Altamont
Altamont Pass route warrants further study
Largely due to the short-term economic benefits of ridership probability in other areas, the Altamont Pass route option was shelved before thorough study could be conducted. Additional concern for fragile wetlands and the economic and environmental concerns of rebuilding the Dumbarton peninsula bridge for the Altamont Pass, while valid, have also not been thoroughly studied. We believe that in order to fully consider all feasible options the Altamont route option needs further assessment, because:
The Altamont pass may provide a high speed rail system to one of the fastest growing areas in California.
Expected development and population growth in San Joaquin Valley (already at 1 million) should be of high concern to the Rail Authority. Further studies considering the benefit of future ridership through Altamont Pass should be conducted as well as the future costs of road congestion and air quality in the San Joaquin Valley if a modal or no alternative is used.
The Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge is of high concern to environmentalists.
While the CA High Speed Rail Authority considered the direct effect of the Mulford Line through the refuge, it did not study what impact the Altamont route would have on Don Edwards. Neither the Rail Authority nor the citizens of California know if the Altamont pass could have a direct impact greater than or less than that of the Mulford Line to the refuge. All possible route options through Don Edwards should be considered by the Rail Authority so that a route with the least possible impact on wildlife and the surrounding environment can be implemented.
Click here for more information on the Altamont Route from the Planning and Conservation League
