Mayor Vanek outlines task of railroad panel

Colfax Mayor Todd Vanek at the July 5 city council session pointed out the task of the advisory committee for the now idle railroad line between Colfax and Pullman is not to necessarily promote use of the right-of-way for a trail. Vanek, who is a member of the advisory committee, explained to the city council the assignment of the committee is to advise the state Department of Transportation on what residents believe is the best use of the railroad right-of-way in the future.

In addition to Vanek, the advisory committee includes representatives of the county, Pullman, Albion, WSU and owners of property along the idle rail line.

The Pullman Civic Trust has proposed converting the railroad right-of-way into a trail linking Colfax and Pullman. Other options include leaving the rails in place, rail banking the easement or returning the property to adjoining land owners.

Vanek said other public sessions on the fate of the railroad line will be conducted in Colfax, Albion, Pullman and at WSU.

The committee’s report will go to the Washington State Department of Transportation, which plans to present a plan to the legislature.