The Maryland Midland is a class act. I followed the line from Highfield to Union Bridge and it is really beautiful country with excellent track. Could make a nice scenic railroad run, if it weren't for all the costs, even though it is fairly close to Washington and Baltimore.
The railroad used to go up the middle of the street in Union Bridge to get to the Lehigh Cement plant but they have now built a new siding to the east of town (go on MAPS.BING.COM and search for Union Bridge, MD- go east on Quaker Hill rd till you find Shepherds Mill rd. Click on aerial view and home in on Bird's Eye View)
Negatives? Could use a more diversified industry base.