OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE COSTS OF LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT

This paper explains the costs of operating light rail lines, and it explains how light rail can be more economical than other modes under certain conditions. Using 3 recent studies of proposed light rail lines as examples, the paper shows that new lines can be economically constructed and operated with a potential ridership of as little as 20,000 daily passengers. The self-service fare systems used on European light rail lines is explained, and an opinion is given recommending that such a system could be implemented on new light rail lines built in the United States. Relatively fixed maintenance costs, high passenger-to- operator ratios, and multiple-unit capabilities make traffic increases on light rail lines much more economical to accommodate than on bus lines. The paper details how light rail lines have high passenger carrying capabilities (as much as 20,000 passengers/h) yet need relatively low passenger loads (only 20,000 passengers/day) to economically justify implementation and still have sufficient revenue to cover all operating costs. Also discussed are the ease of implementation, the versatility of the mode, and passenger acceptance and preference.