«

Arnold aims to attract fans of magnetic rail
Marin Supervisor Judy Arnold is no friend of SMART.

Arnold, who opposed the 2006 SMART train tax measure when she was running for supervisor, hasn't warmed up to the proposed Marin-Sonoma commuter train.



She's looking for alternatives and planning a public presentation on medium-speed magnetic levitation. "Maglev" is a high-speed monorail-type train that depends on electromagnetic force for friction-free propulsion.

"I think it could be a 21st century solution, rather than a 19th century solution," Arnold said.

Supervisor Charles McGlashan, a SMART board member and champion of the train, said he's willing to listen.

The cost of construction and its heavy use of electricity have prevented maglev from being seriously considered in the past.

Even though another SMART train tax is headed for the November 2008 ballot, McGlashan says he's open to alternatives.

"I'm willing to take a look, always," he said.