DTFRDV-99-H-60003     

U.S. Department of Transportation, July 1999

Contact: File Located at FRA

The Midwest Regional Rail Initiative (MWRRI) Steering Committee and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) requested that Transportation Economics and Management Systems (TEMS) evaluate the comparative life cycle costs of three technologies within the context of proposed MWRRS (MWRR System) operations.  As part of its demonstration project work, the FRA is evaluating various technologies for operation in North America.  In the Northeast Corridor, which has the highest population densities in the U.S., train power is electric and capable of operating up to 150 mph.  However, elsewhere in the U.S., population density is lower and electric traction is simply too expensive.  The FRA is seeking to develop other forms of traction for higher speed rail service to overcome the expense of electric traction. 

Three distinct technologies were evaluated for use in the MWRRS.  The evaluation included operating performance, life cycle costs, safety considerations, and critical issues to consider for equipment acquisition.  It was determined that all three technologies could operate in the MWRRS environment, at different levels of cost-effectiveness.  It was determined that two of the three technologies could achieve positive operating cost ratios for each corridor, consistent with the MWRRI Phase I financial plan.  It was determined, based on statements from the manufacturers supported by the judgment of a panel of experts, that all three technologies could be developed to Tier I safety standards and to MWRRI specifications within the timeframe established for MWRRS implementation, assuming a prompt initiation of the specification and bid process.  

*Unable to find costs.