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5) The environmentally friendly people moving use of the
track extension would help mitigate one of the principal
environmental impacts of the amphitheater and may help it qualify
for exemption from an EIR.
6) Since the track extension would be parallel to the existing
main line in Railroad Canyon and does not involve removal of any
Oak trees, it would seem reasonable that the track extension would
not reqmre an EIR.
7) We understand that the Park Dept. is planning to pave
the adjoining dirt road. We have had an offer to do the grading for
the track extension at no charge. It would seem that the road could
be graded at the same time to save you that cost and to provide
room for both the rail extension and the road to coexist comfortably.
8) A connection from our track extension to the Metrolink
main line would be quite compatible with Hart Park operations. It
would also eliminate the need to bring in large cranes for moves of
railroad cars such as when we brought in a caboose and tank car last
month. (See enclosed clipping from the December 22, 1996, Newhall
Signal). It would also be a cost savings for us to enable rolling stock
to be brought in by rail instead of by truck.
9) Metro link has indicated in recent correspondence to us
that it will be possible to run our Mogul 1629 steam locomotive on
,_
their track when we are ready to meet their equipment standards
and insurance requirements. (See enclosed letter from Metrolink). A
switch connection to the Metro link track, which is less than 100 feet
from our existing track, would permit our locomotive to have
convenient access to the main line.
10) Extending the existing track and getting our locomotive
restored to operating condition will generate excitement and
increased visits to Hart Park. We expect that tourists from around
the world will come to ride our steam train especially since many
will already be coming to nearby Magic Mountain. The tourists
should help the local economy and the revitalization of Old Newhall.
The restoration of our Mogul 1629 is an exciting project as described
in today's front page of the Los Angeles Times Valley Section (copy
enclosed). It will take considerable effort of many volunteers and
