TysonsTunnel.org has sued several federal government agencies claiming many businesses will be adversely affected by the currently proposed aerial rail option. They’re seeking to prevent the rail from being constructed. Gairy Baise is their attorney, he also lost the race for Fairfax County chairman by a wide margin.
TysonsTunnel.org will be joined by Ratner Cos., the company actually claiming to be affected by the traffic congestion, and “unsightliness” of overhead rail.
The suit seeks to prevent the FTA from approving a full funding agreement, which would grant a necessary $900 million for the Silver Line’s extension. The group says they’re “Suing as a last option because political leaders have ignored them.” The FTA has not responded yet because they have no information regarding the suit.
Interestingly these companies will be even more adversely affected if rail is not built, and some companies might loose money in speculative land investments. Traffic congestion would be associated with an aerial or underground option, as both would require extensive infrastructure realignments. If their suit is successful it could possibly end the currently proposed rail plans.
Update 11/29/2007:
Ratner Cos has pulled out of the suit, after receiving word from their legal department. They also say “We don’t want to be viewed as blocking the rail extension.” It is probable that TysonsTunnel.org will be approached by other plaintiffs. If they can’t find anyone else the suit will be discarded. Thanks to John for updating us.
December 4th, 2007 at 7:52 pm
[…] losers. Just a week ago Garry Baise, who lost his bid for Gerry Connolly’s chairman seat, sued the federal government because of the aerial rail line through Tysons. Now Christine Arakelian, who also lost the 2007 […]