Rail traffic in the city adds to air pollution
Alejandro Puy, Salt Lake City Council Member for District 2 on the west side, had a letter in the Salt Lake Tribune last week, addressing the issue of rail traffic through the city. He includes a few things that the city is working on to improve the issue.
“I am hopeful the collaboration between the state, city and the Utah Inland Port Authority can present opportunities to end this crippling and worsening crisis,” Puy wrote.
UPHE is not as hopeful. Is Puy talking about the same Inland Port that raised the price by millions of dollars on a piece of land that the UDOT had secured federal funding for in an effort to reduce air pollution around the Poplar Grove neighborhood?
The issue of rail traffic through the city is a big one. Not just because it is inconvenient for our commutes, but because it is harmful to our health. During our fact checking of inland port claims, we found research indicating that emissions from trains, especially the old ones running through Utah, can be worse than diesel truck emissions. So, while we are at the crossing, waiting for that long train to go by, we are inhaling some of the dirtiest pollution around.
The Salt Lake City Council has been instrumental in helping involved residents fight environmental and public health battles, like the proposed mine in Parleys Canyon. Please continue reaching out to the Council with issues important to you.
