Hyperloop prospects dimming … Trackless trams boon to suburbs … Is Amtrak bound for Boise?

Hyperloop interests are waning all over the world, even while a few stragglers hold out for hope. © Hyperloop Transport Technologies

Prospects are dimming for Elon Musk’s hyperloop
The hyperloop has had its critics since Elon Musk first pitched the idea in 2012, but it’s also had plenty of support from seemingly authoritative corners of the media devoted to science and exploration—like the Discovery Channel, for example, and Smithsonian Magazine. But now, Hyperloop interests are waning all over the world, from France to the United States to India, even while a few stragglers hold out for hope. [planetizen.com]

How trackless trams could help revitalize suburbs
There is an urgent need to rethink how city transport works, due to congestion, emissions, and housing shortages. Cities need redevelopment to minimize long car-commutes and create more livable cities and suburbs. Until recently, options for mid-range transportation were limited to light rail and bus rapid transit. The mid-tier transit we need is trackless tram (trolleybus) technology: less costly than light rail, faster and sleeker than buses, carbon-neutral and flexible. [weforum.org]

Will Amtrak reconnect Boise and Salt Lake City?
Since Amtrak rolled away from the Boise Depot in 1997, there have been several efforts to reintroduce the service. But something in 2022 is very, very different. With the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act providing investment in public transportation and Amtrak’s new “Corridor ID” program in place, there’s a push to introduce or revive routes of 750 miles or less. And that’s why the cities of Boise and Salt Lake City are partnering to bring a piece of the old Pioneer Line back to the region. [boisestatepublicradio.org]

Southern Maryland transit dreams show signs of life
Transportation experts spent decades looking at the feasibility of building a transit line to serve Southern Maryland until, this year, the General Assembly adopted legislation requiring the state to complete studies needed to secure a decision on the project. More momentum came when the state’s congressional delegation secured a $5 million federal earmark. Now, suddenly, local leaders are talking about a Southern Maryland transit project as a when, not just an if. [marylandmatters.org]

 

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