Opponents Push for New Environmental Assessment on Lac-Mégantic Bypass
The proposed Lac-Mégantic bypass project has been met with opposition from environmental groups and concerned citizens, who are calling for a new environmental assessment to be conducted.
The bypass, which aims to divert heavy truck traffic away from the town of Lac-Mégantic, has been in the works for several years. However, opponents argue that the initial environmental assessment, conducted in 2016, did not adequately consider the potential impact on the environment and public health.
According to the environmental group Coalition des citoyens et organismes engagés pour la sécurité ferroviaire à Lac-Mégantic (COSE), the bypass would bring an increase in air and noise pollution, as well as potential contamination of the nearby Chaudière River.
COSE has also raised concerns about the potential for increased train traffic on the existing rail line, which runs through the town and was the site of a devastating train derailment in 2013 that claimed 47 lives.
In response to these concerns, the Quebec government has announced that it will conduct a new environmental assessment of the bypass project. However, opponents are calling for an independent assessment, as they believe the government’s involvement in the project could lead to biased results.
The mayor of Lac-Mégantic, Julie Morin, has expressed her support for the bypass project, stating that it is necessary for the economic development of the region. However, she has also acknowledged the concerns raised by opponents and has called for a thorough and transparent assessment to be conducted.
The Quebec government has stated that it will take into consideration all concerns and feedback from the public before making a final decision on the bypass project.
In the meantime, opponents continue to push for a new environmental assessment to be conducted, in the hopes of ensuring that the project does not have any negative impacts on the environment and the safety of the community.
As the debate continues, it is clear that both sides are passionate about their stance on the Lac-Mégantic bypass project. Only time will tell if a compromise can be reached that satisfies all parties involved.
