8.4. SR 05-21-2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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C. Operating Assumptions: 1. Due to the inability to tum equipment consists at certain of the proposed Minnesota terminal stations, Alternative Routes I and 3 will require a "push-pull" locomotive configuration. This arrangement provides for a locomotive unit on each end of the train. 2. For each of the four alternative routes, schedules, infrastructure requirements, operating costs, rolling stock, ridership and revenue forecasts will be developed based on current timetable speeds up to 79 mph, where practical. 3. -T#is study assumes the proposed new frequencies will not accommodate checked baggage. 4. The equipment consist will include a food service car (cafe, lounge or bistro car) with food and beverage. service but will not include a full diner. 5. This study assumes .the train consist will-utilize bi-level Superliner-type equipment, Simi-tar to the Empire Bvifder-consist. A~ntralrrecommends-the evaiuaton~f-sirrgte- level or non-Superliner equipment be set aside for a more in-depth study in the future. 6. The equipment consist will be coaches plus food service car, but no sleeper cars. 7. Locomotive costs will be based on the use of P42 locomotives. if multiple or push- pull power consists are required, the equipment will be locomotives only, assuming there is no availability of Amtrak NPCU (Non-Powered Control Unit) equipment for use in this service. 8. Assuming the proposed second frequency running time is similar to the current Empire Builder running time, the study will examine the effects on trip schedule with the elimination of the extended rest stop in Winona, the addition of a Milwaukee Airport stop, no multiple stops at a single station, and no checked baggage. D. The Study To conduct the study, Amtrak will perform an analysis of the existing railroad infrastructure along the potential routes and will: 1. Gather background information, review prior studies, and collect demographic information from available sources for the purpose of providing an overview of the alternative routes and proposed station stops. 2. Coordinate, schedule, and conduct a field inspection of the potential routes to assess the existing railroad infrastructure, freight railroad operations, freight railroad traffic volumes, capacity issues, and local yard and terminal operations. 3. Assess the impact of proposed route station stops on existing freight and passenger operations and on infrastructure in the vicinity of the stations. 4. Coordinate with host railroads to identify specific issues related to operations, infrastructure and capacity. 5. Consult with host railroads to determine the need for RTC modeling and the extent of a capacity analysis. Based on host railroad input and. field inspections, identify specific required infrastructure improvements along the various alternative routes. Page S