With all this talk about new tramways running around town, I was wondering what all that infrastructure would cost (some say 44Million/km, some say 80).
On my end I think it’s a complete waste of money to build:
- the tracks
- the nasty power lines
- the special track clearing machines for snow and ice
- the service depots for trams
- the ’stations’
- and ummm the trams
- more? add to the comments…
How about running a standard route of articulated/accordion buses and make them biodiesel hybrids for good measure? Sames roads, bus stops mechanics etc… sometimes this city is so full of it. Can’t wait for new ‘leaders’ in 2009.
But anyway, at least they can save on one aspect if they go ahead with this money pit of an idea. Tracks… they won’t have to look far.
-Snapped these on the corner of Marlowe and Sherbrooke
Tags: Accordian Bus · Montreal · STM · Tram · Waste2 Comments
2 responses so far ↓
Hi Bryan:
I disagree with you regarding the trams - I think it is a great idea - if it is done properly.
If the tramway is done the same way it operates in Toronto with mixed traffic running and left turns at traffic lights then it would be a waste of money because there would be no significant benefit to riders.
However, if the tram were to run on isolated tracks (like the new bike path on de maisonneuve blvd) with traffic light preemption then the tram would be a great success because the service speed would be higher (among other things). A big advantage of trams is the quicker boarding time since there can be as many as 10 doors on a 30m tram and proof of payment systems are used. No more lining up to enter at only 1 door!
One thing that I can guarantee you is that entirely brand-new tracks will be necessary. The tracks that are covered up with asphalt are completely worthless.
I’m not just saying this because I work for Alstom and that I prepare bids & tenders for tramway projects (just did one today for the 3rd line in Montpellier) – I actually believe that it is what Montreal needs!
Hey there James,
Your first line sums up my post perfectly. “if it is done properly.” What infrastructure project in this city has ever been done properly, or even close to properly? Let alone on budget.
The salvaging of tracks from yesteryear was obviously a joke, I only meant to highlight the fact that this city is a series of patches, one upon another from election to election, from generation to generation. Nothing is done right, nothing is done with proper public consultation. Everything is glitz, with dollars unwisely spent. The fact that we can peal back a layer of crumbling asphalt in any borough and find remnants of the past and not the solid road bed foundation of concrete is a testament to all that stinks in our public works.
Granted, trams with 10 doors would be awesome, if we lived in Hong Kong and had ridership numbers to back up such a demand. But I’m sure 3-4 doors would suffice the population density on a Downtown/Griffintown loop and could probably be achieved on the articulated bus with OPUS.
I also believe that this city needs less overhead wires, not more. They are a visual scar on the urban landscape in my opinion.
Oh, and have you ridden the de Maisonneuve path yet? Scariest ride I’ve ever experienced in Montreal. Nearly struck 4 times on my first (and only until more signage goes up) end to end trip. Cars looking only eastward as they cross the path exiting parking lots. Pedestrians striding onto the path at intersections waiting for their green etc etc… Anyway, cool discussion, let me know what you think.