BNSF removes 'I-sore'

During a May 6 community forum on increasing train traffic through Cheney, Cheney resident Pamela Gray brought my attention to a large, dead, pine tree at the end of I Street in downtown Cheney. She even brought a picture of the tree to pass out at the meeting. At the close of the forum I spoke briefly with Gray and indicated I would see what could be done about removing the tree.

After I finished talking to Gray, Ross Lane, regional public affairs director for Burlington Northern Santa Fe, introduced himself to me and offered to help if I had any questions or concerns. I later called him and explained Gray’s wish to have the pine tree removed. Since it was on BNSF’s railroad right-of-way, it seemed like a perfect opportunity to turn to the railroad for its removal.

To make a long story short, Lane worked with the BNSF Cheney yardmaster and BNSF’s clearing contractor, and I am pleased to relate that the tree was taken down last week. Thanks are due to Ross Lane and BNSF for their prompt response to Gray’s concern.

John Taves

City Councilman

Cheney