So I guess that we're all in agreement.
Changes need to take place to insure that the railroad doesn't rot into the ground.
BUt Rod and CJ, you want to see it done the way that you envision it and the C&TS operators want it done the way that they see it.
Face it fella's, you're not in charge there and your input matters just about as much as mine. None!
If you really wanted a say, you would be part of the operating company.
SO my recommendation is to celebrate the positive and not dwell on what you see as the negative.
BTW Rod, when the UP changed ties here in Cheyenne recently, some of the bad ones that came out were laid in 1932, significantly longer than the 50 years that you quote. We use a smaller ballast in the yard than on the main line, especially when long sectios of track are replaced.
Another plus for the Main Line ballast is longer rail life as there will be less end batter.
And CJ, your quote about those who forget their history are doomed to repeat it has been credited to everyone from Aristotle to Caesar to Voltaire to Churchill. Take your pick.
As I warned before, don't mistake "Grit" for Deterioration. There is plenty of both there, and the deterioration must be fought. THAT will take Grit.
I'm not advocating a Durango - Like atmosphere but a well tended depot and yard area, indicating that there is some pride taken by the employees that work there. A nice gravel base can do just that, while preserving the trackwork done there.
Or would you advocate that the C&TS strive for the 117% Operating Ratio that the D&RGW gave the 3' gauge lines before abandonment? Are you willing to dig down and make up that extra 17% every year so that they can break even? Or would you like to see it lowered below 100% so that the railroad can run somewhat independently?
I prefer a profitable company or as close to it as they can get. It makes the best sense for all involved. In my opinion they are headed in the right direction.
Rick
