SFO, A missed opportunity for HSR
In an effort to cut costs the CHSRA has predominantly chosen routes along existing ROWs. This generally lowers construction costs, decreases the chances of construction delays, reduces the probability of going over budget, and is (usually) less controversial than other route options. Nevertheless, there are cases where this is taken too far – where the plans should be improved – even if there are additional costs. The SFO airport connection is a prime example.
In the coming days and weeks this site will develop a special segment discussing the HSR-to-airport connection issue at SFO. We will explain why luggage transfers, plane-to-train bookings, and airline ticket check-ins are not feasible at the planned Millbrae-SFO HSR Station, and how having HSR stop at Millbrae proposes other problems. Additionally, we will examine how going into SFO will cut travel times and may reduce costs in the long-run. Then, we will propose a tentative plan.
Stay tuned.
Added 4-24-09:
The new page for this proposal is located here.
