An approach for the evaluation and implementation of mixed rail operations in harmony with non-motorized trails and urban structure: the case of Xalapa, Mexico

Abstract

n integrated transportation system is a prerequisite for urban sustainability. Inefficient transportation systems contribute to pollution, increase transportation time and costs, and promote urban sprawl. Midsize Mexican cities are increasingly vulnerable to these problems due to planning that focuses on individual mobility and separation of land uses. Part of the solution presented in this paper through the case of the city of Xalapa, Mexico is to use existing underutilized urban railroad corridors for the implementation of light and freight rail mixed operations with non-motorized trails. The solution promotes multimodal mobility, accessibility, and connectivity while making use of resources efficiently through multifunctional spaces and infill development. These in turn increase train operation safety and capacity, reduce urban barriers, promote harmonious city-train coexistence and urban compactness. Mixed rail operation with trails is complex and their technical, technological, operational, and institutional aspects need to be established and adapted from existing models. This paper is the first step toward establishing the requirements for implementation in the context of midsize Mexican cities. The findings would be the basis for the development of a standardized evaluation framework to determine the system’s feasibility. The framework is based on a German evaluation scheme used for the evaluation of large public transportation investments.