Compare Norfolk's cost per mile with other light rail systems recently built around the country and you'll see our Starter Line is very cost-effective:
Norfolk - $38,918,918
Charlotte (Lynx Blue Line) - $48,197,916
Portland (Interstate Avenue - MAX Yellow Line) - $55,172,413
Denver (West Corridor Line) - $58,429,752
Phoenix (Central/East Valley) - $68,965,517
Portland (South Corridor Line) - $69,361,445
Los Angeles (Expo Line Phase 1) - $100,930,232
Now that you know the facts, don't fall for naysayers generalizations about light rail construction costs. Not only is Norfolk's Starter Line the cheapest out there, but the Virginia Beach extension should cost even less per mile given the straightaway railroad Right-Of-Way that's being purchased.
10 comments:
Then let's build it!
Does Light Rail equals Heavy Taxes? Tell me the costs of subsidy per rider. Who bears that cost, if any? Show me the business case that makes it a sensible investment. Dollars and sense please.
Bob K.
here we go again
Well it appears that the rationale for going ahead is based solely on a the cost per mile comparison with other cities. (Refer anonymous 7:42)
And of course, if the cost per mile has already been determined, why is study being performed?
Bob K
BK
i believe it's all FTA requirements. but the cost hasn't been determined. Henry was noting that because it's primarily on a ROW (unlike the Norfolk alignment which is only partially) it will possibly be cheaper. correct me if i'm wrong
Who will be responsible for security on the stations and train. Norfolk and/or Virginia Beach (police), HRT, or will there be a transit police force???
Bob K.
Bob,
1. The cost per mile is for the Norfolk Starter Line.
2. HRT will provide security.
What are the costs of thr required feeder bus system - and who pays them?
What are the costs of the required park & ride facilities - and who pays them?
What are the costs of the roadways the feeder buses use - and who pays those costs?
Who pays HRT's legal fees when they are sued? What are those costs?
What are the projected costs of lawsuits against HRT due to their failure to ptotect the riders and the damages to property owners adversely impacted by the LRT system?
Reid's 4th & 5th questions are red herrings.
The first three involve capital costs. Given the stimulus money available - and a probable second round of stimulus - there is an unprecedented amount of Federal capital money available. With the Virginia Beach DEIS in the pipes, we can be "shovel ready" for the second round of stimulus.
Properly conceived Light Rail Transit has positively effected communities where installed. We need transportation alternatives, like what the rest of the developed world enjoys. Getting rid of a car is getting rid of a huge expense. No, reduction of car use will NOT negatively effect the economy! The U.S. will continue to fall behind European and Asian countries that are better developed, or becoming better developed than we are.
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