Phase 1 of the consultant six-month contract is from January 28, 2010 to July 31, 2010. In Phase 1, the consultant will develop the base case for the HRTPO alternative, and establish if there is a case for high-speed rail. In Phase 2, if there is a case, the consultant will refine the base case and complete sensitivity and risk analysis for the Vision Plan. Phase 2 will depend on successful completion of Phase 1 with respect to the potential for the HRTPO options, the availability of HRTPO funding, and HRTPO Board approval.
Phase 1 will include:
The Implementation Plan will be developed that sets goals, timetables, and arrangements for implementing passenger rail service in the Richmond/Hampton Roads corridors. The Implementation Plan will recommend an action program that sets out the steps that need to be followed to ensure the successful implementation of passenger rail in the Richmond/Hampton Roads corridors.
Station Development analysis for public-private partnership including private participation. A key output will be joint development potential for each station along each corridor and the contributions of the private sector to project funding. Additionally, station stops will be included in defining service scenarios. Preliminary estimates for station development will be identified.
Analysis of Interim Steps of 79-mph and 90-mph higher speed service on the CSX/I-64 and Norfolk Southern/Route 460 rail corridors including demand, revenue, cost, and subsidies. This work will reflect the practicalities of funding, cash flow, and the potential evolution of the system in each corridor.
An extensive Vision Plan document will be prepared in Phase 1 that will evaluate the potential for the development of high-speed passenger rail service on the Norfolk Southern/Route 460 rail corridor and the enhancement of the intercity passenger rail service on the CSX/I-64 rail corridor.