sent out with the webinar invitation. Thanks, Dave Dave Navecky Office of Environmental Analysis Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423 202-245-0294 www.stb.dot.gov"John Alley
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21873Mark MelinFrom: mark Melin <markgmelin@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/04/2016 10:13 AM Subject: Petition Hello David, I know that we can E-file, mail or voice concerns at scoping meetings in regards to the GLB project. Can we circulate a petition against the GLB project and send that petition directly to you? We would like to circulate such a petition but do not want to spend the time and energy if it falls outside of the parameters of communication. If the answer is yes then we would like it to be added to the public record just like an e-filing, letter or oral comment. Please advise. Thanks for your time, Mark Melin Sent from my iPad
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21872Jeff WhiteFrom: White, Jeffrey" <Jeffrey.White@arcelormittal.com> To: "david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/04/2016 09:26 AM Subject: Great Lake Basin Rail Line Route Hello, After viewing the proposed route, I am curious why it was chosen to go north of Westville instead of going south of Westville. The northern route affects many more residential neighborhoods and communities. It also require two intersections across US 421 when combined with the Kingsbury extension. A route that goes south of Westville would go through a less populated area and more open farmland. Thank You, Jeff White Westville, IN."
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21794James H. BairdEarlville, IL
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21793Mike ZemanPaw Paw, IL
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21792Bob NoblePaw Paw, IL
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21791Thomas L. KettleJanesville, WI
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21786Angela OsburnPlease consider NO in passing the proposal for the Great Lakes Basin RailwayHebron, IN
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21785Nicole MaleThis is an attempt to voice an opinion in opposition to the GLB railway. The plans for this railway are extremely close to our home and property line. This has caused our family great distress. The plans for this railway will turn our property value upside down. The fear of the products being transported being so close to our home and our well, our only water source, is terrifying. These tracks and the high speed trains is also a concern for our children's safety. How can I obtain more eduction and understanding on this proposal. More importantly how can I prevent this from affecting people in my community and protect my family from a very dangerous situationGardner, IL
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21784Nicole MaleThis is an attempt to voice an opinion in opposition to the GLB railway. The plans for this railway are extremely close to our home and property line. This has caused our family great distress. The plans for this railway will turn our property value upside down. The fear of the products being transported being so close to our home and our well, our only water source, is terrifying. These tracks and the high speed trains is also a concern for our children's safety. How can I obtain more eduction and understanding on this proposal. More importantly how can I prevent this from affecting people in my community and protect my family from a very dangerous situationGardner, IL
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21783Lisa JennsApril 4, 2016 To Whom It May Concern: I have lived in my current residence, 463 South County Line Rd., Hebron, Indiana for almost 30 years. I own and operate Stoney Run Kennels, Inc. at this same location. We are beginning our 28th year in business and I have a staff of 8 local residents plus my daughter and myself who depend on their jobs at my facility. My clients come from near and far because they like the quiet atmosphere we offer their pets. The sounds of the train horns, lights and bells dinging, the steel wheels on the metal tracks and the vibrations will be a detriment to my business. The constant 24 hours-per-day NOISE is not part of the peaceful countryside. The pets will be awakened by the horns and bells, and they will feel the vibrations as the trains roar through. My clientele treat their pets like their children. Humans don’t appreciate staying in a nice resort with rail road tracks nearby and trains barreling through all day and night. I am sure my clients will not appreciate that atmosphere for their pets either. Another concern I have is that the proposed area where the tracks will cross Lake/Porter County Line Rd. is an area that is prone to severe flooding during heavy rains. At times the water is too high for low riding cars to pass through. There are several non-regulated ‘ditches’ which meander through that area on both sides of County Line Rd. at the very same location that has been suggested for the rail line. This entire area has many drainage tiles that the Army Corp of Engineers laid many years ago to drain the farm fields so that they could be used for farming. It is part of the Kankakee River watershed. These tiles may be old but many are still functioning deep beneath the topsoil. These tiles carry the field drainage south to the Kankakee River. Local farmers repair breaks in these tiles or replace failed sections in order to continue successfully farming these otherwise wet areas. The weight of the trains and tracks will surely damage these underground tiles if the construction of the tracks doesn’t do it first. I have been working for almost 30 years with Lake and Porter County officials for help with flooding issues all along County Line Rd from my residence/business south to the unregulated meandering ‘ditch’. Highway superintendents have always told me that all our water from the ditches bordering my property travels south to this very same area where GLBT has suggested placing their tracks. I have video of the terrible flooding that occurs in this area. I gave a copy of this video to the Porter County drainage board several years ago when they were collecting data on flood prone areas. I took my former County Commissioner, Carol Knoblock for a drive-by tour to witness first hand the extent of this flooding. Even the town of Hebron has flood control issues in this same area. I cannot believe that such a wet area could support the trains when they are carrying full, heavy, potentially TOXIC loads. And if GLBT is given permission to use this route, then where will all that water go?? It backs up 2 miles north as it is now and spills out of the ditches at the intersection of County Line Rd. and 137th Ave/450 South. Officials in both Lake and Porter County are well aware of our water woes along this stretch of the road. GLBT has not done their research in this area. In February at a meeting in Illinois when it was suggested that environmental studies would be necessary if the route passed through wet lands, Mr. Patton’s response was that “…those studies would be prohibitively time-consuming.” So he moved the route! He is ‘rail roading’ individuals and groups that stand in his way! Any route which carries toxic products deserves careful evaluation along with environmental studies. At the very least this project should be relocated south of the river so as to avoid the potential for disaster should a toxic spill occur. I noticed that GLBT’s proposed route doesn’t cross the Kankakee River at any point in Indiana. Is this perhaps because of the toxic loads this rail line will carry? Or is it too expensive to build a safe enough bridge for the type of cargo that Mr. Patton and his group plan to allow on these tracks? This area near me is very small when compared to the entire route, perhaps 10 miles or so. But it is this section of the rail road that is the closest to the Kankakee River. This river is really nothing more than a huge, man-made ‘farm ditch’, the purpose of which is to drain the surrounding fields so farmers can work the fields and maximize their yields. And if the soggy land doesn’t support the weight of the train and just one rail car full of toxins spills into our water table, what would we do then?? How do I evacuate 38 dogs or more plus my own pets? Where would we go? How would I provide water for that many pets plus my own and my family? I gave up my career to stay home and raise my children. My hobby became my business. It is also my retirement money. It isn’t much, but this rail line will not only destroy my business, it will devaluate my property to the point that it may even be difficult to sell. I will have to find work when I should have been able to retire comfortably. Please do not allow this project to move forward. Thank you in advance for any assistance you may offer. Sincerely~ Lisa Jenns Stoney Run Kennels, Inc. 463 South 800 West Hebron, IN 46341 219-242-2493Hebron, IN
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21782Fred SchepplerI fell the Great Lakes Basin Railroad should not be built due to the harm it would have on the environment. There are many endangered Bat, such as the Indiana Bat that need their habitat protected. This rail line would hurt these animals that are vital to a well running ecosystem.Serena, IL
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21781Mary SchepplerI am worried the great Lakes Basin Railroad, will harm the ecosystem, as it will infringe upon the Northern Long Eared Bat's habitat. This bat and all bats are critical to our environment.Serena, IL
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21780Abe HenkerI am very upset Great Lakes Basin Railroad is planning on building a new train track in the countryside. This track will simply run the same dirty trains that have tracks already in a new area. GLB need to propose clean electric trains, like they are doing in Europe and not simply move existing dirty and environmentally harmful trains to a new rail line.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21779Virgina GawBeing 95 I am distressed that more change is coming to the country side. I do not feel we need to further harm the environment by allowing Great Lakes Basin Railroad build new train line. We do not need another line to block natural drainage and water flows. We also do not the potential for pollution a train line this big would create.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21778Brad MaleMy concerns with the new rail road hit very close to home. According to the satellite view a 3 lane railroad would be close to 200 feet away from my home. Safety for my family is my number one concern. A 70 mile an hour set of three trains is not safe for my family. Property values are another issue. Not to mention cutting farmers fields in half. I don't understand how a new rail road of three tracks right next to me could be safe for anyone. I hope you will take this letter in to consideration. Thank you for your time Concerned citizen for his family's safety Brad MaleGardner, Illinois
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21777Angela OsburnPlease consider my attached comments to DENY the Northwest Indiana Railway to be allowed. We beg you sir.Hebron, IN
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21776Rock Against the RailI feel that my farmland and all farmland for that matter is a valuable asset and needs to be protected. I believe that the proposed railroad through our land has many unknown questions and answers. 1. What is being transported. 2. Are hazardous materials allowed. 3.How will our community be protected from possible spills and/or contaminates. 4. Who will train our fire and rescue volunteers to handle such emergencies. There are too many questions without any answers. Keep Rock County environmentally safe. David and Anne BrandlDavid Brandl · Clinton, WI
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21775Lori PepperMr. Navecky, I need to add another major concern after a recent conversation with the renter who farms my field in southern Boone County impacted by the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line. They are very concerned about how the field will be cut in two making it impossible to farm in straight rows as in the past. They also alerted me to their safety concerns in crossing the rail line proposed with farming equipment. Both renters are concerned with compaction of soil and changes in the way water runs on the property as well as construction damage to waterways and tiling on the land. They just contacted me with the fear of not having a crop the year of construction. Loss of a crop means loss of income and they fear they will need to find other properties to make up for a construction year loss. Should they construct the rail making it impossible to grow corn or soybeans I will also be out of a year's rent which should be paid by these railroad administrators. Buying the land does not cover this construction-related loss. Once I lose a renter will they be able to return to this property? That is an unknown for myself as landlord or the farmer in question. This railroad creates a very serious breech in our business relationship that I could always count on before. Please consider this dilemma fousted on the farming community up and down the line should construction occur. Agriculture may not bounce back should this rail be built. That would be a huge loss to this state. Sincerely, Lori PepperSleepy Hollow, IL
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEI-21774Marie Wietbrock[Lowell] We are land owners in the line of the proposed rail line. The major issue we have is they are going to be flooding our ground. The line is to go through our surface drainage in the field and then directly over our field tiles. We also get runoff water from the fields to the north of us and the rail line will block the flow of water and then flood us. Please do not allow this to happen !!Lowell, IN - Indiana
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEO-2835Mark Melin
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEO-2834Wisconsin DOTBrad Basten
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentEO-2762Mark Melin
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(printed as 4/4/2016)CommentBrad J. Basten
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(printed as 4/3/2016)CommentEI-21871Sandy BruchFrom: Sandy Bruch <sandy.bruch2013@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 04/03/2016 10:26 PM Subject: Docket number FD35952 Block Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project Mr. Navecky, I attended a meeting this evening in which I found out that there is a proposed private investor attempting to put through a railroad line. It is my position that I greatly oppose this for numerous reasons. Environment impact is of paramount concern. The farmland lost that can never be reclaimed. Illinois has some of the most fertile soil in the world. Another environmental impact is the increase of wetland created by the changes in the drainage. Add to that the natural habitat irrevocably lost. Another negative impact is the financial burden to local governments, the state of Illinois, and small communities. The proposed railroad will be moving at a high rate of speed and the risk of derailment is higher as speeds increase. Our local volunteer fire departments are not equipped to handle the hazardous materials these trains will be carrying. Also, it is pretty apparent that all of the small country roads that currently exist will not all remain open because of the lack of feasibility to put crossings on all of them. This too affects response times for first responders for fire and emt calls. These road closures will cause an increase in the amount of farm equipment that travels on the heavier trafficked roads as opposed to the smaller country roads. Each on their own, and all of the above statements are valid reasons why this railroad should be blocked. As a citizen, hear my voice when I ask that you say no when it comes time to vote on docket number FD35952 and block the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. Respectfully, Sandra K. Bruch
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(printed as 4/3/2016)CommentEI-21870Peggy FowlerFrom: Peggy Fowler <ffosterma@hotmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/03/2016 09:26 PM Subject: I am concerned about the railroad coming to Lowell Indiana , I have a daughter who has seizures and needs to get to a hospital , how do I get her there if you close the routes that we would take to the hospital, I live south of Lowell."
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentFrom: Basten, Brad J - DOT" <Brad.Basten@dot.wi.gov> To: "'david.navecky@stb.dot.gov'" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/01/2016 03:17 PM Subject: Great Lakes Basin railroad webinar Hello David, I would like to join the webinar scheduled for April 6th. I will be off-site at that time. Is there a way I can join the discussion? Thank you, Brad Basten Economic Development Officer WisDOT Office of the Secretary 4802 Sheboygan Ave., Room 120B P.O. Box 7910 Madison, WI 53707-7910 608-286-5675 fax: 608-266-9912 brad.basten@dot.wi.gov"Brad J Basten
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentFrom: Graves, Heather - OCR" <Heather.Graves@wisconsin.gov> To: "david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> Date: 04/01/2016 12:14 PM Subject: webinar Great Lakes Basin Hi Dave I would like to participate in the webinar for the Great Lake Basin Transportation project on Monday April 4th Heather Graves Legislative/Public Policy Analyst-Supervisor Office of the Commissioner of Railroads 608-266-0276 Heather.graves@wisconsin.gov 610 N Whitney Way Madison, WI 53705 http://ocr.wi.gov/"Heather Graves
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentDavid, Thank you for calling me this morning. I am happy to listen in on the webinar set for April 22. Please forward me the details when they become available. Aaron Damrill Chief, Michiana Branch Regulatory Office U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, Detroit District Office: (574)-232-1952, ext. 21961 Fax: (574)-232-3075 aaron.w.damrill@usace.army.mil Please visit our Detroit District Regulatory website at: http://www.lre.usace.army.mil/Missions/RegulatoryProgramandPermits.aspx We would appreciate your feedback. Our National Customer Service Survey is located at: http://corpsmapu.usace.army.mil/cm_apex/f?p=136:4:0Aaron Damril
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentEI-21772Richard Allen[Subject: Stillman Valley] My concerns are with the proposed Great Lake Basin Transportation railway project. The proposed railway will come within several hundred yards of my home, as well as homes of others in the area. I fear potential impact on the environment, our quality of life and home values.Stillman Valley, Illinois
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentEI-21771Fred SchepplerI am opposed to the Great Lakes Basin Railroad. I feel this line would hurt the environment, as it creates an unnatural barrier for wildlife. I feel this track would be harmful for the wild animals to cross and this inability to cross-bred and migrate normally would be environmentally unsound.Serena, IL
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentEI-21770Mary SchepplerI feel the Great Lakes Basin Railroad is bad for the environment. This track would run through farm land and waterways that serve as historic resting areas for migrating bird of all kinds during their spring and winter flights.Serena, IL
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentEI-21769Virginia GawThe Great Lakes Basin Railroad is a very bad idea for the environment. I am 95 and have seen some much change, this railroad will further reduce the places migrating birds can rest. It will also alter the landscape that many think the birds use to know where they are flying. I think this railroad would help further the decline of many birds, that use our area as a stopping grounds on their bi-yearly flights.Arlington Heights, Illinois
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentEI-21768Dennis SchepplerThe GLB Railroad would be very harmful to the traffic in rural Illinois. Many local roads will either be closed because the community can not afford to build a crossing or roads without crossings now will now have them. Either way cars and farm equipment that normally has an unimpeded route will be forced to sit idle increasing the amount of exhaust emitted in the air. This increase in exhaust fumes would be bad for the environment and should not be allowed.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentEI-21767Abe HenkerAs an avid camper I am opposed to GLB railroad and the affect it will have on the solitude and quiet of the area. Camping is a great way to reduce stress and this railroad will further encroach upon the few wild places we have left in rural America. I am also worried about people having access to the train tracks as that could result in injury or worse.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentHeather Graves
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentRebecca M. Graser
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(printed as 4/1/2016)CommentHeather Graves
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-22099Joe and Kathleen (Mahe) BessenFrom: Kathleen Bessen <kathleenbessen@gmail.com> To: david.navecky@stb.dot.gov Date: 03/31/2016 08:45 AM Subject: GLBR project Dear Sir; I vehemently oppose the GLBR project. It is an unconscionable endeavor to literally steal people's land. Our family farm is priceless to us. I am a 4th generation farmer on the ground my family has farmed for 147 years. In 2019 we will be recognized as a sesquicentennial farm. We will fight this project allowing a private entity to use eminent domain for private gain. Our farm is first and foremost, our family home. We farm, and also run a state licensed hunting preserve. This railroad would destroy everything we have worked for our entire lives. It is wrong to continue to develop valuable farm ground. We are not a disposable commodity. Sincerely, Joe and Kathleen (Maher) Bessen 5195 E Goodfarm Rd Gardner, IL 60424
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentFrom: Laura Shurr Blaney <laurashurrblaney@gmail.com> To: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov" <David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov> Cc: Laura Blaney <theblaneys@csinet.net> Date: 03/31/2016 01:58 PM Subject: Re: Rail Meetings Mr. Navecky, Thank you for your response. I understand budget constraints, but I really do feel this is an undue burden on my constituents. If there's anything I can do that would help enable you to have a meeting in Porter County, I am willing. We would waive the fee for using the Porter County Expo Center if the STB were willing to hold a meeting there. It is within a few miles of the proposed route. Thank you for your consideration, Laura Laura Shurr Blaney Porter County Commissioner South District 219-405-4029 > On Mar 31, 2016, at 10:42 AM, David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov wrote: > Dear Commissioner Blaney - > Thank you for your inquiry regarding the scoping meeting schedule for Great > Lakes Basin Transportation, Inc's (GLBT) proposed rail line. I assure you > that the Surface Transportation Board (STB) wants to hear from the > residents of Porter County. Their concerns and issues are important to the > STB and will assist us in developing the final scope of study for the > environmental impact statement. However, considering the STB's limited > travel budget and that the project area for the proposed rail line > encompasses 278 miles in three states, we were unable to locate scoping > meetings in each potentially affected community or each of the 11 counties > through which the proposed rail line could be located. The scoping meeting > locations were identified to ensure that the majority of individuals with > homes, farms, and businesses along GLBT's proposed rail line route would > need to travel no more than approximately 30 minutes to their closest > meeting location. > Regarding your constituents, Porter County residents have three meeting > locations from which to choose: April 12, 2016, Lowell VFW Large Hall, > Lowell, IN (note this is a venue change from the Lowell Town Hall); April > 13, 2016, American Legion Banquet Hall, Wanatah, IN; and April 14, 2016, > Civic Auditorium Banquet Room, La Porte, IN (all meetings will run from > 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m). Considering these locations, it appears that > Porter County residents living in proximity to GLBT's proposed rail line > route could reach these meeting locations in approximately 5 to 30 minutes. > Additionally, for those persons unable to attend any of the public scoping > meetings in person, the STB is also hosting an online public scoping > meeting on Wednesday, April 27, 2016 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Central > Time) . To register to attend this online public scoping meeting, please > refer your constituents to the following web page on the STB-sponsored > project website: > http://www.greatlakesbasinraileis.com/online_meet.html > Regards, > Dave > Dave Navecky > Office of Environmental Analysis > Surface Transportation Board > 395 E Street SW > Washington, DC 20423 > 202-245-0294 > www.stb.dot.gov > From: Laura Blaney <theblaneys@csinet.net> > To: "david.navecky@stb.dot.gov" <david.navecky@stb.dot.gov> > Date: 03/28/2016 11:57 PM > Subject: Rail Meetings > To whom it may concern, > I am extremely disappointed that there are no public scoping meetings > concerning the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail project in Porter County, > IN. A rail with 110 trains per day that cuts all the way across our county > will have a huge and significant impact on our roads, our drainage, our > farm industry, our emergency and safety services and the quality of life of > our residents. It is grossly unfair that our residents have to travel out > of county to make their voices heard. I hope you will reconsider and add a > meeting in Porter County. Thank you. > Laura Blaney > Laura Shurr Blaney > Porter County Commissioner > South District > 219-405-4029"Larua Shurr Blaney
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentThank you very much. I'll get email addresses, and send together. I forgot to ask if this webinar will be replayed? Some of our people cannot make the April 6 time. -----Original Message----- From: David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov [mailto:David.Navecky@stb.dot.gov] Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 11:20 AM To: Chung, Kathleen - DOT <Kathleen.Chung@dot.wi.gov> Subject: FD 35952, Proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail Line Kathleen - Thank you for your call. This is to confirm that you'd like to be invited to the April 6, 2016 webinar for federal and state transportation agencies. The webinar will be held from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Central Time. In the near future, we will send out a webinar invite with the webinar number/address and pass codes. If you have colleagues within the WI DOT that you'd like us to add to this invite, please provide their names and email addresses. If you'd prefer to coordinate that internally, that's fine. But we'd be happy to add any names you provide us to the attendee list and agenda that will be sent out with the webinar invitation. Thanks, Dave Dave Navecky Office of Environmental Analysis Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423 202-245-0294 www.stb.dot.govKathleen Chung
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentMr. Navecky, Thank you for speaking to me this morning. I was able to find your email address, and provide my contact information below. WisDOT is monitoring this process closely, and I appreciate your kind guidance. Kathy Chung Kathleen Chung Assistant General Counsel Wisconsin Department of Transportation 4802 Sheboygan Av., Room 115-B P.O. Box 7910 Madison, WI 53707-7910 (608) 266-8752 FAX (608) 267-6734 kathleen.chung@dot.wi.govKathleen Chung
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentDave, We received a NOI for this project. This project will not be going through our county, being Kenosha County Wisconsin. It will be going through Rock County Wisconsin which is two counties to the west. We have no comment on the project since it is not in our county. Thank you, Andy. Andy M. Buehler | Director of Planning & Development | Kenosha County Department of Public Works and Development Services | 19600 75th Street 185-3, Bristol, WI 53104 | Ph: (262)-857-1892 | http://www.kenoshacounty.org/index.aspx?nid=656Andy M. Buehler
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21862Karen TurnerDear Mr. Navecky, I am writing to you today because I wholeheartedly oppose the proposed route of the Great Lakes Basin Railway. I live quite close to the proposed route and am worried that the hazardous material the train will carry will poison the groundwater if an accident should occur. The track will take a sharp turn near me and derailments occur on sharp curves. I also moved to the country for the peace and quiet we have enjoyed for years. These tracks will ruin this peace. More importantly is what these tracks will do to my dear friends and neighbors. Many have farms that have been in their families for generations. They will be paid a ridiculously small amount for their land compared to the inconvenience of farming around these tracks, the damage the trains would do to the farmland, and the huge property value decrease that will occur. Eastern Boone county has some of the most fertile farmland in the state of Illinois and probably the country! Why would anyone put a railway carrying hazardous material near such a huge national resource! Our fine country was built on farming and farmers. PLEASE DO NOT LET THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAILROAD RUIN FARMS IN EASTERN BOONE COUNTY! The original route that would take the train through western Winnebago county and down Route 39 makes much more sense! Aside from all of that , I am very concerned about the time it would take for emergency vehicles to get to an accident. We like way out in the country and all our firemen are volunteer!!! This could pose a problem to the people out here as well as the environment! People could die! Sincerely, Karen Turner 3790 Shattuck Rd. Garden Prairie IL 61038 815-547-3151
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21766Janice RodriguezDear DAVE NAVECKY (STB) My concerns about the GLB Railroad is: the concern of first responders being able to respond to emergencies, there will now be two railroad crossing between the fire department and my property; trains hauling hazardous materials within a mile of my home; possible derailments of trains within a mile of my home; loss of valuable top soil and farming area; disruption of water flow which could cause flooding; the extra noise the trains will bring; and of course the inconvenience of sitting at rail crossings. I moved from a town that has a main train line to the county to get away from the inconveniences of the railroad and now I am having another railroad forced on me and my neighbors. Janice RodriguezWestville, IN
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21765tom hribikI am a school bus driver for North Boone school district 200. The 70mph trains proposed to go thru our county impact the safety of the school children I have to transport over the tracks at least twice a day. please keep our kids in mind. It impacts their future too.belvidere, illinois
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21755Jeremy SobeckiAlthough I am not a professional in transportation, economic growth or industry as you all are my concern is that the close proximity of the rail to Bluhm County park would change the plan, use and enjoyment of the property. The increased noise, reduced natural landscape views and constant traffic would definitely take away from the public enjoyment of our park. I feel you have done a lot of research as to the need of this rail but my problem is obviously with the proposed route. I am not questioning the convenience or the need for the rail only the affect the route will have on our park and community. Also, I'd at very least like to see a quiet zone around the park as the engines are loud enough and constant horns would make it that much worse. We have horse riders at that park and being 100 yards away would likely spook horses and eventually get someone hurt by being thrown from a horse. Please consider utilizing a different route around Bluhm County Park and the town of Westville.LaPorte, IN
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21754roger milhollandI am adamantly apposed to the Great lakes Basin railway. I poses several environmental hazards as well as property value issues. I am especially concerned because we are all on private wells and it will be located approximately 250-300 feet from my driveway.sheridan, illinois
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(printed as 3/31/2016)Comment
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21752Virginia GawI am opposed to Great Lakes Railroad's proposed new rail line. Being 95 years old I have seen many changes in the rural areas and the loss of nature habitat must be stopped. I could travel from my home in Arlington Heights to cities like Naperville and see open countryside, now homes are every where. Where are the wild animals to go? I am saddened to see the land altered by massive roads and bridges, we need to protect what is left of the rural areas before everything is developed beyond recognition.Arlington Heights, IL
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21751Donna HallPlease do not let the GLB Railroad go through. It will be closing off roads, ruining land and home values and creating noise pollution to the rural areas all across Illinois. We do not want our farms cut in half with no access, or our animal habitat to suffer. This is a land grab and should be considered illegal.Monroe Center, IL
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21750Mark MelinDear Mr. Navecky, When I do the math this project will consume 6700 acres of prime farm land. Many more acres will be disturbed or destroyed during construction as the construction company will need huge amounts of gravel for proper grading. Railroads will have the legal authority using eminent domain to tap this resource as the construction process moves forward. I am sure that black dirt and clay will be stock piled and laid down after the gravel will be removed. Land owners would be paid for the gravel but the foot print of this project is huge. This disturbed land will take years or may never produce as much as before. Just looking at 6700 acres x 150 bushel of corn per acre=1,005,000 bushels of corn in lost production per year. With corn at 3.50 per bushel this project would pull $3,517,500 out of the affected farm economy per year. Corn at $7.00 would pull twice that amount out of the affected farm economy. You can do the math and see the huge socioeconomic impact that this project would have on the farm economy over time. Personally I do not see the socioeconomic value of destroying 6700 acres of farm land, pulling millions of dollars out of peoples pockets so a for profit company can move freight faster around the South side of the city of Chicago. Thanks for your consideration in not granting a permit for this project. Best Regards, Mark MelinClinton, wi
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21749Richard T. TurnerI worry about the emergency response times. A curve in this proposed railroad is right by my house. If this train carrying hazardous materials should derail, people could die! We have a volunteer fire department live out in the Boonies!! I also worry about the farmland itself. This farmland is very fertile, some of the most fertile in the country! It would be a terrible waste to see a natural resource ruined!! Sincerely, Richard T. TurnerGARDEN PRAIRIE, Illinois
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21748Dennis SchepplerPlease do not approve Great Lakes Basin Railroad's proposed new train line. This line will be environmentally disastrous to the area. This line will block natural waterways and create marshland due to broken drainage tiles and blocked seasonal water beds.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21747Fred SchepplerI have farmed land the Great Lakes Basin Railroad wants to put their tracks on for the last 70 years. I am opposed to land that I personally reintroduced pheasants on and where I have just sighted last year for the first time Wild Turkeys. These birds are making a comeback from being extinct and this track would harm their future population growth and re-introduction to the area.Serena, IL
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21746Mary SchepplerI am opposed to Great Lakes Basin Railroad harming the environment of rural Illinois. This proposed railroad would run along many fault lines that branch out form the New Madrid Fault in Illinois. My house is on the Sandwich fault line and it often shakes the house, it would be especially harmful to the proposed elevated fly over" crossings the railroad proposes if an earthquake was to occur. I am also opposed to it because of the marshes and ponds that would be created from the blockage of natural drainage."
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEI-21745Abe HenkerI am opposed to Great Lakes Basin Railroad. This plan would harm the native wild flowers, there are several endangered clover species in this area. Clover is a good food for honey bees and the honey bees are already suffering enough of a decline. Please do not allow this railroad to go through.Mount Prospect, IL
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEO-2832Wisconsin DOTKathleen Chung
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEO-2830Porter County CommissionerLaura Blaney
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentKathleen Chung
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentKathleen Chung
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(printed as 3/31/2016)CommentEO-2757Porter County CommissionerLaura Blaney
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(printed as 3/30/2016)CommentEI-21861Rod Gardin, Ph.D.Dear Mr. Navecky: Can you tell me what type of material could be transported on the proposed Great Lakes Basin rail? Thank you, Rod Gardin Rod Gardin, Ph.D. Superintendent P.O. Box 370 502 East College Avenue Kouts, IN 46347 (219) 766-2214, ex. 4002 Be kind, for everyone you meet is facing a great battle. Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.
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(printed as 3/30/2016)CommentEI-21860Kim WestfallDear Mr Navecky: I am emailing you to request a meeting in Porter CO., Indiana regarding the above matter. It seems very strange our County has been excluded from the scoping meeting. I sincerely hope you will consider getting a meeting scheduled for Porter County, Indiana. Sincerely, Kim Westfall
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(printed as 3/30/2016)CommentEI-21859Kay Chapman[Great Lakes Basin Railroad (Docket #35952)] Mr. Navecky, I am a long-time resident of Paw Paw, IL and am very concerned about the impact of this railroad on my rural community. We are a tiny, isolated village without medical or police presence and are very dependent on our ability to drive to other larger towns for these services. Also, in the event of a catastrophic accident on this massive chemical-hauling rail line, the entire village would be destroyed before help could arrive. Thank you for your time. Kay Chapman 530 Chicago Road Paw Paw, IL 61353
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(printed as 3/30/2016)CommentEI-21757Karen M. TurnerPlease DO NOT APPROVE THIS PROJECT!!!!!! Dear Mr. Navecky, I am writing to you today because I wholeheartedly oppose the proposed route of the Great Lakes Basin Railway. I live quite close to the proposed route and am worried that the hazardous material the train will carry will poison the groundwater if an accident should occur. The track will take a sharp turn near me and derailments occur on sharp curves. I also moved to the country for the peace and quiet we have enjoyed for years. These tracks will ruin this peace. More importantly is what these tracks will do to my dear friends and neighbors. Many have farms that have been in their families for generations. They will be paid a ridiculously small amount for their land compared to the inconvenience of farming around these tracks, the damage the trains would do to the farmland, and the huge property value decrease that will occur. Eastern Boone county has some of the most fertile farmland in the state of Illinois and probably the country! Why would anyone put a railway carrying hazardous material near such a huge national resource! Our fine country was built on farming and farmers. PLEASE DO NOT LET THE GREAT LAKES BASIN RAILROAD RUIN FARMS IN EASTERN BOONE COUNTY! The original route that would take the train through western Winnebago county and down Route 39 makes much more sense! Sincerely, Richard and Karen Turner 3790 Shattuck Rd. Garden Prairie IL 61038 815-547-3151GARDEN PRAIRIE, Illinois
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(printed as 3/30/2016)CommentEI-21756Brian HallAs a concerned neighbor of the proposed GLB project, the noise of a hundred trains going by a day,along with road closures and the drop in house and land values is unacceptable.Monroe Center, Il
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(printed as 3/30/2016)CommentJay Johnson
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(printed as 3/30/2016)CommentJay Johnson
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(printed as 3/29/2016)CommentEI-21836Michelle HillesonI am strongly opposed to the GLB RR project. I am a farmer and landowner in rural Lee, IL. Our farmland is not undeveloped", it is carefully managed farmland and it is our source of income. It is wrong for one private individual to take our property without consent for personal profit. I am also very concerned about the undue burden this rail line would place on our volunteer fire departments. With the sheer volume of projected rail traffic, derailments are a mathematical inevitability and by their own admission the purpose of the line is to carry hazardous material. A train derailment and resulting fire could easily destroy the landowner's entire crop and source of income before the fire department could assemble and arrive on the scene. Thank you, Michelle Hilleson 1308 Paw Paw Rd. Lee, IL 60530"
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(printed as 3/29/2016)CommentEI-21835Vernon and Mary NeumuellerDear Mr. Navecky: We are writing to voice our opposition to the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad. We feel strongly that this project is unnecessary, as there are other railroads in the vicinity that could be utilized instead of building another one. We live in Spring Township, which is prime farmland that can never be reclaimed after it is mutilated by this project. We all know that the EPA is ferocious in its defense of swamps and waterways, but for some reason the agency seems to ignore the loss of farmland and native wildlife that would be the result of this project. Another concern is the lack of transparency by the developers regarding who is backing this project and what their long-term plans are for the land they hope to obtain by whatever means they can. If the secret backers are able to use eminent domain to seize land for this private enterprise, that stinks. Please use your influence to put a stop to this before it goes further. The threat of this has already caused much consternation to the residents who live in the vicinity of this project. If you have never lived in a rural area, it may be impossible for you to realize how this would impact our quality of life and how difficult it will be for farmers to utilize their land after it has been carved up by an unnecessary railroad. We ask you to give thoughtful consideration to the thousands of families who will be affected by this railroad that is being built only to enrich unnamed financiers. Sincerely, Vernon and Mary Neumueller 3033 Carlson Road Garden Prairie, Illinois 61038
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(printed as 3/29/2016)CommentEI-21834David VanderbiltI am voicing my opposition for the GLB rail system construction running through the countryside adjacent to Paw Paw, IL. Thank you, David Vanderbilt 449 Wyoming Avenue Paw Paw, IL 61353
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(printed as 3/29/2016)CommentEI-21759Melanie Hofstrom-WaiteThere is an Egal that comes and goes at our farm on 140 and a batch of great blue harrons that nest in turtle creek west of milner road right where they want to cross there are drainage problems in almost every field on the Great lakes bason map that im afraid they wont care about. There needs to be drainage tunnels if you go to there satalight map there are 3 levels in the closer level you can see the dark bands of wet lands and how the water flow of the land is there are so many I dont know how I should describe them to you but if I could meet with you I could show you on the whole route there are countless fields that THEY have no reguard to use they are trianglated off making impossable corners to farm and narrow strips this isnt just one field it is countless fields Also there are countless fields that will erode due to being cut into such small strips it will only be able to be plowed in one direction..down hill because there would be no way to turn that tight to plow to fight erosion there are too many to count farm yards with live stock that can not be spooked countless times during the day or night Because the train come by next to the barns and they will be cutting through pasture fencing, will they rebild the fences we are one of the largest sheep farmers and they want to go right next to the barn yard on 140 in clinton wi. They are threatning to close the miner road in clinton wi because its a dead end but they are cutting off my mothers house and our land to it they are also going to leave tinny un farmable corners and they will be so close to the house and barn yard that when the cows are there it will spooke them and they will loose there pasture it wont be farmable in most of it and the water flow to the creek will be compramised im consearned that on the curves they are posted on their map to have speeds of 70 mph near a creek and curve which if they are double decked the top one may toumble off and if they are hauling liquids on a curve the liquid may roll in the tank causing it to rollover and spill in the creek I have heard that they will give credit for the value of the land in an electrisity bill but we own the land and not the house so we wont be getting the credit and its not enough fro putting up with the noise I have misophonia I can't stand noises I am in my house with out tv or radio I like quiet and this wont be quiet I cant stand the train thats 6 miles away im sure more trains will make it worse we farm my mothers farm and my mother inlaws farm with our son and daughter so my address isnt where we are all day were on 140 and milner rd bc townline dunn rd your fileing system wont let me choose a file to show anything there are also small creeks problems they may not know that they are there from there mapat adesk they are going to impact all of our family and 4 genorations that are living right now not counting the past genorations and what they had intended for this land it is our food and we supply sorgs meats and pinoak wisconsin raised lamb if the animal is stressed out it reuins the flavor of the meat because it is full of adreniline which isnt healthy for people to eat.so I could keep going onnnnnn and on but I dont even know if youll read any of it| I hope you do this also isnt good for the health of all the farmers and family members of the family stress causes cancer and now they just set loose stressed out familys across 3 states so if this is public good ..something is wrong here!! I cant add photos so if you are up here for meetings and you want to save time I could show you on the map from them where all these things are im talking about...thank you for your time sorry you get the lashing from everyone..you didnt do this to us. Thank you Melanie Hofstrom-Waiteclinton, wi
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(printed as 3/29/2016)CommentEI-21758Dennis SchepplerI am writing you today to urge you to stop Great Lakes Basin Railroad from constructing their proposed railroad. This railroad would be disastrous to the rural residents in the affected areas. Great Lakes Basin Railroad is a private firm seeking to use eminent domain for private gain. Allowing this is not acceptable. Union Pacific Railroad has already publically stated this proposed new rail line is unneeded. Great Lakes Basin Railroad does not even own a single train; they are simply a developer seeking to build something other railroad companies say is unnecessary. Great Lakes Basin Railroad’s plan to scar rural Illinois with a 5 track wide high speed rail line, carrying 100 trains per day, at 70 miles per hour will have grave consequences on the environment. Rivers will be impacted by new bridges and the resulting pollution from the construction of the bridges and the daily train traffic. Not to mention the destruction of the river banks. Streams, seasonal and permanent will be blocked by the tracks, resulting in marshlands and stagnant water, breading ground for mosquitos and disease. The Wild Turkey which is making a dramatic comeback in the area after being declared in 1910 extinct in Illinois will have its comeback curtailed. Numerous endangered flora and fauna will be further threatened. The delicate ecosystems along these tracks will be in upheaval. Preserving rural Illinois is the key to protecting and preserving endangered native plants that may hold the cure for cancer and other deadly diseases. If nothing else these rare species provide the world with more diversity and beauty. My family’s farm, which has been in our family for 120 years, is targeted to have this unneeded rail line run through the heart of it. Many will say you can not stop progress, but this is not progress this is an abuse of the eminent domain laws. This is railroad is not for the public’s gain this is for Great Lakes Basin Railroad’s gain. Abuse is also what Great Lakes Basin Railroad is delivering to the bravest of the brave our local volunteer first responders. How are the limited resources and volunteer crews in rural Illinois, going to fight a train derailment? My home town, Serena, IL has at most 20 all volunteer first responders. These are the bravest men and women in America and they should not be asked to risk their lives simply because Great Lakes Basin Railroad wants to run trains carrying hazardous chemicals and other freight at 70 miles per hour through rural Illinois and over the Rock, Fox, Illinois, and Kankakee Rivers. What will happen when a train derails over one of the affected rivers? Abuse is also what Great Lakes Basin Railroad seeks to deliver to the residents of the affected areas. No family should be subjected to 100 trains per day running through their backyard. No town, no matter how small, should be forced to have the constant drone of the train. Great Lakes Basin Railroad plans to abuse these towns and home owners by running one train every 13 minutes along its line, more if demand increases. The sheer volume of noise from trains running at 70 miles per hour is unimaginable. I am urging you to save rural Illinois by helping stop Great Lakes Basin Railroad’s proposed rail line. Sincerely, Dennis Scheppler 212 North Owen Mount Prospect, IL 60056Mount Prospect, Illinois
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(printed as 3/29/2016)CommentEO-2777Kathy
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(printed as 3/28/2016)CommentTo whom it may concern, I am extremely disappointed that there are no public scoping meetings concerning the proposed Great Lakes Basin Rail project in Porter County, IN. A rail with 110 trains per day that cuts all the way across our county will have a huge and significant impact on our roads, our drainage, our farm industry, our emergency and safety services and the quality of life of our residents. It is grossly unfair that our residents have to travel out of county to make their voices heard. I hope you will reconsider and add a meeting in Porter County. Thank you. Laura Blaney Laura Shurr Blaney Porter County Commissioner South District 219-405-4029Laura Shurr Blaney
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(printed as 3/28/2016)CommentEI-21821Jill Grove
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(printed as 3/28/2016)CommentEI-21820Kellie PozilTo whom it may concern: Recently the Glb railroad has come to light in our area and after seeing the proposed route it will go through 2 of my families agricultural fields as well as past my home. The rail will split the fields to where it would pointless to plant and use the East portion, reducing our productivity and profits (as if they are not small enough in this economy). My area in Morgan Township (Porter County), IN is made up of mainly small farmers who make their living room with this land and most of them will be affected just like me. My next door neighbor will be landlocked out of half of his field one side by rail and two by waterways, I don't suppose the GLB will pay him to gain access to his land. Next is their so called compensation. Their $20,000 am acre for an easement and free rail to haul out product, and free electricity is a joke. First off $20,000 is not nearly enough while it may be higher than what agricultural land is going for now the fact is it's not going to be agricultural and like I sad before will render sections of most fields useless. Secondly, we the landowner will have to pay to put in a rail spur and then rent the train which will cost us much more than it would if we just trucked it to the elevators ourselves. And lastly for the electric, what will happen the first day the rail is open and they sell the rail to a different company? Will they honor that agreement? No. Also, who will pay the property tax on the rail lines since it is just an easement? So if there is an estimated 110 trains a day using the line (every 13 mins a train going by) most hauling hazardous material, who is going to pay the local fire Dept in every Township it runs through for extra trucks, training and equipment? The tax payers? Or the road that will be dead ended, that will add longer response times. There is no positive aspects of this project for anyone in the path or around where this rail is going. They only people will help is the private company forcing it upon us(and very sneaky at that). I don't trust the Frank Patton behind all this, he has said some pretty scary things on the papers, he is only looking out for his wallet where as I am looking out for not only my own but every small farmer this will affect and possibly end their farming. Land value will plummet and they will not be able to pass the farm down to their children or grandchildren, but just leave them with a railway contamination. One day we hope to pass down the farm to our 18 month old son, hopefully there will be one left that the GLB railway hasn't destroyed. Just a mile north of our properties is a wildlife preserve that I'm sure will be affected with the added noise and congestion, I'm sure the animals will go on to find a new place to live. There is no need, want or positive reason for the people affected for this rail to go in. This is an ego power trip by Mr. Patton. Why is there no Porter County STB meeting? It will affect so many here. We deserve to be heard, we will be traveling to 3 meetings making our voice heard, but it is highly unfair not to have a meeting in Porter County! Sincerely, Kellie Pozil 552 E 200 S Valparaiso Indiana Kelliepozil@hotmail Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE DROID
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(printed as 3/28/2016)CommentEI-21760Elizabeth VarnesAs a resident of LaSalle County I am opposing the Great Lakes Basin Railroad Project. It will cause great harm to our environment; we have wetlands, farm tile and we are a wildlife sanctuary. There grave concerns regarding our water table, our well, noise pollution, wild life concerns, first responder issues and concerns in case of a spill, we have no way out except the river. Please give this much research and thought before considering this project. Our farm land which this train proposes to use will be useless in areas. Thank you, Elizabeth Varnes,a very concerned resident of LaSalle County.Sheridan, IL
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(printed as 3/28/2016)CommentEI-21644Amanda VerHagen
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(printed as 3/28/2016)CommentEI-21615Eric VerHagen
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(printed as 3/28/2016)CommentEI-21614Linda K. Harris
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(printed as 3/28/2016)CommentEI-21577Robert and Agnes Fay
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(printed as 3/28/2016)CommentEO-2828Jill Grove
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(printed as 3/28/2016)CommentEO-2776Peggy Cantwell
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(printed as 3/28/2016)CommentEO-2755Jill Grove
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(printed as 3/26/2016)CommentEI-21819Peggy CantwellDear sir Can you please tell me in regards to the above mentioned rail line once it crosses I-65 where will it cut over to porter county? Will it go up clay street/range line road, 173 rd, 169th, ???? Also will you have to procure any land for mitigation? ?? Respectfully Peggy Cantwell
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(printed as 3/26/2016)CommentEI-21818Jill GroveHello: I am just curious what types of things would be transported on these rail lines if they are built. Thank you for any information you can provide. Jill Grove
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(printed as 3/26/2016)CommentEI-21762melanie waiteit's not healthy for the train to be running so close to so many farms that raise animals the animals will be stressed which causes adrenaline to be released into the meat and when people eat it it's not healthy for them the trains Will spook the animals and cause them to get loose also they may Get in the way of the train were not talking one or two animals here were talking thousands to millions may be even billions across the 3 statesclinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 3/26/2016)CommentEI-21761melaine waitea lot of concerns if you close any of the roads out in the country usually to get back around somewhere else may take you 5 to 10 miles to get back around and if a fire truck needs to get in they'll have to drive that much farther to get to us also the drainage of the fields will be compromised because the railway will be built up so high that the drainage can't get through most of these fields do have wet spots that need to drain in all of Wisconsin and im sure the other states also. On 140 in Clinton wi the railway chose one of the bigest hills in Clinton to cross there already is alot of axidents there if they build a bridge to go over from one side to the other it will cause blind spots on 140 and make it hard to cross or turn on from townline rd. there also is a blind hill to the south that if they Make a level grade crossing people will be killed by the semis coming over the hill because cars will hopefully be stopped by the train, (if they dont run into it as they fly over the hill) visibility to the north has to be clear all the way back to the hill near Waite rd.because of the speed they are coming im afraide the visibility will be blocked by the bridge if they go overclinton, Wisconsin
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(printed as 3/25/2016)CommentEI-21763MilhollandTo whom it may concern, We have just recently leaned of the proposed GLB rail line route. This route passes between a state prison and the end of our driveway. As with most of the residences where I live, this will have a detrimental impact on our property values as well as our peace and quiet way of life impacting acres and acres of timber, river and potentially water table. There is currently an ongoing issue with a previous train derailment in our area. Wedron Illinois, where land owners are sitting on acres of worthless property due to a spill several years ago. As with my neighbors, my property is a huge portion of my personal net worth and a life time of labor building it. GLB's private companies profit and net gain is a detriment to my property value, and in the event of a derailment and spill, it is even more detrimental to it's value. particularly since EVERY residence in the area is on it's own private well. With contaminated water...we are the new Wedron, with worthless dirt we owe money on. I have lived in the area 50 plus years. I have witnessed 2 derailment in the immediate town, and the derailment in Wedron...It is not If"...it is "When". I am certain I am not the only resident concerned about these issues, and no one is more for progress and capitalism than myself. But there are other options than this route. This route was chosen for convenience of a company to not deal with big city infrastructure. An infrastructure that already has the manpower and equipment capable of handling spills, derailments and freight traffic. I hope these will be taken into consideration before any decisions are made. Thank you."Roger
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(printed as 3/25/2016)CommentEO-2827Town of Westville, INTom Fath
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(printed as 3/25/2016)CommentEO-2779Tom Fath
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(printed as 3/25/2016)CommentEO-2750FHWA Illinois DivisionCatherine Batey
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(printed as 3/25/2016)CommentEO-2749Gwen Lappie
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(printed as 3/24/2016)CommentEI-21764South Central Community SchoolsOur school buses already cross a number of very busy railroad crossings in our district; safety and delays are a constant issue with student transportation. This proposed rail line will cause an additional safety obstacle for our children. We have several buses that would cross this set of tracks (despite the new line not actually going through our school district). We transport students from the State Prison in Westville (children of employees who live on the prison grounds); these students/buses would have to cross the tracks where they intersect with Hwy 421. We also send several special education buses to Laporte; these students would have to cross Hwy 39. If this new rail line is to become reality, can it be required that they install overpasses when crossing State and Federal Highways? Also, the closure of crossings would increase travel time and costs for school buses (as would the expected 110 trains per day mentioned in the press release). Please keep the safety of our children in mind as this project is deliberated.Jim Holifield · Union Mills, INDIANA
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(printed as 3/24/2016)CommentEI-21506Ruth Haberstich
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(printed as 3/24/2016)CommentEI-21505Timothy Harris
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(printed as 3/24/2016)CommentEI-21504FHWA Illinois DivisionCatherine Batey
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(printed as 3/24/2016)CommentEI-21503Jack Beranek
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(printed as 3/24/2016)CommentEI-21502Gwen Lappie
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(printed as 3/24/2016)CommentEI-21501Lauren Roloff
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(printed as 3/24/2016)CommentEI-21500Gwen Lappie
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(printed as 3/24/2016)CommentEI-21499Gwen Lappie
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(printed as 3/24/2016)CommentEO-2748Gwen Lappie
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(printed as 3/23/2016)CommentEI-21498Citizen Potawatomi NationAndrew Gourd
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(printed as 3/23/2016)CommentEI-21497Winnebago-Boone Farm BureauAnn Marie Cain
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(printed as 3/23/2016)CommentEI-21496Winnebago-Boone Farm BureauAnn Marie Cain
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(printed as 3/23/2016)CommentEI-21495Chairman, Boone County BoardBob Walberg
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(printed as 3/23/2016)CommentEO-2747NRCS IndianaRick Neilson
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(printed as 3/22/2016)CommentEI-21494Schaumburg Community CSD 54Ric King
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(printed as 3/22/2016)CommentEI-21493NRCS IndianaRick Neilson
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(printed as 3/22/2016)CommentEI-21492Schaumburg Community CSD 54Ric King
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(printed as 3/22/2016)CommentEI-21491USEPA Region 5Ken Westlake
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(printed as 3/22/2016)CommentCharles Morris
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(printed as 3/22/2016)CommentEI-21432Lori A Pepper
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(printed as 3/22/2016)CommentEI-21431Ronald Williams
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(printed as 3/22/2016)CommentEO-2746Schaumburg Community CSD 54Ric King
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(printed as 3/22/2016)CommentCharles Morris
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(printed as 3/21/2016)CommentEI-21790Mary J. AuchstetterPeru, IL
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(printed as 3/21/2016)CommentEI-21489USEPA Region 5Ken Westlake
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(printed as 3/21/2016)CommentNeeley Erickson
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(printed as 3/21/2016)CommentNeeley Erickson
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(printed as 3/21/2016)CommentEI-21486Office of Congressman Paul RyanWill Miller
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(printed as 3/21/2016)CommentEI-21430Arthur LeDoux
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(printed as 3/21/2016)CommentEO-2775Office of Speaker Paul RyanWill Miller
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(printed as 3/21/2016)CommentWill Miller
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(printed as 3/21/2016)CommentEO-2743IL State Rep. Joe Sosnowski
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(printed as 3/21/2016)CommentEO-2742Alaina Sinnott
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served (printed as 3/18/2016)DecisionPROVIDED NOTICE THAT GREAT LAKES BASIN TRANSPORTATION, INC. PLANS TO FILE EITHER A PETITION FOR EXEMPTION OR AN APPLICATION, SEEKING AUTHORITY TO CONSTRUCT AND OPERATE AN APPROXIMATELY 278-MILE RAIL LINE EXTENDING GENERALLY FROM NEAR LAPORTE, IND. THROUGH ILLINOIS TO NEAR MILTON, WIS.
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(printed as 3/18/2016)CommentEI-21429Alaina Sinnott
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(printed as 3/18/2016)CommentEI-21428Alaina Sinnott
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(printed as 3/18/2016)CommentEI-21427Sandra Meyers
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(printed as 3/18/2016)Comment
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(printed as 3/18/2016)CommentEO-2741Alaina Sinnott
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(printed as 3/17/2016)CommentEI-21424Richard and Karen Turner
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(printed as 3/15/2016)CommentKen Westlake
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(printed as 3/14/2016)CommentJay Johnson
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(printed as 3/14/2016)CommentJay Johnson
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(printed as 3/13/2016)CommentEI-21425Venable LLP (Counsel for GLBT)Jay Johnson
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(printed as 3/12/2016)CommentEI-21366David and Karen Vlasaty
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(printed as 3/9/2016)CommentEO-2740MOUGLBR parties
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(printed as 3/7/2016)CommentEI-21426Venable LLP (Counsel for GLBT)Note from OEA: GLBT included a map file in KMZ format with this correspondence, GLBR_Complete_Route_6-Mar-2016.kmz. This KMZ file is also available on an STB-sponsored project website at http://www.greatlakesbasinraileis.com/maps.html. Viewing this KMZ file requires the use of a free software program called Google Earth. The project website contains instructions on how to download Google Earth.Jay C. Johnson.
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(printed as 10/15/2015)CommentEI-21150Venable LLP (Counsel for GLBT)Jay Johnson
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(printed as 9/22/2015)CommentEO-2685Venable LLPKathryn Kusske Floyd
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(printed as 9/22/2015)CommentEO-2684Venable LLPKathryn Kusske Floyd
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(printed as 9/16/2015)CommentEI-21117Venable LLP (Counsel for GLBT)Kathryn Kusske Floyd
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(printed as 9/16/2015)CommentEI-21116Venable LLP (Counsel for GLBT)Kathryn Kusske Floyd
Nothing of that kind in this docket.