You're on the mark when it comes to ripping out our rail infrastructure. Once those tracks are gone - they're gone forever, and with the need for a more sustainable mode of transportation growing with every gas tank fillup, I am ashamed that this topic of a light rail commuter line isn't even on the radar screen in this city.

The existing track will never be used for a light rail commuter line. They are inadequate and need to be replaced including a new signalling system. There are costs involved in maintaining a light rail commuter system.

A better alternative, at least in the interim (until we have the population and density), is a busway system, like the very succesful Transitway in Ottawa.

While that may be true Vincent, once the tracks are ripped up and the land is gone, we'll never have the opportunity. For once we have an opportunity to be ahead of the game. Once these lands are sold or converted into trails and parks an option for our future will be gone.

Contary to how this administration operates, I would still like to see some open dialogue on this subject, Vincent. You may be 100% true (likely are) but I still want to see a public debate about the merits and pitfalls of this type of investment. That includes your suggestion on Ottawa-style busways.

A Channel News went on at length about selling off the lands to abutting landowners or "Rails To Trails", which at least would still keep these corridors in the cities hands. Like BBS said, once it's gone - it's gone!

Don't lie to yourself. The political representatives of the Windsor-Essex region have romanticized the concept of "gentrifying" Windsor to attract financially-secure retirees; considering Canada's demographics, said process is inevitable. Moreover, it is virtually unpatriotic to not drive in this area. Deplorably, many people in this area have been conditioned to stigmatize public transportation.

Of course, there remains the issue of inadequate health care. Some county municipalities are already using municipal funds to attract doctors and specialists. What's stopping every other Canadian municipality from introducing a municipal health tax?

I guess I'll keep my rose coloured glasses on and keep on pushing for (what I see as) the right things for this community - regardless of whether they're seen as pie-in-the-sky or not. It sort of makes me sad when people have all but given up on this city.

In all probability, an influx of retirees, coupled with the start of several major construction projects and an exodus of young people, will increase the cost of living in Windsor. I simply can't overlook the fact that Canada has become a very expensive place to live. Ultimately, the "infrastructure deficit" is both negative and positive. Realistically, the demographics of Canada will make Canada a nation of caregivers, which is fine, albeit expensive.

I think a small rail system would work well in the Windsor-Essex County region, as it would help to integrate the entire transportation network. Realistically, however, it is not affordable at this point in time.

I, like you, view Windsor as a microcosm, a "template", if you will. However, I'm not confident the "car culture" will die anytime soon, especially in this area.

I think some Windsorites want Mr. Zekelman to become a philanthropist.