From Rich in Rochester -
"I attended tonight's meeting at the Ossipee Town Hall with about 60 other
folks. The NHDOT was represented by Kitt Morgan and Brian Lombard (I believe
I have the names right).
The feasibility study for restoration of the 22 miles of the branch that
has not seen a freight train since 1972, was commissioned by a bill passed by
the NH Legislature. The line is totally owned by the State of NH and there is
no section owned by GRS.
The findings of the study which is due to be reported to the NH Legislature
in June, indicate that restoration of the line is indeed feasible. The line is
"intact and in fair condition" in spite of it's non-use for 32 years. Nearly
all of the 75 and 80 pound rail is in good shape (although some missing in some
areas or paved over in others). The line was inspected by hi-rail during the
Fall of 2002 and the Fall of 2003. All slopes and the railbeds are in good
shape. The entire width of the section needs to be brushcut. Most of the ballast
along the line is comprised of gravel and cinder, which is typical of the line
which was completed in 1872. All bridges are sound and all culverts are in
good shape but need some work due mostly to damage done by beaver dams. The
parts of the line in most need of rehab are those parts of the line that are
located in wetland areas.
The cost and feasibility was outlined in a three phase plan.
Phase one would be the reconstruction to open the line to begin service
as class 1 for freight (10 mph speed limit0) or even up to class 2. Rehab would
address the issues of right-of-way, rail, ties (25% of which would be
replaced), ballast, bridge rehab (wooden trestles which have suffered water and fire
damage) and grade crossings (which accounts for nearly 20% of the cost). This
figure is estimated at almost $5.467 million. This rehab would allow
operations for about 5 years.
Phase two is further reconstruction and improvements to maintain service
along the line and would encompass the same issues as phase one except for the
grade crossings. Cost estimate is almost $1.285 million.
Phase three would depend on volume and type of traffic on the line and
would be used totally for rail upgrade and bringing the line up to class 3.
Estimate $7 million.
Total for the project $13.752 million.
There were also cost estimates for partial rehab of the line to Mt.
Whittier and to Silver Lake.
Potential customers were identified as a power plant in Tamworth, a
lumber company at Silver lake and a propane distributor in Ossipee. Regular
passenger service is considered unlikely at this time, however tourist/excursion uses
are possible.
When asked if the the New Hampshire Northcoast was interested in the
rehabilitation of the line, the state said there was, and a representative from
NHN later agreed.
NH State Senator Joseph D. Kenney (District 3), who sponsored the
amendment to the bill which authorized the cost and feasibility study, encouraged all
interested parties to contact their legislators about supporting the
rehabilitation project.
Two issues for consideration of the project are some property issues
(encroachment) and the current recreational use of the line (snowmobile trail)."
Steve
Anyone have any knowledge of who the "new customer"is for New Hampshire Northcoast,who is receiving particle board/lumber products in boxcars? Trying to rack my brain for potential sidings/lumberyards or is it being unloaded at Tri-City in N.Rochester. Thanks for any info. Bud
