Dear Editor:
With the ongoing rail noise court case, I present this as another issue to consider.
Last night was another all too often occurrence along the Quay. About 1: 30 a.m. this morning, I first noticed that diesel engines belonging to CN were parked immediately below our residence along Quayside Drive.
At 2: 30 a.m., I called CN (18004659239) to make a complaint. I was told the train would move immediately. I also noted at that time that a taxi was bringing a train crew to an otherwise empty idling train.
I checked with CN (www.cn.ca), and they tell me on their website that they are environmentally responsible citizens and work to promote the best practices in environmental safety in Canada. I also checked the New Westminster websites (http: // royalcityair.com/ and their blog http: // royalcityair.com/wordpress), which tell me that diesel fuel emissions are four times more harmful than cigarette smoke.
The train finally left at 4 a.m., almost three hours of idling beneath our windows. I have reported this to the New Westminster websites in the past, but no action has taken place.
Where to from here, I am not sure. What to do from here: I have no clue.
But I want this on the table for legislators to be aware of this ongoing issue. I'd love to have an air monitor set up on our balcony.
Mike Hoyer, New Westminster
