The latest plan to make Atlanta the place to live and visit (we're talking about the City of Atlanta, not the Metro Area) is to build a trolley system.
The proponents argue that the project would be ready to go quickly, would create jobs and would lower traffic on Peachtee Street... especially in the middle of the day (the people that work along P'tree might be able to hop a trolley instead of driving to lunch). This would reduce pollution and provide a cleaner transport than busses.
Detractors argue that this isn't the most brilliant way to spend $81,000,000. With the planned 3.6 miles of track, that equates to $22.5M per mile. Compare this to the Disneyland Monorail System, which cost $1,000,000/mile in 1959 (that would be just under $7.3M/mile in 2009 dollars). Further, those that think a trolley would be a good idea think that connecting the Georgia World Congress Center, GA Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola and downtown hotels would be better. This would allow tourists and convention attendees to use the system.
So, what do you think? Is this a good use of $81,000,000 from the stimulus bill?
from LaneBailey.com
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I'd love to hear from you...
I think our city leaders will find the most creative ways to spend our money we can ever imagine. Here in Tennessee, they built a commuter train from Lebanon to nashville in 2006. Nobody talks about it, because averages 900 passengers per day.
Considering that the startup cost using existing track and used trains was still $41 million, at 32 miles long, it was considered the most cost effective commuter rail start-up in the nation. Even so, with only 900 riders per day average, it's cost per rider is fairly high.
At $45,555 per passenger, It's very expensive. And you still need your car to drive to the train.
I'm sure they are all looking for ways to spend the money. Long term we need to do something that will be long lasting and will create jobs.
Larry - Private companies won't do that... wonder why?
Terry - I agree.