Re: General Palmer

Let's not forget that the Raton Pass line no longer belongs to the BNSF, but to the State of New Mexico - or at least will belong to the state in the very near future.

I hope I am remembering correctly here, but originally NM was interested in the line as far north from Albuquerque as Lamy, or perhaps Las Vegas. This track was needed in order to extend the Rail Runner service to Santa Fe. From what I recollect, the BNSF balked at selling the line beyond Lamy unless the state was willing to work a deal on the rest of the line as far north as Trinidad. (However, the sale of the stretch from the state line on into Trinidad could only be accomplished through an Interstate Compact as it crosses a state line and would require Congressional approval. To my knowledge this has not been done as yet.)

In return for NM agreeing to purchase the entire Raton Pass line, the BNSF sold (or is selling) the line at essentially scrap price. A helluva deal. In addition, I have heard that the BNSF has agreed to maintain the line to their standards. How this recent announcement of the BNSF terminating freight service on the line will affect this situation is an open question.

In addition, almost concurrently with the BNSF's announcement of elimination of freight service was a statement from Amtrak that they would continue to use the line.

So in summary, it looks like Raton Pass is safe for the time being. Perhaps someone with better knowledge that I have can add to this discussion.

CJ