Of the many projects on behalf of my constituents, I have never experienced a crueler act than the Union Pacific Railroad closing the Morrison Road railway.

It appears that it doesn't matter that many officials such as the Madison County Sheriff Bob Hertz, Madison County Highway Superintendent Gary Stalhut, county Public Safety Chairman Gussie Glasper, the Chouteau Township supervisor and Board of Trustees, the Nameoki Township supervisor and Board of Trustees, trustees of Pontoon Beach, the fire chiefs of the Long Lake and Mitchell fire districts and more than 1,000 people have signed petitions opposing the railroad's plans.

The Granite City School Bus Co. and U.S. mail carriers are all asking that the Morrison Road crossing stay open for safety reasons.

How can big money from the railroad company cause politicians do such a reprehensible act to people who are much less fortunate?

Therefore, I also am begging the Illinois Commerce Commission to keep the Morrison Road railway open for safety concerns.

Helen M. Hawkins

Member, Madison County Board District 16

Granite City