Comment EI-33767
Received or sent (printed as 3/18/2025)
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.
Submitted by: john w schanck · burnet, TX
The Board publishes this comment in its environmental-comment table for this proceeding. It is quoted here as printed; nothing is inferred from it, and it states the commenter's own position in their own words, not this record's.
Permanent address docketyard.org/d/FD-36815/comment/EI-33767 · back to the docket sheet