Improved passenger rail service offers a convenient, alternative way to travel, which translates into substantial economic benefits for users, communities and states, according to a new report issued by the nine states participating in the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative (MWRRI).
Enhanced passenger rail service provided by a 3,000-mile Midwest Regional Rail System (MWRRS) could generate $23.1 billion in user benefits from time savings, congestion relief and emission reductions during the first 40 years of the project. For Michigan, the benefits could total between $2.3 billion to $3.5 billion, in addition to creating 6,970 new, permanent jobs, and $138 million in extra household income.
"This report shows that an investment in providing frequent and reliable passenger rail services pays enormous benefits," said Kirk T. Steudle, director, Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).
Joint development potential estimates for southeast Michigan communities include:
- Detroit: $76 million – $114 million
- Ann Arbor: $48 million – $72 million
- West Detroit suburbs (Dearborn) $36 million – $54 million
- North Detroit suburbs (Royal Oak) $27 million – $40 million
- Pontiac: $23 million – $35 million
See the full MDOT press release for more details. The entire economic benefit analysis, including brochures summarizing the report findings, is available on the MDOT Web site.