This resolve requires the Department of Transportation to develop and issue requests for proposals for each unused railroad line owned by the State no later than 180 days after the effective date of this resolve. The department must evaluate proposals based on criteria outlined in the requests for proposals, which may include financial feasibility and potential economic benefits to the State, consistency with environmental and community development objectives and a proposer's qualifications and ability to execute the proposed project. The department must allow proposals to include traditional rail services as well as innovative uses for recreational or commercial activities as long as they do not preclude the preservation of rights-of-way for future freight or passenger rail purposes in accordance
44 with the State Railroad Preservation and Assistance Act. The department must submit a
45 report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over
46 transportation matters detailing the results of the request for proposals process within 90
47 days after the submission deadline.