Of course, consideration of that proposal must still go through due process, but now the playing field has been leveled considerably and a much more balanced weighing of pros and cons is likely.
Whether the current proposal fails won't determine what future proposals may come forward.
Even if the GPT site itself is eventually purchased and turned into a park or other restricted use, increased rail traffic to bring petroleum feedstocks to local refineries may become a reality.
Here are links to several articles that announce and explain recent developments:
• Bellingham Herald: http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2013/07/31/3121522/ecology-will-study-impact-of-coal.html
• Aftermath of DOE announcement: http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2013/08/01/3123889/roundup-of-items-in-the-aftermath.html
• Sightline Article: http://daily.sightline.org/2013/08/01/another-shoe-drops-for-gateway-pacific/
• Lummi Nation Letter to USACE: http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2013/08/02/3126384/lummi-nation-sees-no-compromise.html
• Crosscut Article by Floyd Mckay: http://crosscut.com/2013/08/01/coal-ports/115793/coal-port-faces-new-level-environmental-scrutiny/
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The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.
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The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.
