TxDOT Research Library - TxDOT Research Project

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Transportation and Economic Impact of Texas Shortline Railroads

Project Summary

While several recent studies have examined the role of Class I rail transportation on large cities, regions within the state, or provided even statewide analysis, this project will analyze the transportation and economic impacts of the state's Class III (or Short line railroads that have an annual operating revenue of less than $20 million) including their impacts upon smaller, tail-served communities. Many Shortline railroads service communities that only have one significant industry and if that industry fails. The entire community would suffer economically as a result. Increasing truck traffic would both increase roadway maintenance requirements and potentially reduce safety of others using roadways where Class III rail service is lost or not available.

The research team will identity direct and indirect customer bases of the Short line, conduct interviews with Short line railroad officials and the customers. and follow up with interviews of local community leaders (i.e. mayors, economic development directors. Rural Rail Transportation District (RRTD) officials, etc.) to determine detailed roles and plans for the Short line network of the state. Data collected during the project will then analyzed to document the impacts of Short line railroad operations for the state and its local communities.

Project Number

0-6887

Status

Completed

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