The GCL has a projected cost of $1.8 billion, and is another example of a huge investment outside the legislative process.

 

Aside from the cost, the disruptions to the 6 communities along the rail are significant, and estimated to be over 100 crossings per day with the most congestion at rush hour. There is no evidence that it will sufficiently alleviate major arteries, Rts. 295 and 42, which connect major cities and LTL transporters.

 

The GCL is on-the-ground, not above the ground like PATCO. This train will use Conrail tracks that are in need of significant improvements. The biggest winner is Contrail, a private company who benefits from a revamp of their tracks and bridges. The cost estimate was $1.3 billion in 2009.

 

That it will minimize traffic on the major arteries (Rts. 295 and 42) that connect major cities for LTL transport, commuters and leisure travel is speculative. That it can alter the mindset of a relatively small number of drivers who travel between Camden to Glassboro is also a hurdle.  

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We propose:

• keeping current NJ Transit buses and existing university shuttles, and 

• using micro transit ride share, a model that successfully functions in several Jersey cities.

 

This is more practical and without the enormous outlay in cost.

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