Why is passenger rail so important to Georgia?
It’s all about maintaining our state’s competitiveness. We must do everything we can to strengthen our competitive position and avoid undermining our own strategy of developing the best port and airport on the East Coast. Transportation has always been vital to the growth and prosperity of Georgia. Passenger rail is the next step in our economic development
What’s the first step for passenger rail?
Georgians for Passenger Rail is supporting an initial passenger rail line from Macon to Atlanta. This would be the first segment of an eventual rail line that will link cities around the state and region. We commissioned a study by The Brookings Institution to define the economic impact of this rail line. To read the Executive Summary of the report, click here.
Will new rail lines be constructed?
More than 5,000 miles of rail lines already exist in Georgia. While many sections will have to be rebuilt, most of the right-of-way to reconnect Georgia cities is available. Some new lines would be required, and eventually a high-speed rail network will create new modern rail corridors.
How will rail service be funded?
The Brookings Institution study outlines a variety of possible funding methods that can be used. The passage of the Transportation Investment Act or 2010 (HB 277) opens many possibilities for public transportation funding. The Transportation SPLOST referendum is scheduled for a vote in July of 2012.
Where will rail stops be located along the Macon to Atlanta route?
Generally commuter rail stops are spaced 7 – 15 miles apart, about one per county. The Brookings Institution study modeled stops in Hapeville, Morrow, Hampton, Griffin, Forsyth and Macon, but that is subject to change. There is also potential for other towns and communities to link into the rail line through van or bus service. Because of the scalable nature of passenger rail service, stations could be added and service frequency increased to add capacity.
Why was the Macon line selected as the pilot rail operation?
The Macon-Atlanta line makes sense for many reasons:
• Existing underutilized track is available.
• There is strong support along the route.
• Federal support for this line is available now,
This investment also drives economic benefits into the center of Georgia, creating support for a much-needed secondary growth corridor for the region.
What other Georgia communities are interested in passenger rail service?
Contractors for the Georgia DOT are evaluating the potential alignments and service to Chattanooga. There are local groups forming in Columbus, Savannah and Augusta to put passenger rail on the local agenda. Reconnecting these cities by rail service will generate economic development, will help unify the state, and will stimulate new opportunities in the corridors between these cities.
What are the barriers to implementation of passenger rail service in Georgia?
Since this service would be operated largely on existing rail lines, it is essential that freight service not be adversely affected. Investments to increase rail efficiency and capacity require funding, but just as important, Georgia needs to invest in internal expertise and capacity in rail to establish priorities and pursue a rail program. State investments in freight rail capacity will reduce congestion on our highways and support a more balanced transportation program. Historically Georgia has had very little flexibility in transportation funding.
