2006-04-03 - Laserfiche WebLink

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118 sounded willing to sit down and work with us. He said Buckingham would have to get signoff from CSX. He said he thinks we should continue to have a dialogue as we develop our transit plan. Mr. Caravati said his question was about dangerous or hazardous material passing through the City, but he did not get a direct answer. He said he cannot support the resolution until he gets a direct answer. Dr. Brown said that not supporting the resolution will not change the business, and will lead to not making improvements in the City. Mr. Caravati said it could allow greater traffic and speed, but Mr. O’Connell noted that speed is regulated by the City. Mr. Caravati said his question is about transporting of hazardous materials as defined by EPA. Mr. Lynch suggested that Council pass the resolution and ask Buckingham Railroad to come to Charlottesville to have a discussion and to resolve a number of questions. Mr. Schilling said he thinks Mr. Caravati has valid concerns, but he asked do we want them traveling through on less safe tracks. He made a motion to approve the resolution with the understanding that we get additional information as requested by Mr. Caravati. Ms. Hamilton seconded the motion. Mr. Lynch asked staff to set up a meeting. The Resolution Supporting the Buckingham Branch Railroad Request for State funding was approved by the following vote. Ayes: Dr. Brown, Ms. Hamilton, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Schilling. Noes: Mr. Caravati. WHEREAS , the Buckingham Branch Railroad desires to file an application with the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation for funding assistance for the projects; and WHEREAS , Buckingham Branch Railroad has identified projects that are estimated to cost $4,350,000.00; and WHEREAS , the General Assembly, through enactment of the Rail Preservation Program, provides for funding for certain improvements and procurement of railways in the Commonwealth of Virginia; and WHEREAS , the Buckingham Branch Railroad is an important element of the City of Charlottesville transportation system; and WHEREAS , the Buckingham Branch Railroad is instrumental in the economic development of the area, and provides relief to the highway system by transporting freight, and provides an alternate means of transportation f commodities; and WHEREAS , the City of Charlottesville supports the project and the retention of the rail service; and WHEREAS , the Commonwealth Transportation Board has established procedures for all allocation and distribution of the funds provided; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED , that the City Council for the City of Charlottesville does hereby request the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation to give priority consideration to the projects proposed by the Buckingham Branch Railroad.