Historian sets the facts straight on rail line. By Ken Kemzura

Burbank Leader, Aug. 23, 2003

I enjoyed the article regarding the former Southern Pacific Burbank branch that appeared in the Burbank Leader Aug. 13.

I would like to point out two errors in fact attributed to city officials regarding the history of the rail line. The track was built in 1893, not the 1930s, and ran to Chatsworth Park. Secondly, regular rail traffic ended on the east end (Burbank to Van Nuys) in or about October 1992, not in the 1950s.

Prior to World War II, the line shipped out agriculture products. After the war, lumber and building products were the main commodities being shipped.

During the 1960s, the local train would originate from Taylor Yard in Los Angeles and switch the customers all the way up to Chatsworth and back. By the 1970s, the train originated in Gemco Yard in Van Nuys, and made a circular trip via Burbank, North Hollywood, Van Nuys, Tarzana, Canoga Park, Chatsworth and back to Gemco.

On Oct. 12, 1990, SCCRA bought 65 acres at Taylor Yard, Burbank branch and 46 miles of the Southern Pacific coastline from L.A. Union Station to Moorpark. The last segment of the branch to be abandoned was from Tarzana to Chatsworth in 1998.

Personally, I would like to see the Metro Red Line extended and built along the Southern Pacific right of way. Thanks to the NIMBYs and the budget crunch, we will instead be "Gustituded" like California was during the demise of the legendary Red Car system.

Ken Kemzura, Hollywood, Ca