Get Involved! Protect our community, environment, and way of life

We’ll send updates on community meetings, local information, and what you need to know as the BNSF project moves. No SPAM, just what you need to know when BNSF actions impact you.

Key Concerns to Highlight

Environmental Damage and Health Risks: Increased noise and air pollution from diesel trucks and trains, as well as potential hazards from increased traffic.
• Economic and Social Impact: Lower property values and the loss of the cherished rural character of Wittmann.
Wildlife and Ecosystem Disruption: The development may displace local wildlife and alter natural ecosystems.
Choking Arizona’s Cowboy Culture: The essence of Arizona Cowboy Culture is being pushed out by BNSF.

Who to Contact

Maricopa County Planning & Development Department

Responsible for zoning/permitting
📞 (602) 506-3301
📧 [email protected]

Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC)

Regulates railroads in Arizona
📞 (602) 542-4251
📧 [email protected]

Maricopa County District 4 Supervisor

Debbie Lesko
📞 (602) 506-7642
📧 [email protected]

District 2 Chairman

Thomas Galvin
📞 (602) 506-7431
📧 [email protected]

Phone Call Scripts

Not sure what to say? Here are some examples of how to voice your concern.

“Hi, my name is [Your Name], a resident of Wittmann. I’m calling to urge [Official’s Name] to oppose BNSF Railway’s proposed construction. This project threatens our community through [noise/traffic/environmental harm]. We request immediate transparency, a public hearing, and a formal review of its impacts. Can we count on your support to protect Wittmann?”
Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I am a resident of Wittmann, Arizona.

I'm calling to express my deep concerns about the proposed BNSF Railway development in our area. This project threatens our rural way of life by introducing constant noise, air pollution, increased traffic, and safety hazards that will impact both our health and property values.

I urge [Official’s Name] to oppose this project and to support protective measures for our community. Please let me know how I can follow up on this issue, and thank you for taking my concerns seriously.

Thank you for your time.

Email Scripts

Here are some examples of how to email your concerns.

Subject: Protect Wittmann’s Rural Lifestyle – Oppose the BNSF Railway Development

Dear [Official’s Name],

I am writing as a concerned resident of Wittmann, AZ regarding the proposed BNSF Railway project. Our community is facing significant threats from this development, including:

- Environmental Impact: The construction and operation of a large logistics hub will lead to increased noise, air, and light pollution.
- Public Health & Safety: With the influx of diesel trucks and trains, we expect a rise in traffic accidents and hazardous emissions that could harm children, the elderly, and all community members.
- Economic and Community Concerns: This project will likely lower property values and erode the cherished rural character of Wittmann.

I respectfully urge you to take immediate action by opposing the project and advocating for alternative solutions that protect our quality of life. I would appreciate information on how you plan to address these issues, and I look forward to your response.

Thank you for your service and for representing our community.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Contact Information]
Subject: Urgent Action Needed to Stop BNSF Railway’s Harmful Project  

Dear [Official’s Name],  

I am writing as a concerned resident of Wittmann to ask you to oppose BNSF Railway’s proposed construction in our area. This project risks [specific concerns: e.g., increased train traffic, environmental damage, safety hazards].  

We urge you to:  
1. Halt all permits/approvals for BNSF until a public hearing that addresses all concerns.
2. Require an independent environmental impact study.  
3. Engage transparently with residents about alternatives.  

Our community’s well-being is at stake. Please respond with your plan to address this issue.  

Sincerely,  
[Your Name]  
[Address/Contact Info]