Ross:
Don't hit the panic button. Your subject title seems to make a conclusion based on reports from some "small town newspaper articles". I can only say that there are currently studies and projects underway that has the State feeling positive about the direction that they are heading. No, they are in no way eager to adopt every new marginal line that somebody wants to cast off, but they are NOT looking to bail out after just having taken over. There are also rumblings of very viable potential large shipping possibilities on a couple of lines that would result in long-range big traffic increases. Remember that these small communities, counties, and shipper groups tend to be really skiddish about vulnerabilities of being captive to only one form of transport if the rails go away. They will continue to raise the red flag until they feel more comfortable. Right now, they aren't too confident in the State being able to do it and will be looking for ways explore doing it with more local control. Also remember, the State is not in the shortline business--they have only bought out a company who was (either by accident or design) running off the business. The State has contracted with experienced (time will tell how experienced) operators to actually handle the "shortline business" themselves.