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Not all traffic engineers! The mindset is changing... it just has a long way to go.

Although, the mindset is tending toward moving *users* rather than *vehicles*. This sounds well and good, but this necessitates that there also be increased coordination with planning practices.

Given current mode splits, being user-focused can still seem car-centric. The next step is in boosting the ped/transit mode shares, to which proper planning & growth practices are critical toward ensuring that transit-oriented & bikeable/walkable development work.

RE: Mixed Traffic Rail

Most bus/rail traits are extremely similar, with most differences being more perceived than anything. But one critical issue is that rail can't leave their lane... as others have said, I'm quite skeptical of rail which shares lanes w/ general traffic -- particularly along curb lanes where other motorists are likely to stop.

Malfunctioning vehicles can also be an issue even in exclusive right-of-way, necessitating single-tracking between the nearest crossovers (and hope that there aren't any trains in between which will have to either wait or back out).

I'm rather fond of rail vehicles in exclusive right-of-way, but willing to consider that buses can also work well. However, when I look at the design of the streetcars proposed for the DC region: I become a bit of a skeptic. Not necessarily in opposition... but not entirely supportive of their current form, either.

by Bossi on Mar 9, 2011 4:09 pm • link • report