Electric rail transit?

By Dick Faulks

James Bay is a very unique district in our Capital Region because of its being surrounded on three sides by water and by a major city park on the fourth side. This makes it a first-class "place to be" for retirees who come from almost everywhere to enjoy the mild climate and pleasant walks.

James Bay is also host to hundreds of Cruise Ship visits; it has a helicopter terminal and it is the home of our local Reserve Navy's base.

Commercial activity creates much traffic on the sometimes narrow streets. The traffic created by residents isn't too overpowering but it is the commercial traffic which has become of concern.

Not only do the ships generate a plume of irritating fumes but it is that created by the tour buses - which serve the ships - which adds greatly to the problem.

Tour buses are stored close to the ship terminal. Starting them up and warming them up generates a lot of noise and fumes which is not at all pleasant for nearby residents.

The commercial aspect doesn't appear to benefit the long-suffering residents at all, certainly not those who are retired and want nothing more then clean air and a quiet night. On the other hand, the city needs to have its tourist businesses flourish, and a spinoff from that is an increase of employment opportunities for local residents. The end result of all of this is more tax revenue for the city which in turn provides for improvements in neighborhoods … like James Bay!

"What to do?" is a question one might ask.

The answer, to which many a city has turned, is electric rail transit. Cities all across North America are turning back to electric rail transit.

Rail transit is clean and it is quiet - there are no fumes and it is silent when stopped. An average vehicle can carry 200 people and is easily accessed by people of every age. Cyclists can board with their bike. Mothers can take their child's stroller aboard with ease. There's room for all.

An electric rail vehicle has numerous doors providing quick access and egress. Folks who will shun a bus will ride a rail vehicle. There is just that mysterious "something attractive" about rail.

To top-off all these benefits we would like to quote the man whom we see as "the father" of Portland's street rail system. Gerald Fox says, "A rail vehicle can take 200 people through an intersection in six seconds; try getting 200 automobiles through the same intersection in that same period of time!"

Hopefully, this will be of enlightenment and encouragement for those who wish to see their beautiful James Bay neighborhood improved … clean air, quiet nights and the very best mode of transit.