First, I must say that if it was not for Mike P. whom I admire very much for his input there would be little worthwhile information available relating to the status of the NWP. Certaintly, the minutes and press releases from the caretaker, NCRA, leaves much to be desired, at least as it concerns public info regarding restoration of service. But the existance of the NCRA and its reason for being is murkey at best.

Over the years I have had many discussions with Max Bridges who always responded to my inquiries, contrasted to the present mgt. who has never answered any of my questions. In addition, Mrs. Firestone(?) the former PR contact was always available for information. Further, I personelly spoke with Cal-Trans, and CTC operatives as well as Boxers office in connection with the release of FEMA funding which to this date is clouded as to whether that ever happened.

Having said all that blah, blah blah, there still is confusion to what the heck is going on.! We are told in June the NCRA selected a group whose office is on the Pinnislar, even though the Sierra RR would certainly be the logical operator by virtue of their Calif. Western operation.

The further mystery is the emergence of "Smart" Somehow they have taken the place of Golden Gate transit who formally owed the line at least from Larkspur toCloverdale. In reading the latest release from NCRA, they indicate that CTC has released 43.5 M of State & Federal funds. How do they release Federal funds? Was this FEMA funds which CTC held? It further states that these funds will restore operations from Lombard to Willits. Is not the operator responsible for any improvements?

As I gather then NCRA will be granted the funds to restore the tracks for the benifit of a private company to operate over the repaired right of way. There is silence as to what income the NCRA will inure from the private operator. There is no discussion as to what liability the NCRA will have for further repairs as a result of the operation lets say a derailment or they strike a car trying to beat the train.

Lastly, lawsuits seem to disappear. Whats the status of the Coast Guards request to remove the Petaluma Bridges What happened to the Barge complaint or that of the former operator NWYP?

Lastly the NWP Co. finally submitted a business plan to the CTC on 11/9 which they apparently approved. Should not the public be aware of this plan? I am trying to find out these details now, but certainly there should be more transparency from the NCRA. After all, this is not BART!