Chatham-Kent staff are investigating the possibility of converting old CASO rail lines into multi-use trails.
Entegrus currently owns the 35 km stretch from CK's western border to Communication Rd.
Councillor Trevor Thompson suggested the move, with the goal of one day having a trail network that stretches much larger.
"There could be 70 km end to end, and that's just a little section of it," explains Thompson. "Right now it could potentially stretch all the way from Tecumseh to St. Thomas. The economic impact can't be undersold... this could be huge for tourism and the health of the community."
CK already owns some inactive rail lines, including the CSX line that runs between Wallaceburg and Dresden. When asked why that line can't be converted into a trail, Thompson says they still hope the land can be bought for use.
"At this point we're still trying to find someone to operate it. If that falls through, then yes you could tie every community together in one fell swoop. Sure you might be 10 km off the line, but if you're an avid biker, 10 km is nothing," says Thompson.
Staff will present a report to council at a later date, discussing the viability of an agreement with CK and Entegrus.
