Re: Willits-South. MART PDATE
Author: John
Date: 08-09-2021 - 18:52
Mike Pechner Wrote:
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> Its interesting that no-one is aware of Allan
> Hemphill "North Coast Rails with Trails Coalition"
> The have appeared before the SMART Board in open
> session (I am personally aware and was at the two
> SMART meetings in which he appeared) He has 21
> signed letters from customers who want rain
> service between Cloverdale and Willits. Redwood
> National Lumber Co. in Cloverdale has promised to
> ship a minimum of 400 loads a year. He is expected
> to file with the STB next week with a OFA on this
> segment of the legacy NWP. I am not a troll and I
> am not making this up. Included among the wanting
> rail service Arte the four lumber Companies in
> Ukiah operated by Mendocino Forest Products. As
> far as the ROW, there is a breach at Bear Creek
> north of Redwood Vally,a slide at MP 127 and the
> fire blocked 1786 foot tunnel in the Russian River
> Canyon.
Mr. Hemphill owns and serves on the boards of many high end wineries in Sonoma County. He is a licensed realtor and investor. He probably has a net worth well in the millions. He also served on the board of the NCRA. If he is so convinced the NWP reopened to Willits could turn a profit why does he not create a railroad company and resume freight service to Willits.Put your money were your mouth is. Too risky. The only service Willits will ever get is lip service. As far as the ROW goes Mike only points out the two worst sections. He knows better.It would cost hundreds of millions to reopen to Willits for a handful of carloads.Give SMART about two more years .All freight will be gone .