The coal train has been a popular topic in the Bellingham community for quite some time now. I first heard about it last fall, when I was a freshman, during the information fair at Western. There was a man throwing information at people, but due to the chaotic setting it was difficult to grasp the implications. But even without understanding the issue was, it was obvious people were avid about not allowing it. I assumed people would just settle down, like they usually do with things that are out of their control. However, a year later, people are equally (if not, more) passionate about not allowing the coal train to pass through Bellingham; and after researching the subject, I agree that it would be an awful thing for our community. Having 18 trains go through Bellingham every day would obviously be obnoxious because of the noise, but it also risks the public's health, would cause significant traffic delays, and is a threat to the environment. Everyone needs to be educated on the threats the coal train poses.

Amanda Bergstrom

Bellingham