dlagrua wrote:I would like to share in the optimism that something can be done to repair the line and get trains back running into Cape May City again in 2013. On mile of spike , rail plates and some tie replacements is not an insurmountable task but none the less its a big expense. It is doubtful that the CMSL can expect to sue the thieves for damages and win much but they can try. The theft was also of NJT property not CMSL property. CMSL leases the line but does not own it. The CMSL/NJT may be able to sue the scrap dealer but then again who knows? Lots of unanswered questions here so all we can do is be supportive and hope that Tony finds some luck and can get the job done.
I thought that I read somewhere that the B.R. & W RR puts out calls for and uses volunteer track crews. If enough people can be mobilized then that might be a possible solution. Maybe NJT can be convinced to supply the needed parts. This may be a far fetched scenerio but the line needs a solution to operate again. Perhaps this is an unwanted suggestion but IMO all suggestions and help from motivated rail fans and historians should be considered.
(1) I suspect that rather than a lawsuit, which would be costly to CMSL in terms of attorneys fees, any funds that are obtained would be in the form of restitution as part of a plea agreement with the defendants. That approach would not incur legal fees as Tony could work directly with the prosecutor. Hopefully, any restitution would be adequate.
(2) BR&W does not have volunteer track gangs, so you are likely thinking of another operation. We do have MOW work such as brush clearing done by volunteers. Track repairs as such are done by the for-profit corporation.