More rail studies in Sugar Land

I guess this is progress.

A commuter rail along the U.S. 90A corridor is a workable transportation option for passengers commuting from Fort Bend County to Houston, according to a feasibility study released Friday.

"The future of Fort Bend County depends on an effective passenger rail line," said Leonard Scarcella, Stafford's mayor and an avid supporter of a Fort Bend commuter line.

The findings from the $250,000 study, conducted through the Houston-Galveston Area Council, were presented to a committee of state and local officials.

The committee recommended that federal, state and local leaders organize a second study called an alternative analysis, which would begin this fall or next year.

The next study, estimated to cost between $1 million and $2 million, would take a more detailed look at commuter rail and examine all possible transportation options in the corridor, including buses and the use of other rights of way for rail.

It also would examine other issues, including noise, safety and grade-crossing traffic.

I guess the fact that the studies are getting more expensive is a sign that they're getting more serious. I fear it also means it'll take longer, too. It sure would've been nice to have something in place while the downtown spur is being rebuilt, wouldn't it? Maybe next time.

Posted by Charles Kuffner on February 21, 2004 to Planes, Trains, and Automobiles | TrackBack