Is there a way to fight STB abandonment proceeding?

Does anyone know if there is a way a non-railroad company can fight a STB abandonment or railbank application under the auspices that the entity either wants to use the rail line or purchase the rail line?

I believe you need to file a "OFA" Offer of Financial Assistance stating as much as your OP.

I believe there is opportunity to file comments opposing a filed proposal as part of the STB review process. I am curious now from your post, is there such a filing that you are worrying about?

carajul wrote: ↑Wed Dec 22, 2021 8:50 pm Does anyone know if there is a way a non-railroad company can fight a STB abandonment or railbank application under the auspices that the entity either wants to use the rail line or purchase the rail line?

It is my understanding that such can be done. The first step would be for the entity that wishes to oppose the application as quickly as possible retain legal counsel with experience in such matters. The STB rules of practice and procedure as well as the substantive regulations are very complex. Included in such regulations are content requirements and strict deadlines for filing pleadings and other documents and even a one day out of time response would likely result in dismissal on procedural grounds.