I used the measure tool - the distance between Athens and Columbus using the Hocking Valley Railroad - the shortest route - is just about 75 miles. The route using the railroad connection that still physically exists is 88 miles. Not much farther, but the existing route appears to be somewhat windier so higher speed travel might not be possible.
It has several short tunnels, including this one under a rural airstrip:
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Pe...!4d-82.1995434
I'm curious to know if this tunnel predates the airport or if it was built specifically for this runway.