I agree, the more on the rails the less on the road. Maybe that wreck the other day on the LIE may have been prevented if rail freight was promoted? but who knows. I sure as hell don't like dodging trucks either.
*shakes head*
Okay... I don't think having that rolling stock on the rails would've prevented that accident. That driver should have been a little more aware of his surroundings. We already know the island, especially the LIE is overly congested with trucks and what not, and rail freight is making a come back.
A lot of trucks are specifically for grocery retail and I don't know how realistic it would be for grocery chains to want to relocate and have rail service to get trucks off the road. Where I live, Farmingdale, Stop and Shop propsed to build a Super version of their grocery store right on Motor Ave on that old WW1 dump. Part of the deal was that they would clean up the dump that people managed to send into the ground years ago. They are right next to the central branch just before Main St. ROW. I think the likely hood of making a siding and getting their load via rail is very unlikely.I really think that is one industry where I think rail will have little affect on.
Now... C&D, stone, and gas is one area I really think rail will have a significant impact on (once again my view point is on the outside looking in.) I cannot tell you how much I hate sharing the lanes with trucks haulin' gas/propane bookin' it at 85MPH when I know they're running on little to no sleep.
Remember, MOST of the time truck drivers are alone. They tend to fall asleep, they need drugs to keep them awake, and they definitely aren't the safest drivers on the road. Take it from me because I deal with them day in and day out.
. Some things have arisen that I cant elaborate on. Just keep your fingers crossed!!