21 July 2006
Trying to Catch the CPR Off its Tracks
Crowsnest Pass Alberta - Around 50 people gathered at the
Elk's Hall on Monday, 17 Jul 2006, in an effort to discuss Council's recent bylaw proposed to sway Canadian Pacific
Railway's proposed site for a railroad siding between Blairmore and Coleman.
The public was given a chance to speak about their views on CPR's plans for a siding, as well as a chance for people to commend or
disagree with Council's efforts on the issue.
Items brought up during the meeting were the public's concern for the safety of the people most directly affected by the issue and the
environment.
"We live here and must deal with the consequences, it seems to be more for the convenience of the CPR and less for safety,"
said Pass resident, Melissa Brown, who added that trains parked on the siding would also interrupt the migration of wildlife.
Mayor John Irwin said CPR's traffic is increasing because of the high efficiency and lower fuel costs of railway transport. He added
that the "CPR hasn't been totally ignoring us, and will be calling in the future to soften their position."
Jim Pisat, a Fish and Wildlife Officer from Canmore, said he commended Council's decision and has had problems with the CPR in that
Rocky Mountain community.
Pisat stated that there has been a problem with grain and other items leaking onto the tracks in Canmore.
Pisat says he has repeatedly tried to contact CPR since December, but has not heard back from them.
Local resident John Prince lambasted Council for not banning all development on the proposed site.
"Why does this bylaw not prohibit land use, and why is it only for one thing? This bylaw really has to be junked and an amendment
made to the land use bylaw prohibiting any development whatsoever on the wetlands," said Prince.
Councillor Gary Taje responded by saying that this was the best step that Council could take in order to thwart CPR from building on
that specific land.
"They can put an entire siding in Sentinel and it will be just as good," said Councillor Taje.
Representatives from CPR were not in attendance at the meeting.
Ed Greenberg, spokesman for CPR, said they wanted to collect the public's feedback in response to their proposed plans.
"This is an attempt to move the process forward. It's something we do take very seriously.
"We're not trying to avoid anything (but) we feel it's more constructive to have the community meet without us," said
Greenberg, adding CPR will be attending a Council meeting in August to discuss the siding issue.
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