We are writing in support of the letter “Protect historic Chelatchie railroad,” (Our Readers’ Views, April 15).
There have been a slew of letters in The Columbian over the last year or more with negative comments about the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad. Yet, as we read them, we don’t believe they are as much against the railroad itself as they are against what is happening next to this historic short-rail line. This letter pointed out how much more efficiently a railroad can move material opposed to trucks traversing the rural roads between Vancouver and Chelatchie. We would like to add that rail is also a much safer means of moving freight.
As this letter mentioned, the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad right of way is an extremely important asset to our county. It would virtually be impossible to buy back this asset should it be lost. Please work to correct the problems of those using the line. Don’t blame the line for the issues those problems created.
Representing the views of Clark County Pomona Grange No. 1.
