I think it would be great if a light rail system would save money, reduce noise and pollution, improve traffic flow and reduce crime. All these benefits are touted in the Lantern headline article on Oct. 14. However, not a single one of these benefits will occur.
The modest proposal will cost half a billion dollars before the first rider steps on the train. It will run only from Polaris to downtown. Additional routes will have a similar cost.
The closest to campus the proposed line will come is Summit Street, which is already serviced by COTA buses. Patrons currently using High Street COTA buses will continue to use them because High Street runs along campus, while Summit is a few blocks away.
The law requiring trains to sound their horns when approaching a crossing can be changed. Whether there is a light rail should be irrelevant.
“A decrease in crime can be attributed to security cameras installed at stops, drivers who will report suspicious activity and more policing.” These things could also be done at current bus stops, right? Do we pull police from other parts of the city or hire more?
If the light rail uses existing CSX rails from Polaris to Hudson Street and new rails are added to one lane each on Summit and North Fourth streets, the rails will increase wear on car tires and increase noise.
The rails will also be a hazard to pedestrian, bicycle and wheelchair traffic crossing those streets. There is a traffic snarl every day where Hudson Street intersects with Indianola Avenue, Summit Street, Fourth Street and I-71. A light rail through this area will make a bad situation worse.
Besides, a bus can drive around a stalled car.
Price Robert CopeOSU Staff
