We support your editorial calling for a long-overdue review of the state's plan for the 141-mile Remsen-Lake Placid railroad corridor that runs through the heart of the Adirondacks ("Rail? Trail? Decide, N.Y." May 13).
After 18 years, the time has come for a review of this plan. The economy, population, interests and activities of the region have changed. The future of the corridor is now a topic of considerable public discussion.
Nine towns and villages and one county within the corridor have voted for immediate review of the plan, or removal of the former New York Central tracks to allow recreational trails.
Almost 12,000 people have registered support for pursuing development of a multiuse, all-season, recreational trail on the corridor between Lake Placid and Old Forge, with the first section of trail linking Lake Placid to Tupper Lake.
Although chosen as the "preferred alternative" use of the corridor in the 1995 plan, restored regular train service has not materialized. The majority of the corridor has not had regular passenger or freight service for more than 40 years.
The economic, environmental, social and recreational issues and opportunities surrounding this valuable corridor need a thorough examination in which the residents of New York, and especially the Adirondack region, have ample opportunity to voice their opinions in a proper public forum. This can only happen by initiating an immediate review and update of the Remsen-Lake Placid Travel Corridor Unit Management Plan.
Robin Dropkin
executive director, Parks & Trails New York, Albany