contact Darryl Fields at 816/474-4240.
MARC Home > Transportation Department > Transportation Studies > Regional Commuter Rail Feasibility Study > Study Overview
Regional Commuter Rail Feasibility Study
Study Overview
Study completed September 2002
Introduction
In the Greater Kansas City area, the idea of a commuter rail transit system is of increasing interest.Along with playing a role in addressing the challenges of traffic congestion and the high costs of building and maintaining roads and bridges, commuter rail transit is now known to be a viable option in a wide range of communities — including those with lower population densities like San Jose, Calif., and Nashville, Tenn. Further, commuter rail can have a significant economic impact, spurring development and renewal in areas near transit centers.
Study Phases
 |
| Nineteen different rail lines serving both sides of the state line were initially considered in the Commuter Rail Feasibility study. |
Initial Corridor Screening
The Regional Commuter Rail Feasibility Study included several phases. After a review of current transportation and rail data, the study team completed an Initial Corridor Screening. The Initial Corridor Screening looked at 19 existing rail lines and considered issues of potential ridership along those routes, as well as physical constraints like rights-of-way and track conditions. The Screening included input from a range of community members and transportation professionals. By its completion in early 2001, the Screening identified existing corridors that appeared promising for commuter rail transit use.
Detailed Assessment
The next step was conducting a Detailed Assessment, which looked at the corridors that seemed likely to effectively support commuter rail. This assessment further refined ridership estimates, examined shared use and infrastructure needs, projected operating and capital costs, and considered the economic and environmental impacts and opportunities of those lines. The Detailed Assessment was completed in August 2002.
Implementation Strategy
The study team provided a recommended Implementation Strategy, including a step-by-step action plan for identifying priority corridors, determining financial requirements, developing institutional arrangements and incorporating freight needs. The Implementation Strategy also outlined how commuter rail fits into the development of an overall transportation strategy for the area.