The construction and paving industries are INCREDIBLY in bed with NJ politicians.
Chances are pretty close to 100% that there are kickbacks and campaign financing connected with these rail-trail projects. I doubt NJ really cares about rail-trails, unless there are politicians who stand to gain from it.
NJ would be friendlier to railroads id there were more political payoffs from it.
The real money is from building condos. converting any industrial site or rail yard to condos is the NJ politicians dream.
Its a shame that the northeast continues to be so corrupt..., but its been that way since the 1700's , and anyone who comes in and tries to be honest, gets drummed out by the political machines and bosses.
The only thing that would bring any change would be if the feds came in and started arresting ppl. And even when that happens. the guys do their time, and then come back and hire with a big company in the pvt sector, promising that they have the connections to a company's agenda approved. Its just sad, and im glad I dont live in that area anymore.