Enhancing the findings and recommendations produced by an RLBA-led team, in an earlier regional commuter rail study, the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) commissioned an Alternatives Analysis focused on one of that study’s recommended corridors. Reuniting with some members of the previous team, RLBA performed the commuter rail portion of an Alternatives Analysis, addressing the I-70 Corridor between Kansas City and Odessa, MO.

Among the tasks pertaining to commuter rail that RLBA led, were: operating and capital cost estimation, operations planning and terminal evaluation as well as screening. RLBA worked with Kansas City Southern and the Kansas City Terminal Railroad to obtain and increase understanding of the railroad physical plant, information which was used in conjunction with an operating plan. RLBA developed findings which incorporated patronage, equipment and alignment, to identify infrastructure improvements and additional capital expenditures necessary to implement service.

RLBA determined a location of a downtown terminal in Kansas City, MO, which RLBA evaluated from service and operational perspectives. Infrastructure and service plans were formulated, which were reviewed by KCS which, in turn, proposed an improvement plan and provided capital costs. RLBA reviewed and commented on the improvement plan and capital costs. Phasing options were suggested to lessen initial capital outlays and operational costs were determined.