jonnhrr wrote: ↑Fri Jun 11, 2021 10:26 am In talking about using the Acelas elsewhere, one thing people forget is these are high level platform only trains. A lot of the suggested alternate routes have low level platforms so it becomes a non starter. Modifying the Acela sets to have steps would probably be prohibitive.CHSR will be building high platforms. It would not financially hurt Amtrak or SEPTA to raise the platforms on the Keystone corridor. Likewise for NJT, MARC, MBTA on the NEC, but would these trains be worth more than what CDOT and MTA North already have with max speeds on their part of the NEC limited to 79 mph?
How much does raising an existing platform cost? While not exactly the same kind of construction, it is close enough to get a balkpark figure..
https://www.masstransitmag.com/rail/inf ... e-stations
$128 million to extend and raise 28 platforms at 21 stations, or $4.5 million per platform.
DART's light rail stations have various forms of pavers atop the base concrete. Do not think that many paving stones are use on NEC and Keystone platforms.