Where will those new commuter rail lines go?

Tory has an analysis of the proposed commuter rail lines that raises some good questions, including one that has come up before and undoubtedly will again:

Some of the connections will require all new track through residential and commercial areas (249 to 290, The Heights, 45S to Pearland). Always contentious. Just ask Metro...

As I understand it - and like Tory, I'm waiting for Christof to weigh in on this - there are a couple of options to get that train from 290 once it passes 610 into downtown. One of those options involves the existing line that runs alongside Center Street, then (I believe) turns up Old Katy Road. That would neatly bypass most neighborhoods, and should cause a minimum amount of fuss. There are other possibilities, and there will need to be a lot of engagement with all the stakeholders to ensure that what gets built is the best solution, but I do believe this can be done without too much contentiousness. At least, for that one line. The others, I couldn't say.

Posted by Charles Kuffner on June 19, 2008 to Planes, Trains, and Automobiles