Passenger Rail Service In Vermont

Concerns Regarding the DMU Project

While a DMU upgrade will dramatically improve gas mileage, it is almost wishful thinking to hope that this one step alone will dramatically improve rider ship. Much more must be done to increase passenger loads. I have written my thoughts in a letter to several members of the Vermont Rail Council hoping to develop interest in more aggressive changes.  It expressed my concerns, and put forth a proposal to re-deploy the new DMU equipment.

Just as alarming is the fact that no one in the U.S. has a track record running DMU equipment on long haul routes. While Colorado Railcar states that they can carry up to 200 passengers (counting standees) on a commuter run, they fail to mention equipment range. Their history and focus are on commuter runs. All their advertised customers run short trips. Undoubtedly the mechanical reliability is there, but experience in providing appropriate furnishings and passenger amenities for long trips may be lacking. An appropriate car interior is critical to success. Some specific concerns and questions are listed separately.

Updated 03/20/2007 21:20