Without changing Newfoundland joining Canada in 1949, how can we keep and expand the rail network so that it still runs in 2017? I'd like to see the track run the south shore from Port aux Basque to Terrenceville, as those towns along the coast even to today have limited to no road access. Plus run it from Bonne Bay to St. Anthony in the northern most towns.
To get our rail system through to the 1980s, I suggest we need to change the entire system to the standard North America track width or gauge. This will be expensive, so there is the option of keeping narrow gauge due to its much cheaper construction costs.
To take it to the next level, Newfoundland needs more money, so let's not sign the silly hydro deal with Quebec, and instead sell power at market rates. Use that cash to build a rail fixed link with Labrador https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newfoundland-Labrador_fixed_link