I read the article in the paper, but there wasn't enough information for me to come down on either side of the argument. If the corridor is only as wide as two tracks, and both would be needed for commuter service, then I probably come down on the side of rail restoration. However, I do wonder why ridership declined to the point that line was essentially abandoned. What is different now? Are there better connections to Manhattan now? Has the population of the areas increased in the past 50 years?
If there is enough room for both a linear park and the railroad, then it seems the park/trail supporters are being selfish. I live in the Adirondacks, so maybe others on this forum who are more familiar with the terrain can supply some answers.