Regarding docket number 34672, the Union Pacific Railroad wanting to increase rail traffic from Rockview, MO to Dexter, MO:
I firmly oppose the proposal. I live about one block from the railroad tracks and it is nearly impossible to cross either of the crossings, with the trains that are now using them. I have had to go several miles around, just to get to town, which is a couple blocks from my house. The trains will tie up the crossings for some thirty to forty-five minutes, if not longer at times. Sometimes, they will have a train going in both directions and you have to sit and wait for both of them to clear the tracks before you can go. This is a serious threat to emergency vehicles and for safety reasons. If more trains are run through, we would not be able to get across for longer periods of time. People all over town are always complaining about having to wait quite awhile for these trains to leave, for them to cross from one side of town to the other.
The sounds of the whistles and screeching sound of the wheels on the tracks are unnerving to say the least. There would be a lot more noise with the humming of the engines, whistles, and squeaking and clanking of the wheels if more traffic is allowed, damaging to nerves as well as hearing.
There have been several times in the past when chemicals and foul odors were leaking out of the tank cars. This is also a hazard to our health and well-being. With more trains and more tanks, there is more chance for a derailment or spill right here in the middle of town, endangering more lives. An accident of this type could easily wipe out neighborhoods, for there would be considerable delay in getting help for victims, or authorities to try to control the escape of poisonous gases.
Please do not give the railroads the right to run over the townspeople, and their right to live a life free of worry and delays more than what we have at the present time. More train traffic will only add to our concerns and problems.
Sincerely,
Richard Nation
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