Problem
A railroad branch line to a landfill site is to be constructed. It is expected that the railroad line will be used for 15 years, after which the landfill site will be closed and the land turned back to agricultural use. The railroad track and ties will be removed at that time. In building the railroad line, either treated or untreated wood ties may be used. Treated ties have an installed cost of $6 and a 10-year life; untreated ties are $4.50 with a 6-year life. If at the end of 15 years the ties then in place have a remaining useful life of 4 years or more, they will be used by the railroad elsewhere and have an estimated salvage value of $3 each. Any ties that are removed at the end of their service life, or too close to the end of their service life to be used elsewhere, can be sold for 50c each. Determine the most economical plan for the initial railroad ties and their replacement for the 15-year period. Make a present worth analysis assuming 8% interest.
The response should include a reference list. Double-space, using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.