High-speed train to Las Vegas: Possibility and affordability at $400 per ticket?
Brightline West is a high-speed rail project that started construction recently, with plans to travel up to 200 mph along the I-15 median between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga, California. The project is expected to finish in 2028.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg expressed his enthusiasm for the future of rail travel in America, saying "Once the first customer buys that first ticket to ride a high-speed rail on American soil, there will be no going back."
But the project still raises several questions. With half of its $12 billion budget unaccounted for, will Brightline actually become a reality? And how can it compete when passengers also have to spend an additional 45 minutes traveling to Los Angeles?
We asked Harry Teng, professor of civil and environmental engineering at UNLV and one of the commissioners of the independent Nevada High Speed Rail Authority, for his thoughts on these challenges.
Q: The concept of a train from Vegas to LA has been around since 2005, with XpressWest suggested as an option to Victorville, California. Why did it take so long to finally happen?
A: In the past, we didn't have enough money. Now, with the newly passed infrastructure bill, we have more resources available. Additionally, moving the location from Victorville to the I-15 median makes the project more feasible.
Q: The US government has provided $3 billion and access to $3.5 billion in tax-exempt bonds for the project. Where is the rest of the $12 billion budget coming from?
A: They will acquire private funding. Wes Edens, the founder and chair of Brightline West, is a wealthy individual who co-owns the Milwaukee Bucks and Aston Villa Football Club. He's interested in bringing a Major League Soccer team to Las Vegas. Therefore, finding the necessary funds should not be a major issue.
Q: Are there any engineering challenges associated with building this rail?
A: Yes, there are several concerns. Running a train in the median of a freeway presents challenges due to its tight curves. Cars can handle these curves comfortably at speeds of 80, 90, or even 100 mph. However, high-speed trains require a speed of 180 mph on the track, which is too fast for these curves. To overcome this problem, the train would need to slow down as it approaches these areas.
Another issue is strong winds. Having two trains coupled together will require a stronger track to handle the wind force. Additionally, the desert wind can be unpredictable, adding complexity to the project.
Q: How can they address these issues?
A: They plan to use sensors along the track to monitor the wind and temperature, adjusting the train's speed to ensure safety.
Q: What about the steep gradient in the Cajon Pass, which has a 6% grade for 4 miles?
A: The train's power will not be an issue because of its high speed. The train should be strong enough to manage the gradient.
Q: Is there anything that could halt the project at this stage?
A: No, it's unlikely that anything will stop it due to the substantial financial backing and support from the government.
Q: What if there's low demand when the train opens? Many social media users have noted that the cost of $400 per person for a round-trip ticket is too high, compared to the cost of driving a car at around 60 cents ($260) per mile and traveling with five people.
A: The price may be high, but it's a matter of playing the game. If there isn't enough demand, they'll need to lower the price. The market has the final say.
Q: What other strategies can Brightline use to attract passengers?
A: They can offer reduced prices for certain groups, such as veterans and seniors. In addition, they can differentiate the ticket prices – charging more for high-end cars and less for coach seating. Finally, they could consider running "party trains" to attract celebrities, charging up to $1,000 per person for a round-trip ticket.
Q: Even with these measures, the round-trip cost would still be higher than driving a car. Will that be a problem?
A: It could be, but differentiating prices based on the quality of the car ride and special services could help attract customers. Additionally, higher prices on certain days, such as Fridays and Sundays, could entice people who want to avoid traffic delays.
Overall, the project seems challenging due to the potential engineering issues and competition with other modes of transportation, but with the necessary funds and government support, it's unlikely that it will fail.
A: To be honest, Metrolink is a great transportation option for various areas in Southern California. However, it's crucial for Metrolink and Brightline to collaborate effectively, ensuring smooth transfers and no delays between trains. Brightline may need to compensate Metrolink in some manner for their cooperation.
Q: In essence, do you predict the success of this train service?
A: Yes, absolutely. I believe it will draw numerous passengers.
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