Short Line Opportunities?

[Anonymous]

I see that Gary Marino of Rail America said recently that there are a number of good short line opportunities for both purchasing Class 1 trackage and independent short lines that are for sale. Anybody have any idea what might be sold off and by whom?

LC

[Anonymous]

Here's the quote from Gary Marino:

Marino concluded, "The acquisition environment in North America is stronger than it has been in recent years with several Class I railroads and private rail owners looking to divest of branch/short line rail properties. We believe the anticipated sale of our international railroads positions RailAmerica to take advantage of strategic opportunities as they become available in North America."

[jsanchez]

I think the moratorium is over from the Conrail/CSX/NS merger on selling trackage, BNSFand CP rail are looking at selling more lines. So there are more opportunities for shortline acquisitions. Not sure about CSX or UP, I know CSX sold a lot of trackage in Kentucky recently.