The study team will use a stand-alone model to develop ridership numbers. The model will provide estimates of market share for commuter rail within the corridors, with a goal of identifying the two or three most feasible corridors. The study team will begin to look at station locations, delve deeper into ridership numbers, and gather information on implementation. The group will be kept informed on the study. We need representation from Union Pacific.
Commuter rail looks at ways to get cars off of the highways.
Any discussion about commuter rail must consider freight rails' current and future usage, costs, and capacity on existing rails. There is a real concern about putting humans on existing freight lines without truly knowing that there is sufficient capacity to transport them safely. Many of the rails lines are already congested with freight use. Not likely as those lines are owned by competing railroad companies. Commuter, passenger and freight rails can co-exist, but each is developed for its own purpose.