by Silverliner II
ExCon90 wrote: ↑Wed Jan 22, 2020 3:27 pmThe thing to remember is that the Paoli-Thorndale line is virtually at capacity, especially in regards to parking at stations. Restoring service to West Chester not only opens up an alternative to Exton for people closer to that area, but can attract new ridership, especially from/to the University.rcthompson04 wrote: ↑Tue Jan 21, 2020 3:06 pm 4 - Going back to West Chester seems to be a battle between cost and impact. I am sure the borough would love it, but would many people still drive to Exton or Malvern instead of going to a station closer to their home. I am about 2 miles from the old West Chester station, but I would likely have a shorter commute if I went to Exton or Malvern still.For just that reason I'm still not convinced that electrification of the rest of the line to West Chester--let alone the associated track and signal work--is justified; it's just too twisty, and even if they ran express from Media with only one or two intermediate stops--Swarthmore? Secane?--I think you could still beat it by using Exton or Malvern.
(I'd still leave West Trenton to North Jersey in 5th place, even with 4th place vacant.)
As for running times to Center City, between West Chester and Exton, it may be a wash. Odds are, Cheyney would likely be the only intermediate stop between West Chester and Middletown (formerly Wawa). Track speeds would likely be at least 40mph, if not 50mph after the upgrades. And with stations not as close together, coupled with an express service during the peak periods, it may be a bit faster than going to Exton.
"CSX Detector. Milepost Six Point Four. No Defects. Repeat: No Defects. Total Axles Seven Four Seven. Detector Out"