Comment EI-33863
Received or sent (printed as 4/4/2025)
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.
Submitted by: Clayton Leverett · Stilllwaters Ranch · Llano, 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-33863 · back to the docket sheet