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Take Action Today: Help Lone Star Rail Get On Track

Contributed by David Orr  ozarknature@gmail.com

Following the defeat of Austin’s controversial Project Connect (Proposition 1) light rail ballot question last November, transit advocates are excited to see progress on planning the proposed regional Lone Star Rail (LSR) project in early 2015. In contrast to light rail which would serve Austin's city core, LSR is a commuter project which will run on existing Union Pacific railroad track from Georgetown in Williamson County southward through Austin and San Marcos into San Antonio. Environmental planning is now underway, and public comments are being accepted through February 27. Your input is needed!

Consider submitting comments in support of Lone Star Rail. Their website has detailed information about the project. There you’ll find an overview of the issues they’re studying for the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). You may enter your thoughts directly at http://eis.lonestarrail.com. While Sierra Club leaders are supportive of Lone Star Rail’s direction, we have concerns about some details of the project as proposed. In addition to any specific issues that you may be moved to address, please join us in expressing concerns about the following two issues of critical importance to Austin and Round Rock residents:

(1) The project currently lacks any station in the city limits of Round Rock or anywhere on I-35 north of Austin. Easy access to Lone Star Rail from I-35, preferably near the McNeil Road interchange in Round Rock, is essential to the viability of this project.
(2) The downtown Austin station must be designed to connect easily with the existing MetroRail line and a future light rail system. Convenient transfers from one line to another are essential to attracting and retaining loyal riders.

** The Sierra Club Austin Group is organizing a Williamson County sub-group to advocate for better transit in Round Rock, Georgetown and outlying communities. For information please contact David Orr at 512-605-7819, or email ozarknature@gmail.com