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June 10,2011
Jeffrey B. Muilan, Secretary
MA Depmtment of Transportation
Ten Park Plaza, Suite 3170
Boston, MA 02116
Dear Secretary Mullan:
We are writing in regards to the City of Boston's review of their hazardous material
transportation rule. Upon undergoing a comprehensive study by Batelle Inc. and Norbridge, the
City has determined that cargo trucks carrying hazardous material should be banned from
travelling through the City at any hour of the day. Now that the City has conducted their due
diligence and followed Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration protocol in arriving at this
determination, we endorse the City of Boston's analysis.
The North End and the Boston waterfront are recognized as one of the country's oldest, most
historic neighborhoods, and also one of the most densely populated neighborhoods in the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Compounded by the millions of tourists that visit the North
End annually via the Freedom Trail, we strongly believe that the safest alternative possible
should be adopted. Hazardous material that is not being delivered directly to the North
End/Waterfront should be confined to interstate routes outside of the City to avoid serious public
risk.
Under Battelle's findings, the Boston route was significantly higher in risk than travel on Route
128, therefore. making Route 128 the leading candidate for designation as the through hazmat
route. We wish to make it clear that hazardous materials are a risk on any local road but the
Battelle risk calculations for Boston are compelling. We also understand the concerns that are
now being raised from the communities in our western suburbs as a result of the proposed Route
128 designation. As a result, we are seeking a strict adherence of a designated hazmat route on
interstate roads with absolutely no allowances ofhazmat "cut-through" traffic on neighborhood
streets.
We appreciate the time and attention that you and your staff have given to this important issue.
think we can all agree that public safety is our first priority in this situation and we are grateful
for your willingness to work with our local officials to achieve that goal.
We look forward to your response.
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Sincerely,
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d States Senatf,.
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cott P. Brown
United States Senator
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