WILKES-BARRE, PA — Facing a standing-room-only audience of community members and rail advocates, the Luzerne County Council voted unanimously Tuesday night to reject a proposed $8.2 million deal to sell the county’s 56-mile rail network to R.J. Corman Railroad Group.
The council’s 11-0 veto overrules a decision made last week by the Luzerne County Redevelopment Authority. The authority had initially voted to accept the purchase offer from R.J. Corman—the current operator of the short-line system—despite an independent citizen evaluation committee unanimously recommending a competing $10 million proposal from Reading and Northern Railroad.
During a passionate hour of public comment, residents and local stakeholders overwhelmingly urged lawmakers to block the Corman transaction. Supporters favored Reading and Northern's plan, which includes expanding regional freight service and constructing a passenger platform in downtown Wilkes-Barre to introduce tourist excursions connecting the city to Jim Thorpe and Pittston.
Under the terms of a prior litigation settlement governing the public asset, County Council maintained full authority to veto any purchase agreement. Following the council’s vote, the Luzerne County Redevelopment Authority and its affiliated Rail Corp. have until an Oct. 9 settlement deadline to decide whether to recommend an alternative buyer, such as Reading and Northern, for council approval.
If the authority fails to finalize a sale to a selected rail operator by the Oct. 9 deadline, ownership and operational possession of the tracks will automatically transfer directly to Luzerne County.
