{"source":"https://docketyard.org/","licence":"CC0-1.0","licence_url":"https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/","shape_version":3,"held":{"enriched":"The party module (entity resolution, aliases, successions), the citator (citation edges, their readings, resolutions and judgements) and the machine-read text of the record's documents (every reading, its payload and its index) are derived work whose licence awaits review; they are withheld until then, not dedicated by default."},"generated_at":"2026-10-11T04:02:38+00:00","docket":{"docket_id":32623,"raw_docket":"FD_36815","prefix":"FD","sequence":36815,"title":null,"sub_dockets":[],"is_index":false,"entries":[{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-05-27","date_printed":"5/27/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-4026","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1748372862332/EO-4026.pdf","label":"EO-4026.pdf","document_sha256":"bbb896965f9d264d0647d7711f4a224a99eaac191bd809f7dd015bedeffa4b97","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Various - See Attached Distribution List","organisation":null,"location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-4026"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-05-22","date_printed":"5/22/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33970","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1747929486265/EI-33970.pdf","label":"EI-33970.pdf","document_sha256":"c8124d53fb30e4c338597e4cfc064c6b846b82cc313133b343935a895dbe7c52","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tom Wilcox","organisation":"Law Office of Thomas W. Wilcox, LLC (Broken Stone Railroad LLC)","location":"Washington, DC","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33970"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-15","date_printed":"4/15/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-34059","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1749478512905/EI-34059.pdf","label":"EI-34059.pdf","document_sha256":"6dd00d3f1dc22af88a0678da2428ff7b11cf72fb3734cb2389807a82e112db1a","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Gilbert and Tina Riojas","organisation":null,"location":"TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-34059"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-15","date_printed":"4/15/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33906","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"James Williams","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"The Burnet Oaks residential subdivision is on the north side of County Road 200 (also called Shady Grove Rd). It is in between the proposed railway alignments, but not indicated as residential in the study areas of either alignment. Please add the residential structures into the project’s study areas.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33906"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-15","date_printed":"4/15/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33905","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745351198440/EI-33905.pdf","label":"EI-33905.pdf","document_sha256":"fd1a27288539f96677fab3f0d5c9c8209c48019178db87fcffdab60d2714728e","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Acia Warden-Talamantez","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33905"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33917","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Lauren Perkins","organisation":null,"location":"Leander, TX","comment_text":"I strongly oppose the proposed railroad project that would cut through numerous private properties in the Burnet/Marble Falls areas in Texas, displacing families and disrupting communities—all to serve the interests of a single company. This project offers no clear public benefit and instead prioritizes corporate profit over the well-being and rights of local residents. The long-term environmental, economic, and emotional impact on affected landowners and communities cannot be justified by the limited scope of this development. Rail infrastructure should be built with the public good as its guiding principle, not at the expense of people's homes, livelihoods, and the landscapes they depend on. I urge the Surface Transportation Board to reject this proposal and stand with the communities who would bear the brunt of its consequences. Our homes and lands should not be sacrificed for private gain.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33917"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33916","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745363664846/EI-33916.pdf","label":"EI-33916.pdf","document_sha256":"d9ef2090de0f1aae1df74ac813a9ae1a8ac7b9450c6c6949913130f9e3a95197","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Randall J. Hoyer, Lampasas County Judge","organisation":"Lampasas County Commissioners Court","location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"The Lampasas County Commissioners Court has approved a resolution in opposition to the proposed construction and operation of a new rail line by Texas Materials Group, INC. The resolution is attached.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33916"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33915","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Jessica Putz","organisation":"Circle MP Designs","location":"Jourdanton, TX","comment_text":"I am opposed to the quarry train route, as it is for private benefit and will harm many land owners along the proposed route.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33915"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33913","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745362151966/EI-33913.pdf","label":"EI-33913.pdf","document_sha256":"d4b535cfbcafe97e46116925e0a953498d9af97e1b18e16cd377406b402d08c9","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Kathleen Morgan","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"The attached photos are just two species of wildlife that are on the Federal Endangered/Threatened list. The yellow-billed cuckoo and the Texas State Fish, the guadalupe bass, are both found in Sulphur Creek in Lampasas Co. Texas. The proposed quarry train, owned and operated by a foreign Irish company, calling themselves, \"Texas Materials,\" will try to cross Sulphur Creek and has proposed an industrial endpoint within the watershed of Sulphur Creek. Building a bridge and transferring quarry materials will cause stress and harm to a plethora of endemic wildlife that lives and breeds in and around the vicinity of Sulphur Creek. The dust, toxic waste, industrial run-off, vibration, extreme decibel levels, excessive noise, and increased human presence will be detrimental to these fragile species. The levels of hazardous toxins, silt, and material mud that will be washed into the riparian area and actual waterway of Sulphur Creek is unknown. This unknown presents a dire need to abandoned the proposed quarry train. The risks to these endangered and endemic creatures are too high to expect a favorable outcome. Construction of rail and bridges would cause excessive stress to wildlife. Increased fire, train derailment, and spills risks negate the entire proposal. Other creatures that also breed in the threatened area include the Texas River Otter who has recently made a comeback to their endemic area. Wood ducks, osprey, green herons, and soft shell turtles are among other indigenous groups of fauna. Please take these species' well-being into high consideration relating to this land-grab of the already dwindling habitats. Respectfully, Kathleen and Manley Morgan Peace be with you","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33913"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33912","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745361833011/EI-33912.pdf","label":"EI-33912.pdf","document_sha256":"9b1c44085aae6f1a21b4b3df5b9587b53d92dab41f2507ee8c13f6d70927eee6","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Texas Alliance of Land Brokers","organisation":null,"location":"Mountain Home, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33912"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33911","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745351815818/EI-33911.pdf","label":"EI-33911.pdf","document_sha256":"a33b84b282b4bc09058da5e77a78e27e6efb99253e12f5886f8fbbacfb83a4d6","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Cathy Kuehne","organisation":"Landowner/Lampasas City Council Place 4","location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"I am attaching a letter about my concerns, including environmental, irretrievable commitments, and NEPA significance. I am requesting that the STB commit to a fill Environmental Impact Study in regards to this unnecessary rail line proposal.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33911"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33910","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Laura Stair","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"I am completely opposed to this horrific railroad proposal. It mainly benefits a private foreign company to the detriment of many landowners. Texas Materials, Inc described the area as arid rangeland. Far from it. My family owns property in both Burnet and Lampasas Counties. Burnet County: This land has been in our family’s possession since the 1850’s. We have the original Joseph Alexander surveys. Our grandmother was Margaret Alexander Snell, b.1901. Parts of the original homestead are still visible, the chimneys, cistern, corral and root cellar. That property has several artesian springs. There is a MASSIVE live oak tree that my grandmother said was used by the Indians for councils. This story has been passed down for generations. Lampasas County: This property has been in our family’s possession since 1901. There have been archaeological digs on the property on Sulphur Creek with significant finds of arrowheads and “hooks” made from heelsplitter mussel shells. There is a very old fenced in graveyard, ornate wrought iron. Battle Branch is on our property. This was the scene of one of the major shootouts during the Higgins Horrel feud. It has a historical marker. There are multiple artesian springs on the property which feed into Sulphur Creek, one of the tributaries that supply our drinking water from Kempner Water Supply. There are several limestone bluffs which support diverse wildlife. There is a family of beavers in the creek. The property sits on a cave. My grandfather, Casbeer Snell, Sr.’s, birthplace is still standing on the property which. It is a dog trot house. The limestone cistern is still there. There is another cistern close by. The original buggy road to Lampasas is still visible including a small concrete bridge.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33910"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33909","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Margaret Bloch","organisation":null,"location":"Kempner, TX","comment_text":"I oppose the railroad going through Burnet County and Lampasas County. The railroad will pollute the air and disturb the peaceful, beautiful land by Cooksie and Sulfur Creek. It will go right through my families land and will ruin the view from my Mom’s front window. This train will only be a few hundred feet from my Mom’s front door. This is the home that has been in our family for generations. Please don’t allow this to happen!!","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33909"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33908","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745351556051/EI-33908.pdf","label":"EI-33908.pdf","document_sha256":"78f0021dcf91e4e030d13882162bc9249b170e25b4e86ab09ca49fee5173a515","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Lewis Snell","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"There are so many factors that should be considered before implementing this railway plan. The impact it will have on land owners, wildlife, water reservoirs, historic homesteads, and archeological sites of endogenous tribes is immeasurable. Please see my attachments and the request for a full impact study. Stop the Quarry!","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33908"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33907","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Michelle Snell","organisation":null,"location":"Waco, TX","comment_text":"I strongly oppose the quarry rail proposed to run across our family property between Burnet Co. and Lampasas Co. Our family owns approx. 130 acres on both ends of this proposed rail line and both properties would cause so many problems to include, not having access to the property, the air and noise pollution, the inability to utilize the property for farming, ranching and the solitude that is the beauty of both of these properties. Sulfur Creek is a year round flowing water source for numerous wildlife from fish, cranes, blue heron, frogs, ducks, deer, turkeys, elk and many more species. One of these properties also has been studied and proven to have archeological artifacts in the evidence of arrowheads and middens used by Native Americans dating back 10,000 years. This property is truly priceless and cannot be replaced. Lampasas county is also home to several natural springs that come from Sulfur Creek. This community is known for its natural springs including a free flow spring fed swimming pool and the annual Spring Ho festival that honors these springs. Please strongly consider the wildlife and nature that will be disrupted by an open quarry rail line. Thank you for your time and attention to this urgent matter.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33907"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33904","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745351126633/EI-33904.pdf","label":"EI-33904.pdf","document_sha256":"1faa26c2dc38548e03cc5092d21798cf8c44520b3d3330bb14564fdf09675a61","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tracy Snell Mack, Kristen Cannon","organisation":"M.A. Snell Investments Trust","location":"Buda, TX","comment_text":"Please see attached.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33904"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33903","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745350407796/EI-33903.pdf","label":"EI-33903.pdf","document_sha256":"054428cb64856e05289bc0cc9051fe9cf228def1aa5ecc3b37dfe3c9ff17d4ab","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Kathleen Morgan","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"The attached photos are just two species of wildlife that are on the Federal Endangered/Threatened list. The yellow-billed cuckoo and the Texas State Fish, the guadalupe bass, are both found in Sulphur Creek in Lampasas Co. Texas. The proposed quarry train, owned and operated by a foreign Irish company, calling themselves, \"Texas Materials,\" will try to cross Sulphur Creek and has proposed an industrial endpoint within the watershed of Sulphur Creek. Building a bridge and transferring quarry materials will cause stress and harm to a plethora of endemic wildlife that lives and breeds in and around the vicinity of Sulphur Creek. The dust, toxic waste, industrial run-off, vibration, extreme decibel levels, excessive noise, and increased human presence will be detrimental to these fragile species. The levels of hazardous toxins, silt, and material mud that will be washed into the riparian area and actual waterway of Sulphur Creek is unknown. This unknown presents a dire need to abandoned the proposed quarry train. The risks to these endangered and endemic creatures are too high to expect a favorable outcome. Construction of rail and bridges would cause excessive stress to wildlife. Increased fire, train derailment, and spills risks negate the entire proposal. Other creatures that also breed in the threatened area include the Texas River Otter who has recently made a comeback to their endemic area. Wood ducks, osprey, green herons, and soft shell turtles are among other indigenous groups of fauna. Please take these species' well-being into high consideration relating to this land-grab of the already dwindling habitats. Respectfully, Kathleen and Manley Morgan Peace be with you","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33903"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33902","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745350173815/EI-33902.pdf","label":"EI-33902.pdf","document_sha256":"5c0a045c048f604641e7d37a8941b5836f0fa4ee0ae27a7fd3993013dbf34967","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"H. Craig & Donna Clark","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"see attached Pdf","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33902"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33901","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"H. Craig and Donna Clark","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"see attached Pdf","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33901"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33900","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Joseph Muck","organisation":"Texas Department of Transportation","location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"TxDOT has reviewed the potential alignments proposed by the railroad within the Austin District. We do not have any comments regarding the locations of the alignments or where they cross TxDOT ROW. However, we request grade-separated structures at all locations the railroad crosses over TxDOT roadways. These roadways include RM 963, RM 2341 and US 183. In addition, we ask long-term grown be analyzed at US 183 to reduce potential future impacts. Thank you","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33900"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33899","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Carla Wills","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Mr Assenza, I am writing to officially voice my opposition to Texas Materials' proposed quarry railway in Burnet and Lampasas Counties. As a nearby property owner I have some information to share. My southern most property line is the North Fork of the San Gabriel River (NFSGR). During times of good rainfall water flows downstream to the San Gabriel River. The San Gabriel empties into Lake Georgetown and Granger Lake. Both lakes are US Army Corps of Engineers impoundment and both are vital for drinking water for the area. Just west and upstream of my property, the NFSGR crosses under FM 2340 via culverts and onto private ranch land. The NFSGR meanders through many parcels of land which consists of hundreds and hundreds of acres of privately owned land. The headwaters are eventually located in the small community of Lake Victor, near FM 2340 and US Hwy 281. The citizens of my area were provided with a very blurry and shabby map of the proposed route, but I am convinced that the route will cross these headwaters in one or even many locations. It is an environmental concern that needs to be fully and intensely investigated. Water is life...when the rains come, we need to utilize every drop. We need your help. We are American citizens who obviously don't have the deep pockets of the foreign entity that owns Texas Materials. They care nothing about our lives or our businesses. They care even less about our environment or our history. Please stand with us. Thank you","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33899"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33898","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745349874103/EI-33898.pdf","label":"EI-33898.pdf","document_sha256":"86c29f52c30a49c068e5fa2d417e708c8b4635e509f19dc8fea83f6a4a095f1d","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"David Cothran","organisation":"Pipe and Metal Center of Texas","location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33898"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33897","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Elizabeth and Mark Bleeker","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Concerned about the impact this could have on the environment and enjoyment of our property and home; Noise, dust, traffic, hazardous materials, wild life, water supply, etc… We have 6 bee hives on our property. How might this impact them? Wild Flowers?","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33897"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33896","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745945656275/EI-33896.pdf","label":"EI-33896.pdf","document_sha256":"205f5edb607c715099cfc145d11ff252ff3b58159c430fbf16dc7810a0e8c804","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Rachel Bishop","organisation":null,"location":"Ennis, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33896"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-14","date_printed":"4/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33885","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1747856514601/EI-33885.pdf","label":"EI-33885.pdf","document_sha256":"f241b7e4a2cbdab3ece1cde80f32a6976fbdd14d6e2445d4970a37ee15223b61","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Peter A. Pfohl","organisation":"Coalition for Central Texas Escarpment Preservation","location":"Washington, DC","comment_text":"Please find attached the comments and enclosures of the Coalition for Central Texas Escarpment Preservation in response to the notice that OEA issued on March 4, 2025 and supplemented on March 14, 2025.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33885"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-13","date_printed":"4/13/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33895","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1745349581810/EI-33895.pdf","label":"EI-33895.pdf","document_sha256":"56fefdb7f776f0626cb2e6d94821514f5df063dbbdd33c4e48ad3c218adf7c4d","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Ronny Shroyer, Shroyer Family Ranch LLC","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"See comments and images in the attached document.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33895"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-13","date_printed":"4/13/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33894","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Robert and Jennifer Mather","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"We have grave concerns about the potential railroad being put in very close to our home. We have many types of wildlife on our property, including red tail hawks, which are a protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. We also have many other migratory birds including the golden cheek warbler and the black-bellied whistling ducks which visit us each year. We have also seen eagles in the area as well. Besides migratory birds, we also have a seen a great number of deer, turkey, fox, road runners, etc. All of these are bound to be run off with the noise and vibrations. In addition to wildlife, we are concerned regarding the amount of rock dust and diesel contaminants that will be in our back yard. We both already have respiratory issues and adding these will only make our health issues worse. Noise pollution and potential fire hazards are a concern as well. Please consider this our request for your agency to take the responsibility to protect our wildlife, not to mention our own health issues, caused by this potential railway. Our peaceful life is threatened to be disrupted by a greedy company whose only motive is to line their own pockets. Respectfully, Robert and Jennifer Mather","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33894"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-11","date_printed":"4/11/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33914","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Joseph Ross Abel","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Dear STB, My parents have lived at 7473 S Hwy 281 for decades and it’s been a part of my life since I was born. This project will hugely impact access to their home and its enjoyment therein. An Environmental Impact Statement must be prepared for the proposed new rail line through Burnet County because the rail line is a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of our human environment. Per 42 U.S.C. 4331(a), Section 102 of NEPA, the Office of Environmental Analysis on behalf of the Surface Transportation Board is required to perform an Environmental Impact Statement to address: - Environmental impact of the proposed action: Including, but not limited to Red Tail Hawks that nest on the right of way (protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act), air and noise pollution from open-air aggregate cars adjacent to our family home, disturbance to the abundant wildlife on the ranch and destruction of historical structures. - any adverse effects that cannot be avoided - alternatives to the proposed action Please deny the 6-month pre-filling waiver and require the most comprehensive environmental surveys possible. Thank you for your time.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33914"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-11","date_printed":"4/11/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33883","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1744398523989/EI-33883.pdf","label":"EI-33883.pdf","document_sha256":"e54b008d86f6beba60051d2de519652c6f2178575496caadeedd653287a95e54","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Alicia Brunet","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"See attached letter. Thank you.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33883"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-11","date_printed":"4/11/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33882","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1744383080195/EI-33882.pdf","label":"EI-33882.pdf","document_sha256":"cf85e60e96a67bb120cf86535dff8cb95715561d1d3bc0bc1156794d8c3e7d3f","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Joe and Cindy Abel","organisation":"McElroy Sullivan Miller & Weber","location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33882"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-11","date_printed":"4/11/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33881","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Crystal Potts","organisation":null,"location":"Lometa, TX","comment_text":"New rail is wrong for Texas. Don’t let this company sneak a new rail in under the assumption that it could be used for light passenger rail…Texans won’t use light rail in rural areas as there’s no Uber/Lyft to distribute passengers from the rail station. This would a purely a move for personal gain from a private company…does NOT qualify for imminent domain. Thanks,","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33881"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-11","date_printed":"4/11/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33880","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Cory Potts","organisation":null,"location":"Lometa, TX","comment_text":"I use this route and cross the intended tracks several times a week while getting kids to school/activities. Would accommodations be made to route traffic under the tracks? This decision can’t be made to save money for private corporations, that isn’t how imminent domain was designed. Kind Regards,","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33880"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-10","date_printed":"4/10/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33879","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1744315289168/EI-33879.pdf","label":"EI-33879.pdf","document_sha256":"cae1223e4087a522e15e1663ebc4a90d3aa83be7617e08ea9a1072bf58b5a122","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tom and Ouida Schliesing","organisation":null,"location":"Uvalde, TX","comment_text":"I am writing to formally oppose the proposed Burnet-Lampasas rail line by Texas Materials due to its severe environmental impacts on biodiversity, water quality, and the rural landscape of the Texas Hill Country. This project threatens vital ecosystems, protected plant, animal and bird species that are essential for the health and sustainability of our communities. Especially in Lampasas - threatening Sulphur Creek and the Native American archaeological aspects. As a lifelong advocate for agriculture, I urge you to deny this petition. Please read attached letter for full comments.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33879"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-10","date_printed":"4/10/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33878","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Lori and George Allen","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"I am writing to oppose the proposed rail project by Texas Materials Group in Burnet and Lampasas Counties due to its significant and irreversible environmental impacts. The increased noise, vibration, and pollution from rail traffic will disrupt nesting and breeding patterns of birds, including protected species. Also. the amount of dust that would be in the air by moving quarry rock by rail is unhealthy for humans, flora/fauna – & all the animals, birds and pollinators on my property. I have planted native plants & created a large pollinator garden for bees & butterflies. We are one of the stops for the monarch butterfly & hummingbird migrations. We have seen bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, red-shouldered hawks, roadrunners, & wild turkeys on our property. We have both white-tail & mule deer. A roaring train traveling nearby would scare off or kill off much of our natural wildlife. Burnet is the Bluebonnet Capital of the World! Lady Bird Johnson would roll over in her grave with the number of homes (human, animal, birds) that will be destroyed by this rail. The proposed rail line’s proximity to local creeks, watersheds, & aquifers raises serious concerns re: water contamination. Runoff from construction activities could introduce harmful pollutants into our waterways, endangering aquatic ecosystems and affecting drinking water. We are at the D4 level which means “Exceptional Drought” in this area. Our nearest lake is down more than 20 feet! We live near a railway on the south side of my street, and several years ago a train caused a significant wildfire. The increased rail traffic will generate significant amounts of air pollution. We moved to Burnet for peace & quiet for our retirement years. We love the small-town community & do not want to spend our twilight years in a rail yard. Burnet is not meant to be an industrial trap; it is a tourism gem. Please keep it this way & stop the quarry Sincerely, George & Lori Allen","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33878"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-10","date_printed":"4/10/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33877","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"John Ellis","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"The impact of the railway hauling rock/aggregate will have an impact on air. The rail cars are uncovered , the dust will be polluting our air and breathing will be difficult. The noise pollution to me and other land owners will be upsetting at any time of day. Burnet county is limited with supply of water. We do not have enough to support the train much less another quarry. TCEQ has all the facts. Thank you","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33877"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-09","date_printed":"4/9/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33876","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1744313731743/EI-33876.pdf","label":"EI-33876.pdf","document_sha256":"ca8f81e299bd14ef8d8af613d59f3fc72cd2ac0b0ecb98c2afeb3ea870727c2d","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Bryan Wilson, Burnet County Judge","organisation":"Burnet County Texas","location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"The Commissioners Court Adopted a Resolution on April 8, 2025 in opposition to the build and operate rail line by Texas Materials Group, Inc.. See Attached Resolution.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33876"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-09","date_printed":"4/9/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33875","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Loren Powell","organisation":"affected landowner","location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"This three-hundred-acre pristine ranch in the middle of the planned rail line will be destroyed by the planned rail line. The effects of dust, dirt, debris, noise, location and continual use of the proposed rail line will adversely affect the wildlife, agriculture and pollute the water sources and the quiet enjoyment of home life. The concept of a private for-profit company claiming eminent domain, greater good for all, is a false claim. The rail lines proposed have been abandoned and degraded for over six decades. During this time the land has been reclaimed as abandoned and repurposed for agriculture, wildlife and hunting. This planned rail line is strictly a land grab for business profit at the expense of landowners. It is not only the landowners who will suffer from this theft but all the people of Burnet and Lampasas County who know and enjoy the treasures of the Texas Hill Country, where the Bluebonnet Capitol lies. Further, the beauty of the Texas Hill Country is legend among Texans. Thousands visit just to personally experience and understand the beauty of the Hill Country. It is and would be a travesty to all Texans to allow this rail line to happen.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33875"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-08","date_printed":"4/8/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33874","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1744291014075/EI-33874.pdf","label":"EI-33874.pdf","document_sha256":"f25ee78bd3469a0e154fb5a3f4080331e059fef1cda0504351d7bd9555623d0e","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Mark Bishop","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33874"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-06","date_printed":"4/6/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33866","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Linda Standefer","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"I would vehemently OPPOSE the Texas Materials project. While an initial report filed by CRH stated that the area for the proposed project was dry, arid land; it is in fact fertile grassland supporting cattle, sheep, goat and wildlife ranches. It further supports ranchers in the area by providing hay and other crops to maintain this lfe style. This project is in fact being projected in an area that is conidered s 100 year flood plain. There are numerous artesian wells in the area along with a free flowing swimming pool, seasonal seeps and wetlands. The initial report was FALSE!!! I consider this project DANGEROUS, INTRUSIVE and DESTRUCTIVE, DANGEROUS because of the project's abiity to create fires in the hay fields and grasslands with would be difficult for fire fighters to reach and more hazardous due to frequent wind conditions. DANGEROUS because it has the capability to contaminate thousands of Texas citizens water supply. DANGEROUS due to the traffic conditions it would create as it will be crossing two major US highways. INTRUSIVE because it would immediately effect the Central US Flyway for numerous bird species (hummingbird, Indigo Painted Buntings, Purple Martins to name a few). INTRUSIVE and DESTRUCTIVE to wild life habitats such as caves, trees and water sources for endangered species such as the Bald Eagles ad Golden Warbles. DESTRUCTIVE to cultural landmarks such as the Old Stagecoach Road, the site of an Old Texas Feud Battle Branch , the Thornal Cementary and an archeological dig of Texas Indian middens date back to 8500. Finally I OPPOSE this project because I am currently under contract with the US Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service for land conservation. The proposed project FD_36815 is in direct OPPOSITION to this conservation contractl","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33866"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-04","date_printed":"4/4/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33864","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743786112570/EI-33864.pdf","label":"EI-33864.pdf","document_sha256":"0bfefc3ff7e986be93ece3184e3b6a1e54789f6320451ce8dd38dad225be5e91","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"GilMac Cattle Company","organisation":null,"location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":"We feel an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) must be prepared for the new proposed rail line through Lampasas County required when a party is seeking authority to construct a new line of railroad as stated by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 42 U.S.C.(2)(c) which calls for a detailed written statement “for a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment”. If this railway is put in place the land can never be recovered, restored or used for any other purpose. The land under and near the line will never recover, Sulphur Creek will not recover. This will result in permanent loss of the cultural value and heritage of our land with the permanent loss of historical artifacts. We have unique species of wildflowers and plants that do not grow anywhere else in the world. The relationship between local short-term use of man’s environment and the maintenance and enhancement of long-term productivity that would destroy habitats for the endangered Guadalupe Bass, turtle breeding embankments, bee hives, endangered or rare plant species as well as the loss of productive land for cattle grazing and for hay production and these cannot be replenished or restored. Historical and archeological sites that span hundreds of years of time by Native Americans as they transversed throughout the state of Texas will be destroyed. This land is a high-quality environment that is home to unique plants, endangered fish and birds and has enough water and valuable forage and native grasses to feed livestock. The specific route where they want to build the track will destroy a valuable, irreplaceable piece of Texas land that has drawn people to settle here for literally thousands of years, our artifacts prove. Then the Spanish settlers found it valuable enough to build a mission/settlement. And now it has irreplaceable value to us as ranchers and for recreation, hunting, fishing and wildlife. Prioritize citizens, deny request! SEE ATTACHED","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33864"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-04","date_printed":"4/4/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33863","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Clayton Leverett","organisation":"Stilllwaters Ranch","location":"Llano, TX","comment_text":"Dear Members of the Surface Transportation Board, I am writing to formally oppose the proposed Burnet-Lampasas rock-hauling rail line due to its severe environmental impacts on biodiversity, water quality, the rural landscape, and property values in the Texas Hill Country. This project threatens vital ecosystems, protected species, and water resources that are essential for the health and sustainability of our communities. As a real estate professional in the Texas Hill Country, I urge the STB to reject this project unless these critical concerns are fully addressed: 1. Impacts on Biodiversity The Texas Hill Country’s unique topography and riparian zones cannot withstand the disturbance of riparian zones along Mesquite Creek, Sulphur Creek and subsequent Lampasas River watershed caused by 26.9 miles of new rail construction. These areas are essential for wildlife movement, breeding, and feeding. Habitat destruction from construction would further accelerate the decline of some species, many of which have already suffered due to unchecked development in the region. 2. Threats to Water Quality Mesquite and Sulphur Creeks are spring-fed tributaries of the Lampasas River and serves as a vital waterway supporting aquatic life. Construction activities would increase sedimentation, nutrient loading, and pollution runoff into these creeks, which flows directly into the Lampasas River. 3. Threats to Landowners and Rural Communities The rail line would fragment agricultural and ranch lands, reducing property values and hindering wildlife movement. Over 1,800 residents have petitioned against this project, citing inadequate public notification and rushed deadlines for input. The use of eminent domain to seize private land for a privately owned rail line sets a dangerous precedent, undermining property rights.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33863"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-04","date_printed":"4/4/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-4033","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1749488092994/EO-4033.pdf","label":"EO-4033.pdf","document_sha256":"8305eb640ec46b1c4f27172e82bf5de92159b1814610e16046cd3b2630178ee2","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Damon Beierle","organisation":"Burnet County Commissioner Pct. 2","location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-4033"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33862","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Harvey Roberts","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Our family-owned property has served as our home for 45 years and we would like to keep it that way for future generations. The impending railroad project wants to come within 100 yards of our historic home and would cut our property in half. The current railroad map has mislabeled our home as a farm building instead of a family home. Our only hay producing field will be lost by the dissection of the railroad. Our property is a habitat for the Golden Cheek Warbler, an endangered species, along with numerous other types of wildlife. The construction of the rail line could have adverse effects on Mesquite Creek that runs through our property, which can affect the quality of the drinking water for communities who receive their water from Stillhouse Lake.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33862"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33861","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Diana Lynn, Realtor","organisation":null,"location":"Dripping Springs, TX","comment_text":"Surface Transportation Board 395 E Street SW Washington, DC 20423 Subject: Opposition to Burnet-Lampasas Rail Expansion (STB Docket No. 36815) Dear Members of the Surface Transportation Board, As a REALTOR® and resident of the Texas Hill Country, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed Burnet-Lampasas rail line. While I understand the importance of transportation improvements, this project poses significant environmental and community risks that cannot be overlooked. The Texas Hill Country is an area of extraordinary natural beauty and biodiversity. The proposed rail line would disrupt vital ecosystems, harm water quality in Mesquite and Sulphur Creeks, and threaten the Lampasas River watershed. These waterways are crucial to the health of our environment and community. Additionally, the project would fragment rural land, impacting property values and livelihoods. It also raises concerns about preserving our historic and cultural heritage, including Native American sites and landmarks like Thornal Cemetery. I respectfully urge the STB to prioritize a full Environmental Impact Statement to assess these risks thoroughly. I also request greater community engagement, including public hearings in affected counties, to ensure all voices are heard. The Texas Hill Country is a treasure worth protecting for future generations, and I hope the Board will consider these serious concerns before moving forward. Sincerely, Diana Lynn","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33861"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33860","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743785831677/EI-33860.pdf","label":"EI-33860.pdf","document_sha256":"3207415eab233658d5be107c58f20acb398cdefe6ec30346a3fdb97c1fce6c9c","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Luke Ellis","organisation":"Marrs Ellis & Hodge LLP (Counsel for Wayne Brown)","location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":"Please see attached letter.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33860"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33859","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743784281571/EI-33859.pdf","label":"EI-33859.pdf","document_sha256":"0240d0dc94a2303be8e6a789525e0b73b87fbf708eac5bbfca90c1b76892b8ce","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Marilyn Daily","organisation":null,"location":"Dallas, TX","comment_text":"This project will negatively impact wildlife and their habitats as well as the aesthetics of our beautiful hill country. The noise pollution and the air pollution caused by diesel engines will adversely impact both humans and wildlife.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33859"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33858","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Chip Cole","organisation":null,"location":"San Angelo, TX","comment_text":"Formal Opposition to Burnet-Lampasas Rail Expansion (STB Docket No. 36815)","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33858"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33857","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743783800119/EI-33857.pdf","label":"EI-33857.pdf","document_sha256":"e543b8612dfca146a845d14a9972220b78f69e756469f970856f1a0b493006f5","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Antonia M Buban","organisation":null,"location":"Valloey View, TX","comment_text":"Subject: Formal Opposition to Burnet-Lampasas Rail Expansion (STB Docket No. 36815) I am writing to formally oppose the proposed Burnet-Lampasas rock-hauling rail line due to its severe environmental impacts on biodiversity, water quality, the rural landscape, and property values in the Texas Hill Country. This project threatens vital ecosystems, protected species, and water resources that are essential for the health and sustainability of our communities. Please see the attachment.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33857"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33856","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Jane Bushong Brown","organisation":null,"location":"Mountain Home, TX","comment_text":"I strongly oppose the proposed 26.9-mile railway project by Texas Materials Group. An Environmental Impact Statement must be prepared for the proposed new rail line through Burnet and Lampasas Counties because the rail line is a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of our human environment. Per 42 U.S.C. 4331(a), Section 102 of NEPA, the Office of Environmental Analysis on behalf of the Surface Transportation Board is required to perform an Environmental Impact Statement to address the devastating effects the action will have on the area. Many landowners will be directly affected. Derailments could contaminate major creeks. The proposed route crosses and then follows Mesquite Creek for ~7 or 8 miles. It then crosses Sulphur Creek. The proposed routes are within 100 to 400 yards of some homes. The noise of the 1-1/4 mile long trains will destroy peaceful ranch settings and wildlife that depends on the creek as a source of water and shelter will be cut off from their property. Many properties will be cut in two, losing access to portions of their property and homes. Adverse effects include the destruction of 200-year-old live oak trees which are currently suffering from extended drought. The ones that are not in the direct path of the railroad will have additional stress from change to their water shed. There will be destruction of habitat for many wildlife species plus the loss of cultural and historical sites. The proposed railroad line will destroy the productivity of the land and adversely affect the community: local businesses, feed stores, banks, land valuation, increased bus routes for kids and their safety on many county roads and major highways. Texas Materials has been using the existing railroads for many years and can continue doing so. This proposed new route is only for their convenience. I urge the Surface Transportation Board to consider these concerns and stop this project and its significant threat to the local environment.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33856"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33855","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Kelsey Rollins","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Dear Members of the Surface Transportation Board, I am writing to voice my strong opposition to the proposed 26.9-mile railway project by Texas Materials Group. It would completely disrupt my parents' peaceful backyard and beautiful property they've worked so hard to create in the last 30 years. Sincerely, Kelsey Rollins","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33855"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33854","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743782679325/EI-33854.pdf","label":"EI-33854.pdf","document_sha256":"452e08e0598d016609d4f8e2cf90c5781a40b4f6cc704d74e9aae2004830b46c","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Rep. David Spiller","organisation":"Texas House of Representatives","location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33854"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33853","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Shari Miller Gaiennie","organisation":"Pearl Properties Texas Inc.","location":"San Antonio, TX","comment_text":"Dear Members of the Surface Transportation Board, I am writing to formally oppose the proposed Burnet-Lampasas rock-hauling rail line due to its severe environmental impacts on biodiversity, water quality, the rural landscape, and property values in the Texas Hill Country. This project threatens vital ecosystems, protected species, and water resources that are essential for the health and sustainability of our communities. As a real estate professional in the Texas Hill Country, I urge the STB to reject this project unless these critical concerns are fully addressed: 1. Impacts on Biodiversity 2. Threats to Water Quality 3. Threats to Landowners and Rural Communities 4. Cultural and Historic Preservation The route passes near Thornal Cemetery (est. 1900) and Scott Hollow, a historic settlement. Construction noise, vibrations, and land disruption risk irreparable damage to these cultural landmarks. 5. Destruction of Native American Historical Areas 6. Environmental Review Requests for Action 1)Halt the project until a comprehensive, independent environmental review is conducted. 2)Prioritize upgrades to existing infrastructure (e.g., Highway 281 or the Austin Western Railroad) over new construction. 3)Require robust community engagement, including extended public comment periods and hearings in Burnet/Lampasas counties. 4)Protect Mesquite and Sulphur Creeks with enforceable buffer zones and stormwater controls to prevent sedimentation and pollution. The Texas Hill Country’s ecological integrity, rural character, and clean water resources are irreplaceable. This project prioritizes corporate interests over the health of our communities, ecosystems, and future generations. I stand with the 1,800+ petitioners in demanding the STB reject this ill-conceived proposal. Sincerely, Shari Miller Gaiennie","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33853"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33852","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743782518695/EI-33852.pdf","label":"EI-33852.pdf","document_sha256":"6f1d3b7b6cef4eb5b7e7418e69a03f7ad6cd5fd5f523d51d4f69d4b69428704d","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Corder Maples","organisation":null,"location":"Houston, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33852"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-03","date_printed":"4/3/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33842","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Lucina Botond","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Dear Mr. Assenza, I respectfully request that you block the approval of the new rail line requested by Texas Materials, a foreign company. Our property line is less than a mile from the proposed track. There is no public purpose to be served by approving this line, which will cause dust and rock materials to be distributed all across properties within many miles of the rail line, especially because we experience high winds for much of the year. In addition, the potential for derailments and damage would adversely affect many property owners who specifically have purchased land outside of congested city areas in order to have quiet enjoyment. We also have a very sensitive environmental area which is home to the golden cheeked warbler. Our area is also a crossing point of many tributaries for the San Gabriel River. Burnet residents will have all risk and no benefit if this project is approved. Locals who might have been hired to truck the materials along established roadways will have less opportunities as the trucks will be replaced by unmanned rail cars. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Lucina Botond","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33842"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33851","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"John Kofman","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Thank you for allowing me to comment. My concerns follow. The proposed route makes numerous water crossings: Sulphur Creek (a spring fed creek that feeds the Lampasas river) The Lampasas river is the main source of water for Stillhouse Hollow Lake. Stillhouse Hollow Lake supplies most residential water for Lampasas County. Any hazardous spill will be devastating to our water supply. Cooksey Creek Denson Branch Adams Spring Numerous surface livestock tanks Burnet and Lampasas Counties are located in the Texas Hill Country. The proposed route is along Central Flyway. Species utilizing this flyway include: Purple Martins Painted Buntings Cedar Waxwings Indigo Buntings Black Chinned and Ruby Throated Hummingbirds Other species include: Golden -cheeked warblers (endangered and found only in the Texas Hill Country) Bald eagles (threatened) Black-capped Vireo (endangered) Scissor-tailed Flycatcher The proposed route affects wildlife habitat including: old growth Ashe juniper (nesting material for Golden -cheeked warblers) caves (bats) wetlands springs seeps Historical and cultural sites are on the proposed route and will also be affected. Sites include: Native American sites with artifacts documented to be dated from the Early Archaic Period (8,500 to 6,000 BC) will be destroyed. This artifacts likely are from the Comanche and/or Tonkawa Nations. Battle Branch site of the Horrell-Higgings feud 1877, Texas historic marker number 13134 Historic Thornal Cemetery Historic stagecoach roads Following are general concerns. ground and surface water degradation reduction of impervious cover potential fuel spills runoff (much of the proposed route is over the 100 year flood plain) noise air quality I am a potentially affected property owner and strongly oppose this project. Additional options/routes, if even needed, are available with less impact to the community","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33851"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33850","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Andrew Rollins","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Dear Members of the Surface Transportation Board, I am writing to voice my strong opposition to the proposed 26.9-mile railway project by Texas Materials Group. An Environmental Impact Statement must be prepared for the proposed new rail line through Burnet and Lampasas Counties because the rail line is a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of our human environment. Per 42 U.S.C. 4331(a), Section 102 of NEPA, the Office of Environmental Analysis on behalf of the Surface Transportation Board is required to perform an Environmental Impact Statement to address the devastating effects the action will have on the area. Many landowners will be directly affected by this proposed railroad crossing their property and destroying some of their most productive land. I are additionally concerned about train derailments that could contaminate major creeks. The proposed routes are within yards of many land owner's homes and the noise of the 1-1/4 mile long trains carrying aggregate will destroy my their peaceful ranch and wildlife that depends on the creek as a source of water. Many landowners’ properties will be cut in two, requiring them to lose direct access to portions of the property and homes. Also, there will be destruction of habitat for many wildlife species including some that may be endangered plus the loss of cultural and historical sites. The proposed railroad line will destroy the productivity of the land it goes through and adversely affect the community. This affects the local businesses and increases bus routes for kids getting to and from schools. Texas Materials has been using the exiting railroads for many years and this proposed new route is only for their convenience. I urge the Surface Transportation Board to consider these concerns and stop this project and its significant threat to the local environment. Sincerely, Andrew Rollins","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33850"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33849","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743711608741/EI-33849.pdf","label":"EI-33849.pdf","document_sha256":"aa0c79c10d90c403ca15ca44940edfbb984b04254ccd02238cb5e8fd12c51873","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"John Lynd","organisation":"Brushpopper Land","location":"Bulverde, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33849"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33848","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Cynthia Inman","organisation":null,"location":"Fort Worth, TX","comment_text":"The proposed route goes through several properties south of Lampasas, in particular the Vann Ranch and within 100 yards of a home and the other only 400 yards away. Many more neighbors’ ranches along the route will be cut in two, requiring them to lose direct access to portions of the property and homes. All for the benefit of a private company, which is headquartered in Ireland. This is devastating for the ranch owners and I feel sure it negatively effects the value of their property and their livelihood if they are running a livestock or farming operation.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33848"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33847","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743709364273/EI-33847.pdf","label":"EI-33847.pdf","document_sha256":"5a1f6d09b3f2fc5472f24179bd4f22a573414907a9d19d1d9b3f9cfced26efcc","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tracy Snell Mack","organisation":null,"location":"BUDA, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33847"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33846","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743709212413/EI-33846.pdf","label":"EI-33846.pdf","document_sha256":"7dea3500a83aceaa5d183989e356b99cbad1597a6b3c0cdb8f035906734c311d","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Les Broyles","organisation":null,"location":"New Braunfels, TX","comment_text":"Letter/Comments Attached","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33846"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33845","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743709136895/EI-33845.pdf","label":"EI-33845.pdf","document_sha256":"bf2fa9a1871aa8c87137a822b36a712de3d780a193ccb0d5656b9a53b7ca527b","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Bailey Groves","organisation":null,"location":"Lipan, TX","comment_text":"I am writing to formally oppose the proposed Burnet-Lampasas rock-hauling rail line due to its severe environmental impacts on biodiversity, water quality, the rural landscape, and property values in the Texas Hill Country. This project threatens vital ecosystems, protected species, and water resources that are essential for the health and sustainability of our communities. As a real estate professional in the Texas Hill Country, I urge the STB to reject this project","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33845"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33844","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Cynthia Thomas","organisation":null,"location":"Kerrville, TX","comment_text":"As a ranch owner for most of my life, I know the negative affects of dividing a ranch by having an entity access through a ranch. 1) the noise factor affects livestock and the owners who have improvements/homes near the railroad. 2) access to an owner's entire ranch is affected 3) There is a liability of livestock being injured/killed trying to cross the railroad tracts to graze the other side of the land. 4) Access to the other side of their land is a great inconvenience to have access to their entire ranch. 5) As a land broker, I know how this will negatively affect the value of the land if an railroad cuts through it. I can see this would benefit profits for those quarries wanting this railroad, but to the detriment of the ranch owners.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33844"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33843","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Casey Dewees","organisation":null,"location":"Houston, TX","comment_text":"I am against the construction of a new railroad that would carve up many ranches along the proposed paths, it is my understanding that this Railroad is also being built to mainly provide service to a company that's not even based in Texas or the United States of America.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33843"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33841","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Gary Steele","organisation":"Keller Williams Realty","location":"Dripping Springs, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33841"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33840","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Mike Atkinson","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"There are many reasons as to why this train/railway should not be allowed. On my personal property we have a cemetery behind our home. We have wild turkey in the pecan bottom. Mesquite creek on our CR watershed wouldn't be able to catch water to flow into the river and then to the lake. We are already in a water crisis in our area. Our home is approximately 1500 feet from the CR. It would devalue our property dramatically.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33840"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-02","date_printed":"4/2/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-4034","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1749488376163/EO-4034.pdf","label":"EO-4034.pdf","document_sha256":"638741e49f8671f07d1998757eeab5c41016fedf06a0d3bb6131534053711fd2","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Julianna Kurpis","organisation":"USACE Ft. Worth District, Regulatory Division","location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-4034"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-01","date_printed":"4/1/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33839","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Thomas Crawford","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"I object to a for-profit, foreign-owned corporation’s attempt by force of law to take land that has been owned by my family for 185 years. Both north extensions of the proposed, private railroad are planned to run through the Crawford Ranch, est. 1840. It will sever and destroy a high-fenced whitetail deer management area. It will closely run alongside eight ranch residences, the oldest being 100 years, as well as a popular venue solely hosting free community events for over fifty years. It will slice through 200+ acres of fields resulting in much of the land being inaccessible for working and fire protection. It will cross over and devastate fragile Cooksey Creek and the unique spring-fed Sulfur Creek. Having no consideration for the common good of the public, this private, proposed railway’s sole purpose is to transport crushed stone from the for-profit, foreign-owned corporation’s quarry. There is an existing railway already being utilized for that purpose. This is purely profit-driven at the expense of the affected land owners and the broader, surrounding area.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33839"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-01","date_printed":"4/1/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33838","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743618285189/EI-33838.pdf","label":"EI-33838.pdf","document_sha256":"131a78bb96b2948d807443f66815660e26c0d73d5c66db846cfb002e8c10f768","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Luke Ellis","organisation":"Marrs Ellis Hodge LLP (Counsel for Scimitar Partners LP)","location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33838"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-01","date_printed":"4/1/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33837","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743615455362/EI-33837.pdf","label":"EI-33837.pdf","document_sha256":"f111b65159e02cd50be88f756bf8d0a0735c46c37f54ae0c512f33ab32dd8304","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Robby and Leigh Vann","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33837"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-01","date_printed":"4/1/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33836","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Dorothy Marley","organisation":"El Chiquito Rancho Grande","location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"I request an Environmental Impact Statement be carefully prepared for the proposed new rail line through Burnet County because the rail line is a major Federal action significantly & negatively affecting the quality of human & wildlife environment. Specifically, the EIS should address the destruction of fenced, private property/farmland/homes/buildings & subsequent displacement of people & wildlife; water contaminants; noise pollution; potential for train derailment & blockage of roads; destruction of wildlife feeding/nesting/birth areas including that of threatened or endangered species including but not limited to the golden-cheeked warbler, black-capped vireo, zone-tailed hawk, TX horned lizard & Houston Toad; destruction of centuries-old heritage oak trees; the risk of structural damage to foundations of homes/buildings near proposed railway; and the tremendous property devaluation. It is vital to note that TX Materials Group is asking to revive a ROW abandoned in the 1950’s to \"reconstruct rail\" & to add many miles of new track in a new ROW addition. The \"reconstruction\" is simply construction as the rail is mostly nonexistent. This solely benefits 1 business & profoundly negatively impacts countless private citizens. It is egregious to request & will tear apart private landholdings. We bought our land in Burnet County 28+ years ago for the peace & tranquility & to enjoy native birds/wildlife. Our stewardship of this land means growing plants to feed deer, fox, rabbits & other animals, growing native wildflowers to attract pollinators, protecting massive heritage oaks, all of which are threatened by this request. The lasting negative impact of this proposed new rail close to our home is the destruction of serene countryside, potential blocked rural roads by stopped trains & division of ranches & homesteads. THIS IS NOT NECESSARY OR REASONABLE. We urge the project be rejected & our land preserved. We request all mitigating factors be considered in the EIS.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33836"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-01","date_printed":"4/1/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33835","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Kay Marley-Dilworth","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"A meticulous Environmental Impact Statement MUST be prepared for the proposed new rail line thru Burnet County because the rail line is a major Federal action significantly & negatively affecting the quality of human & wildlife environment. Per 42 USC 4331(a) §102 of NEPA, the OEA on behalf of the Surface Transportation Board is required to perform an Environmental Impact Statement to address the \"acceptable levels\" & potentially higher levels of contaminants in our rivers, streams, groundwater, pasture/farm land; noise of 1.25+ mile long trains carrying aggregate; potential for derailment & its horrific impact; destruction of wildlife feeding/nesting/birth areas; destruction of/damage to areas of cultural significance; destruction of/damage to heritage oak trees 100's of years old; violations of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, 16 USC §703-711, the Texas Parks & Wildlife Code Title 5, Subtitle B, Chap. 64, & the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act; and the risk to structural foundations of homes &other buildings nearby as well as tremendous property devaluation. My family purchased land in Burnet 28+ years ago. Our blood, sweat & tears went to fencing, building a pole barn & storage & clearing just enough land for a home. We chose this area for its quiet, country lifestyle & to enjoy native birds/wildlife. We nurture native wildflowers that feed bees & Monarch & Queen butterflies. Our land has many live oaks that were in place when the Tonkawa & Lipan Apache tribes called it their home. We've found arrowheads, fossilized seashells from prehistoric times, & evidence of early settlers such as pottery & hand-forged nails. My 83yo mom lives quietly in her happy place but 1 greedy corporation is trying to void that peacefulness in order to lessen its expenses & profit more. This is unacceptable on many levels. We request a written response & EIS to address the lasting negative impact of this proposed new rail as it will destroy our tranquility. We urge it be stopped.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33835"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-01","date_printed":"4/1/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-4005","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743536150866/EO-4005.pdf","label":"EO-4005.pdf","document_sha256":"aa1a996f4c6a1983a889a884c3d1a8af8f6138249cc5307d202c4066e0a8bafe","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Representative Ellen Troxclair","organisation":"Texas State Representative, District 19","location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-4005"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-04-01","date_printed":"4/1/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-4004","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743519690454/EO-4004.pdf","label":"EO-4004.pdf","document_sha256":"7ccbd4c4cd379abc617d3fd2849a6020309909b675459c2da8a8d84a9785097b","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Judge Randall J. Hoyer","organisation":"Lampasas County","location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-4004"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-31","date_printed":"3/31/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-34062","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1749487725029/EI-34062.pdf","label":"EI-34062.pdf","document_sha256":"fd93b46c13142df1f5e2959ca3571cbf260211eed1d8abc9c66af07f9599c6b3","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Justin Kockritz","organisation":"Texas Historical Commission","location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-34062"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-31","date_printed":"3/31/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33831","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743517689587/EI-33831.pdf","label":"EI-33831.pdf","document_sha256":"69aa9dde41809c046b5acc923cf68048fce687fafb037c6353614494e5597984","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Justin Kockritz","organisation":"Texas Historical Commission (Texas SHPO)","location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":"See attached.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33831"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-31","date_printed":"3/31/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33828","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743435368615/EI-33828.pdf","label":"EI-33828.pdf","document_sha256":"546d2b2135ccdd940b06d8f938d087baadc9d0ac7dddc96c7336c0b7fec7e805","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"State Senator Peter Flores - Texas Senate District 24","organisation":"Texas Senate","location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":"See attached Letter","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33828"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-30","date_printed":"3/30/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33832","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Sherry Brown","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Our family ranch contains multiple creeks including a major tributary of the North San Gabriel River. We are blessed with extensive wildlife and native plants. We raise Longhorn cattle that range freely. A railroad on this land would be a disaster.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33832"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-27","date_printed":"3/27/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33830","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743443068345/EI-33830.pdf","label":"EI-33830.pdf","document_sha256":"18d5e8998aae3fda27f930c33e8b99dc7e8a45fec129eb0dffe723eccdceee2e","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Hurst Place Maintenance Board","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"On behalf of the Hurst Place Maintenance Board and the 93 homeowners we represent, we strongly oppose the proposed Texas Materials railway project near our community and urge you to take action to stop it. The rail line’s proximity to residential areas poses serious public safety risks, including derailments, hazardous spills, and fire hazards that could overwhelm local emergency services. Noise pollution from heavy freight trains, especially at night, would disrupt residents’ well-being, causing sleep disturbances and increased stress. Diesel-powered locomotives will degrade air quality, endangering vulnerable populations such as children, seniors, and those with respiratory conditions. This project contradicts efforts to reduce environmental harm. Additionally, rail construction and long-term operations will fragment natural habitats, disrupt wildlife, and pollute water sources, harming our Hill Country environment. Property values will also suffer. Studies show proximity to industrial rail lines deters buyers due to noise, pollution, and safety concerns, jeopardizing residents’ most significant investments. We recognize the need for infrastructure but urge opposition to this project in favor of alternatives that do not threaten our community’s health, safety, and economic stability. Thank you for your time and commitment to protecting Burnet County residents. Sincerely, The officers and members of HPMB","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33830"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-27","date_printed":"3/27/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33829","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Marylinda Govaars","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Docket FD 36815 goes through family owned property and populated areas in Burnet County. The rationale of the reactivating the rail line is not truthful. The rock quarries do not need to use rail to transport their products plus the proposed additional quarry near Camp Longhorn & Caverns is not a done deal","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33829"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-26","date_printed":"3/26/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33871","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Sheryl Brown","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Our home is located in close proximity to one of the proposed routes for the Texas Materials railway. The railway poses a significant noise and environmental pollution hazard for our property and the nearby waterways. The potential for grass fires started by the rail cars is a significant danger to humans, grassland and livestock. I strongly oppose construction of a railway in the environmentally sensitive areas of northern Burnet County. This railway would only benefit Texas Materials as a profitable alternative to using the existing AWRR rail line to move quarry products. It would cause immeasurable harm to the environment and residents of Burnet, Texas.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33871"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-26","date_printed":"3/26/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-4003","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743008798371/EO-4003.pdf","label":"EO-4003.pdf","document_sha256":"3a4a725f1eaf6aeb381ce4d25d05e8b96d577fc59e50a0696679ec5d675e39f4","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Catherine Van Arnam","organisation":"Texas State Representative Ellen Troxclair, HD 19","location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-4003"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-25","date_printed":"3/25/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33824","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743012121424/EI-33824.pdf","label":"EI-33824.pdf","document_sha256":"ea9aad729b7d0866049e0c136aad772e310a5fbdd23bd9a843a364b0b5e868df","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Reney Drake","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33824"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-25","date_printed":"3/25/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33823","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tina Riojas","organisation":null,"location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":"Adam - Please be aware that Tx Materials is not \\\"reconstructing\\\" an abandoned line - there may be 14 miles of right of way in Burnety county but there is none in Lampasas County - there are no right of ways on our land. They are not reconstructing but trying to use old right of ways (many purchased by the landowners) and forcing a new route in Lampasas county, taking land from private land owners. This needs to be examined as they are building a new rail line for private use of Texas Materials, for profit. THEY ARE NOT RECONSTRUCING A LINE!","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33823"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-25","date_printed":"3/25/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33821","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"John Ellis","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Need to learn what is going on","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33821"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-34061","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1749482074671/EI-34061.pdf","label":"EI-34061.pdf","document_sha256":"819e04367fda4458076e5032c4b0d030762bf49ceaed0fa97984b1be8ee1e4ff","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"William Kirby","organisation":null,"location":"TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-34061"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-34060","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1749481857189/EI-34060.pdf","label":"EI-34060.pdf","document_sha256":"174ece156b8e95fe49e105621c13e610b2e84b5ca598b083dc35690ba31e9b48","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"TC Coffman","organisation":null,"location":"TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-34060"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33820","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Jason Brady","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Not in order of importance 1. Habitat of Federally protected bird Golden cheeked warbler 2. Air quality from dust out of uncovered rail cars 3. Water contamination from pesticides sprayed on and around tracks to keep vegetation down. Tracks run beside Russell fork of San Gabriel River. 4. Fire hazards. 5. Noise pollution","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33820"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33819","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Zachariah Griffin","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Whats going to happen to my cows the deer i hunt for food if this rail comes thru it\\'s not just the animals and plants that suffer it\\'s me that suffers","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33819"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33818","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"William N Kirby","organisation":"Kirby Ranch","location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Recently I learned that Texas Materials Group, Inc. is seeking authority from the STB to construct and operate a new rail line in Burnet and Lampasas counties. This proposed line, if implemented, will seriously negatively impact large numbers of Texas families. Many of those have already contacted the STB by petition and letters describing negative environmental impact, safety concerns, economic devastation, detrimental quality of life issues, absence of public notification, and removal of individual property rights. My family is one of those potentially devasted by this proposed line. I currently operate a small ranch located in both Burnet and Lampasas counties on which I raise sheep, goats, and hay. At present I have approximately 200 animals. It is currently lambing season with more baby lambs being born each day. My largest field would be divided approximately one third by two thirds by the proposed rail line spitting off most of the land in Lampasas County from the portion in Burnet County. There would be no way to get to the land in Lampasas County without crossing the railroad. The railroad right of way would have to be fenced. Even if the company put in a rail crossing, I cannot imagine trying to get a herd of sheep or goats across the tracks and into the other pasture without having them scatter up and down the right of way. Currently rail lines exist so trains could go from Burnet to Cedar Park to Pflugerville, to Temple, to Lampasas. Is it further than a new straight line from Burnet to Lampasas would be? Of course, but the question should be is it right to disrupt and damage the lives of so many people in order that this company can shortcut the route used to haul quarry materials and thus increase their profit. I noticed that you offer arbitration and mediation to avoid costly litigation. In this case, the simplest way to avoid litigation is to deny this project. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this proposed project before the board.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33818"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33817","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Margaret Shaw","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"To Adam Assenza: I’m in opposition to awarding a permit to TX Materials Inc. plan for the construction of a railway & any other train operations through Burnet/Lampasas counties because: the route identified is a decades old route on and/or near homes built since dis-service. The lands are in a raw natural condition. Tearing up trees, bushes, & other vegetation threatens many animals & migratory bird species; quail & the Golden Cheek Warbler(a Federally Endangered listed bird) are a few. Property owners trying to be good stewards of the Earth, have established migratory bird sanctuaries along this route. These sanctuaries, will be negatively affected by fumes, noise, & debris pollutions. People have built homes & livelihoods all over this line. All of this will be affected by a mile long train pulled by 4 Diesel polluting engines! What then of noise, trash & diesel pollution? What of “vagrants” bringing mischief, drugs, slave trafficking, made easier with a clear off the beaten trail? High winds & dry conditions + train sparks=fires is a HUGE danger! Can fire trucks get into these insulated, remote acreages? Once established, there is nothing to stop TX. Materials. Inc from adding more than the 1.64 daily trains running! Even more pollutions and dangers! People’s lives/livelihoods, home values, & natural environment be gone! These communities are just now learning about this proposal, giving an appearance that TX Materials Inc & their parent, Irish based company, CRH, are trying to sneak this past the Burnet/Lampasas communities. I have no objection to a business well managed; profitably, ethically & morally. It enhances life for all, including our natural world animals & fauna. Deny the permit. Telling TX Materials Inc: go back to the communities & work something out that is Truthfully good & beneficial for all. Please send a response to these points. Thank you, Margaret Shaw","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33817"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33816","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Marilyn Layne","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"The proposed alternate Burnet route would go through our 33-acre property, which my husband’s family has owned since the 1980’s. It would take out several acres of old growth Ashe juniper, which the endangered golden cheeked warbler use for nesting. Our land is not “arid” - it includes large live oak trees, cedar elms, hickory, native pecans, hackberry, mulberry, mustang grapevines, wildflowers, and grasses, as well as Ashe juniper. In addition, the Russell Fork of the South San Gabriel flows through our land. Since it is part of the headwaters of the river, in wet weather when the water table is up, our land runs with water from tiny springs which feed into the river. A railway across our land would adversely affect both the river and the plentiful wildlife in the area, including deer, wild turkey, jackrabbits, doves, quail, golden cheeked warblers, hawks, buzzards, hummingbirds, mockingbirds, cardinals, owls, coyotes, armadillos, wild hogs, not to mention skunks and snakes. We currently have beehives on the property. We had planned to build our retirement home on our property, but trains on either proposed Burnet route would disturb the peace and the environment severely. Please deny this request and spare our land.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33816"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33815","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tina Riojas","organisation":null,"location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":"Don\\'t let an Irish Company break the backs of Central Texas Residents for Profit!! Tx Materials Group, located in Burnet County but owned by CRH headquartered in Dublin, Ireland is proposing a 27-mile-long rail line from Burnet to Lampasas. The proposed \\\"preferred\\\" route would affect our property in Lampasas County - a beautiful 250-acre ranch along Sulphur Creek that was purchased by our family in 1992. This is our legacy for our grandchildren. We have not given consent or even been notified of this proposed line. The train will cause safety risks including accidents, derailments, fires and the risk of anyone accessing our property by walking down the line. Noise, pollution and damage to Sulphur Creek and the wildlife will occur. We will not be able to access our water - we cannot be denied access to water. This will impact our livestock, our livelihood, our grazing, our hay baling. It will send property values plummeting - possibly even rendering our property \\\"unsaleable\\\" for future generations. We\\'ve worked hard on this property for over 30 years and planned to retire here. This line will destroy our investment and our retirement. It will destroy outcroppings of rock along the creek where Native Americans camped and where we have found arrowheads. It will destroy a rock wall that runs the length of the property that was built by the Friars in the 1800\\'s We urge the STB to prioritize the rights of owner and residents of Burnet and Lampasas Counties over the the rights of a private, foreign company that is doing this for profit. See more in attachement.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33815"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33814","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742912035804/EI-33814.pdf","label":"EI-33814.pdf","document_sha256":"01203e3f30344c4afabc4f6018d2d6f8a966ff537b60766525ea8c24d6298c48","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Texas State Representative Ellen Troxclair, House District 19","organisation":"Texas House of Representatives","location":"AUSTIN, TX","comment_text":"See attached letter requesting maximum possible environmental review, and opportunity for expanded public comment.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33814"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33813","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"D. Douglas Mena","organisation":null,"location":"Missouri City, TX","comment_text":"Land Rights and Use: • Over 118 homes will be directly affected, with the rail line either running through their properties or coming uncomfortably close—some within just 200-300 feet. • Many properties will be divided, rendering portions of the land unusable. • Homeowners never expected to deal with the noise, pollution, and disruption that this rail project will bring. • Although marketed as a public rail line, it will be used almost exclusively for private business operations. Property Values: • Property values are expected to decline significantly—by 50% to 75%, based on similar past cases. • Many homeowners will struggle to sell their properties due to the undesirable proximity of the train. • Given current high interest rates, relocation is financially impossible for many, particularly retirees and elderly residents. Environmental Concerns: • The rail line threatens the habitat of the Golden-Cheeked Warbler, a federally protected endangered bird native to the Hill Country. • The Balcones Canyonlands, a 27,500-acre wildlife refuge, was established specifically to protect this species and is located just 10 miles away. • Despite claims that an environmental impact assessment is being conducted, there has been no public input and no known requests for land access to properly assess the impact. Lack of Transparency: • Landowners were only notified last week, giving them little time to respond—meanwhile, the company has had years to plan. • With a deadline of April 3rd for public comments, this is a blatant violation of due process rights. The Bottom Line: • This rail project only benefits a private company transporting and selling private products. • The environmental impact clearly outweighs the benefit to the public as the public will not benefit from the use of this proposed railway at all.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33813"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33812","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742848727317/EI-33812.pdf","label":"EI-33812.pdf","document_sha256":"c90e41deb97e3c2f5c68f72dfc98b4d9a503616da545eaea702fe59bbf557b7f","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Kaye Fischer Hales","organisation":"None","location":"Portland, TX","comment_text":"We own original, 1860s great grandfathers home on Mesquite creek! Full of animal and fish life! Newts,bass sunfish turtles frogs . Also variety of wild cats as property untouched ,in original state! And Yes Warblers, cardinals, hawks!! Basically an animal refuge!! This is not a dry area as multiple springs along creek and up on hill!! On old maps an artesian spring is listed on north side of creek which sometimes still produces on cousins land. Not counting two cemetery’s west up creek, an old black cemetery and a sm one with John Slaughters first wife! Kaye Hales","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33812"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33811","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742848428747/EI-33811.pdf","label":"EI-33811.pdf","document_sha256":"b0a274c4a87e9ebb3b0cd43e5b242b9cd550179c221442ea12da3b242938393b","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tina Riojas","organisation":null,"location":"TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33811"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-24","date_printed":"3/24/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33790","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Rowdy Hinckley","organisation":"Bar H Bar Hinckley Ranch","location":"West Lake Hills, TX","comment_text":"Morning, I can\\'t even believe that this is even under question on whether this is a beneficial \\\"common carrier,\\\" when other companies have to pay a tax to use their rail line. How about let the landowners who might have land taken away and property values crushed use this rail line for their benefit too, just like a multi-billion dollar IRISH company. So Un-American and sickening. Environmental concerns are ample #1. I work in construction so I see first hand how much water quarries use to wash their product and cultivate it. They wash and screen to get dirt off the aggregate so they can sell more product w/o excess dirt weight. Also, water is used for the dust control. But hey, a billion dollar company can use all the water they want in a Stage #4 drought restricted area #2. Possible wildfires from train sparks. Between Burnet & Lampasas this is rural land, in turn no public FD, their is only a Lake Victor Volunteer Fire Dept. Enough said there #3. All of the species depleted from this. This area is a big migratory bird habitat, yes I have seen with my own eyes countless Bald Eagles and some Whooping Cranes. #4. After the RR is built who compensates the land owners when the RR berm impervious cover gets rained and and the run-off erodes peoples\\' land not in the ROW #5. I could go all day on this and not trying to be rude but I have family members who are buried on my land, so this is a threat to me and my family that I won\\'t back down from, and the fact that this was done backdoor and landowners had to due their on digging in find this out pisses me off to no end. This international billion dollar company wants to build a RR without working with landowners is sickening. They could care less about what it does to the habitat, if they did they might of spoken to land owners before fillings. People around here a great hard working honest people whom has lived here for generations and they were left in the dark. Money talks I guess...","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33790"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-23","date_printed":"3/23/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33810","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742848183285/EI-33810.pdf","label":"EI-33810.pdf","document_sha256":"ce88ad6dbf2df1ab6c813f5548ed9d9f067a373503de98ef0c21135c3103d7a5","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Lynne L. Rathman","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33810"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-23","date_printed":"3/23/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33809","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Patrick Shaub","organisation":"Friends of the YS Ranch","location":"Marble Falls, TX","comment_text":"This property is a pristine Texas Hill country ranch. The ranch is home to carefully managed native wildlife and native wildflower and grasses. The property is rife with beautiful fossils. The owner makes his property open to locals, friends and neighbors to hunt, fish and enjoy hiking the property. The owner was given less than a month to organize we friends of his and his ranch to comment. Sometimes, like now, eminent domain claims on a person\\'s personal property seems more like theft. Please deny this docket and reroute the railroad surfaces the YS Ranch.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33809"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-23","date_printed":"3/23/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33808","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Alecia Renee Farris","organisation":null,"location":"BERTRAM, TX","comment_text":"This does not benefit Lampasas or Burnet Counties. Please stop the railroad route from being forced on our residents.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33808"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-23","date_printed":"3/23/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33807","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Robby Vann","organisation":"-- Select a Prefix Name --","location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"This is very detrimental to our livestock, wildlife, stock tank and very close to our home where we have lived for over 30 years.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33807"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-23","date_printed":"3/23/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33806","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"AgroTech Partners, LLC","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"As a local Ag Service business in Lampasas Tx I’m very concerned this project will negatively affect the local community we serve as well as local commerce and our personal business as well. The Ag industry and local farmers and ranchers in the Lampasas and Burnet community will be negatively affected by this railroad. Besides the obvious destruction of the operations and usability of the farms and ranches this railroad will go directly through, the ill effects of the dust to local animals will cause severe issues to local producers as well. Please stop this project and help our local farmers and ranchers","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33806"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-23","date_printed":"3/23/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33804","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Heston McBride","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"This proposed railway will be detrimental to the local community I love in many ways. The Ag Industry I’m involved in, the local wildlife and natural habitats I enjoy. Property values and commerce will most certainly be negatively affected as well. Our transportation and roads will become an issue as well. As a whole this will undermine the beauty of the hill country and the value of this special area. Please consider all the negatives this project will have.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33804"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-22","date_printed":"3/22/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33805","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Corinne McCann","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"I\\'m against the railroad quarry project. The environmental impact on the Golden Cheek Warbler and other protected species will be devastating. The landowners will be negatively affected. This project needs to be stopped!!","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33805"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-21","date_printed":"3/21/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-34058","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1749478284223/EI-34058.pdf","label":"EI-34058.pdf","document_sha256":"379bfb336b052ba4f265f46c0e5505796c913d9fe9f60f9bbfeae8de4b80359a","media_type":"pdf"},{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1749478299270/EI-34058%20-%20photo.jpg","label":"EI-34058 - photo.jpg","document_sha256":"9bf84e3ec13cb48ab540421b7a16429c7e2a7f6a19fe707f6d67f04d0f49e0dc","media_type":"jpg"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Gilbert and Tina Riojas","organisation":null,"location":"TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-34058"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-21","date_printed":"3/21/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33872","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tina Riojas","organisation":null,"location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":"Texas Materials Group, located in Burnet County but owned by CRH headquartered in Dublin, Ireland is proposing a 27-mile-long rail line from Burnet to Lampasas. There has been no notification to affected landowners or to the communities involved. The proposed “preferred” route would affect our property in Lampasas County – a beautiful 250-acre ranch along Sulphur Creek that was purchased by our family in 1992. This is our legacy for our grandchildren. Property rights and safety of our property – we have not given consent or even been notified of this proposed rail line. This train will pose safety risks including accidents, derailments, fires, and the risk of anyone accessing our property by just walking down the rail line. Environmental Impact – noise, pollution and potential damage to the creek and local ecosystems as well as wildlife. We will not be able to access portions of our property nor will be able to access our water – Sulphur Creek. We cannot be denied access to water on our property. Economic Impact – this quarry train and rail line will negatively impact our property values, declining property values would make it challenging for future generations to sell if needed – possibly rendering our property even “unsaleable” with a railroad track running through it and no access to water. This rail line will destroy our investment and our retirement. Quality of life – the quarry train and rail line will disrupt our rural lifestyle with constant noise, vibrations, and movement of a rumbling train through our peaceful countryside. We will not be able to water our animals, it will disrupt our grazing, it will disrupt our leasing of additional acreage. It will destroy outcroppings of rock along the creek where Native Americans camped and where we have found many arrowheads. It will disrupt a rock wall that runs the length of the property on the west side that was built by the Friars in the 1800’s.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33872"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-21","date_printed":"3/21/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33803","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742841644773/EI-33803.pdf","label":"EI-33803.pdf","document_sha256":"6dc3d3517f1d44d237e7149552e1f2e7b725caf6f6977f405fc8c8def33d1ea1","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Jeff Pearce","organisation":null,"location":"Cypress, TX","comment_text":"Adam, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the construction and operation of a rail line so close to County 7410 Road 252, Burnet, TX 78605. This project poses a significant environmental threat to the area and would have serious consequences for both local wildlife and residents. Environmental Concerns:  The rail line threatens the habitat of the Golden-Cheeked Warbler, a federally protected endangered bird native to the Hill Country.  The Balcones Canyonlands, a 27,500-acre wildlife refuge, was established specifically to protect this species and is located just 10 miles away.  Despite claims that an environmental impact assessment is being conducted, there has been no public input and no known requests for land access to properly assess the impact. Lack of Transparency:  Landowners were only notified last week, giving them little time to respond—meanwhile, the company has had years to plan.  With a deadline of April 3rd for public comments, this is a blatant violation of due process rights. The Bottom Line:  This rail project only benefits a private company transporting and selling private products.  The public gains nothing—only losses in property value, safety, and quality of life. I urge you to take immediate action to halt this project and advocate for alternative solutions that prioritize environmental protection and community well-being. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this issue further and hear your position on the matter. Thank you for your time and attention to this urgent concern. I look forward to your response. Jeff Pearce","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33803"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-21","date_printed":"3/21/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33802","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Cathy Cantrell","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"I am writing to strongly oppose the proposed Texas Materials Group rail line and ask for your support. This rail will run near my property. This project presents serious concerns regarding safety, environmental impact, and property devaluation, all of which would have lasting negative effects on my family, my community, and the surrounding land. Safety Concerns The proximity of this railway to my home introduces significant safety hazards. Increased rail traffic raises the risk of derailments, hazardous spills, and emergency response delays. A derailment near my property could have catastrophic consequences. Environmental Impact: The construction and operation of a rail line this close to my property would result in substantial environmental harm. Noise and air pollution from frequent train activity would disrupt the natural surroundings and negatively affect local wildlife, of which we have several protected species. Furthermore, runoff and potential spills from rail operations could contaminate nearby water sources, leading to long-term ecological damage. Property Devaluation The increased train traffic of a railway so close to my home would significantly decrease my property’s value. The noise, pollution, and increased industrial activity make my property far less. Home values in areas near heavy rail infrastructure consistently suffer declines due to these factors, creating an unfair financial burden on homeowners like myself. Additionally, the loss of privacy and peaceful enjoyment of my land is an unacceptable intrusion on my property rights. Alternative Consideration I urge Texas Materials Group to reconsider alternative routes that would not disrupt residential properties and the environment. The lack of transparency and public engagement in this process is deeply concerning. I will continue to oppose this project through all available channels to protect my home, my community, and the surrounding environment.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33802"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-21","date_printed":"3/21/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33800","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742825837719/EI-33800.pdf","label":"EI-33800.pdf","document_sha256":"c135ed142aef3363a46c84b2b0775fb319935e2d8b2abea033c729a3999d35aa","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Gilbert Riojas","organisation":null,"location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":"Texas Materials proposed railway is a travesty to landowners, wildlife and family legacies. By circumventing the established approval process and utilizing loopholes in the statutes to limit the publics opinion and outcries lends credence to the company\\'s immoral corporate character. The affected counties would be impacted by limited access to water and natural springs, recreational water activities, deer hunting (a major source of income for local communities), livestock and cattle grazing, hay baling, and loss of income and jobs to small business truck hauling companies.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33800"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-21","date_printed":"3/21/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33799","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/799/EI-33799.pdf","label":"EI-33799.pdf","document_sha256":"09fe12db666fd090101e6d1d9e40fb428632e48e33d77e69446e51c0c6414c18","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Holliday Hinckley","organisation":null,"location":"West Lake Hills, TX","comment_text":"To Whom It May Concern, Upon reviewing the figures presented by Texas Materials regarding their proposed railway, it is clear that their math is fundamentally flawed and significantly misrepresents the extent of eminent domain required. Their attorney’s claim of “about 20 miles of original ROW” is incorrect. There is only 9 miles of the project existing Texas Materials Group right-of-way (ROW), while the remaining 17.9 miles (approximately two-thirds of the project) consists of privately owned land that would need to be acquired through eminent domain. This directly contradicts any assertion that the project will have minimal impact on private property owners. The majority of the route would require forcibly seizing land from citizens—displacing families, devaluing properties, and infringing on private ownership rights. Furthermore, the misleading math appears to downplay the scale of disruption this project would cause. By excluding key privately owned sections, Texas Materials distorts the reality of the situation. Their proposal hinges on inaccurate calculations that minimize the true footprint of land acquisition and the number of affected property owners. In light of these discrepancies, the project should be re-evaluated with accurate and transparent property impact data. Proceeding with faulty information not only misleads the public but also undermines the integrity of the review process. We strongly urge the Surface Transportation Board and relevant authorities to reject this proposal based on its flawed and misleading presentation of land acquisition requirements. Thank you,","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33799"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-21","date_printed":"3/21/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33798","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742825499106/EI-33798.pdf","label":"EI-33798.pdf","document_sha256":"410684a5f3e950e12e3b53b35781f0dd8ddb5486972ed5aff873cdefeb103013","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Matthew Hricko","organisation":null,"location":"Rosenberg, TX","comment_text":"The rail line threatens the habitat of the Golden-Cheeked Warbler, a federally protected endangered bird native to the Hill Country.The Balcones Canyonlands, a 27,500-acre wildlife refuge, was established specifically to protect this species and is located just 10 miles away. Despite claims that an environmental impact assessment is being conducted, there has been no public input and no known requests for land access to properly assess the impact.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33798"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-21","date_printed":"3/21/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33797","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Kaitlin Buse","organisation":"From EVERYONE in Burnet","location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Please don\\'t do the rock Quarry or train tracks in Burnet/Lampasas area, the location y\\'all have chosen to do so is very much a peaceful home to Many families and wildlife. The project you are associated with here will pollute the air, cause environmental disturbances and divisions amongst your company and the rest of the world trying to make the world a better place. Being in 2025 Id assume y\\'all recognize the issues on pollution in the world, and how people are trying to fix that problem. Please choose to be apart of the solution and not the problem. Please don\\'t be the ones held accountable for the deaths of wildlife, or destruction of peoples property and sense of peace. Please be the good guys and choose to do good.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33797"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-21","date_printed":"3/21/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33796","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Dakota Decker","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"This train track would cut directly through our sheep field. It would displace wildlife and make it tough for my papa (the land owner) to build a new and expensive fence to keep out sheep contained. The construction process would be a nuisance and pollute our environment.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33796"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-21","date_printed":"3/21/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33795","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Herbert Kocian","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33795"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-34057","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1749477606610/EI-34057.pdf","label":"EI-34057.pdf","document_sha256":"fdc460da2ea0a412b7b9db0d3ff2df9746841c1c0ad5097c34a2e8201ce9722d","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Stephanie Ahr","organisation":null,"location":"TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-34057"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-34056","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1749477248872/EI-34056.pdf","label":"EI-34056.pdf","document_sha256":"c2f2556f45037b59cd64ffeb9469dc2154f96d9b728426983f39a3821c03f311","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Carla Wills","organisation":null,"location":"TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-34056"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-34055","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1749479889667/EI-34055.pdf","label":"EI-34055.pdf","document_sha256":"4542ed887dd825511d4e390c7a9b9f2e8d7970b9019f4621c32d561311436bb8","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Matt Andel","organisation":null,"location":"TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-34055"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33873","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Mike and Lori Greco","organisation":"Michael","location":"BURNET, TX","comment_text":"We live on Summit Ridge Rd and have farm animals which (some) are used for therapy of individual veterans with PTSD. We also have had to experience numerous events of close fires caused by sparks on the current RR tracks right behind our horse pasture. We moved here 14 years ago after serving 27 years in the Army and in combat. We try to enjoy our small farm and live the county life, while supporting our small community. PLEASE do not allow yet another RR track be built so close to us. Thank you","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33873"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33826","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743017552990/EI-33826.pdf","label":"EI-33826.pdf","document_sha256":"33afc6489d642980d48f378af85278ed4da31d4a752e2a118c05d69a9c35e3cd","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Damon Beierle","organisation":"Burnet County Commissioner Pct. 2","location":"Burnet County, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33826"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33794","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Nancy Spencer","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Impact statement: Re: \\\"Reinstate service\\\" railroad tracks - how long ago did the areas have track removed/cut service? 80 - 90 years ago? It was long gone when my parents bought our property almost 50 years ago. Since then, there are more people who live on Greer Lane, including my family and my brother\\'s family. Others out here now have familiies who have built our here.The same with the other areas, a lot more people are affected, things are not the same as when the tracks were here a hundred years ago! Railroads do block roads, besides the fact that we can\\'t get in or out, emergency vehicles would be seriously delayed. Also, with the serious drought, sparks from trains can and do cause fires. This has so many negative affects to many people, the new train track (for 1 business) is not a good idea, there must be something else they can do. No benefit for anybody in the affected counties.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33794"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33793","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Shannon Cates","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Livestock, natural habitats, minerals, farming, and private properties are going to be intruded upon. Disrupting their livelihood.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33793"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33791","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"john w schanck","organisation":null,"location":"burtram, TX","comment_text":"The law office of Thomas W Wilcox ,llc submitted a letter October 24,2024 in reference to this project . the letter is misleading in numerous areas . I can not understand why a waiver of the 6 month should be granted . the letter states there was a meeting August 29,2024 , yet we the affected citizens are just learning of the situation. there needs to be a period for public comment !. the letter states \\'NO MAJOR WETLANDS \\\" . I am a MS graduate of the MSU school of engineering geology and take specific exception to this point . I would like to point out the line is VERY close to the head waters of the North fork of the San Gabrial river . As to the point Road crossings , again very misleading the right of way will cross no less than 8 county roads including some significant roads where on going development is in progress. I believe as part of the OEA there should be a public comment , including TPW (Texas Parks and wildlife ,) whom I specific have been working with on numerous wildlife projects. I would appreciate your delaying the approval of this project till adequate investigations can be conducted.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33791"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33788","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742560734038/EI-33788.pdf","label":"EI-33788.pdf","document_sha256":"3be3a084f5b4ef404f95425e74a471f49dff4ac0901f0765d8e3052fe7fce0a2","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Brandon W. Mobley, Chief, Regulatory Division","organisation":"US Army Corps of Engineers","location":"TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33788"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33787","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Wayne Dillard","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"My property is very close to the path of this proposed rail line. There is no upside for me or anyone around here to this rail line. This will lower our property values and brings noise pollution 1.64 times a day... Disruption to the wildlife in this area which includes endangered species will occur. Me and my wife purchased property here in 2017 to build a place where we can retire. We have cleaned up the property we are on and built an oasis here where we planned to spend our retirement in peace. This proposed line will totally upend that for my family. Is this project going to benefit Texas or our local community? No it will not. This is so some private company can make more money. That is what this comes down to. Someone wants to make money faster and they are fine to do that at the detriment of hundreds of other families in the area. I will not support this proposed line!","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33787"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33786","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Morgan Davis","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"This would cause problems for ranch land for cattle, hay etc. as well as so so many peoples way of lives. My father has a hunting place in the area of this project and that is how he feeds his family during the winter.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33786"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-20","date_printed":"3/20/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33784","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Christina Swain","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"· We have a federally protected endangered bird living right here in the hill country, in all these dense cedar trees, that’s protected by the Endangered Species Act, the Golden-Cheeked Warbler. · The Balcones Canyonlands just 10 miles from here as the crow flies, is a 27,500 acre refuge specifically created for the Golden-Cheeked Warbler. · Apparently they’re currently conducting an environmental impact assessment, well here’s the thing about environmental assessments, you have to enter our properties to do that, and no one from any environmental agency has accessed our properties. LASTLY, this is all privately owned property, the land is already owned by people not wanting to sell and have this monstrosity rolling through.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33784"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33834","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743523262687/EI-33834.pdf","label":"EI-33834.pdf","document_sha256":"4e85a30676b9a877f9d0f5db109dc50d89808fe49d16733d5c645bafe0c62f06","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Christina Williams, Supervisory Fish and Wildlife Biologist","organisation":"US Fish and Wildlife Service","location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33834"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33792","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"M Barton","organisation":"USA","location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33792"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33789","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Alan Payne","organisation":"Burnet County Quarry Train","location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"I\\'m an affected landowner. We already deal with the noise and vibrations from the track running alongside hwy 29. How does this qualify for eminent domain? This does not benefit the general public. It does not do one thing to benefit property owners along the way or even 2-3 miles away. That crap about it being1.64 trains per day is a minimum we know if another rail company is willing to lease those tracks to run on, we could be sitting on CR 200 5-10 times per day. As our population in this area ages we have more frequent need for emergency medical services. This could end someone\\'s life waiting on a mile long train to clear tracks. We don\\'t have any shortcuts to our house on CR 200.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33789"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33783","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742477468233/EI-33783.pdf","label":"EI-33783.pdf","document_sha256":"a8817d1856a96ed7b0f39b6df7ac86ae10dba3bde57030a2fa89dbb1c10cc4d7","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Kristen Cannon","organisation":null,"location":"Buda, TX","comment_text":"I am a proud fourth-generation descendant of the Alexander-Snell family and our family has owned land in the Lampasas and Burnet counties since as early as 1849! This proposed plan would directly impact our beautiful, pristine properties our family has meticulously cared for and tended to for the last 176 years. Our family has created and maintained a sanctuary on our private properties for the thriving wildlife and native plants while also consciously and conservatively utilizing our land for hunting, ranching, and farming for generations. Our family has been exemplary stewards of the land for many generations in the past and will continue to do so for many to follow. This railway would be absolutely devastating to our family, and the environment. While I care deeply for the impact this proposed plan would have on the community as whole, I do want to note some specific causes of concern regarding our properties specifically with more details in the attached document below. Please see the photo from our family homestead and consider the beauty and the devastation it would be for a railway to run along it.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33783"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33782","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Susan Knee","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"I am strongly opposed to this “quarry” train. If this is built, the environmental and financial damage to 118 land owners will be severe. Several protected species reside in the properties under consideration. The company proposing this is owned by another country and they do not have the right to exploit land in the Hill Country. The lack of transparency regarding this whole process is particularly galling. The residents of Lampasas and Burnet counties will fight this with every breath and bone in their bodies, rest assured.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33782"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33781","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742473984361/EI-33781.pdf","label":"EI-33781.pdf","document_sha256":"940cf62e6a1175b9d40696ed3ff2292d34dcbacac302b268471b1cf4ca2680c9","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"LUCRETIA VALLE","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"This project presents serious concerns regarding environmental impact (air quality, noise pollution and endangering wildlife), property devaluation, potential accidents (derailment, human fatalities and fires), invasion of privacy and personal safety. Young children, teenagers and vagrants will be able to walk along the tracks and then directly into the backyards of the homesteads close to the tracks.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33781"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33780","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742473863292/EI-33780.pdf","label":"EI-33780.pdf","document_sha256":"73702b8bc5c9b9de02f7339133005dfbcfde413e5b2ec6585a7d7646ac37e48a","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Kristen Cannon","organisation":null,"location":"Buda, TX","comment_text":"Included in document attached.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33780"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33779","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742473681997/EI-33779.pdf","label":"EI-33779.pdf","document_sha256":"ad4454f15f288ece039823eb83e260ce85d7f9ecf5a567879017e7a85a505f5c","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Steph Fitz","organisation":"Lampasas Water Committee","location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Lampasas is struggling to maintain its rich history and protect its natural resources. Since the 1800’s people/tourists have flocked to the area for its many world renowned natural Springs. We also rely on tourism for our other natural resource: hunting. Lampasas sees hundreds of hunters year after year and we believe this unwanted PRIVATE for profit “Quarry Train” will severely compromise and have a negative impact on deer populations and honestly, create an economic disaster to the local economies of both Burnet and Lampasas. Please DENY the permit or permission to move this project forward.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33779"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33778","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742414422124/EI-33778.pdf","label":"EI-33778.pdf","document_sha256":"f505148df14480352eb834ba347cb6673f89494ce3d543226591526a416eb2b5","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Ronald Holmes","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"I am a landowner directly impacted by this rail line. It will impact my land, natural resources, cattle, deer, turkey and wildlife. Additionally it will divide my land into two pieces making it impossible to access several acres of my property with a tractor or have it available for grazing. Lampasas sees hundreds of hunters year after year and I believe this unwanted PRIVATE for profit “Quarry Train” will severely compromise and have a negative impact on deer, cattle, turkey and wildlife populations and honestly, destroy my 30 acres to an unusable farm land. Having a train run in the middle of land diagonally will ruin what I have worked on for over 12 years to build. Please DENY the permit or permission to move this project forward.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33778"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33777","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742413915612/EI-33777.pdf","label":"EI-33777.pdf","document_sha256":"e1452fce0352fbfe41e011ab68bca8965810077bfb59b4320c6b10c6f354e4e4","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Jennifer Schanck Riordan","organisation":"YS Ranch Family Ownership Group","location":"Bertram, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33777"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33776","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742413848087/EI-33776.pdf","label":"EI-33776.pdf","document_sha256":"3f144700787b6e5ecd304ab160409f16724aa5c1946ed9531b8a854d260557d4","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Michael Riordan","organisation":"YS Ranch Family Ownership Group","location":"Bertram, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33776"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33775","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742413741827/EI-33775.pdf","label":"EI-33775.pdf","document_sha256":"51d388e624d1b18c449f21a5e621128fd764bf17e77d90b1b4712e541edd1d0f","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"John Levy Schanck","organisation":null,"location":"SUGAR LAND, TX","comment_text":"I am writing to strongly oppose the proposed Texas Materials rail line, which was initially planned to run through my property and now appears to run dangerously close to it. This project raises serious concerns regarding safety, environmental impact, and property devaluation, all of which would have lasting negative effects on my family, my community, and the surrounding land. The construction and operation of a rail line so close to my property would result in substantial environmental harm. Noise and air pollution from frequent train activity would disrupt the natural surroundings and negatively affect local wildlife, including several protected species. The emissions from diesel-powered trains would degrade air quality, potentially impacting the health of residents. Furthermore, runoff and potential spills from rail operations could contaminate nearby water sources, leading to long-term ecological damage. Our property is also home to a federally funded, 60+-acre bird habitat that was recently initiated. This rail line threatens to disrupt migration patterns and undermine the viability of that conservation project.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33775"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33774","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Mrs Valle","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"As a homestead/ home owner along FM 2340, Burnet, I am deeply concerned about the proposed construction of the railroad to transport rock aggregate from quarries in Burnet. This will create noise and severe air pollution, endanger wildlife, invade peoples\\' privacy, property values will plummet, deface the Hillcountry\\'s natural beauty, and create a track for vagrants to wander.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33774"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33773","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tyler Davis","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"This project will devastate local ranches. If this project should be allowed it would tear many high fenced properties that are certified wildlife management areas, misplacing hundreds to thousands of wildlife. Many ranchers hunt or lease out their lands as revenue for their families. This would force ranchers to either give up their cattle or herds of deer way below market price putting their families in a huge finical burden that was forced upon them. The project would also destroy generational homes on a lot of these ranches as well as a lot of state historic sites. Additionally the rail road would cause the local streams and creeks to be dried up or polluted. That many of these ranchers also depend on for their herds. This would also kill thousands of fish, turtles, and many other animals that depend on these streams and creeks that the county of Lampasas has so strongly prided themselves on since the creation of the town and to ruin it for a company that isn’t even American backed.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33773"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33772","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Theresa Garcia","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Impacts wildlife endangered birds in area , affects local groundwater and private wells.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33772"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33771","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742413502767/EI-33771.pdf","label":"EI-33771.pdf","document_sha256":"dcb581e77a85733c575822563abd3540d6f00d4f8f7a26c238df019ff6aae3f1","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Renea Coward","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33771"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33770","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Ashley Kluck","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Moving to the country was a conscious decision. This rail line will destroy lands, bring noise and air pollution, and reduce property values. It should not be allowed to continue.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33770"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-19","date_printed":"3/19/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33769","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Lauren Crawford","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"As a resident and landowner, I have significant concerns about the impact of this project on my property, my family, and the surrounding community. Our ranch has been in operation since the 1800s, one of the last generational operating ranches in Lampasas County. It contains our family’s burial grounds, a historical school site, along with other irreplaceable and irreplaceable historical sites. I am deeply concerned about the safety risks, as trains passing by at high speeds could pose a danger to both our property, livestock, children and our well-being and peace. The risks of accidents, derailments, and the daily train operations, would put my family, our livestock, and the surrounding environment in jeopardy. Our children play and explore on our ranch, and that would no longer be an option for them. The train would pass so close to our home, we would be forced to move but not able to sell, and our land and home value would be destroyed. What we’ve worked for our whole lives for would be taken from us in the name of profit and convenience. We operate paid hunts, deer management programs, cattle breeding as well as other livestock, agriculture, and event venue, all of which would be severely impacted if not completely shut down. The environmental impact, such as the disruption of natural habitats, wildlife migration paths, cattle grazing, hay production and the potential contamination of resources could have long-lasting consequences that go beyond just our family. We take great pride in preserving the land for our future generations. As the affected parties, it is vital that we are involved in the decision-making process. Please take into account the full scope of the impact this railway could have on our lives and the lives of other landowners, families, and businesses in the area. In light of these serious concerns, I respectfully request that the railway plan be reconsidered. This ranch is our sole livelihood and our family’s legacy.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33769"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33833","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1743520329536/EI-33833.pdf","label":"EI-33833.pdf","document_sha256":"de19ee86e167a2e73abc8ab071c9d936f6d09c2048576007f23f4fecef9d48a8","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Jessica E. Schmerler, CWB Environmental Review Biologist","organisation":"Ecological & Environmental Planning Program, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department","location":"Austin, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33833"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33768","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Nancy Griffin","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Please do not allow this railroad to build. According to the map the orange route will run through my property that has been in our family for nearly 200 years. It is my hope to pass on to my grandkids. We have cattle and hay production and with the drought it\\'s hard to make money and this railroad will not help our ranch. Thanks for your time. Nancy Griffin","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33768"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33767","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"john w schanck","organisation":null,"location":"burnet, TX","comment_text":"Dear Adam Assenza, I am writing to strongly oppose the proposed Texas Materials Group rail line, which was initially planned to run through my property and now appears to run dangerously close to it. This project raises serious concerns regarding safety, environmental impact, and property devaluation, all of which would have lasting negative effects on my family, my community, and the surrounding land. Our ranch is a 550-acre family property where we hunt, fish, and operate a commercial hunting business to supplement our retirement income. The construction and operation of this rail line will severely impact the utility of our land and negatively affect its future value. Safety Concerns The proximity of this railway to my home introduces significant safety hazards. Increased rail traffic raises the risk of derailments, hazardous spills, and emergency response delays. A derailment or accident near my property could have catastrophic consequences, especially considering the potential transport of industrial materials. Additionally, the noise and vibrations from passing trains could weaken structural foundations and pose long-term risks to my home’s stability, which is only a few hundred feet away. Environmental Impact The construction and operation of a rail line so close to my property would result in substantial environmental harm. Noise and air pollution from frequent train activity would disrupt the natural surroundings and negatively affect local wildlife, including several protected species. The emissions from diesel-powered trains would degrade air quality, potentially impacting the health of residents. Furthermore, runoff and potential spills from rail operations could contaminate nearby water sources, leading to long-term ecological damage. Our property is also home to a federally funded, 60+-acre bird habitat that was recently initiated. This rail line threatens to disrupt migration patterns and undermine the viability of that conservation project.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33767"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33766","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"LaVerne Minton","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"I\\'ve lived in LakeVictor for 42 years, and it would be really bad for the environment for this train line to go through, no one in this area wants it , it would destroy a lot of habits of the animals that live around here and tear up the land, the rock quarries that are in the county are ugly and destroy good land","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33766"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33765","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Andrea Raynor","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Please do not let this rail road pass. This will affect our land, our community, and our environment. Texas State Materials adds no value to the state of Texas or Burnet County, economic or otherwise. This is a private foreign entity that is trying to invade our beautiful hill country. Please stop this from happening.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33765"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33764","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742391285553/EI-33764.pdf","label":"EI-33764.pdf","document_sha256":"c32e5dc03af7787f3c8c14c44b61063c282e2f16220ae8ff1dd651ab469d15eb","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Stephanie Ahr","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33764"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33763","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Michael Gallagher","organisation":null,"location":"Bertram, TX","comment_text":"The wildlife population in Burnet County has taken a significant drop over the last few years, much of it attributable to construction. Whitetail are scarce, raccoons are nowhere to be found, the number of birds has decreased. The hill country has taken enough hits. This train project in no way benefits the vast majority of Burnet County residents, land owners or not. The construction process alone will damage untold acres of land, running off & killing more wildlife. There is absolutely no need for this project & the damage to wildlife, the trespassing & destruction of properties, thereby damaging property values, is completely unconscionable. This project must be shutdown & shutdown right now.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33763"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33762","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Richard Alan Maples","organisation":null,"location":"Fort Worth, TX","comment_text":"I am writing to express my firm opposition to the proposed rail line through Burnet County, Texas, particularly as it pertains to the alternate route near where it crosses Burnet CR 200 and its impact on my family’s land, which has been privately owned and carefully stewarded by my family for over a century. This project poses a significant threat to the livelihood of ranchers, the preservation of critical wildlife habitats, and the overall enjoyment and value of private land. The disruption it would bring is unacceptable, and I urge you to reconsider its path. Our ranch has supported the Texas tradition of cattle ranching for generations, and the rail line will disrupt essential ranching activities. Further, the proposed rail line will have a devastating impact on the fragile ecosystem in Burnet County, particularly on endangered and protected species such as the golden-cheeked warbler, and the red-tailed hawk; and other wildlife species. Our land provides an essential habitat for these birds, offering the dense oak and juniper woodlands necessary for nesting and survival. Fragmenting these habitats with a rail line could push already vulnerable species further toward decline. Additionally, increased noise pollution and human activity will disrupt natural behaviors, driving many species away from their nesting and hunting grounds. The increased noise from train operations will drastically reduce the peaceful environment we have enjoyed for generations. For those of us who use our land for recreation, hunting, and relaxation, the presence of a railroad will forever diminish our connection to our property. I strongly urge decision-makers to reconsider the devastating impact this proposed rail line will have on landowners, ranching operations, and the local environment. There are alternate solutions that do not sacrifice the livelihoods and heritage of families who have cared for this land for generations.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33762"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33761","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742391011324/EI-33761.pdf","label":"EI-33761.pdf","document_sha256":"553450a2bcbdb2f0fba25f489434739dbee9e64ac4499e0c6d7a820c7a7866a4","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Kristin L Smyth","organisation":null,"location":"Sugar Land, TX","comment_text":"The construction and operation of a rail line so close to my property would result in substantial environmental harm. Noise and air pollution from frequent train activity would disrupt the natural surroundings and negatively affect local wildlife, including several protected species. The emissions from diesel-powered trains would degrade air quality, potentially impacting the health of residents. Furthermore, runoff and potential spills from rail operations could contaminate nearby water sources, leading to long-term ecological damage. Our property is also home to a federally funded, 60+-acre bird habitat that was recently initiated. This rail line threatens to disrupt migration patterns and undermine the viability of that conservation project.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33761"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33760","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Texas Materials","organisation":"CRH Materials Americas","location":"Horseshoe Bay, TX","comment_text":"The proposed routes go through numerous plowed fields and working ranches that supply grains, beef, and game hunting that contribute greatly to the local economy. These ranches and plots of land will be irreversibly damaged, taking away valuable, tilled land from the owner/operators for use of sales and sustenance for their herds. The proposed route running through our families property will go directly through the middle of a 100 year old pecan grove. The planned route is also with in 50 yards of the dwelling on the property. The route also follows the route of Mesquite Creek, which contain numerous fresh springs that provide water for the various wildlife and livestock herds that reside on ranches and farms in the proposed rail routing. Surely there are existing easements from previous lines that better suite this proposed railway. Review the route and notice how much fertile land for growing crops will be affected by these proposed route. Central Texas Land is extremely rocky. Loosing this land cannot be replaced by plowing somewhere else. A train line can be built in rocky terrain. Yes, it costs more, but crops cannot be grown in the rocks where a train line can go. Don\\'t let a cheaper train route derail those that can replace the use of the land elsewhere.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33760"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33759","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742390811390/EI-33759.pdf","label":"EI-33759.pdf","document_sha256":"1058c3cf8390eb764c8676d91fdceefd74d8a1f00f5d4915725f10b37ff60487","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Jennifer Schanck Riordan","organisation":"YS Ranch Family Ownership Group","location":"Bertram, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33759"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33758","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Cathy Kuehne","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"I have many environmental concerns regarding Texas Materials, a private company, proposing to construct a 27-mile railway through family-owned small ranches in Burnet and Lampasas counties. My primary concern is the impact on our 600-acre family ranch, which would be divided by the railway, with the potential for train operations running adjacent to our homestead. This proposed railway, situated near Mesquite Creek, poses a significant threat to our groundwater resources, which are essential for the region. The route traverses both the Edwards and Trinity recharge zones, and these aquifers serve as the primary sources of groundwater for the Texas Hill Country, holding ecological, cultural, and economic importance for the state. Additionally, I am worried about noise pollution in both cities of Lampasas and Kempner. Texas Materials plans to operate a minimum of 2 to 4 trains daily, which would not only increase noise levels but also contribute to air pollution due to the dust and debris stirred up by the trains. Furthermore, the presence of the railway raises substantial fire risks for the surrounding area. Another ecological concern is the fragmentation and habitat loss for the Golden-Cheeked Warbler, an endangered species that inhabits these ranches. The proposed railway corridor encompasses a prime habitat for these birds. Additionally, by following the Mesquite Creek, the development threatens numerous spring-fed sections that have existed for centuries, as well as valuable Native American artifacts that would be at risk should the railway be constructed along the proposed route. Overall, this plan raises significant concerns regarding its environmental impact, primarily aimed at enhancing profits for a private company that currently transports rock by truck. The company\\'s approach appears to overlook the potential consequences for the environment and the hundreds of families that may be affected by the acquisition of land along the proposed 27-mile route.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33758"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33757","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742326702820/EI-33757.pdf","label":"EI-33757.pdf","document_sha256":"a61bfdd3d1cd2e535467ff2885b9078a93080de7c4fc9a02644439b5b472f0bb","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Michael Riordan","organisation":"YS Ranch Family Ownership Group","location":"Bertram, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33757"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33756","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Robert J. Haby","organisation":null,"location":"TX","comment_text":"Mr. Assenza, I was just made aware of Docket No. FD 36815, Texas Materials Group, Inc. – Construction and Operation Exemption – Line of Railroad in Burnet and Lampasas Counties, Texas; Preliminary Consultation. I vehemently oppose this proposal. My family owns some acreage west of US 183 along Mesquite Creek. The two proposed lines would cause irreparable damage to our land and our agricultural use of the property. The preferred route runs along our 40-acre oat field and through a 200 tree Pecan Bottom. It would also cut or severely interfere with the access to that field from the path back to US 183 for transportation of the hay that is harvested from that field. The alternate route provided place the railway less than 50 yards from our ranch house. Both railways would devastate both the land and the value of the land for future generations of our family. I strongly suggest searching for previous historical routes and revitalizing those routes for this project. Surely there are alternatives that make sense other than cutting through working ranches that provide numerous agricultural resources for our State and Country. These areas on the proposal are thriving ranchlands with multiple contributions to the local economies. It is a close nit community that has rallied together in the past to shut down the public use of these lands including defeating a proposed powerline on a similar route. This community will fight for their lands to protect them from projects like this. Thank you for your time and consideration. Warm Regards, Robert J. Haby","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33756"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33755","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Damon Beierle","organisation":"Burnet County Pct 2","location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"The environemntal and public effects this private entities railway would have on our county would be terrible. I sincerly hope you look at all aspects of this project and see that the benefit to 1 single company and the effects it would have on this area for years to come. We will be submitting more data as it is collected.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33755"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-18","date_printed":"3/18/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33754","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Samantha Calderon","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"963 is my cross road. Bringing train down as far into town as proposed would negatively affect traffic and home sites in Burnet. We don’t need this train like we don’t need the rock quarry!","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33754"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-17","date_printed":"3/17/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33753","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742302216881/EI-33753.pdf","label":"EI-33753.pdf","document_sha256":"825bb6159d68c3b4ef0b805373c9e99c01d3c1bb9aabbb257d83c78f6605c629","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Stephanie Ahr","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33753"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-17","date_printed":"3/17/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33752","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742302035624/EI-33752.pdf","label":"EI-33752.pdf","document_sha256":"9f0539061de8f311b80e2d9557eb51ca7edfad9ac24f59add657a4851b267aad","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Mary Anne Collins","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"I am writing to express my firm opposition to the proposed Texas Materials rail line through Burnet County, Texas, particularly as it pertains to the impact on my family’s land, which has been privately owned and carefully stewarded for over a century. This project poses a significant threat to the livelihood of ranchers, the preservation of critical wildlife habitats, and the overall enjoyment and value of private land. The disruption it would bring is unacceptable, and I urge you to reconsider its path and broader implications. The proposed rail line would also have a devastating impact on the fragile ecosystem in Burnet County, particularly on endangered and protected species such as the golden-cheeked warbler, and the red-tailed hawk; not to mention the numerous other wildlife species. Our land provides an essential habitat for these birds, offering the dense oak and juniper woodlands necessary for nesting and survival. Fragmenting these habitats with a rail line could push already vulnerable species further toward decline. Additionally, increased noise pollution and human activity will disrupt natural behaviors, driving many species away from their nesting and hunting grounds. Preserving these habitats is not only a moral obligation but also an essential duty under federal and state conservation laws. I strongly urge decision-makers to reconsider the devastating impact this proposed rail line will have on landowners, ranching operations, and the local environment. There are alternate solutions that do not sacrifice the livelihoods and heritage of families who have cared for this land for generations. Please take our concerns seriously and work toward a more responsible approach that respects both private property rights and environmental conservation. Sincerely, Mary Anne Collins","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33752"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-17","date_printed":"3/17/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33751","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742301888507/EI-33751.pdf","label":"EI-33751.pdf","document_sha256":"b15d162191ab891793e56108cfa9818218a97cde2bc013ce8931c0cdd3e7a257","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tim Collins","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"I am writing to express my firm opposition to the proposed Texas Materials rail line through Burnet County, Texas, particularly as it pertains to the impact on my family’s land, which has been privately owned and carefully stewarded for over a century. This project poses a significant threat to the livelihood of ranchers, the preservation of critical wildlife habitats, and the overall enjoyment and value of private land. The disruption it would bring is unacceptable, and I urge you to reconsider its path and broader implications. Our ranch has supported the Texas tradition of cattle ranching and beef production for generations, and the construction and ongoing operation of a rail line will disrupt essential ranching activities. The presence of a railroad will cut through pastures, limiting grazing land and making it more difficult to manage livestock movement and pasture rotation. I strongly urge decision-makers to reconsider the devastating impact this proposed rail line will have on landowners, ranching operations, and the local environment. There are alternate solutions that do not sacrifice the livelihoods and heritage of families who have cared for this land for generations. Please take our concerns seriously and work toward a more responsible approach that respects both private property rights and environmental conservation. Respectfully, Tim Collins","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33751"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-17","date_printed":"3/17/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33750","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Jennifer Montgomery","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"Please do not invade and destroy this property.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33750"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-17","date_printed":"3/17/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33749","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Carla M. Wills","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"I am opposed to the proposed construction of a railway by Texas Materials which will pass through Lake Victor, TX. This project will bisect many private properties where livestock is raised and will disrupt ranching businesses. It will pass within a few hundred feet of several homes. Lake Victor has no fire department and with Burnet County being in a perpetual state of severe drought, the chance of fire is very real. We have high winds in this area. Wind + dry pasture + Juniper Ash trees = DISASTER. Lake Victor could be destroyed before any fire departments in neighboring towns could reach us. Our area is home to many protected Migratory Birds, including the Golden Cheek Warbler which has been listed as Federally Endangered. Many of the property owners, including myself, have worked to have our property listed as Wildlife Management by Burnet County and the State of Texas. We make our properties hospitable to various species of wildlife, including these protected migratory birds. The fact that Texas Materials (which is owned by a Fortune 500 company based in Ireland - CRH Group), has purchased the ROW that was abandoned in 1951 and done it without the knowledge of any potentially affected landowners is horrendously immoral. This IS NOT the only option. Use existing railways. Everything that is good and beautiful doesn\\'t have to be sacrificed on the alter of the almighty dollar. I expect a timely response to each point that I have highlighted in these comments. Thank you.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33749"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-17","date_printed":"3/17/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33748","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742244622938/EI-33748.pdf","label":"EI-33748.pdf","document_sha256":"41fcf14f1c63e86f5a0c7f138eda1c7ce4a5500e4ae0f85d47cbfb172545e6c3","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Stephanie Ahr","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33748"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-17","date_printed":"3/17/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33747","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742244479723/EI-33747.pdf","label":"EI-33747.pdf","document_sha256":"1e1604a0ec170ecdbe20b85b8ed08c3df188d040fd80a3a147d50c3cfc890994","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Stephanie Ahr","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33747"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-17","date_printed":"3/17/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33746","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742244309114/EI-33746.pdf","label":"EI-33746.pdf","document_sha256":"9445267fe7b2bc2d0746ee215d04adadbb81cb0d8d1df4af5cf1c67ef12dad5f","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Stephanie Ahr","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33746"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-17","date_printed":"3/17/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33745","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742244165676/EI-33745.pdf","label":"EI-33745.pdf","document_sha256":"720945335c11274215f8cacf2f7fdb31349479f47e5b840e7064c6d6fc90734b","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"David Ahr","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33745"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-16","date_printed":"3/16/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33743","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Karla Cahill","organisation":null,"location":"Temple, TX","comment_text":"Our family owns the ranch at 2440 County Road 200, that this proposal will impact. They have multiple businesses at this location that will be negatively impacted, ultimately put out of business. These businesses help bring revenue to Burnet County. There is also a historic landmark on the property that cannot be replaced. Please consider rerouting to another location.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33743"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-16","date_printed":"3/16/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33742","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Sean Cahill","organisation":null,"location":"Temple, TX","comment_text":"We have two family households and multiple family businesses in Burnett that will be negatively impacted by the proposed new railroad location. The businesses include a wedding venue, a wine tasting room, exotic animal hunts and bison raising. All of which contribute to the local economy and require remote, quiet, scenic locations which the new railroad would remove, causing these businesses to close.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33742"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-16","date_printed":"3/16/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33741","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Stuart and Connie Thompson","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"We are strongly opposed to this proposed railroad line being put through rural residential property. This will destroy the peace and quiet that we moved here for almost 28 years ago. We enjoy the wildlife and tranquility on our property, and this proposed railroad line will destroy that. It will destroy the sense of community in our small residential acreage area. It will also severely devalue all properties in proximity to the railroad line. We believe that this proposed railroad line is an affront to our individual property rights, because it will run in close proximity to our property with no compensation for the lose we will suffer and will not provide us any benefit.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33741"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-16","date_printed":"3/16/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33740","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Charles David Love","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"This railway would cross over two tributaries of Mesquite Creek which flows into the Lampasas River. The Lampasas River provides drinking water to many communities in central Texas. Fish and other aquatic creatures, wildlife and domestic herds could be detrimentally affected by pollution, hazardous material and disruptive noise from the constant daily trips that are planned by this extremely long, loud and dirty train. The proposed railway would pass within 200 yards of my house, destroying the peace and tranquility that my family has enjoyed for over 46 years here. Thank you for your courteous consideration of our opposition to this proposal. With Kind Regards, David Love.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33740"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-16","date_printed":"3/16/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33739","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"April Howington","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"Ladies and Gentlemen, I have lived in the Lake Victor area for 27 years and when I was a child we lived on 200 and also on 963. I am familiar with the railroad tracks that have been lying still for all of these years. I also lived on 244 acres off of CR 201 for 10 years. The line runs right through that property at 1818 CR 201. I would not like to see this ROW and track restored because of the dust, noise, and traffic it will bring with it. Not to mention all of the restoration it will take. This ROW is listed on the deeds of the land owners whose land the tracks run through so I’m sure it’s quite a shock to them to see it come back to life. I know for a fact this track is in very bad condition and will require much reconstruction. Why would we even begin to want a private company destroying the peace and tranquility we enjoy out in the country? And for no gain of revenue to the county or the citizens of Burnet? It’s just not a good idea to open this line back up. Cathodic easements would have to be secured and many lands torn up by heavy equipment. Wildlife will be disrupted and the amount of dust will be unbearable. Have you ever lived near “the tracks”? It’s not a pleasant thing. It’s loud and annoying. Peace and quiet is why most of us live out in the county, so I see this as a direct blow to our way of life out here. Thank you for your time. Mrs Howington Burnet County Road 202","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33739"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-16","date_printed":"3/16/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33738","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"David and Kristy Drake","organisation":null,"location":"Lampasas, TX","comment_text":"To Whom It May Concern, We absolutely reject and oppose the idea of a train running through Lake Victor. As you can see on the map, this train would run very close to our property, a quarter mile away. It would be loud and ugly, and would change everything we have loved about living in Lake Victor for the past 25 years, since David and I made our home here. I started coming to our deer lease in Lake Victor with my parents and grandparents in the 80s, probably when I was about 10 years old. My family moved here in 1991. David and I moved here in 2000 and raised two daughters on this property. We have only known peace and quiet here, a kind of secret place \\\"in the middle of nowhere,\\\" away from the noise and busyness of town. Now we have the possibility of a noisy, ugly train coming to change this peace and quiet we know and love in Lake Victor. We understand the need for progress and convenience. We understand that big money talks, and what the people want is usually low on the priority list. But that doesn\\'t mean that the people\\'s voice doesn\\'t matter. If you will listen honestly to us, you will hear a resounding \\\"NO, we do not want a train running from Burnet to Lampasas.\\\" It would be destructive to our way of life, essentially destroying our quiet country life that we so highly cherish. Our voice does matter--we are the people who work hard for what we have. This is our home. We do not wish to see it destroyed. Please hear us and please do not approve this project. Respectfully, David and Kristy Drake","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33738"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-16","date_printed":"3/16/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33737","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Jimmie Campbell","organisation":null,"location":"Red Rock, TX","comment_text":"My family has owned property near the proposed rail for 34 years. We recently acquired a portion of the family land and are building our house this spring. We\\'re moving back to Lake Victor to build a quiet, peaceful life for our family. We\\'ve invested several years and tens of thousands of dollars into making this dream a reality. The area is quiet, the air is clear and breathable, and there is a sense of peace and removal from the chaos that emanates from Austin. It is devastating to learn that our quiet community could be upended by a railway through the countryside. Our property is at 3022 County Road 205, which is less than 1/4 mile away from the proposed line. We oppose the rail. We are concerned about what it will do to our property value; having a train disturb the peace and shaking the walls of our home at all hours of the day and night; and the air quality and potential for fires. There isn\\'t a fire station anywhere near our property and if a fire started, we could lose our home and potentially our lives before first responders reached us. We are also concerned for our children. Part of the reason for moving here is so our children can grow up riding bikes, attending church and playing outside, and going for walks. It would be unsafe for our kids to grow up near railroad tracks. Please give careful consideration to property owners, especially those who have owned generational land for decades along this route and whose backyards would be encroached upon. We ask that you consider the people who have spent their lives and their hard-earned money to make homes here. Texas Materials is a privately owned company trying to make more profit by cutting costs to transport materials. The money they would save does not compare to the years of money and hard work that dozens of property owners have expended to build lives in this area. We ask that you carefully weigh the benefit to this company against what the rail would cost property owners and their families.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33737"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-16","date_printed":"3/16/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33736","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Lori and George Allen","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"We live at 900 Summit Ridge Road which is almost the end of the road. It looks like that proposed rail will be really close to our street. I have 2 major concerns: 1. Noise. We already have railway noise from the train that runs parallel to rt. 29. My husband and I purposely purchased our land to have peace and quiet in our retirement years. Adding more noise does not help. 2. Several years ago, a fire was sparked by a train on the tracks next to Rt. 29. It caused severe damage to property for those who lived on the south side of Summit Ridge. As you know, we are in such a severe drought, I would hate to add another danger to our lives and property in Burnet. Please stop the rail. Best regards, Lori and George Allen","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33736"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-15","date_printed":"3/15/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33735","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Ezekiel Banton","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"I believe the proposed railroad will destroy generations of rural habitat, and create noise disturbances, and make a constant fire hazard. I know a few folks that have lived on 963 since they were born, are now in their 80s, that do not remember a rail road crossing 963. I know land owners along the proposed route that have natural springs, and navigable caves, that would be destroyed. This is a horrible decision for our community, and I guarantee if it was to be done in the area of the Texas Materials owner’s residence, this conversation would not be taking place.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33735"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-15","date_printed":"3/15/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33734","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742218937757/EI-33734.pdf","label":"EI-33734.pdf","document_sha256":"c44983801de503fe1cb691bc257fb447cc697f0bb1cafd66e476f8e9eadc152e","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"K, Ton","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"See attached document","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33734"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-15","date_printed":"3/15/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33733","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"A E Kilburn","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"The proposed railroad would pass about 100 yards from our property. The railroad would create a fire hazard to pasture areas. There would not be any compensation for lost grazing due to the fire damage. The railroad would also create noise and dust concerns. Please stop the advancement of this project.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33733"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-15","date_printed":"3/15/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33732","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742218656669/EI-33732.pdf","label":"EI-33732.pdf","document_sha256":"40a3a32402c854d5ec2b1cd99e51312dc9e0d0671523e47fe5648b20794eedcc","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Matt andel","organisation":null,"location":"Sweetwater, TX","comment_text":"I own property at 1005 summit ridge rd burnet tx and was planning on building a residence within two years. This has placed all planning and current projects on hold. When I purchased this land it was untouched, since then I have constructed fences, a barn, water well and electric. We reside there part time and this proposed railroad would render our land uninhabitable. There are plenty of other routes available that would not damage our native land. Please see attached photos","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33732"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-15","date_printed":"3/15/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33731","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Chris Files","organisation":"Central Texas Agriculture","location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"To Whom It May Concern, I am a custom hay farmer operating on several different ranches along the proposed railroad tracks, and I have serious concerns about the potential risks this project poses to my operation and the surrounding environment. One of my primary concerns is the increased risk of wildfires caused by train operations. Drought conditions have become more frequent over the past decade, and there have already been multiple fires along the existing railway tracks near Highway 29, which Texas Materials currently uses. Fire suppression efforts in the area often rely on local ponds, which are already at critically low levels. Additional fire risks from the new railroad could further strain these limited water resources, making fire control even more challenging. Another major concern is the impact of dust generated by railway construction and ongoing operations. Excessive dust could blanket the pastures I rely on for hay production, reducing the quality of my crop and potentially affecting my livelihood. Given these risks, I urge you to consider mitigation measures such as fire prevention strategies, improved water access for firefighting, and dust control measures to protect agricultural operations in the area. Chris Files","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33731"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-15","date_printed":"3/15/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33730","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Alisa Rogers","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"One of the proposed routes for the train will run across CR 250. This road is a dead end and my neighborhood, The Meadows at Bluebonnet Hill, is towards the end of the county road. I am very concerned that a railroad would block the only exit available. I am also concerned of wild fire dangers caused by the railroad in this area. The existing rail line in Burnet has already caused multiple wild fires, the last of which came very close to our home. In addition the noise and dust from the proposed railway would greatly affect my home and tranquility. I do not believe the need for a private company to have this access is warranted.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33730"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-15","date_printed":"3/15/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33729","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Kathleen Dixon","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"I live off of CR 200 in Burnet, TX. I live in the middle of the two proposed railroad lines. I live on 63 acres that I inherited from my Grandfather. I have lived here since 1988. I was the first person to live out here. My country life is peaceful and I have clean air. Wild turkeys eat around my house. There is noise from the present railroad track on Hwy 29 which is miles from me. The trains run day and night. I can only image the noise living around a half mile from the track.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33729"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-14","date_printed":"3/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33728","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Kayla Corley","organisation":null,"location":"Bertram, TX","comment_text":"Trains are loud, dirty, diesel engines emitting fumes. These people bought their homes and land specifically for the peace and quiet. Property values go down. I personally know a family in this area who bought their house for the peace and quiet that this neighborhood provides because they have a special needs son and the noise of a train will be disturbing to him which could lead to outbursts. People with autism need peace and quiet in their surroundings because noise and chaos disturbs their inner peace.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33728"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-14","date_printed":"3/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33727","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tom Konopka","organisation":null,"location":"Bertram, TX","comment_text":"Our wedding venue ceremony site sits feet away from the proposed railroad line. Development of such would destroy our newest built business. Our home sits feet away from the proposed railroad line. Development of such would destroy the quality of life our family has here as well as make our 145 acres worthless.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33727"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-14","date_printed":"3/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33726","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Edmund m andel","organisation":null,"location":"Sweetwater, TX","comment_text":"I own property at 1005 Summit ridge rd, the proposed primary route for the new rail line. This additional lines of rail on my property will contribute to the following conditions, not to mention my water well is within 150ft of proposed tracks. This will render my property entirely uninhabitable Diesel locomotives contribute to air pollution through the release of pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and greenhouse gases (GHGs). Idling trains in yards and terminals can exacerbate air pollution in nearby communities. Diesel exhaust can also contain harmful substances like benzene and formaldehyde. Dust from tracks and ballast can contribute to air pollution. Noise Pollution: Train noise can disrupt human and wildlife behavior, especially in areas near tracks and stations. Noise from trains, especially at night, can be a significant nuisance for residents. Vibration from trains can also be a source of noise pollution. Water Pollution: Leaks from fuel tanks, lubricants, and other hazardous materials carried by rail can contaminate water sources. Runoff from tracks and yards can carry pollutants into waterways. Railroad ties treated with creosote or other chemicals can leach into the soil and water. Soil Contamination: Spills of hazardous materials can contaminate soil, impacting plants and wildlife. Railroad ties treated with creosote or other chemicals can leach into the soil. Heavy metals found in the water bordering the tracks are often caused by leakages from petroleum products carried on the system. Wildlife Impacts: Trains can collide with wildlife, causing injuries or deaths. Noise and vibration from trains can disrupt wildlife behavior and habitat. Habitat fragmentation due to the construction of railway lines can negatively impact wildlife populations.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33726"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-14","date_printed":"3/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33724","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Heather & Carl Chambers","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"The proposed railway on the preferred route as outlined by the STB would completely transect and divide Wagon Springs Ranch. Our ranches name is from a historical site present on our property from a confirmed wagon stop and trail through Texas. The original stone wagon stop is still present and currently being excavated. We have started working with the Texas historical commission which works with the NHPA to get this recorded. This wagon stop has been the inspiration for our ranch, and is now located within our high fence Buffalo (Bison) ranch, and completely protected from the outside world to preserve our history and legacy. Of note, my husband is also a member of the Cherokee Nation, and has devoted his work here on the ranch to raising a large buffalo herd. This includes years of clearing pastures of invasive cedar, planting native grasses and hay to support the repopulation of the endangered bison herd. We have had ties and visits from our Cherokee nation in hopes to one day donate and help with the Cherokee Nations herd. The proposed rail line will absolutely decimate our herds population and our ability to graze throughout the property. Were asking you to consider all of this, and even travel to our Ranch to see its beauty, before you decide to allow something like this to take place.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33724"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-14","date_printed":"3/14/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-4000","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1742217133891/EO-4000.pdf","label":"EO-4000.pdf","document_sha256":"3f8adb2266f183ea4cd928802ce5e23f0781cfff480ba07a6fa0250b2527ffe3","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Agency representatives, elected officials, tribal officials","organisation":"See attached distribution list","location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-4000"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-13","date_printed":"3/13/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33744","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Heather & Carl Chambers","organisation":"Wagon Springs Ranch","location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"The proposed railway on the preferred route as outlined by the STB would completely transect and divide Wagon Springs Ranch. Our ranches name is from a historical site present on our property from a confirmed wagon stop and trail through Texas. The original stone wagon stop is still present and currently being excavated. We have started working with the Texas historical commission which works with the NHPA to get this recorded. This wagon stop has been the inspiration for our ranch, and is now located within our high fence Buffalo (Bison) ranch, and completely protected from the outside world to preserve our history and legacy. Of note, my husband is also a member of the Cherokee Nation, and has devoted his work here on the ranch to raising a large buffalo herd. This includes years of clearing pastures of invasive cedar, planting native grasses and hay to support the repopulation of the endangered bison herd. We have had ties and visits from our Cherokee nation in hopes to one day donate and help with the Cherokee Nations herd. The proposed rail line will absolutely decimate our herds population and our ability to graze throughout the property. Thank you","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33744"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-13","date_printed":"3/13/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33723","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Heather & Carl Chambers","organisation":null,"location":"Burnet, TX","comment_text":"The proposed railway on the preferred route as outlined by the STB would completely transect and divide Wagon Springs Ranch. Our ranches name is from a historical site present on our property from a confirmed wagon stop and trail through Texas. The original stone wagon stop is still present and currently being excavated. We have started working with the Texas historical commission which works with the NHPA to get this recorded. This wagon stop has been the inspiration for our ranch, and is now located within our high fence Buffalo (Bison) ranch, and completely protected from the outside world to preserve our history and legacy. Of note, my husband is also a member of the Cherokee Nation, and has devoted his work here on the ranch to raising a large buffalo herd. This includes years of clearing pastures of invasive cedar, planting native grasses and hay to support the repopulation of the endangered bison herd. We have had ties and visits from our Cherokee nation in hopes to one day donate and help with the Cherokee Nations herd. The proposed rail line will absolutely decimate our herds population and our ability to graze throughout the property.","date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33723"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-13","date_printed":"3/13/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-3999","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1741973362573/EO-3999.pdf","label":"EO-3999.pdf","document_sha256":"d97203fbecd4f629fac78f72513215afeaea21335a374cbc9a079786e05bda5d","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Sherry Brown","organisation":null,"location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-3999"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-12","date_printed":"3/12/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33719","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1741869623006/EI-33719.pdf","label":"EI-33719.pdf","document_sha256":"37c05af8805aacfbfd63fb947d8a8bf3dbbf24618d08affbf3fe6178aa13745c","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Damon Beierle","organisation":"Burnet County Commissioner Pct. 2","location":"TX","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33719"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-11","date_printed":"3/11/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33721","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1741872563396/EI-33721.pdf","label":"EI-33721.pdf","document_sha256":"a0a80772c2c89da3c13f8673a923211ac4035d1bb7a636c6c26618b73d37b400","media_type":"pdf"},{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1741872578919/EI-33721%20Routes_KMZ_20250226.kmz","label":"EI-33721 Routes_KMZ_20250226.kmz","document_sha256":"7a1c5b803f0d56f78da4981626245d9f80f62a356e153cb0ca7b311642bacb20","media_type":"zip"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Thomas W. Wilcox","organisation":"Law Office of Thomas W. Wilcox, LLC (Counsel for Texas Materials)","location":"Washington, DC","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33721"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-03-04","date_printed":"3/4/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-3998","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1741183580042/EO-3998c.pdf","label":"EO-3998c.pdf","document_sha256":"fc21922e6ffb3b09baa913c927476b504fe3baca0db06db059e39f89dd4eae15","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Initial Consultation Letter","organisation":"See distribution list","location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-3998"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-02-27","date_printed":"2/27/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33725","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1741973772056/EI-33725.pdf","label":"EI-33725.pdf","document_sha256":"3473d0a8f83bfba2bf18c1404bba489ca978c194f733a7534514c9a956a970a6","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Thomas Wilcox","organisation":"Law Office of Thomas W. Wilcox, LLC (Counsel for Texas Materials)","location":"Washington, DC","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33725"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-02-12","date_printed":"2/12/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33686","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1739488715763/EI-33686.pdf","label":"EI-33686.pdf","document_sha256":"9bc408eff90220febb3fc894f7807a9d7371f3ba830f1e4e0a2bb1ced812bec8","media_type":"pdf"},{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1739488731393/EI-33686%20Routes_KMZ_20250210.kmz","label":"EI-33686 Routes_KMZ_20250210.kmz","document_sha256":"8e2aba5d76737b9e5538fa598649614fd39a9749161acb8c4ef9484e917f8b56","media_type":"zip"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Thomas W. Wilcox","organisation":"Law Office of Thomas W. Wilcox, LLC (Counsel for Texas Materials)","location":"Washington, DC","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33686"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2025-01-30","date_printed":"1/30/2025","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-3987","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1738948532609/EO-3987.pdf","label":"EO-3987.pdf","document_sha256":"4861c222ec5dce8e41bdd232a587c1d43a057c238754d5ce695363c4e17feb89","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tom Wilcox","organisation":"Law Office of Thomas W. Wilcox, LLC (Counsel for Texas Materials)","location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-3987"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2024-12-16","date_printed":"12/16/2024","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33684","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1738947467286/EI-33684.pdf","label":"EI-33684.pdf","document_sha256":"d3877df29d96f792795eed68bd3e6e989b22a11dabec310e9531847e4fed4c20","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Tom Wilcox","organisation":"Law Office of Thomas W. Wilcox, LLC (Counsel for Texas Materials)","location":"Washington, DC","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33684"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2024-11-15","date_printed":"11/15/2024","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-3980","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1733409158192/EO-3980.pdf","label":"EO-3980.pdf","document_sha256":"d16bcede6c04bade71cfbd78d6baa3e77a0df2e24208c7d5ff9152c06ca89224","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"John Shogren","organisation":"Texas Materials","location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-3980"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2024-11-05","date_printed":"11/5/2024","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33643","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1731013167361/EI-33643.pdf","label":"EI-33643.pdf","document_sha256":"3aef9c2d95f869b001d84caa3b625f42e4810f783084271874413017b6f83391","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Alan Summerville","organisation":"VHB","location":"Washington, DC","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33643"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2024-11-01","date_printed":"11/1/2024","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EO-3977","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1731008865958/EO-3977.pdf","label":"EO-3977.pdf","document_sha256":"1cfdf402f7072d3b10e8b208edd2b00941be25625277060b00ca299e33004078","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Thomas Wilcox","organisation":"Counsel for Texas Materials","location":null,"comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EO-3977"},{"kind":"comment","date":"2024-10-24","date_printed":"10/24/2024","docket_raw":"FD_36815","record_id":"EI-33642","type":null,"filed_for_raw":null,"deciding_body":null,"summary":null,"attachments":[{"url":"https://dcms-external.s3.amazonaws.com/DCMS_External_PROD/1731008696722/EI-33642.pdf","label":"EI-33642.pdf","document_sha256":"596b0a52b778c7ebd6368e816d15eb15d279aec8ebda7ded1d465c8a77a30694","media_type":"pdf"}],"also_in":[],"submitter":"Thomas Wilcox","organisation":"Law Office of Thomas W. Wilcox, LLC. (on behalf of Texas Materials)","location":"Washington, DC","comment_text":null,"date_kind":"received or sent","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33642"}],"filings":0,"decisions":0,"comments":203,"last_checked":"2026-10-11T03:36:35+00:00","last_new_entry":"2026-08-31T20:43:56+00:00","series":null,"printed":"FD 36815","url":"https://docketyard.org/d/FD-36815"}}