Second attempt at second filter:
What are the Traffic Functions after an upgrade?
The calculated speed or time is no statement by itself. It is a good or bad value only in relation to a certain pursued traffic function. Questions for judgement were already introduced on page 3, but are repeated here:
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Yes, with about 9 hours travel time between Eugene and Sacramento, true overnighters come into reach for the Shasta Route. Unlike the current "Coast Starlight", they can attract business travelers, not just "personal business". Possibilities are outlined on the next page. |
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No, under current FRA regulations, no daytrain operation is possible on this route. As shown on the last page, there is a stretch of 6:50 hours without stops in any bigger city. As well, there isn't a chain of small cities along this part of the route. |
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No, without daytrains available, the private car offers unmatched flexibility. |
If there is only nightly traffic on the Shasta Route, the long distance trains loose most of their traffic function for the Northern California Valley. An upgrade towards 125 or 110mph becomes less likely in that situation.
As shown by this passenger train operation to a small destination north of the Polar Circle,
solutions for long distances and low population density exist. But once again:
They do not exist under the control of the FRA.