To the Editor,
Re: Rail line should be used better, Letters, Oct. 18.
I agree with Jim Erkiletian’s vision using the existing E&N rail corridor for excursions and transit, but as years of experience working for a major railway informs me, it probably will not happen.
The existing rail bed needs extensive upgrades and repairs. The rail itself needs replacing. Many of the bridges and culverts need repair or rework.
The CPR allowed the infrastructure to deteriorate to the point where millions of dollars will be needed to bring the line up to 21st century standards.
Running a railroad is expensive. As illustration, imagine if we had to pay for all the road repairs on our street with our own money.
Unless a miracle happens, sadly we are going to the lose the E&N right of way to a pedestrian walkway.
Keith Osmond
Nanaimo