We are opposed to the New Orleans Rail Gateway Middle-Belt re-routing Old Metairie freight traffic through Hollygrove, Dixon and Mid-City, threatening our community with a steady flow of thirty, mile-long freight trains a day, 24 hours per day. U.S. Department of Transportation projections for a 60% increase in tonnage by the year 2020, will inevitably effect all communities along connected rails throughout our city making this a citywide issue. We oppose extended construction projected to last 15 years which includes reconstruction of overpasses and a portion of I-10 and promises road closures, detours and traffic with citywide impact. We oppose the Middle-Belt's promise for significant increases in rail emissions, pollution, noise and vibrations that will destroy our quality of life and threaten our health and safety. Approximately 60% of cargo that will travel through heavily populated communities is made up of chemical, petroleum, hazardous materials and coal cargo on a route that also includes a dangerously sharp curve. We oppose the expropriation of our residences, viable businesses and parks, the promise of lowered property values along the route, and vibrations that threaten the integrity of foundations, historic homes and masonry tombs dating back to the 1840s. We oppose the Middle-Belt's threat to investments made after Hurricane Katrina in rebuilding flooded communities, homes, businesses and parks. Finally, last but not least, we strongly oppose the disparate impact the Middle-Belt will have on communities of color and low-income residents.

For more info and to stay informed, please visit http://www.WeWontBeRailroaded.com/

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