INTERMODAL · FREIGHT · PASSENGER · TOURIST
The February was held on 26 February at the Northfield Freight House.
The minutes of the January meeting were accepted as printed. The Treasurers report was read and accepted with a balance of $1,329.37. Expenditures since last report included $32.85 for the monthly mailing, and $25.00 to register for the Hooksett Lion’s Club Railroad Show.
George Katsakiores indicated the M&L-Northern Task Force Bill passed the House, but the Liability Bill has been put on hold. The Trespass Bill is also on hold for a rewrite.
The access fee for property owners who have to cross the right-of-way at grade is being increased from $5.00 per foot to $10.00 per foot.
The town of Milford has put up $15,000 for a study to establish bus service connecting with MBTA at Nashua.
Guilford is holding out on maximum passenger train speed for the corridor of 59 mph. This is primarily a question of track stability, or “modulus”, with the limited depth of ballast on the line. (At this writing, this week’s Amtrak derailment in Iowa may credit a similar reduced speed for resulting in only one death).
Many discussions have been had relative to resolving differences between owner and operator to get the service underway. (At this writing, a June startup seems assured with all parties anxious to put differences behind them)
Membership and chairmanship is being reviewed. Bill Mosher, George Katsakiores and Karl Smith are members of this Task Force. Other stake holders including bus companies are also involved.
The Town of Kittery, ME is actively promoting a rail connection to help revitalize and bring tourism to the town.
Karen Songhurst of the VAOT is guiding the High Speed Rail Study for the service which would pass through Nashua, Manchester, Concord and Lebanon. A report from this feasibility study is scheduled for July.
George Katsakiores reported that airport manager Kevin Dillon was appreciative of the efforts of NHRRA to secure a rail connection for the airport.
Recorded by Gus Sheedy
[Paul W Chapman <milepost10@juno.com> March 20, 2001 11:28 PM]
