FEASIBILITY OF UTILIZING EXISTING RAILROAD RIGHTS-OF-WAY FOR TRANSIT COORIDORS IN URBAN AREAS

This study investigates and analyzes the feasibility of using existing railroad rights-of-way for public transit facilities in the urbanized areas of Texas. The study's intent is to assist transit planners, particularly in the Dallas, Houston, and Fort Worth areas, and provide guidance in developing public transportation services in conjunction with private railroad facilities. Information presented in this report should prove valuable to public officials in planning transit services and in negotiating arrangements with private railroad companies. The study was designed to meet the following objectives: 1) to identify, survey, and assess U.S. transit projects which utilize railroad rights-of-way within major urbanized areas; 2) to identify, investigate and summarize the institutional, jurisdictional and legal constraints and concerns associated with the joint use of rail facilities; 3) to identify and assess construction and oprational considerations of high capacity transit systems operating within existing railroads rights-of-way in major urban areas; and 4) to assess the general feasibility and potential of utilizing existing railroad rights-of-way for public transportation purposes in major urban areas within the State of Texas. Through 1) a comprehensive review of literature and 2) surveys of 63 public transportation agencies, 23 private railroad companies, and 26 professional organizations, 14 urbanized areas and transit authorities in North America were identified as examples of successful joint operations of transit on railroad rights-of-way. The report summarizes the information gathered and relates the experiences, concerns and practices of urban areas in other states and Canada to the State of Texas.

  • Corporate Authors:

    Texas Transportation Institute

    Texas A&M University System, 1600 E Lamar Boulevard
    Arlington, TX  United States  76011

    Urban Mass Transportation Administration

    400 7th Street, SW
    Washington, DC  United States  20590
  • Authors:
    • Peterson, R L
    • Porterfield, C J
    • Peterson, H C
  • Publication Date: 1984-5

Media Info

  • Pagination: 387 p.

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00395216
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Report/Paper Numbers: UMTA-TX-09-8008-84
  • Contract Numbers: UMTA-TX-09-8008
  • Files: TRIS, USDOT
  • Created Date: May 31 1985 12:00AM