Consider elevating rail line
The issue of a reopened rail line continues to attract comment. However, the barrier to getting it built is still largely money and the more it is delayed the more it will become out of reach and be a billion dollars in another decade.
I do not know whether alternate rail systems have been considered to ground level, but there are other well-proven options, ones which are less costly, less liability (no road level crossings) and easier to operate. I am speaking of elevated electric rail, monorail and even maglev.
This option deserves to be considered and studied. There are several manufactures (mostly European and Asian) that would jump at the chance to build and operate such a system. Consider, no crossings needed, no new bridges, no vegetation maintenance except for some tree trimming. Elevated stations would be new but new stations must built anyway. Vancouver is the most local example. But the less cost and simpler construction methods could mean a rail system from Victoria to Nanaimo in 20 years with branches to Sooke and other destinations. The destinations become more feasible to ground level right-of-way to be created.
Further consider the reduced impact on the environment, reduced carbon emissions etc. and it is much easier to expand. Yes there are some risks but they are few against the removal of some 40-plus crossings. So, I invite all the parties involved in plan for the rebirth of our railway to consider this option.
Bob Ward
Cobble Hill