REGIONAL RAIL PLANNING IN NEW ENGLAND

A summary is given of how the New England states might work together to enhance rail freight service. The New England rail system is best examined in its entirety rather than as a set of what appear to be incomplete and disjoint systems when viewed from a state perspective. The amount of freight moving by rail in New England has declined steadily since the end of World War II, reflecting primarily the emergence of a competitive trucking industry and the shift to a service-oriented economy. The more than 7,700 route-km (4,800 route-mi) in New England were classified into five categories: regional main lines (29%), regional secondary lines (13%), major branch lines and connections to ports (5%), alternative connections to the national networks (13%), and other lines (40%). The first three categories can be considered the regional core network, which should be the primary focus for regional rail policy. From a regional perspective, the most important concern is the continued existence of an efficient, financially stable freight rail system. A regional focus will be helpful in dealing with interstate railroads that serve New England, in responding to national freight transportation issues, and in coordinating freight and passenger operations. Coordination with industrial development and environmental and energy policies is important. The fees assessed on and the access allowed for heavy combination trucks are also important factors in the diversion of rail traffic and important elements in state and regional rail policies. The New England states should produce and periodically update a regional rail plan that includes the following elements: objectives, description of the core rail system, summary of rail service, identification of industrial development sites, prioritization of potential improvements to the system, and discussion of major regulators and administrative issues. State rail representatives should continue to meet to discuss regional rail issues, exchange information, monitor rail service, coordinate rail policy, and supervise research.