Twight_dh.doc

May 31, 2000

Richard B. Twight
Idaho Department of Commerce
PO Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0093

Re: Abandonment of the Grangeville Line, STB Docket AB-No. 564

Dear Richard,

Pursuant to our conversation yesterday, I have enclosed for your review the complete abandonment Application filed by Camas Prairie RailNet, Inc. Information concerning rural and economic development are contained in two primary spots. First, the Application and particularly the verified statement provided by Kevin Spradlin in Exhibit O (in addition to the top of page 7 in the Application), asserts that there should be “no serious adverse impact on rural or community development caused by the abandonment.” Second, the Environmental and Historical Report (EHR) also discusses some of the impacts on the communities. In addition, the EHR also indicates the attempts made by the Railroad to obtain community input. For example, Appendices A through I of the EHR illustrate the feedback that state and federal agencies provided to the Railroad.

I have also enclosed copies of Governor Andrus’s and Director Hawkins’ verified statements. As I explained during our telephone call, verified statements are merely affidavits to be presented to the Surface Transportation Board (STB) during its proceeding. Once we have had an opportunity to digest the information contained in the Application, we will probably want to get together with the other state agencies to discuss the preparation of verified statements and the submission of other material on behalf of the state.

If you have any questions, please contact me at 334-0312.

Sincerely yours,

Donald L. Howell, II
Deputy Attorney General

Enclosures