Many of you probably are familiar with the recent series of columns that former Boulder Mayor Bob Greenlee wrote challenging the cost-effectiveness of the planned Northwest Rail commuter rail line:

July 29 Column: http://www.dailycamera.com/news/2007/jul/29/bad-decisions-need-revisiting/

September 23 Column: http://www.dailycamera.com/news/2007/sep/23/clogged-arteries/

December 9 Column: http://www.dailycamera.com/news/2007/dec/09/all-aboard-rail-questions-that-matter/

Also, in a recent Guest Opinion, former Camera Editor Sue Deans questioned whether Boulder County residents are prepared for the impacts of a new commuter rail system:

http://www.dailycamera.com/blogs/letters-editor-blog/2007/dec/04/deans/

Now our new Boulder City Council will be getting into the act with its own opportunity to review plans for the Northwest Rail line. City Council is scheduled to receive a progress report on the Northwest Rail system at tomorrow evening’s study session. A link to the Study Session memo is attached along with a preview story by Colorado Daily reporter, Richard Valenty:

December 11 Study Session Memo: http://www.ci.boulder.co.us/files/City%20Council/Study%20Sessions/2007/12-11-07/memo.pdf

Colorado Daily Story: http://www.coloradodaily.com/articles/2007/12/10/news/c_u_and_boulder/news2.txt

In light of all the recent attacks on the Northwest Rail line, it is clear that City Council will be giving renewed scrutiny to the system at tommorow’s meeting.  Ultimately, the Council discussion should give us a better handle on their approach to the planned rail system and the concerns they want RTD to address. Stay tuned . . .