摘要: |
West Virginia's coal heritage once yielded an extensive network of railroad branch-line trackage. While a significant number of these branch-lines have been abandoned and the tracks removed, dozens more remain in place. The current study is designed to produce a systematic method of evaluating the economic benefits of specific branch-line properties and assessing the cost of maintenance options. Specifically, the study considers the alternative costs of continued Class 1 ownership, private short-line ownership and operation, the State's Rail Bank program, and other maintenance options. |