Proposed Stations
Benicia
This is the most problematic of the proposed stations. It would be best if this were stopped.
It is located in a protected wetland, therefore no development can occur near this site, thus limiting ridership growth. The expected ecological damage can be monetized at a high value due to loss of commercial, recreational, and other benefits and the fact that it is critical habitat. At an estimated cost of $5M, it will cost more to build than the other two proposed sites combined.
Fairfield-Vacaville
While intended to serve Vacaville, Fairfield, and Travis AFB, it is not convenient to any of them and increases the likelihood of Travis AFB being closed, something the federal government periodically threatens anyway because it is an air hub and could do what it needs to do from pretty much anywhere on the West Coast and California is crazy expensive. However, this station has been completed and is in service. It's grand opening was in April 2018.
Dixon
This station has not yet been built, but it will be an excellent addition to the train route.
At ~ $1.5M, it is the cheapest site to build and is on an existing local bus route. Dixon grew 54% in the 1990's and has a population profile (33% Hispanic) known to increase ridership. It also promotes development in the rural north part of the county, helping to balance the jobs/housing mix and reduce commutes.
This is the most problematic of the proposed stations. It would be best if this were stopped.
It is located in a protected wetland, therefore no development can occur near this site, thus limiting ridership growth. The expected ecological damage can be monetized at a high value due to loss of commercial, recreational, and other benefits and the fact that it is critical habitat. At an estimated cost of $5M, it will cost more to build than the other two proposed sites combined.
Fairfield-Vacaville
While intended to serve Vacaville, Fairfield, and Travis AFB, it is not convenient to any of them and increases the likelihood of Travis AFB being closed, something the federal government periodically threatens anyway because it is an air hub and could do what it needs to do from pretty much anywhere on the West Coast and California is crazy expensive. However, this station has been completed and is in service. It's grand opening was in April 2018.
Dixon
This station has not yet been built, but it will be an excellent addition to the train route.
At ~ $1.5M, it is the cheapest site to build and is on an existing local bus route. Dixon grew 54% in the 1990's and has a population profile (33% Hispanic) known to increase ridership. It also promotes development in the rural north part of the county, helping to balance the jobs/housing mix and reduce commutes.