Submission Number: UBR-DEIS-00646 

Received: 2/12/2021 1:56:53 PM
Commenter: Lynnette Ivins
Organization: 
State: Utah

Agency: STB
Initiative: Uinta Basin Railway EIS
Attachments: No Attachments
Submission Text
RE: Uinta Basin Railway Draft Environmental Impact Statement I am 100% opposed to the proposed construction and operation of the Uinta Basin Railway Project (UBR). I have read and studied the various opinions and materials written in regards to this project and find that the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition (Coalition) have been dishonest and not forth coming on the impact this project would have to the Argyle Canyon, Indian Canyon, Avintaquin Canyon and Emma Park areas. While this Coalition has ignored other routes such as the Whitmore Part alternative, that would have far less negative impact and have vigorously pursued going through such beautiful areas that will forever harm the landscape, wildlife and over 400 privately owned properties for their personal gain is so wrong. The fact that these private owners have not been allowed any voice or representation in the decision that will impact them permanently is also wrong. The noise and vibration of construction and running trains will destroy the tranquility, recreation, wildlife and vegetation forever. The destruction of this landscape which has been in families for generations past and generation in the future should have been a consideration. The natural resources such as water, plants, endangered species and geological impact should have been considered and studies. We know there are pockets of natural gases that could be a danger if disrupted by drilling and construction. Also, there are no utilities in the area and cell phone service is spotty. If sparks from construction or running trains cause wildfires, the entire area would be at risk of being destroyed, many people would lose their lives because there is no way to contact them. Another negative impact would be hazardous waste from oil tankers and derailment, not to mention the air pollution that would change the air quality to this area. All these items should be considered and their impact. I literally could write pages and pages of the negative impact of this proposal. On top of that there is the consideration of if there is enough money to complete the project and the long-term sustainability of the project. It has been projected that the oil resources would run out long before the project would be paid for. It seems the Coalition and some government representatives and boards have not done their homework. This seems to be driven by the desire for profit at the expense of all else. I know that private citizens don’t have the resources of big oil companies and big government, but the Constitution does give us the right to land ownership and certain protections. We have the right to be heard and equal representation which has not happened in this case where big money is rushing this through without the proper studies and consideration. Please review other possibilities if this project really needs to move forward. Sincerely, Lynnette Ivins