10-06-2016, 12:28 PM
If the system experience gets worse with ION's launch, that will be the story and perception that lasts. Trying to run with half buses, half trains, is simply not feasible. If they can get to 10 minute frequency, you'll be happy and there's a good delivery of train standpoint to start service from. 15+, and you're creating a perception that won't soon go away.
If they are thinking of running with fewer/no spares, it makes safe driving around trains *absolutely* critical. It means we can't have the roadway operating in no-train mode next year, we absolutely need to have the correct no-turn signs in, possibly even dummy lights simulating trains (possibly during early burn-in or empty runs). Will this frustrate motorists a bit early? Absolutely. But if it's middle of winter when they try to start training drivers for how trains will restrict their movements, we will absolutely fail at it and see crashes, injuries, and very little time before we can't hit any acceptable level of service. New driving techniques are not going to be learned in the dark of early morning/late evening winter drives to/from work.
If they are thinking of running with fewer/no spares, it makes safe driving around trains *absolutely* critical. It means we can't have the roadway operating in no-train mode next year, we absolutely need to have the correct no-turn signs in, possibly even dummy lights simulating trains (possibly during early burn-in or empty runs). Will this frustrate motorists a bit early? Absolutely. But if it's middle of winter when they try to start training drivers for how trains will restrict their movements, we will absolutely fail at it and see crashes, injuries, and very little time before we can't hit any acceptable level of service. New driving techniques are not going to be learned in the dark of early morning/late evening winter drives to/from work.