01044147

Component

http://www.trb.org/Publications/Blurbs/155725.aspx

The purpose of this research was to examine the evolution and development of regulations and standards that affect public rail transportation systems and agencies. Additionally, this research enhances the understanding of those effects, examines the costs and benefits and defines the applicability of regulations and standards. It explains the role of regulations and standards. It discusses the negative impacts and costs and how they help or hurt. The difference between regulations and standards is explained as well as their influence on capital and operation and maintenance costs incurred by an agency. Regulatory entities are listed, and the scope of their authority and the process (including all appropriate federal and state agencies) are described. Standards setting entities are identified and their role and process are discussed. The evolution of regulations and development of standards are reviewed. Successful or beneficial experiences with standardization and regulation are mentioned. Current Railroad Safety Advisory Committee activities and progress on regulations are reviewed in addition to current and future American Public Transportation Association (APTA) standards development activities. The safety benefits of regulation are highlighted. The paper also identifies the “unintended” consequences of regulations and standardization, or complications and conflicts between regulations and standards if any. Constraints on the application of rail equipment and technology are reviewed. The “stakeholders” in the regulatory and standardization process are summarized. The reactive nature of regulations is explained, and the technical/economic incentives for standardization are noted. Positive and negative aspects of regulations and standards are highlighted. Some candidate issues for regulations are recommended. Process improvements in establishment of regulations and standards are suggested.

01044135

English

pp 373-396

2007-1

Transportation Research Circular

Light Rail Transit: A World of Applications and Opportunities. Joint International Light Rail Conference

Web

Appendices (8)

Benefits; Capital costs; Costs; Incentives; Light rail transit; Operating costs; Regulations; Standardization; Standards; Transit safety

Maintenance costs; Regulatory agencies

Finance; Highways; Law; Public Transportation; Safety and Human Factors

TRIS, TRB

Mar 16 2007 10:13AM

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