Speed

[Jim Holland]

Greetings!

Derrick J Brashear wrote:

> http://trfn.pgh.pa.us

> port authority is under "local organizations"

	I checked the site above and clicked on a few different areas finally coming 
to this particular location . . .:	
http://trfn.clpgh.org/patransit/capital.htm#STAGE II LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT IMPROVEMENTS
. . . which deals with upgrading Overbrook, Drake, and Library.  I thought that 
Library was a done deal, that Drake was an *extreme maybe* but *probably not* and that 
Overbrook was a shoe in.  See what you think:::::::

	Stage II includes the total reconstruction of the Overbrook and Drake lines, 
as well as upgrading of the Library line to modern light rail standards. These 
improvements, along with many others, will reduce travel times into Downtown 
Pittsburgh on the "T" by up to 20 percent. Under this project, Port Authority will 
also purchase 28 new light rail vehicles (LRV’S), modernize the Operations Control 
Center (OCC) and add approximately 2,100 park and ride spaces at five sites. 
	The new LRVs will be fully compatible with Port Authority’s existing fleet of 
55, and the life expectancy of the current 14-year-old fleet will be increased by the 
mid-life overhaul. The project will completely replace outdated technology at the 
Operations Control Center, including upgrades to computer hardware, software, console 
workstations, graphic displays and communication equipment. A much-needed addition to 
the current building will also be constructed.
	Reconstructing the 5.5-mile Overbrook Line, closed in 1993 due to its 
deteriorated condition, will include building five major bridges and double-tracking 
old single-track segments. The Overbrook line runs from South Hills Junction to Castle 
Shannon and serves the communities of Bon Air, Overbrook and Castle Shannon.
	Improvements to the 5.3-mile Library line, which runs from Washington Junction 
in Bethel Park to Library, will include improved power and signals and the addition of 
a major park and ride lot at Library. 
	Planned reconstruction of the 1.2-mile Drake line, which runs from Bethel Park 
to the Drake Loop in Upper St. Clair, includes a proposed park and ride lot at Drake. 
Currently, Port Authority operates its 1940’s vintage PCC trolleys to Castle Shannon 
on the Drake line.
	Stage II is part of Port Authority’s Rail 21 Program, a comprehensive 
initiative to improve and expand its light rail transit system. Among other goals of 
Rail 21 include to promote economic development opportunities, offer shorter travel 
time, improve seat availability, provide safety enhancements, implement park and ride 
expansion and improve operational efficiencies. 
	Preliminary engineering for Stage II is complete and the project is into final 
design. If all necessary funding can be obtained, the Overbrook section, along with 
enhancements to the Stage I system, could be completed in the year 2004. Completion of 
the Library and Drake lines is contingent upon future funding availability. 

            5/99

James B. Holland
------- -- ---------
        Pittsburgh Railways Company (PRCo), June of 1949 -- June of 1953
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