Central Washington Passenger Rail Feasibility Study
Project scope
Categories
Data visualization Data analysis Project management EconomicsSkills
stakeholder engagement feasibility studies economic development transportation planning geographic information systems data analysis economicsThe project involves conducting a ridership feasibility study for a proposed passenger rail service in Central Washington State. The study will focus on the Cascade and Columbia River railroad right of way, stretching from Okanogan/Oroville to Wenatchee, Washington, and connect to BNSF and AMTRAK Empire Builder services.
The primary goal is to analyze demographic and economic data to assess the potential demand for passenger rail service in the region. The project will also evaluate existing transportation infrastructure and its capacity to support the proposed service.
This study aims to inform economic development and tourism initiatives, providing valuable insights for local stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and community groups. The project offers learners an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in transportation planning, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement.
The project will culminate in a comprehensive feasibility report detailing the potential demand for passenger rail service in Central Washington. Key deliverables include an analysis of demographic and economic data, an assessment of existing transportation infrastructure, and recommendations for future development.
The report will also include visualizations and maps created using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to support findings and recommendations. Additionally, a presentation summarizing the study's findings will be prepared for local stakeholders.
Providing specialized, in-depth knowledge and general industry insights for a comprehensive understanding.
Sharing knowledge in specific technical skills, techniques, methodologies required for the project.
Supported causes
The global challenges this project addresses, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Learn more about all 17 SDGs here.
About the company
“Rail for All” Approach
At Integrated Travel, our goal is to promote transportation equity for all individuals. Through our Integrated Travel approach, we strive to offer accessible and affordable transportation options, irrespective of income or background. By fostering connections between communities and promoting sustainability, we aim to create a future where transportation is fair and inclusive for everyone in Alberta.
We have a special focus on serving underserved communities, including indigenous and rural areas. Our dedication to transportation equity extends to these communities as well.
Our “Rail for All” Approach:
We advocate for a practical and equitable approach to addressing transportation and environmental challenges in Alberta through the implementation of Rail for All. Our focus is on utilizing new technologies on existing rail infrastructure, with the goal of promoting sustainability and responsible transportation.
Rail for All refers to the use of sustainable and cost-effective transportation methods that benefit the communities they serve. In the context of regional rail, this means retrofitting rolling stock and locomotives on existing infrastructure to increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
While high-speed rail may be exciting and receive media attention, it is not always the most responsible mode of transportation or investment. The construction and maintenance of high-speed rail lines can be extremely expensive, and the economic impacts may not always align with the needs of the communities they serve.
On the other hand, implementing Rail for All through the retrofitting of existing infrastructure is a more cost-effective and responsible option. It still provides a fast mode of transportation that can bring significant benefits to communities and the environment.
Integrated Travel is a not-for-profit organization that advocates for the needs of rail passengers, prioritizing regional concerns over provincial and international boundaries. To drive change, Integrated Travel collaborates with infrastructure and transportation as well as community stakeholders and supporters. stakeholders to strengthen relationships and bring economic, environmental, and equity benefits to all citizens of Alberta. We advocate for regional inter-municipality transportation network that provides seamless, door-to-door connectivity to everyone in the region. We are not a policy organization - we are a collection of professionals who beleive in building prosperity with equality.
Integrated Travel is looking to reestablish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service in the province. The goal is to increase opportunities and contribute to the health and well-being of people across Alberta.
Integrated Travel believes that a comprehensive passenger rail network, seamlessly connected to other modes of transportation, will yield significant benefits for the region's economy, environment, and more importantly, transportation equity.
Since 2019, Integrated Travel has been actively engaging, educating, and energizing the public, elected officials, businesses, and local leaders. This is accomplished through outreach efforts, Train Treks, presentations for legislators and communities, advocacy work, soliciting support resolutions and letters, publicity initiatives, coalition building, and event planning.
Integrated Travel is a not-for-profit organization that advocates for the needs of rail passengers in Alberta. We prioritize regional concerns and collaborate with infrastructure, transportation, and community stakeholders to bring economic, environmental, and equity benefits to the region. Our goal is to reestablish safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger rail service in the province, contributing to the well-being of people across Alberta. We believe that a comprehensive passenger rail network, connected to other modes of transportation, will have significant positive impacts on the region's economy, environment, and transportation equity. Since 2019, we have actively engaged the public, elected officials, businesses, and local leaders through various initiatives to raise awareness and support for our cause.