The debate about whether the rail line on Vancouver Island should be restored are as long as the line itself.
There’s strong opinions on both the pro and con sides, with few people falling into what might be considered middle ground.
The bottom line, though, is a decision must be made by the federal government in a couple of weeks about providing funding for restoration of the railway.
It’s only been abandoned for 12 years so just think of the cost savings that could have been realized if restoration was done a decade ago. But here we are and the price of procrastination, if it comes to that, is going to be high.
But the railway could still be vital for Vancouver Island in so many ways that it’s time to get on with it.
The uses would be threefold – freight, tourism and commuting – and careful scheduling could make the funding put into it pay off.
The majority of those against it say the cost isn’t justified. But those putting forth that argument also want to see the line used for a walking trail or bike path.
The last thing we need is another trail. There are lots of them around now and one runs right alongside the abandoned line in Chemainus.
But so many benefits could come from restoring rail.
On the freight side, the Trans-Canada Highway is clogged with trucks hauling goods. Taking even a few of them off the road would be a good thing for the environment and congestion.
As for commuting, a case could certainly be made on the south end of the line, at least, between Nanaimo and Victoria, to have trains running that would provide an alternative to more cars on the road and a viable option for some workers travelling a portion of that distance.
Tourism will receive a big boost from a day trip or even a few hours that covers various communities.
All you have to do is look at the Kettle Valley Railway in the Okanagan as a model. There were skeptics when that train went into service, but it’s been a huge success.
That same success could be realized here, with special events revolving around the train, and deliver badly-needed tourism dollars to places like Chemainus.
@chemainusnews
don.bodger@chemainusvalleycourier.ca
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