Since the Light Rail on Howard Street seems to run slowly, how will the Red Line alternatives running on surface streets differ?
The Light Rail running on Howard Street operates in a portion of roadway where traffic signals are not synchronized well, nor can priority be give to transit vehicles so that signals turn green as the train approaches. In addition, the large light rail vehicles share portions of the street with more nimble automobiles. Red Line concepts anticipate enhancements to the east-west traffic signal system so the Red Line receives signal priority, thus minimizing delays. In areas where the Red Line may be at the surface, it usually will be separated from vehicular traffic so it rarely will share space with cars and trucks. There are also tunnel options for the Red Line that completely avoid congested city streets.
