Boosted by federal aid, Utah Transit Authority sees revenue increase as ridership falls
Thanks to federal coronavirus relief funding, the Utah Transit Authority came out ahead financially in 2020 despite huge ridership losses, according to preliminary year-end figures. The Salt Lake Tribune reports the Salt Lake City-area agency saw a 47% loss in ridership, but still ended up with revenue 14% higher than its original budget. Ridership figures show rail systems took the biggest hit, with bus use down 40%, light rail ridership down 51% and commuter rail decreasing 61%. With those decreases, the system’s subsidy per rider increased by 80% over its target figure, from $5.88 per rider to $10.56. And a recent survey showed 41% of those who have stopped using the system during the pandemic don’t believe they’ll ever return.
Union Pacific greenhouse gas goals approved by Science Based Targets initiative
Union Pacific has received approval from the Science Based Targets initiative for its goals setting how much and how quickly the railroad will reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The company will aim to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 emissions by 26% by 2030, measured against 2018 figures. “As the world seeks to improve environmental sustainability, it’s critical for businesses to take action,” CEO Lance Fritz said in a press release. “Although we move freight in an environmentally responsible way, we will not be complacent about our operations’ impact. We’re proud to solidify our commitment through actions that also will enable our customers to reduce their carbon footprint and protect the environment.”
Maine legislators seek funding for study of passenger rail service to Bangor
A bipartisan group of Maine state legislators have proposed funding for a feasibility study to examine the possibility to extend rail passenger service to Bangor. WCSH-TV reports the proposal would examine the cost of infrastructure improvements, station locations, and projected ridership if service is extended northeast from Brunswick, the current northern terminus of Amtrak’s Downeaster. Similar proposals have failed in the past, most recently in 2017. State Sen. Joe Baldacci, one of the leaders of the effort, says the timing for the proposal is favorable with pro-rail Pete Buttigieg now heading the U.S. Department of Transportation.
