Railroads 99 Years Lease, What is this?

[Brian Waller]

Hello Everyone,

I am trying to find out, What is The RR's 99 Years Lease all about?

I know that every Railroads have a 99 Years Lease, so I think. So if anyone can help me out here that will be fine.

Brian Waller

 

[Pat]

I suspect you are talking about one railroad leasing another for 99 years. At one time leasing another railroad was a method to take control of it without the difficulties associated with an outright purchase. In railroad histories 99 years or 999 years seem like common lease terms.

I've wondered what happens when a 99 year lease expires and the track is abandoned and the facilities are gone.