Editor:
Jon Esty accuses Dan Blankenship of exaggerating the cost of a rail system for our valley and then he completely misrepresents the cost in the other direction.
First, there was no “existing right of way” — the tracks were old and obsolete and missing in many places. A completely new roadbed would be needed. And as we’ve all learned recently, cost estimates around here usually are just that, and most times magically multiply (see Burlingame).
At approximately 40 miles, and splitting the difference between $5 million and $20 million per mile, we’re talking around $500 million (a half-billion) to build a system, let alone maintain it and cover the operating losses. Folks, where was that money coming from?
Rail people, give it up — it ain’t gonna happen. Get your bike out and enjoy the magnificent trail we now have.
Comments
i've been working on the railroad
KNCB Moore
the idea for a ski train into Aspen came up around 1970 when the officials learned that mass transit grants could pay for it. How about a bar car and a ski tuning/waxing shop ? Tail studies and grant applications followed and produced funding for the bus barn. The dream never dies and rail is continues to be promoted today. The old bus barn is thirty years old and a new rapid bus system is being promoted.
When it comes to Aspen's transportation planning - are we there yet ?