How long should one keep a dormant line?

[mikesullivan]

Question: Rail banked properties have the potential to be redeveloped for rail service, right? That's the point of the rail bank status, I believe. Our local former tracks are all snowmobile trails now, but in there are plans and grants to resurface the Alpena to Cheboygan sub (former D&M) line with crushed limestone for recreation like the Gaylord to Mackinac did a couple years ago. The plans in last week's paper show a new club house in Millersburg, which would be a fine thing for the town, but the site plan diagram shows it directly centered across the former track right of way. How could this be banked for future use if a building occupies the land?