I think it may be past time to evaluate the true benefits and costs of the train to our community, the health of our people and our goals. I realize the economic benefits of the train, and more, the incredible hold it has via the fear so many have of economic losses the community may experience if that were jeopardized. However, we have a town that enacted “Clean Air Durango,” outlawing people from smoking on the bike path with the goal of citizens’ health.
Yet, we have and vigorously defend a coal-burning train, often running its engines overnight downtown, running up and down our valley daily, with proven harmful particulate matter emissions. We had a complete fire ban, yet we allowed the train to continue to run repeatedly through a literal tinderbox, potentially with inadequate fire-mitigation efforts.
We have a town that prides itself on health, outdoor activity and sports, natural splendor; a community that relies significantly on tourism for its economic base. We fear the repercussions that would come with changes to the train.
The time has come to consider changes that would still maintain tourism and historical background, yet be a healthier, cleaner, safer alternative.
How many have driven downtown and seen the thick, black smoke emanating from the roundhouse? Coal combustion has been associated with asthma, COPD, cancer. Let’s engage in a real community discussion. Look at data, facts about health impacts, air quality.
How much is this fire, and the next, going to impact our town’s tourism and health?
Jeffrey Paffendorf
Durango
