Repurposing Abandoned Railroads: Challenges and Opportunities
Abstract:
This poster examines the challenges that come with the repurposing and reuse of abandoned railroads. Successful projects appear more likely in urban environments, while projects in more suburban and rural areas lack the same success. I argue that this is the case due to the many legal and political obstacles in suburban and rural areas, including easements, land ownership, and government policies like railbanking. Similar obstacles are less apparent in urban areas, resulting in greater success of rail repurposing in cities. By providing examples from different states and maps of where these projects have been completed, the contrast of locations aims to help exemplify this urban-suburban-rural geography of railroad repurposing and reuse. I suggest potential solutions to make projects like rails-to-trails more possible in suburban and rural areas. I suggest ways in which these laws can be standardized and accommodate those who might be affected by these changes.