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Re: SMART real target of Novato lawsuit?
Author: Al Stangenberger
Date: 08-01-2008 - 11:32
I don't understand the assertion that if NWP were capable of handling "light rail" then it would not be capable of handling freight traffic.
Admittedly light rail can handle steeper grades than one would normally use for freight, but that's not the case on the SMART portion of the NWP. It's already built to freight railroad standards and has been for a century.
As for having overhead wire, PUC General Order 26-D (section 2.1) specifies the minimum overhead clearance for new structures (which includes wire) as 22.5 feet above the rail. Section 2.4 of General Order 26-D specifies the maximum height for a normal-service freight car as fifteen feet.
Admittedly light rail can handle steeper grades than one would normally use for freight, but that's not the case on the SMART portion of the NWP. It's already built to freight railroad standards and has been for a century.
As for having overhead wire, PUC General Order 26-D (section 2.1) specifies the minimum overhead clearance for new structures (which includes wire) as 22.5 feet above the rail. Section 2.4 of General Order 26-D specifies the maximum height for a normal-service freight car as fifteen feet.
