- Passenger Rail
VRAN supports the development of inter-city passenger rail service, provided by Amtrak or other carriers, to serve both the Eastern and Western rail corridors. VRAN supports the use of these corridors to provide passenger service to Boston, Albany, New York City and Montreal in whatever route configurations are financially viable and offer the greatest range of travel options to the public. Further, VRAN supports the development of Commuter Rail Service in communities where rail offers a viable alternative to commuting by automobile.
· Rail yards and Transloading Facilities:
Efficient and effective switching capacity is crucial for a competitive rail system. VRAN supports the upgrade and, where necessary, relocation of rail yards to ensure this capacity and provide room for growth. Further, VRAN supports development of transloading facilities out of congested city centers to provide Vermont businesses efficient and cost effective access to rail.
- Freight Movement
VRAN will publicize the economic impediments created by inability of Vermont’s rail infrastructure to support industry-standard 286,000 LB loads. Vermont suffers economically because profitable rail traffic is being diverted around the state and in-state shippers cannot ship rail cars to capacity. VRAN will advocate for a prioritization of rail upgrades that will bring the rail system to industry standards in the shortest possible time.
- Environmental Impacts
VRAN acknowledges the significant environmental benefits of rail over highway.
The movement of freight and passengers in a manner that takes advantage of Vermont’s rail network are in the interest of all Vermonters.
- Economic Development
Preserving Vermont’s renowned quality of life depends on maintaining our rural character while providing meaningful employment opportunities for all residents. VRAN will advocate with constituents and policy makers the importance of preserving the limited commercial and industrial properties that abut rail alignments for use in rail-oriented economic development. VRAN will encourage the development of transloading facilities to provide Vermont businesses cost effective access to rail.
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