NTRAC Final Study - Nebraska Department of Roads - State of ...

Chapter 9
NEXT STEPS TOWARD IMPLEMENTATION
INTRODUCTION
This chapter discusses the next steps for implementation of commuter rail service, express bus
service, or a combination of both (i.e. Scenario A). Should the State of Nebraska seek to
implement commuter rail and if FTA New Starts funding is desired, a more detailed alternatives
analysis and environmental impact assessment will be required utilizing more sophisticated
ridership estimating techniques and other more technical analysis than was completed for this
feasibility assessment. The alternatives analysis process is noted below. If no federal funds are
sought, no alternatives analysis will be required.
NEXT STEPS
Assuming the popular will is to pursue any of the three service scenarios, or even individual
elements of same, numerous steps remain on the road to implementation. The major ones are
outlined below, more or less in their likely order. Logically enough, the first stop will be
establishing the agency to sponsor the desired public transit services.
Suggested Legislation
Implementation of any alternative will require an agency to sponsor the service. This agency
will have the authority to procure rolling stock, potentially negotiate with the railroad for access
to tracks, hire an operator, secure funding, and so on. This study assumes that NTRAC, as
currently configured, will not sponsor any service implementation or be able to conduct and
manage an alternatives analysis. Rather, that would be a role for either a regional or State
agency. Various models exist. One is a Joint Powers Authority (JPA), comprised on the various
jurisdictions served by the new service. Three comparatively new commuter rail sponsoring
agencies in California are JPAs. Another is a Regional Transportation Agency (RTA), which
could encompass not only the new services but existing transit services in the corridor. The
Chicago RTA, consisting of Metra commuter rail, CTA urban (elevated) rail system, and the
Pace bus system, is a relevant model. A JPA likely can be formed under the provisions of the
Interlocal Cooperation Act. An RTA may require special legislation, as it may have taxing
authority to support ongoing operations and capital improvements.
Defining the requirements and establishing the sponsoring agency will be the first steps in
moving toward implementation. Once established, the agency would need to select an executive
to handle further planning requirements, as outlined below. A budget and funding for the
executive and perhaps a small ancillary staff will need to be secured. For alternatives analysis,
the Nebraska Department of Roads could be the sponsoring agency.
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NEBRASKA TRANSIT CORRIDORS STUDY
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WILBUR SMITH ASSOCIATES