Sustainable Financial Model and Procurement Strategy for Passenger Rail Activities

The main goal for the project is to develop a sustainable financial model for passenger rail activities in Alberta, as well as to investigate and recommend procurement and management approaches to plan, budget, deliver, operate, and manage the rail activities. The project also aims to assess the financial impacts and risks to the Province of Alberta related to the implementation of the sustainable financial model and procurement strategy.

Rio Grande Valley Passenger Rail Feasibility Study

The Rio Grande Valley Passenger Rail Feasibility Study aims to evaluate the potential for a new passenger rail service in the Rio Grande Valley region. The project will involve conducting a comprehensive needs assessment to identify the most beneficial and cost-effective routes for the rail service. Students will analyze population data to determine the best areas for ridership and assess the environmental impact of the proposed rail routes. Additionally, the project will require identifying suitable locomotives and estimating overall project costs. The goal is to provide a detailed feasibility study that will help Integrated.Travel Research and Development make informed decisions about the viability of the passenger rail project. This study will involve close collaboration with the project administration team to ensure that all goals and timelines are met.

Helena Trench Feasibility Study

The Helena Trench Feasibility Study aims to explore the technical and financial viability of constructing a train trench along Montana Avenue in Helena. This project stems from the need to improve transportation infrastructure by eliminating three grade crossings and enhancing street grid connections. Inspired by the Reno ReTRAC project, the study will assess the potential to lower the tracks at Roberts Street, impacting the west end of the existing yard. The project will focus on determining the feasibility of the trench, estimating costs, and identifying potential funding sources. The study will cover the area from approximately 700 feet west of N. Last Chance Gulch to Hannaford Street. By conducting this study, learners will apply their classroom knowledge in civil engineering, urban planning, and transportation systems to a real-world scenario.

IT Infrastructure Upgrade for Class 1 Railroads

The main goal for the project is to study and baseline the current IT tools leveraged by CPKC, BNSF and UP in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest. This baseline will be compared to new software and hardware applications, and an estimate of the costs to upgrade current Class 1T and a recommended list of improvements to be prioritized will be generated. The project aims to improve operational safety and efficiency for the railroad industry, as well as to address conflicts and service disruptions that arise from changes in population growth and integration of services using Class 1 railroad right of ways.