Book Description

A proposed rail stop on Amtrak's main line opposite the Harrisburg International Airport terminal has been under consideration for a number of years. Intermodal transportation facilities are designed to accommodate various modes of transportation and to allow for the transfer of passengers and/or cargo from one travel mode to another. Modern intermodalism involves the systematic, integrated use of two or more modes in order to maximize the efficiency of the total movement. With the growing concerns over congestion and pollution air quality levels, there is an increasing interest in providing these types of facilities. Airports are a natural location for strong intermodal connections. By their nature, airports require passengers and freight to access facilities in a mode other than the airplane, thus creating great opportunities for intermodal efficiencies. The objectives of providing an intermodal rail facility in this area are to: 1) provide an option of access and higher quality of service and flexibility to passengers, 2) develop a rail terminal that is accessible to persons with disabilities, 3) offer a more environmentally compatible and cost-effective mode that may attract passengers who would otherwise travel by automobile, 4) provide a means for reducing congestion on airport roadways and access routes, 5) enhance the area's image as a modern city that may attract businesses and tourism, and 6) improve safety. The purpose of this paper is to incorporate these objectives while identifying a specific site location, or alternate locations of the rail terminal, preparing conceptual alternative designs, providing cost estimates, recommending a final design, and discussing conceptual commercial opportunities (i.e., possible hotel/convention center) which might arise as a result of a new rail station.