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| Build a Virtual Subway Line in the Bronx (517770) | |||
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Build a Virtual Subway Line in the Bronx |
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Posted by italianstallion on Thu Nov 15 19:29:43 2007 We all know that since the 3rd Avenue el was taken down in the Bronx, that corridor has lacked decent transit service. A relatively inexpensive way to restore some of it would be by running subway-like service on the MNRR Harlem line.It would work like this. Eliminate all regular MNRR local service from Mount Vernon West to Grand Central. Instead, run local service at frequent regular interval on the 2 outside tracks on that stretch. The key to making this work is to make believe it is a subway, though it will be operated using MNRR equipment and crews. Thus, the fare would be the same as the subway fare, paid by Metrocard. The line would be labled with a number (say, #8), which would be used on all signs, and the signs would be the same as those on the subway. The trains would also carry the #8 on them. The line would be listed on subway maps like any other subway line, and treated like a subway line in all publicity. Trains would run at regular intervals. There would be Metrocard-free-transfers at various places where the line is within a few blocks of another line. You could phase in the service like this: Phase 1 - Build turnstiles and required fencing at existing stations in the Bronx (I've figured out a way of doing this at Fordham, where platforms would be shared with regular MNRR trains - though not at 125th). Start running the new 4-car #8 trains from Mt. Vernon W to GCT, at 15 minute intervals all day starting at normal MNRR morning start time, and 20 min intervals from midnight till 2 am. Institute Metrocard transfers at Williambridge/Gun Hill (to the 2) and 125th (to the 4-5-6 and, potentially, SAS), and of course GCT to all subways there. Phase 2 - Rebuild and reopen abandoned stations at Claremont, Morrisania and 183rd St. in the Bronx. Stations would then be roughly 1/2 mile apart. Consider a station at 149th for a transfer to the west side subway. Phase 3 - Reopen abandoned stations under Park Avenue --such as 86th, 72nd and 59th. If this is successful, it would be a template for other similar corridors, such as the Amtrak line in the East Bronx. Other than the NIMBY issues on Park Ave., the main problem I see is finding slots for the new trains on the Hralem line. A couple of existing local traind=[s would be eliminted , but not the 4tph required. What do you all think? Can this be a feasible quick-and-dirty way to restore service to the old 3rd Ave. corridor? |
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