EUGENE, Ore., December 5, 2024 – On Dec. 3, the City of Eugene opened a public comment period regarding the proposed Eugene Clean Fuels transfer station slated for the Trainsong neighborhood. The 14-day timeframe allows community members and organizations to formally submit written comments and testimony as the City reconsiders its zoning verification of the site at 799 Bethel Drive.

Beyond Toxics, represented by nonprofit Crag Law Center, appealed the city’s zone verification to the Land Use Board of Appeals earlier this year. The City withdrew its verification on Oct. 18 for reconsiderations. The Planning Division has until Jan. 16, 2025 to modify, reverse, or affirm its decision.

For several months, Beyond Toxics and Trainsong, Bethel and River Road community members have organized meetings to share information, and concerns, regarding the proposed biofuels transfer station. The zoning approval for the facility should be denied because it is not consistent with the city's land use code. Additionally, among other impacts the site would increase truck traffic, transporting highly flammable fuels through narrow streets, predominantly overnight. Community members have expressed concerns over safety, noise and air pollution and lack of emergency planning should this terminal be located in the neighborhood.

Community members are encouraged to submit written testimony to City of Eugene senior planner Jeff Gepper via email to JGepper@eugene-or.gov or via mail or hand delivery to the City of Eugene Planning Division, Atrium Building, 99 West 10th Avenue, Suite 290, Eugene, Oregon, 97401 no later than 5 p.m. Dec. 17.

Those who have already submitted comments to the City will need to resubmit their written comments for consideration during this comment period to add it to the public record. More information and sample testimony is available at JusticeForTrainsong.org.