Wittmann Community Residents Rally Against Proposed BNSF Transportation Hub

WITTMANN, AZ (AZFamily) -- BNSF Railway, one of the largest freight railroad networks in the United States, has announced plans to construct a new transportation hub in an area northwest of Phoenix. This proposal has sparked significant concern among local residents who fear that their peaceful way of life may be jeopardized.

Elizabeth Oldham, a resident of Circle City, expressed her discontent, stating, "They’re not a good neighbor. They’re not gonna be a good neighbor. This is our home. We don’t want that ruined."

BNSF currently owns over 4,000 acres of land in an unincorporated region along U.S. 60, situated near both Wittmann and Circle City. The land is presently designated for single-family rural use; however, BNSF has submitted a request to Maricopa County to rezone the area to facilitate the construction of the transportation hub.

Local residents are voicing their concerns that the new facility will lead to increased pollution, traffic congestion, and noise, which could disrupt the lives of families, local schools, and wildlife in the vicinity. Patricia Van Eck, a Wittmann resident, stated, "It’s going to completely disrupt the way that we live."

Van Eck shared with Arizona’s Family a letter she received from BNSF’s legal team in late June regarding the proposed facility, which would be located alarmingly close to her backyard. She pointed out her home on a map of the BNSF property, highlighting its proximity to the planned hub.

"It’s unfathomable to me that with all the land available, they chose to build in an area with an established community," Van Eck remarked.

Both Van Eck and Oldham are hopeful that their communities can maintain their current character and tranquility. Oldham emphasized, "The county needs to prioritize the needs of the residents living here and not be intimidated by these major railroads that threaten to take over whenever they face opposition."

The Maricopa County authorities are expected to make a decision regarding BNSF’s application in the upcoming months. Oldham also announced a community meeting scheduled for September 4 at 6 p.m. at Nadaburg Elementary School in Wittmann, where residents can voice their opinions and concerns.

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