News Update
Free Times: Dutch Fork Group Tries to Block CSX 7 May 2008, 2:26 am
The Free Times has written a great article about the latest state of our fight to have CSX relocate their rail siding elsewhere. Check it out by clicking here.
Signs, Signs, Everywhere there's signs 28 February 2008, 2:38 am
If you've found your way here as a result of one of our signs, WE NEED YOUR HELP! Poke around this site a little and familiarize yourself with the reasons we are opposed to the CSX Rail Siding. Then write letters, make phone calls, and let your opinion be heard. The most important thing we can do at this point is let our politicians know that we need their support. Any letters and phone calls to CSX will help assure we are heard. Links to CSX's site and addresses are also on the What can I do? Page
Update Meeting Feb 26, 2008 21 February 2008, 3:00 am
The Dutch Fork Action Group will hold a meeting on February 26th at 7pm at the Lowman Home to discuss the status of the CSX siding. Many residents along the proposed siding have been contacted by CSX over the last few days.
Incorporation Meeting February 6th, at 2pm 6 February 2008, 2:31 am
There will be a public meeting on Incorporation of the White Rock-Hilton-Ballentine area Wednesday, Feb 6, at 2:00 at the Lowman Home. This incorporation could help protect our community from things like CSX's proposed siding. For more information visit The Ballentine - Dutch Fork Civic Association
Meeting with Government Officials 2 February 2008, 1:22 am
There will be a meeting with Congressman Wilson on February 11th regarding the CSX siding. Rep. Ballentine, Derald Edwards from the Lowman Home, and John Dillard from CSX are going to meet with him to discuss the issue. Jonathan Harling plans to present Congressman Wilson with the petitions signed by members of our community and a reworked version of the powerpoint presentation we made at the December meeting.
This could be a step in the right direction so be sure to visit his site and write him a little note to express your views and concerns. Here is a great example letter written to the CEO of CSX by a member of our community that you can use as a starting point.
Email Communication with CSX 1 February 2008, 2:03 am
-----Original Message-----
From: John Davis
Sent: Saturday, January 12, 2008 3:28 PM
To: Dillard, John
Subject: White Rock Siding Question
Mr. Dillard,
I live at 1208 Peacehaven Road. My property is approximately in the
center of your proposed siding, with only a thin strip of property owned
by the Tucker family between my backyard and the railroad bed. Train
noise now comes down a valley directly into our house. We've noticed an
increase in train traffic over the years, but the prospect of having one
or several engines running for 45 to 60 minutes each on the siding each
day and night is a real nightmare.
I am wondering if CSX would consider construction of a high earthen berm
or some type of noise absorbing fence similar to that often installed
when a major highway cuts through or near to a family housing area.
Something of this type that neighbors could plant atop or on the side
away from the tracks would go far in protecting our sanity and our
property values.
I am in hopes that your company will seriously consider such.
Sincerely,
John Davis
---- Response from CSX-------
Mr. Davis,
I apologize for not responding sooner to your inquiry.
Typically, CSX does not fund these types of barriers. I certainly
understand your concern but with over 1,000 miles of track in SC alone,
it would be difficult for us to provide similar structures to all
communities.
If a funding source could be identified, CSX would be glad to work with
the community, taking into consideration the property needs, etc.
John W. Dillard
Director of State Government Affairs
CSX Transportation
1201 Main Street, Suite 1980
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Phone: 803.748.1280
Fax: 803.748.1338
E-Mail: john_dillard@csx.com
31 January 2008, 1:40 am
Nathan Ballentine has posted some encouraging words on his website. You also may want to check out this article on the IndyStar Website. Looks like we're not alone
School District Passes Resolution 29 January 2008, 2:56 am
This evening, Lexington/Richland District 5 VOTED UNANIMOUSLY in favor of a resolution to support the opposition to the rail siding.Check out the meeting notes here.
School District to Vote 29 January 2008, 1:35 am
This evening, Lexington/Richland District 5 will vote on a resolution to support the opposition to the rail siding. Check out the resolution here.
Senator Courson's Letter 25 January 2008, 1:33 am
Read the letter to Representative Wilson from Senator Courson. Senator Courson also reminds us that the best way to help is to assure our friends in Washington, DC are hearing from us. Here is how you can contact them.