Congestion Relief Index Highlights Importance of Strong Railroads Nationwide

The Congestion Relief Index was released this past week amidst news of oil exceeding $145 per barrel. This study shows that a shift of 25 percent of the nation’s freight from trucks to trains by 2026 would remedy several transportation issues. The essential benefit for the typical commuter in this hypothetical scenario is improved commuting time. The average driver would save 41 hours of travel per year by the time trains take over freight deliveries in 2026.

The index points to decreased fuel usage and money spent at the pump for consumers by 2026. The transition from truck to trains for freight deliveries would open up freeways for fuel-efficient commutes. Drivers would save 79 gallons of gasoline per year during the index period with an average savings of $985 at the pump. The research behind the Congestion Relief Index indicates that drivers in Las Vegas ($2,132) and San Bernardino, California ($2,112) would experience the greatest savings.

Eco-conscious drivers will be heartened to hear about the reduced emissions heralded by this annual report. The researchers behind this index found that there would be a drop of 920,000 tons of air pollution per year once freight trains replace trucks. New York City (87,700 tons) and Chicago (96,800) would benefit the most from decreased emissions due to increased reliance on railroads for freight shipments.

Commuters throughout the United States should take the results of the seventh annual Congestion Relief Index with a grain of salt. The index was championed by the Association of American Railroads, which has a rooting interest in expanding rail infrastructure. The decrease in railroad funding by state and federal agencies has been spurred by increased highway funding that involves plenty of backroom dealing and lobbying. It will take decades to build up a network of commuter and commercial railways from the Atlantic to the Pacific due to the deterioration of the nation’s World War II-era rail network.

Consumers need to push for rail development over the next few generations while choosing cleaner vehicles for everyday use. Every driver can opt for freeway buses, car pools and other methods to show public officials that old approaches to transportation are failing. State and federal officials will not recognize the need for change without tangible proof that their constituents are interested in leaving behind the traditional commute.