...Hypothetical in NY
A team of consultants has recommended the revival of passenger rail on Staten Island's North Shore railway. Their report said implementing train service is a major step the borough could take to meet future transportation needs. The two-year Transit Needs Assessment Study for S.I., commissioned by NYC Transit and released in late December, called for a broader study to outline the steps necessary for the railroad's reopening. The Needs Assessment also proposed creation of five transit hubs for local buses, express buses and trains at St. George, Port Richmond, Grasmere, Eltingville and the New Springville mall. The proposed $129.5 million package -- $104.5 million of which would be needed for the North Shore rail service-- aims to encourage more Staten Islanders to abandon cars for mass transit. Smaller scale suggestions for the island include instituting skip-stop service on the Staten Island Railway, purchasing higher capacity express buses, and hiring a St. George terminal manager to coordinate transit modes at the hub.NYC Transit is waiting for public response before taking a position on the proposals.
S.I. Borough President Guy Molinari hailed the North Shore rail recommendation as "a dream come true." Molinari has long pushed for passenger and freight service on the line. He cited a recent North Shore Railroad Economic Impact Study that says revival of the freight line would help new and existing businesses.
After gathering public reactions to the study, the TA will release a final report in February. It is unclear how most of of the recommendations could be incorporated into MTA capital and operating budgets. S.I. Advance, Daily News
