Hundreds in Pasco voice their opinion on proposed SW WA coal terminal project

A coal terminal proposed to be built in the southwestern Washington would impact the Columbia Basin rails and economy. Which is part of the reason why over 100 people came out to a public hearing in Pasco about the Millennium Bulk Terminal in Longview. The public hearing is one of five planned across the state as part of the Department of Ecology's review of the project.

"Washington Jobs," is the slogan across blue shirts worn by those in support of Millennium Bulk Terminals, the company behind the project. Wendy Hutchinson from Longview is one of dozens who showed support, saying 4 out of 10 jobs in Washington is dependent on trade and this project will only add to the trade economy. She also believes Pasco will see an increase in rail jobs with at least 16 trains scheduled to pass through the Tri-Cities region carrying coal.

As far of the area's leadership is concerned the message is the same, this project should be built to support jobs and the agriculture community. Representative Larry Haler, Brad Kilppert and Mary Dye all gave their support in a rally before the 1 p.m. hearing. U.S. Congressman Dan Newhouse is also said to be in support of the project.

Others say "No Coal Exports," a slogan across red shirts worn by those like Sameer Ranade who is apart of Power Past Coal.

Ranade says he was originally from the Tri-Cities area before moving to Seattle and believes the project will actually have adverse effects on the region. He believes extra trains through the area will cause traffic and the coal dust will impact water from the Columbia River.

If completed, the terminal would ship 44 million tons of coal to the overseas market.

The Pasco hearing is at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., the TRAC is open until 9 p.m. for those who want more information or to submit written testimony. State officials say testimony will be accepted until June 13th, then they will be making a final decision early next year.

More information about the project can be found here.