Research Reports
Report Details
Title:
Small Railroads - Investment Needs, Financial Options, and Public Benefits
Authors:
Publication Date:
Sep 2002
Report #:
DP-145
TRID #:
Keywords:
benefits, bulk cargo, capital investments, commodities, financing, freight trains, investments, laws, needs assessment, railroad cars, railroad traffic, revenues, short line railroads, size
Type:
Research Report – Department Publications
Final Report Abstract
This study examines the capital investment needs facing the short-line industry, the financing terms available to short lines for meeting these needs, the public interest benefits of short-line railroads, and the relationship of short-line railroad services to the statutory responsibilities of the Secretary of Transportation. The study finds substantial capital investment needs for the industry, some difficulty in obtaining financing to meet these needs, large public interest benefits of short-line railroad operations, and a positive contribution of short-line operations to safety and fuel efficiency.