A Planner's Guide to Fixed Guideway Electrification Projects

This article is the first of two on fixed guideway electrification projects. This article describes major elements of fixed guideway and electrification systems with regard to streetcars, light rail, heavy-rail, commuter rail or bus rapid transit systems. The author describes different types of rail electrification, such as overhead contact systems and contract rail or third-rail systems, and provides examples of where each type is used and their advantages and disadvantages. Planners are encouraged to consider electrified rail and transit systems in fixed guideway corridors for a variety of reasons. Finally, the costs of installing such systems are discussed.