Why compare BRT to Light Rail?
JTA continues to compare dedicated busways with light rail. However, Metro Jacksonville continues to suggest “Urban Commuter Rail”. “Urban Commuter Rail” is a term that has been recently coined by Capital Metro in Austin, TX. Like traditional commuter rail, trains operate on existing freight rail tracks. However, unlike traditional commuter rail, which can have stations spread out by as much as five miles, service is provided for both suburban and central city passengers with the use of self-propelled diesel multiple unit (DMU) railcars. In the future, these “existing” rail lines can be upgraded and electrified, if necessary. This is not Light Rail. With the use of DMUs, urban oriented passenger rail service can become a reality on existing rail lines, without the need to immediately electrify. It is well documented that this type of rail line can be put into service at a fraction of the cost of a dedicated busway system. 2. In Jacksonville, BRT is the better way! Jacksonville is one o
