Re: Cheney, WA access alteration
Author: Bruce Kelly
Date: 11-22-2006 - 07:47
They could always trench UNDER the track where the abd. grade intersects the UP Jct./Lakeside Jct. connection, but the dip that would be required would probably need some fancy drainage. Even with a mile of fencing approaching it from either side, the trespass potential at a critical, secluded place where trains frequently stop might not be good. You'd still see signal maintainers and other RR people driving that section of the trail. Former BN boss (and Spokane resident) Bob Downing told me more than once that they're still kicking themselves that the SP&S Fish Lake to Pasco was allowed to be torn out. I imagine both BNSF and UP are looking at those abandoned grades now serving as trails (UP/MILW north of Fish Lake, BN south of Fish Lake)and wishing they could take them back without ticking off an entire community. Even if they couldn't add a second, low-grade WB main between Sunset Junction and Latah Junction, gaining a second low-grade main through most of the canyon and on up over the top past Cheney would be a huge help.