Thank you PORA for setting the record straight when it comes to The Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce’s poor decision in supporting the proposed BNSF Railroad Intermodal facility near Wittmann
Dear Mr. Sada and Directors:
The title that proclaims that “BNSF Commits to Road Improvements “is completely misleading information. At the recent Board of Supervisors meeting November 5th every supervisor and the Maricopa Director of Transportation emphasized and lamented about the current poor infrastructure in the NW Valley and projects to relieve the situation are many years into the future. Also noted were the many statements about the lack of communication with BNSF, contrary to the railroad’s statements about being in contact with ADOT, MCDOT, MAG and the city of Surprise. For your organization to tout the railroads commitment to road improvements is untrue.
Our Association for the Residents and Property Owners of Sun City West is in opposition to the location of this project. We present only factual and verifiable information to the public, misinformation is not permitted. The NW Valley CC is encouraged to do the same.
Several blatant items of misinformation appeared in the referenced press release:
“BNSF now committing to major road improvements…” This has not happened as evidenced by the BOS comments on the record at the meeting November 5th.
“Their willingness to contribute to traffic solutions is a strong signal….” Also has not happened, only talk with no action.
“When we invest in business, we’re investing in the future of our communities.”
You have not been listening to the opposition from thousands of residents living in close proximity to the BNSF project, especially those living in the community of Wittmann.
The entire approach by all chambers of commerce is as if this project is proposed for some remote desert area far from any residential community. NOT TRUE! This project is being dumped right in the middle of developed residential areas of Wittman and Surprise and minutes away from our community of Sun City West.
An important note taken from your website states that The NW Valley Chamber of commerce strives to: “Facilitate dialogue between stakeholders to ensure that community needs and concerns are heard and addressed.” Another quote from the same website: “…contribute to a thriving economy and better quality of life for everyone who calls this region home.”
It is noted that every Chamber of Commerce appears to only focus on jobs, tax income, business growth, etc. There has been no mention in any publication or correspondence about the deteriorating quality of life that will occur for our residents should this project proceed. This BNSF project is being built in a location that is already overcrowded with traffic issues. Why would you support an increase in traffic that will immediately result in gridlock on our roads as soon as it starts?
Please continue to work with all parties and take a better-informed position that considers the negative effects this project will have on thousands of present and future residents in the Northwest Valley area. Moving the location of the project would be the preferred solution. A large monetary commitment for infrastructure, etc., and an alternative location not talk, from BNSF would be a solution to consider.
Best Regards,
The Board of Directors
The Sun City West Property Owners and Residents Association