For those who didn’t already see it . . .

Here is how the Daily Camera covered last night’s Boulder City Council study session concerning the Northwest Rail line:  http://www.dailycamera.com/news/2007/dec/12/commuter-rail-problems-raised/.

As the story indicates, the Councilmembers focused a great deal of attention on noise issues, chiefly from train whistles.  They have a very legitimate fear that, unmitigated, the addition of many new commuter trains along the Burlington-Northern tracks will create unbearable noise conditions.

RTD staff explained the direction they received, in accordance with the Responsible Rail Amendment, to move aggressively on the noise issue.  They currently are developing a comprehensive plan for assessing noise impacts and mitigation measures, including the implementation of quiet zones. 

Council emphasized the importance of this effort.  In the words of new Councilmember Susan Osborne, referring specifically to the opportunity to implement quiet zones,  ”Strategically and politically, it would help us to get started on these as soon as possible.” 

During the study session, Councilmember Matt Appelbaum leveled the most serious challenge to progress on the Northwest Rail line, questioning whether it was the best strategic investment for the City of Boulder.  He expressed concern that an investment in commuter rail might draw resources which would, otherwise, be better spent on the planned bus-rapid-transit system for US 36. 

In general, though, it seems City Council generally appreciates the long-term benefits that commuter rail service will have for Boulder and the region.  As Mayor Shaun McGrath noted, having arrived late to the study session via a traffic delayed bus ride, the Northwest Rail line project is about preparing for the future and the millions of new residents this region is expected to absorb. 

For my part, when I addressed City Council, I offered to serve as a resource in responding to their concerns down at RTD.  I also emphasized the importance of continuing to work constructively across the region, striving to build consensus in our transit planning efforts.  That is they key to securing the resources for desired transit improvements and achieving Boulder’s specific transit goals. 

In all, it was a very interesting discussion, providing the first insights into the approach that this new Boulder City Council will be taking toward the Northwest Rail line.