Dallas (WBAP/KLIF News) – A consultant hired by the company that plans to build a high-speed rail line from Dallas to Houston says 80% of people who took a survey said they would consider using the line.
Texas Central hopes to start construction on the line in 2018. The railroad would be the first privately run high speed line in the United States.
A consultant surveyed 2,000 people. Of those who have made the drive between the Metroplex and Houston in the past year, two thirds said they would “definitely” or “probably” use a bullet train.
“This study demonstrates strong, pent-up demand for better travel options,” Texas Central Chief Executive Officer Tim Keith writes in a statement.
The survey forecasts ridership of almost five million people per year by 2026. By 2050, that number could increase to ten million.
Opponents have questioned Texas Central’s plan to use eminent domain to gain access to land in Central Texas. The Brazos Valley Council of Governments opposes the line, with the chair of the agency saying eminent domain is not justified. Ben Leman says the railroad would not benefit the public.
Texas Central has cited a state law that allows the use of eminent domain by private railroads for public good. Electric and oil companies have used the same law.
Texas Central says trains would leave Dallas and Houston every 30 minutes during peak travel times and every hour the rest of the day. The trains may make one stop in Central Texas.
The station in Dallas is planned the Cedars area on 20 acres of land near South Side on Lamar.
(Copyright 2016 WBAP/KLIF News. All rights reserved)
