Proponents of commuter line to Duluth crank up the velocity

Faster than your average locomotive? Advocates say speedier trains offer a smoother financial ride.

By Paul Levy, Star Tribune

Last update: October 10, 2007 - 7:50 PM

The proposed commuter rail line from the Twin Cities to Duluth is suddenly on the fast track with proponents pushing for train speeds as fast as 110, and possibly 125, miles per hour.

While previous studies suggested the passenger trains along the proposed Cambridge line could travel at an average speed of 79 mph -- making the $120 million line competitive with cars -- recent studies found the line would be more economically feasible at considerably higher speeds, said Dan Erhart, chairman of the Anoka County Regional Rail Authority.

The proposed 150-mile line has the blessing of Jim Oberstar, D-Minn., the influential congressman who is chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. If funding deadlines can be met, the line will open in 2009. Proponents of the line are scheduled to appear at a hearing today in Lanesboro, Minn., before Rep. Alice Hausman, chairwoman of the state House's Capital Investment Finance Division.

Amtrak says that its Acela Express -- which runs from Boston to Washington, D.C. -- hits 150 mph while offering a safe, quiet ride. John Ongaro, St. Louis County's director of Intergovernmental Affairs, says Acela's speed may be closer to 135 mph, but "that's the direction the study for our line is taking us."The indications are that faster is not only better, but will make money," said Ongaro, who has taken a lead role as momentum builds for the first commuter line from the Twin Cities to Duluth since 1985.

While it pays to be quick, how fast is fast enough? When the train made its last stop in 1985, the average speed was 50 mph. Now, government officials representing counties along the line will consult with Burlington Northern and choose between speeds that average 79 mph or hit as much as 110 or 125 mph, said Erhart, an Anoka County commissioner. A decision is expected by December.

Officials also must decide how many trains will be running and where they'll stop. Last year, proponents of the line wanted two trains to be running when the track opens. Now there is talk of four, Erhart said.

Stops along the way have not officially been selected, although stops in Hinckley and Anoka County are all but guaranteed. The likely stop in Anoka County would be at a Coon Rapids station, Erhart said, although stops in Andover, Fridley and Bethel also have been mentioned. Other possible stops are Cambridge/Isanti, Mora/Pine City/Braham, Sandstone, Superior, Wis., and Two Harbors.

Paul Levy • 612-673-4419

Paul Levy • plevy@startribune.com