5 replies to this topic

[Frankie811]

Plan for train station gathers steam in Cranston

The concept of a station between Elmwood and Wellington avenues has been around for years, but it is getting a fresh look with the election of a new mayor and a coming Department of Transportation.

http://www.projo.com...27.376a043.html

[mental757]

On the Wellington Ave. side of the tracks there is ample room for a platform.  There might even be room for a second siding (maybe one platform with tracks on 2 sides) to accomodate the reactivation of the old pontiac branch as a light rail line.  This line would have a station in the northern parking lot of Warwick Mall, follow the ROW and tie into the cranston T station just north of the brown and orange bridge.  Stops could be:  Pontiac Ave. across from Capuano Dr., Sockanossett crossroad/Garden city, and Sharpe St. (industrial park).  I'd also extend this line making use of the additional P&W trackage up to the zoo and port.  A possible 3rd branch could use the warwick industrial track that ends over by Park Ave. and & 117 in northern Warwick.

[Lone Ranger]

crap, if I had known that, I'd have voted for Fung the first time he ran.  

Quote

The Warwick station will be served by Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority trains, as will a $50-million station planned for Wickford Village, in North Kingstown, said Charles St. Martin, a DOT spokesman. Those trains will be passing through Cranston, so why not have them stop here, Filarski said.

Which is really what makes this site a no-brainer.  The trains aren't going away, so you might as well give them a place to stop.  Nice to see Cranston doing something smart for a change.

[mental757]

Sounds like they are seeking private funds to help pay for the platform.  Businesses within walking distance would be smart to join the effort, even if they can only give a little each.  A simple platform can probably be had for a few million.

[mental757]

Cranston Herald:  "Fung to propose Wellington rail service at urban design conference"

http://www.cranstono...ies_left_column

[BBascule]

It's very cool that Cranston is pursuing this idea. It'll be interesting to see how the city handles the re-designation of the zoning in that area along the Wellington/Elmwood corridor. There are still some private homes and factories in operation - tucked away on side streets.

Fung talked about the Mayors Institute and the project in general.