Quality of life in the Sandhills is the envy of many, but it is being threatened by our dependence on foreign oil, growing highway congestion and associated environmental hazards. As concerned citizens, we can help meet these challenges by supporting the use and expansion of rail service, both freight and passenger.

One freight train can take as many as 300 trucks off the highway, reducing pollution, easing congestion and alleviating wear and tear on our already over-burdened road system. In addition, rail transportation is the most fuel efficient way to move freight.

A comprehensive transportation policy that shifts freight and passengers to our railroads is in everyone's best interests. Rail service has made a stunning recovery since partial economic de-regulation in 1980.

It's time for our Congress, including Rep. Howard Coble, to create additional capacity in our state and national rail network for the good of our troubled economy and to oppose misguided calls to impose additional economic regulations on our rail system.

We must return to our most fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly form of transportation -- our railroads.

Michael Edwards

Pinehurst