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View a Printer-Friendly D2 News Issue 2, Spring 2008 (5.0MB PDF file, opens in a new window) En Español |
D2 Study Hits Major Milestone
Downtown Transit Alignments Considered for Detailed Evaluation
On September 13, 2007, the D2 Stakeholder Advisory Committee (SAC) met at DART Headquarters for a workshop on potential options for a second downtown transit alignment. SAC members divided up into seven different groups according to their preferred study corridor. Each group used a map and colored markers to identify an alignment, configuration, and station locations (see inset). They also designated the transit alignment as LRT, streetcar or bus, or a combination, as well as any key issues. At the end of the workshop, each group reported their findings to the other SAC members in attendance.
The SAC workshop resulted in seven potential options for a second downtown transit alignment. Each of the options was used as a basis to expand into a list of 16 potential alignments taken forward into screening.
Table map and key issues developed by one group at the D2 SAC workshop.
Overview of SAC Identified Alignments
Of the seven SAC groups, six groups identified alignments that extended east-west across Downtown Dallas on Ross, Wood or Young Streets. These alignments started at either Victory or Union Station to capitalize on current area assets, as well as serve either the Arts District, or the Convention Center, Government, and Farmers Market Districts. One SAC group decided on a north-south alignment on Akard Street. This alignment connects the entertainment venues of the Cedars with the Arts District and increases transit coverage in downtown. Most of the SAC groups chose LRT alignments, with one group choosing at-grade modern streetcar. Three of the LRT alignments were underground to minimize traffic conflicts and avoid infrastructure. Key issues included the ability to leverage new development, connection with the existing LRT system and Trinity River Project, and coordination with a streetcar circulator.
