Anyone who has endured the North Texas rush-hour gridlock, has likely griped about the lack of public transportation.

But some residents of an affluent suburb are now railing against a regional train system.

The Old Cotton Belt rail line in North East Tarrant County is so scarcely used, wildlife thrives peacefully alongside it.

But some Colleyville residents expect this suburban quiet will be quashed, if a proposed commuter rail line moves forward.

"The problem is that it invites freight all through these residential neighborhoods, from our city all the way down to Watauga. We don't want that," said Chris Whitaker.

Whitaker and Colleyville Citizens Against the Rail presented an opposition petition to the city secretary.

Nothing has been approved but the state's goal was to get commuter rail to the region by 2013.

The problem, say residents, is crime, pollution and noise from diesel engines that would roll by affluent homes, at up to 70 miles per hour.

"We want commuter if it's right for the people. But we want it electric, we want it clean, and we don't want freight bringing through this threat of hazardous waste," said Beverly Sonneborn, a resident.

The City of Colleyville declined to comment, saying they have not taken an official position on the rail line.

But, the city has approved a site off John McCain road as a potential train station.

And the city council in February approved a resolution supporting the regional transportation plan.

Concerned citizens hope Colleyville leaders - and other cities along the tracks will hear their worries - and rail against the current proposed train line.

E-mail jstjames@wfaa.com.