To the editor:
If and when we upgrade the railroad between Saranac Lake and Tupper Lake, then eventually Utica to Lake Placid, it will draw more business for the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. We can have a recreational trail and railroad tracks running next to each other between Old Forge and Lake Placid that's not prohibitively expensive. The New York State Department of Transportation owns the Remsen-Lake Placid rail corridor, and they do very a good job maintaining it.
For the last time, New York state has no desire to remove the railroad tracks between Thendara and Lake Placid, so for those snowmobilers out there who like to use the Remsen-Lake Placid corridor, you need to relax and be respectful to the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. If it was ever turned into a multi-use recreational trail, it would not last long because it would quickly grow back into a forest. So those who are supporting ARTA (Adirondack Recreational Trail Advocates) downstate, please think twice if it's right or wrong before signing a petition to get rid of the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. I consider it being bad.
Anyone out there who is a train lover, listen up. We are always looking for new volunteers who want to car host. Please stop by the Lake Placid, Saranac Lake and Thendara train stations Saturdays and Sundays, May 26 through June 24; then every Wednesday through Sunday, June 27 through Sept. 2; Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 8 and 9; Sept. 12 through Oct. 8; and Saturday, Oct. 13 through Sunday, Oct. 21; or Utica Union Station between August and October. Please just give us your name, phone number, email address and mailing address, so we can get on board.
John Fitzgerald
Lake Clear