Shortline Sammie Wrote:
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> Due to the trail bridge being part of/adjacent to
> an operating rail line and damaged in the
> derailment it could have been far worse than a
> derailment. If this would have happened in the
> daytime with pedestrians on the bridge the
> liability exposure to CSX could have been
> astronomical! Just one more good reason NOT to
> allow trail/rail construction in such close
> proximity.
>
> Dick Samuels
> Oregon Pacific Railroad


Very good point there. I saw somewhere (I think a relatives photo) that there is a similar rail bridge with a trail attached to it, but protected by a gate that closes when a train crosses. I remember it was due to the reason you mentioned. But we all know some will climb over and cross anyway when closed.

Best thing is to put the trail bridge away from the trestle.