(1) Identify segments of railroad track in this state that:

(a) Are abandoned, threatened with abandonment or have physical characteristics that reduce freight service; and

(b) Have the potential for providing renewed, continued or improved rail service that would benefit the state or community beyond the cost involved.

(2) Develop and implement programs to encourage improvement of service over segments of railroad track identified under subsection (1) of this section.

(3) With the prior approval of the Oregon Transportation Commission, enter into agreements with the United States Government, a political subdivision in this state or any person to:

(a) Continue existing rail service on a segment of railroad track identified under subsection (1) of this section;

(b) Acquire a segment of railroad track identified under subsection (1) of this section to maintain existing or provide for future rail service;

(c) Rehabilitate or improve, to the extent necessary to permit more adequate and efficient rail service, railroad property on a segment of railroad track identified under subsection (1) of this section; or

(d) Provide funding for less expensive alternatives to rail service over a segment of railroad track identified under subsection (1) of this section.

(4) Do any act required of this state under rules adopted by the United States Secretary of Transportation under section 1654, title 49, United States Code, for allocation and distribution of funds to any state under section 1654, title 49, United States Code, for preserving or improving rail freight service in this state. [Formerly 761.205]

Note: 824.058 was added to and made a part of ORS chapters 823, 824, 825 and 826 by legislative action but was not added to ORS chapter 824 or any series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.