Rail Stop in Hillsborough Looks Financially Viable

7/3/08 — A rail stop in Hillsborough could be financially viable, officials with the N.C. Department of Transportation and Amtrak have confirmed with Town of Hillsborough officials.

“We are at the front end of a multi-year process to bring rail service to Hillsborough, with indicators that obtaining rail service is a realistic possibility,” Hillsborough Mayor Tom Stevens said.

An Amtrak analysis indicates the expected impact of adding a station stop is a net gain of about $56,000.

“It’s a small amount considering Amtrak’s overall budget but enough to recommend moving forward with establishing a rail stop,” Stevens said.

On behalf of a number of citizens, he made a formal request for a study on the possibility of a rail stop.

“Especially given the cost of fuel, there is growing interest in transportation alternatives that are convenient and more economical,” the mayor said.

In addition to confirming the viability of such a service, Amtrak and DOT officials have provided information regarding the next steps needed for the town to obtain rail service. Moving forward involves a long-term planning process.

The town would need to further develop and adopt a concept plan of how rail service would fit into overall community development, such as plans for land use, road networks and transit, bike and pedestrian access. The rail service would need to coordinate well with other modes of transportation.

A comprehensive review of the local rail infrastructure, including nearby road and pedestrian crossings, would be needed.

The town also would need to locate a site for a rail/transit stop. Concurrently, the town is obtaining property in Central Hillsborough that has the potential to serve as a rail stop and transit center.

The town also would need to gain support from a variety of government agencies and private-sector affiliates to ensure its concept plan is integrated into town and regional initiatives and to help secure funding for construction of a rail stop.

Based on current costs, construction is estimated at about $1 million for a platform with lighting and a canopy and $5 million to $6 million for a station building.