By Sabrina Bennett |
Posted: Wed 9:06 PM, Oct 26, 2016
ROCKFORD,Ill. (WIFR) -- Folks living inside the Winnebago County lines are feeling some relief tonight as the Winnebago County zoning committee unanimously approves a resolution opposing the Great Lakes Basin Railroad.
Several of the zoning committee members at tonight's meeting said this is the most calls, texts, and snail mail in opposition they've received on any issue they've ever come across.
"It's important for us to listen to our constituents and they want to her from us, that's why we get elected. When something happens you turn to your leaders, most people do and say what are you going to do about this. Can you help me," said Winnebago County board member Jim Webster.
The matter will now go to county board and will need to get approval there tomorrow night. Winnebago county residents are the latest to oppose the 261 mile railroad that hopes to relieve congestion and allow railroads to better handle traffic from Chicago.
There is expected to be crowd participation at tomorrow nights county board meeting. The is one of six proposed routes submitted by developers to the surface transportation board which they are currently reviewing.
Mike Blasack an attorney for the Great Lakes Basin Railroad says the route still needs to go through an environmental study.
Both candidates running for Winnebago County board chairman Frank Haney and John Nelson oppose the project.
Above is from: http://www.wifr.com/content/news/Resolution-Opposing-the-Great-Lakes-Basin-railroad-is-moving-to-398798941.html
