MPC
Research Projects (2004-05)

Identifying Number

MPC-255

Project Title

Network Planning Model for Local and Regional Railroad Systems

University

North Dakota State University

Project Investigator

Dr. Denver Tolliver, NDSU

External Project Contact

N/A

Project Objective

In this project, a prototype model will be developed in a GIS platform that allows dynamic segmentation and simulation of lines. The model will estimate both the line-segment and network effects of investment decisions or changes in system condition. The model is intended to complement RailDec, TransDec, and other decision tools by supporting network investment analysis of local and regional railroad systems. It will be applied to a regional network in North Dakota and tested by NDDOT. However, the model could potentially be used in any state of the Mountain-Plains region, as well as by local or regional railroads.

Specifically, the objectives of this project are to: (1) Develop a network methodology applicable to local and regional networks, including procedures for estimating short-line railroad costs and the benefits of potential investments; (2) Develop a network database for North Dakota that includes railroad and traffic components, as well as highway network attributes and regional production and economic data; (3) Develop regional accessibility indicators to describe the level of access provided by line segments in a short-line network; (4) Incorporate the model and database into a GIS framework; (5) Apply the model to a regional railroad network of North Dakota; (6) Use the model to prioritize line segments for improvement based on network effects; and (7) Describe how the model could be used in other states or regions, including data requirements for implementation.

Project Abstract

More than 500 local and regional railroads provide services to shippers and small communities in the United States Many of these railroads have received federal or state funds to rehabilitate tracks and preserve rail services. Methods for analyzing the benefits of government investments in rail lines were developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s by Federal Railroad Administration (49 USC 221). The focus of these benefit-cost guidelines is to analyze investments in individual rail lines. A line segment is isolated within a network and the benefits of making an investment in the line (as opposed to continuing service under deteriorated conditions or abandoning the line) are estimated.

The classical approach to railroad investment analysis is most applicable to branch lines that are part of a large Class I network, where the improvement (or abandonment) of an individual branch line has no impact on the viability of the railroad and its mainline segments. However, the abandonment of a segment of a small railroad could impact the viability of the carrier's mainlines and in extreme cases the viability of the railroad itself. Traditional methods do not account for these network effects.

Today, most states have limited funds to invest in rail lines and can invest only in those lines of critical importance. The fact that a line segment has a positive benefit-cost ratio is a necessary condition for investment; however, it is not a sufficient condition. A planning model is needed that simulates the network effects of potential improvements to individual line segments, as well as the effects of implementing two or more projects in conjunction with each other. In short-line systems, network effects such as circuitous routing of overhead traffic, reductions in economies of density on mainlines, and reduced access to key crop production or industrial areas are important factors that must be considered in conjunction with traditional benefit measures such as track maintenance and train-operating costs savings. Moreover, rail network viability affects the regional highway system, energy consumption, emissions, and safety.

Task Descriptions

1. Review existing rail-line models and synthesize relevant features
2. Develop a short-line railroad train operational cost model
3. Update highway and community impact models to quantify the effects of traffic diversions from railroads to trucks
4. Develop regional accessibility indicators to describe the level of access provided by line segments in a short-line network
5. Develop a GIS framework for integrating business, agricultural production, land use, railroad network, and highway data
6. Integrate the GIS, transportation operation, cost and impact models into a network model for estimating short-line railroad costs and investment benefits
7. Apply and test the models on rail lines in North Dakota
8. Illustrate uses of the model by prioritizing line segments for improvement based on network effects
9. Develop draft and final reports
10. Present seminar over Transportation Learning Network

Milestones, Dates

Starting Date: February 1, 2005
Ending Date: February 1, 2006

Yearly and Total Budget

$41,000 UTC, plus match

Student Involvement

The project will involve one or more graduate students.

Relationship to Other Research Projects

None

Technology Transfer Activities

A prototype planning model and documentation, and (2) Seminars for state agencies and local or regional railroads.

Potential Benefits of the Project

(1) The prototype model will be used in the 2005 North Dakota State Rail Plan. (2) The project will assess the feasibility and desirability of developing a transferable version of the model that could be used by other states or short-line railroads. (3) Components of the network model – such as the short-line railroad operations and cost models – may be useful as individual applications.

TRB Keywords

Railroad transportation, freight trains, economic impacts, benefits