Download or read book State Short Line Railroads and the Rural Economy written by Michael W. Babcock and published by . This book was released on 1993 with total page 256 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The objectives of the study are as follows: (1) Determine if short line railroads are a viable transportation alternative to abandonment; (2) Identify the key factors that determine short line success or failure; and (3) Compile a profile of a successful short line railroad to help guide the allocation of state financial assistance. A profile for a profitable short line railroad was developed. State financial assistance is recommended and program components presented. A list of additional recommended public policies is also presented. This study concluded that in the current environment, short line railroads are a viable transportation alternative. However, the long term financial survivability of short line roalroads as an industry is not assured.