09-24-2018, 08:17 PM
(09-24-2018, 04:53 PM)tomh009 Wrote:(09-24-2018, 04:48 PM)ijmorlan Wrote: I have to say that in this context I think something that is an integral part of a larger network would be better than a purpose-specific GO-to-YKF service. For example, LRT from the GO line, down through the airport, and on into Cambridge, hooking up with ION Phase 2 and the (hypothetical) LRT to Guelph.
Yes, that does sound much nicer … but that would be a far bigger project, with a much less clear payback than an APM/shuttle service from a GO station to the airport.
Of course, a GRT bus route running from downtown, with a stop at the GO station, and then the airport, would also be an integral part of a larger network!
The point is, rather than building a difficult-to-expand one-off service, build part of a bigger network. So start with a bus shuttle, with an access directly from Fountain St. into the GO station south of the tracks (rather than looping around via Victoria St.).
Then to enhance capacity, build a single-track LRT with a passing track in the middle and run two vehicles on it. Allow driverless mode by constructing the right of way fully isolated (or wait for automated driving technology to be good enough not to require an isolated right of way — if computers can drive a car on a street with mixed traffic they can certainly, and much more easily, drive a tram with the occasional level crossing). That would allow every 7 minute service, approximately. At this stage, it would be just as good as an APM, but you would be ready for the next step:
Extend the LRT south to Cambridge, connect to the other ION line, and double-track the whole line, also enhancing frequency. This is the part that is more difficult with an APM; or even if done, at some point the question starts to become obtrusive: why build two technologies of higher-order transit in one not-very-big city?