rcthompson04 wrote: ↑Sun Sep 08, 2019 7:46 pm
Gilbert B Norman wrote: ↑Sun Sep 08, 2019 1:14 pm
I think the future of the LD's are simply transportation, and as certain politicos leave the scene, one route or the other will find itself quite vulnerable. There will be no further LD specific equipment orders other than locomotives, and no expansion of the network.
I think there are certain routes that will always have supporters regardless if the exact official changes. The Empire Builder for example retains aggressive support despite having a pretty drastic turnover along the route over the last 10 years. There is a lot of political capital available there...
One reason for the continued support is the fact the
Builder operates through the area with probably the harshest climate in the Lower 48. If you're in a place like Havre, MT or Williston, ND there are times in winter when the train is the
only safe way in or out. Driving into the teeth of a Dakota blizzard is a good way to die. (Note: mom and dad were both born and raised on the Minnesota prairie, relatives are farmers out there-- I know of which I speak.)