Dear Sir:
RAfaSIE (Residents Advocating for a Sustainable Inclusive Environment) represents concerned citizens in the greater population of Terrace. The community has been patiently waiting to hear the outcome of discussion between the City of Terrace, CN Rail and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to determine the solution to our increased rail traffic problem, but response is vague and illusive.
Local train traffic has substantially increased since the opening of the port in Prince Rupert almost six years ago. Often access from the south side of Terrace to the north is cut off for extended periods of time.
The repeated closure of these main access points is causing many citizens frustration as they are effectively held hostage by our transport system.
March 8, 2013 a groundbreaking ceremony was held at the Port of Prince Rupert to mark the start of construction of the port's $90-million road, rail and utility corridor project, which will support billions in new terminal developments and boost Canada's trade capacity and exports to fast-growing Asia-Pacific markets, yet communities on route remain forgotten as level rail crossings repeatedly stall local traffic flow.
Trains cross through the center of Terrace multiple times a day, closing off transport routes to those traveling on foot, by bike, electric scooter or via motorized vehicles. With only two alternate routes this community is hugely burdened by impassable train traffic.
Our politicians who claim to be in discussion with the government and CN since the opening of the container port in September 2007 have neglected to provide accessible street corridors to the communities who are on their routes.
As plans continue to expand the ports of both Kitimat and Rupert communities like Terrace remain forgotten. It has been six years since the problem became evident in this community, when will our leaders address this issue?
This community deserves to know what progress is being made to resolve this community concern. It is imperative that a solution be resolved for our community.
Diana Penner, Terrace, B.C.