The activation of the Last Mountain Railway in the northwest communities of Regina poses serious threats to our quality of life, health and safety. We will experience the repercussions of integrating frequent, long, and slow-moving freight trains within our densely populated, prairie neighborhoods.

The persistent sounds of train engines and screeching wheels, as well as chronic low air quality from harmful particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, will significantly degrade our living environment. Structural damage to homes, a rise in health hazards, and an overall disruption to our sense of community will arise. For us, this isn't just about inconvenience; it's about the drastic changes in our day-to-day lives and the well-being of our families.

Safety is compromised as low-speed, long trains increase the number of blocked major road intersections for extended periods, hindering daily activities, work commutes and crucially, the access of emergency vehicles and school transportation. Some of our cherished, year round parks and pedestrian walkways will not be safe for families and the promotion of recreational outdoor activities in them. These trains, often laden with grain dust also pose additional respiratory illness risks and the threat of explosive accidents due to the conditions of the "dust explosion pentagon".

The associated noise and vibration disturbances aren't just a minor annoyance—they will be constant and severe with 2 to 3 trains per week, with 20-50 railcars and frequency increasing to more than this with demand. This will reduce our property values, making our homes difficult to sell and making it challenging for residents to maintain a peaceful home life. According to the World Health Organization, prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to increased stress, sleep disturbances, and even cardiovascular diseases.

Our diverse and vibrant communities of northwest Regina deserve better. We want to ensure that the valuable input of those directly affected is considered and prioritized. We call upon the local government, railway authorities, and urban planners to assess and create an alternate route for the freight trains that will pass through the residential zones of northwest Regina. We want economic growth for our province but not at the cost of our lives and well being.

This isn't just about preserving our neighborhoods and communities; it’s about striving for a healthier, safer, and more thoughtful approach to urban planning in Regina. Please join us in opposing the activation of the Last Mountain Railway and demanding practical solutions that protect our communities. Sign this petition to safeguard the health, safety, and quality of life for all residents in northwest Regina.