SAN BERNARDINO--Clean air advocates are calling on the Burlington-Northern-Santa Fe Railroad to clean up its diesel pollution.

Jan Misquez and other Westside residents contend the rail yard creates a dangerous health risk.

“The cancer risk coming out of this rail yard is extremely high and it’s outrageous that nothing is being done about it.”

Children are exposed to some of the worst foul air.

“There is an elementary school and a day care center right across from the rail yard.” Misquez noted.

Residents say all their asking is that the BNSF railroad become a good neighbor.

“The community’s blood, sweat and tears have gone into the rail yard for over 100 years. We’ve been working for them and now it’s time for them to do what’s right for the community.”

Black balloons with notes attached will be released into the air from Nunez Park Thursday as a symbol of how far-reaching the diesel pollution has become.

Story Date: July 24, 2008