Summary: It’s a fair question as discussions continue about a new rail line from San Bernardino, CA into Redlands. The first phase of a planned line has three stops for the passenger rail service in Redlands: one near Esri, one near the 14-screen cinema, and one near the University of Redlands. The proposal is from the county transportation planning authority, the San Bernardino Associated Government (SanBAG).
View Rail to Redlands in a larger map
SanBAG held a meeting in April at Esri to collect input for an environmental analysis and a second meeting is tonight between 5-7 pm at the San Bernardino Hilton. Comparable service already runs between San Bernardino and Los Angeles and Orange County. There’s quite a lot of excitement about the service, the most common question being when the service will start. The current estimates slate purchasing in 2013, construction in 2017 and a first run in 2018 or 2019.
Regional, state and federal funds will cover the expected $130 million to $150 million in costs. The annual operating cost is estimated at $8 million. The train will run every 30 minutes to an hour.
While decreasing freeway traffic is one goal, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing mobility and improving safety are also objectives. Both Esri and the university jumped at the chance to have stops nearby, clearly looking to enhance lifestyles for new and existing employees and students. Planners are looking to build transit villages with residences, shopping and entertainment in close proximity.
