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Old Posted Sep 22, 2020, 1:11 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ardecila View Post
I'm guessing there are high regulatory requirements that kick in between Class 6 (110mph) and Class 7 (125mph) which is why we have seen few states choose this route. I don't know all the particulars of FRA regulations but it looks like Class 7 requires more frequent inspections and a much more complicated system at grade crossings.

Given how badly grade crossings screwed up Denver's new commuter system, this might be the reason states are hesitant to do 125mph, or part of the reason. (Granted, part of Denver's issue involved electrification, which would not be in place on the S-Line).

At least the new Charger locos are theoretically capable of regular service at 125mph, although there are no tracks on which they can go that fast.
You are on to something there why 110 mph is so popular proposal as the highest speeds on existing railroad corridors in the USA. One of the key requirements is full isolation, quad gates at all public and private at grade crossings for speeds faster than 110 mph. Most of these existing rail corridors proponents wish to upgrade are in rural areas where every farm and ranch has its own private crossing or two. Few farmers or ranchers can afford a half million dollars to instal quad gates for their private crossings, therefore few government agencies propose it.
Never-the-less, 110 mph maximum speeds is not considered HSR in the rest of the world.
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