THE AIRPORT-RAIL CONNECTION: REALIZING THE MULTI-MODAL VISION

The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 was intended to connect different transportation systems. This articles looks at airport/rail connections that have been developed over the past decade in order to describe the potential benefits and pitfalls that other airports should consider when light-rail proposals are being discussed. A rail transit system that also provides an integrated transportation link can help stimulate regional economic development. There are more than 13 airports in the United States with direct airport rail links, with another 23 under construction or development. Many other airports offer shuttle or bus service to local rail. Airports are enthusiastic about airport/rail connections because it expands their ground transportation options and reduces curbside congestion. Although several airport/rail connections are discussed, the link between Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and the Washington Metro system is highlighted as one of the most successful. It is estimated that 14 percent of the airport's passengers and employees take advantage of the service each day. Planning an airport/rail link offers some challenges, since many different laws and transportation agencies and organizations must be consulted. Airports also represent a unique travel environment that may actually work against the use of public transportation since passenger trips are infrequent, many passengers are not area residents, and there usually is a variety of the shared-ride alternatives already in place.