Cars versus Trains update

The latest in the Cars versus Trains battle for our transportation time and dime:

* "Carmakers worldwide have been suffering amid slowing global growth, high raw material costs and fierce competition."  This could be an early sign of the long term decline of the car (we can only hope)

* In Chicago, trains are starting to help clog traffic.  And $240 million in new funds "won't end its traffic nightmares," says a recent AP article.  Each day about 1,200 trains pass through Chicago, and apparently make a lot of cars stop and watch.  Rail traffic is predicted to double over the next 20 years, they say.  (We say more than double - try 1,000%)

* BTW, if you ever are driving on Chicago toll ways, notice those restaurants stretching across the highway. In 1960s when they were built, we actually sat in them and watched traffic. Traffic was pretty exciting back then....

* Finally, and I know you're interested in how many light rail systems I've ridden, I get to add St. Louis to my light-rail adventures.  St. Louis gets an "A" rating from me.  Did a seminar there this month, and 25% of the participants took light rail instead of driving (well, ah, o.k. 3 out of 12, but it's Still 25%). What's your thoughts on Cars vs. Trains? Driving more, less....?

Comments

[Terry Newman]

I'm all for mass transit but last week in Northern Calif. the BART system had a computer glitch which fowled up everyone's commute for 2 days.

[Rich Harrison]

thought you might find this interesting…

State Legislative Hearing on Expanding Rail Service to be held in Asheville, North Carolina

http://www.awnc.org/about-news.mv?command=readnews&news=154

Have a great weekend!

Rich Harrison

Executive Director

Foothills Connect Business & Technology Center

(828) 447-5292 - Cell, (828) 288-1650

[email protected]

[Erik Holden]

In the future won't most people still have to drive to the train station or live in cramped high density residential areas? In my vision of the future, I keep my wide open space in the suburbs and maybe buy a hydrogen powered car.

Thanks to all of you future train people for easing my commute, much appreciated.

I agree, for service and convenience the St. Louis light rail deserves an "A" but at some of the stops, you pray for the doors to close quickly!

[wolfy]

I live in Chicago and don't drive. But I remember all these long freight trains I waited for. It is a trade off.