WM Scenic problems, abandonment?

Ohic Central has a great program. Yes, we will miss a lot of charter and specials for 2005. Next summer in 2006 is the NRHS National Convention based on the OC. So in 2006 will be a return to more excursions, etc.
What is now being proposed in Cumberland, MD. is the total abandonment of the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad to make way for the new hiking and biking trail. The trail proponents have said that the train and trail can not live side by side. The Commissioners or what ever stupid Government agency that oversees this operation, sees trains as a hazard!!!!!
They have already removed some trackage near the Frostburg, MD. end of the line. Now the recent reports are that they are restoring it for the one more season? Is it better to have a few thousand hikers and bikers than ten of thousands of passengers on the Scenic Railroad?
What is wrong with this picture? Have health and fitness people got control of economic development in Cumberland, MD. Certainly the traffic from visitors staying in Cumberland and surrounding area is better for the continued use of the railroad?
Dale Brown