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I am opposed to the new main railroad bridge design unless certain studies are conducted that change my mind.

I am a Bonner County resident and frequent boater. I have operated nearly every kind of recreational vessel up to 72 feet in length. I currently operate many different boats and kayaks on our Lake. I am a professionally trained and experienced boater.

I am also a recreational rental property owner with an economic interest in ensuring the lake remains safe for navigation, particularly in the summer season when most boating occurs and the lake is at its highest elevation.

The existing Long Bridge and railroad bridge can already be tricky to navigate, especially in larger vessels. The close proximity of two railroad bridges as planned would exacerbate an already difficult passage. If you lose power upstream and are swept through three successive lines of concrete pilings it may be impossible to recover without damage, a capsize or even sinking.

Currents must be studied before approval and taken into account for the safety of all boaters. Disregarding such concerns, could certainly be a huge consideration in future litigation or federal “1983 action” if a boater suffers an accident.

One knowledgeable maritime litigation expert, a licensed Coast Guard captain and who is a Proctor-in-Admiralty at Federal Admiralty Court has stated that in his opinion: “People will die.” I tend to agree with that assessment. Let’s not rush an approval without further study and review.

STEVEN MORGAN

Sandpoint