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Re: SP Monterey Local memory
Author: Jonathan Sapp
Date: 07-21-2008 - 09:48
Yes, TAMC doesn't realize reality. There is no way that the very small number of potential commuters who potentially would be interested in taking the train from the peninsula to the Bay Area would "pencil out". Even if millions were spent on track upgrades on the line and on the main from Castroville to Gilroy, it's unlikely that they could generate much tourist traffic.
They're concentrating their efforts now on extending CalTrain from Gilroy to Salinas, but that's also a stretch. There aren't that many Bay Area commuters who live in Monterey County.
TAMC has entertained a dinner train operator's idea of running trains on the branch, but the costs associated with getting it up to snuff again aren't economically sound. A few years ago a group of speeder owners wanted to use the tracks, but the agency said no, because they didn't want to encumber the potential passenger operation.
Regarding freight, the only potential users are Dole for a few reefers; the sand plant in Marina, though it's unlikely that they would have much interest, due to their small output; and Granite Rock in Seaside to transfer materials from their quarry near Watsonville, again very few potential loads.
They're concentrating their efforts now on extending CalTrain from Gilroy to Salinas, but that's also a stretch. There aren't that many Bay Area commuters who live in Monterey County.
TAMC has entertained a dinner train operator's idea of running trains on the branch, but the costs associated with getting it up to snuff again aren't economically sound. A few years ago a group of speeder owners wanted to use the tracks, but the agency said no, because they didn't want to encumber the potential passenger operation.
Regarding freight, the only potential users are Dole for a few reefers; the sand plant in Marina, though it's unlikely that they would have much interest, due to their small output; and Granite Rock in Seaside to transfer materials from their quarry near Watsonville, again very few potential loads.
