Letters to the Editor

News Virginian
Published: February 24, 2008

Motocross noise would be intolerable

Regarding the proposal for a motocross track at Augusta Expoland (see story, Page A1):

Eleven years ago, we purchased our home in Fishersville, due to its peaceful setting and quiet environment. This home is located only a mile-and-a-half from Expoland. All of our neighbors are quiet living people, respectful of one another's privacy and the natural beauty of this land. On those few occasions when Expoland has an event, such as a tractor pull, we do hear all of that noise and are unable to sleep most of the night. This is only tolerable because it happens about twice per year. However, the proposed motocross track would be operating approximately three-fourths of the calendar year, making the noise level we would be forced to live with intolerable.

Additionally, the dust such a track would create would prevent any homeowner living here. Numerous people are highly allergic to dust, which raises health issues. We still have two daughters living at home and we have grave concerns for their safety and well-being. One of our daughters has a disability and suffers from migraine headaches. There is not a doubt in our minds that this racetrack would affect her health, and that she would not be able to tolerate the noise on a daily basis.

Why is it that a business seeking only to make money would be permitted to push its way into an area where residents who have lived there for years would be adversely affected- What is so changing our society that the rights and consideration of others' lives and property would be overlooked in this matter-
Lawsuits have been filed and won over such issues in the past and lawsuits can be filed again if such a track is permitted into this neighborhood. The granting of such a proposal would indeed be a devastating tragedy. A united people will not be silenced.

George and Deborah Counter

Fishersville

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Dust from track could be a health hazard

I live in Fishersville, just a short distance from Expoland. I purchased my home here hoping to be able to enjoy my retirement in a peaceful and quiet neighborhood. Not long after we moved here we heard the roaring noise of the tractor and monster truck pulls along with the loud speakers, dust and pollution. However, this only happens a couple times per year.

My neighbors and I oppose the proposed Motocross track at Expo because of the constant noise, dust and pollution it will cause along with the roaring crowds and the fact it will be held all week and on Sunday. We will not be able to enjoy being outside and our property values will decrease.

The motocross racetrack may be a good thing for the youth of Augusta County but it should be located in an area away from homes, hospitals, nursing homes, churches and high traffic areas.

Violet Hutton Ralston

Fishersville

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Track is no guarantee of trails, picnic areas

I wish to express continued concern about the proposed motocross racetrack on the Expo property. Most of us who live within a mile radius of the location are well aware of the associated noise, traffic and dirt that accompany the truck pulls, tractor pulls and other similar activities. We have been patient with them without complaint because they are temporary. The present permit applicant proposes a continuing activity with a similar nuisance. That will inevitably have a negative impact on the neighborhood.

The applicant proposes several additional features that might not be a problem, but once the permit is granted, there is no procedure in place that will require that these be provided. Because walking trails and picnic areas are not moneymakers, their construction is less than assured. There is also no county ordinance that provides a control for noise or similar nuisances. Until such control is in place, the permit should not be granted.

Paul B. Campbell

Fishersville