Strategy for Phased Implementation
Phase I: Conversion to Unpaved Trail
A popular unpaved recreational
trail in Washington state
Goal:
A gravel trail that is used for walking, mountain biking, and other related activities
Steps:
- Remove rails and ties and sell for salvage value
- Remove/control all vegetation growing in the rail bed
- Fill any areas where the rail bed has eroded
- Spread a thin cap coat of crushed limestone to provide a smooth surface
- Install wood decking and railings on existing bridges
- Paint cross-walks on all at-grade crossings
Timetable:
Work began in 2006 upon approval and was completed in 2007
Cost:
Approximately $200,000
Fundraising Strategy:
Self-funding through sale of salvaged rails and ties
Phase II: Development of Paved "Tram-Trail"
The paved trail would have bridges much like this one
(though slightly wider to allow microbus traffic)
Goal:
A 10-foot wide asphalt trail that serves both recreational users and rubber-wheel tram transport
Steps:
- Lay a 4-inch thick cap of asphalt for the length of the trail
- Build 10 foot wide by 20-foot long asphalt pull-outs about every 1/4 mile along the trail
- Install button- and radio-activated traffic signals at three busiest road crossings (Western Connector, Blue Ridge, and Sulphur Springs)
- Install radio-activated retractable bollards at all nine at-grade road crossings
- Replace trestles (7 total) with pre-fabricated 10-foot wide bridges
- Install signage and striping
- Purchase two "microbus" trams (see above) and initiate transit on a limited schedule
Timetable:
Fundraising is ongoing, and on-the-ground work will be initiated once all funds are raised; completion by end of 2008
Cost:
Between 1.5 million and 2 million for all capital costs (including purchase of microbuses)
Fundraising Strategy:
A combination of federal appropriations, state transportation enhancement funds, local recreation funds, and private donations to be raised by a local steering committee representing all of the major interests in the trail
Phase III: Introduction of Commuter Rail
Goal:
To build a commuter rail line along the corridor at some point in the future
Steps:
- Preserve the integrity of the rail corridor and bed through active use as a recreational and rubber-wheel tram line
- Begin planning for light rail when population growth and transit demand are sufficient to support it
Timetable:
One to several decades
Cost:
Unknown
Fundraising Strategy:
To be determined