Quote:
Originally Posted by GoTrans
I know, its a dream, but it doesn't hurt to dream and I believe the dream has merit. Comments are appreciated.
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The dream does have merit, and I too would wish for something somewhat like what you described. However, I think starting with the sorts of things you mentioned would be the less successful way to go, as I suspect the ridership will not be large enough to justify the expense without the rest of a network. I fully support the idea that another poster also mentioned of VIA running buses instead of trains to serve the lower demand routes and fill the gap of Greyhound, as I bet (for example) 3 buses a day from Calgary to Regina would have a much better business case than 1 train a day.
Apologies for quoting myself but there's no point re-writing it, I think starting with this would be the better investment:
Quote:
Originally Posted by milomilo
In Alberta, we need to identify a manageable size line is that has the most bang for buck and greatest chance of success and build that first. IMO, it's likely a Calgary - Lake Louise line and/or a Calgary - Airdrie line, possibly with a link to the airport. Once something like that is built, as long as it's not a complete financial disaster, then building extensions and additional branches becomes a much more attractive proposition, as you are able to leverage network effects. An Edmonton - Red Deer - Calgary line has a much better business case if there's also a line to the mountains at the other end.
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In an alternate universe, where Canada actually did stuff like this, you could have an integrated ticketing system, and someone in Regina could buy a ticket from Regina to Banff, with a VIA bus to Calgary Central Rail Station, and then a train from there to Banff on whoever operates that line. But now it's me that's dreaming.