Sweet deal proposed to overcome opposition to rail project

While opponents of a proposed new rail line through Northwest Indiana race to compile their arguments and alternatives by a June 15 deadline, those behind the project have already come up with a deal they hope will win over landowners.

If the project wins government approval in the next year and a half, the landowners in the path of the 278-mile rail line will be offered $20,000 per acre, free residential electrical service and the ability to access the rail lines.

That last item is being called a “game changer” by Frank Patton, chairman of Great Lakes Basin Transportation, speaking last week at a Times Editorial Board meeting…Please click here to read Bob Kasarda’s editorial piece in the Times.