System Overview:

• The system will have six dedicated train-bus hybrid routes, one for each Moku (district) on Kauai.

• Each route will have a single dedicated roadway with no interruption by car or other vehicle traffic.

• The train-bus hybrids will operate back and forth on each dedicated roadway for each Moku.

• The system will stop at schools, shopping plazas/malls, and hotels

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Passenger Capacity and Frequency:

The ART train-bus hybrid can carry a substantial number of passengers per hour, with specific capacity details depending on the configuration of each vehicle. Let's assume an average capacity of 200 passengers per ART vehicle.

The travel time from the beginning to the end of each Moku will vary, but let's assume an average round trip duration of 2 hours.

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Design Alternatives:

Two alternative paths can be considered for each Moku: one Mountainside and one Makai (seaside) route. These paths would offer different experiences and potentially serve different destinations and communities.

Funding and Revenue Generation: To sustain the system, a combination of funding sources and revenue streams can be utilized:

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Initial Budget:

Design and Engineering: $5 million per Moku (x 6 Mokus) = $30 million

Purchase of Vehicles: 6 ART train-bus hybrids x $2.2 million = $13.2 million

Dedicated Roadway Construction: $10 million per Moku (x 6 Mokus) = $60 million

Staff Hiring and Training: $2 million (for initial setup)

Miscellaneous (signage, technology, etc.): $5 million

Total Initial Budget: $120.2 million

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Ongoing Costs:

Staff Salaries (including drivers and maintenance personnel): $2.5 million per year

Energy and Maintenance: $1.5 million per year

Marketing and Advertising: Covered by businesses and sponsors

Total Ongoing Costs: $4 million per year

 

Revenue Generation:

Ticket Sales: Passengers pay a fare to use the system, generating revenue.

On-Board Marketing: Local businesses, hotels, and shops can advertise onboard, creating additional income.

Sponsorships: Companies and organizations can sponsor specific routes or stations, providing funding in exchange for exposure.

Government Support: The local government may subsidize the system as part of its commitment to sustainable and efficient transportation.

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Staffing and Operating Hours:

Assuming the system operates from 5 AM to 11 PM daily, there would be a need for three shifts of drivers and maintenance personnel.

Each shift would have at least 10 drivers per Moku to ensure continuous service and allow for rest periods.

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Addressing Congestion and Environmental Impact:

Introducing the ART train-bus hybrid system can significantly alleviate congestion on Kauai's roadways.

By reducing the number of single-passenger cars, the system would contribute to a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions, thus positively impacting climate conditions.

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Community Benefits:

The ART train-bus hybrid system would promote the concept of "20-minute communities" by providing accessible and efficient transportation within each Moku.

It can improve local economies by increasing foot traffic to businesses along the dedicated roadways.

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Community Engagement and Planning:

Before implementing the ART train-bus hybrid system, extensive community engagement is crucial. Gather input from residents, businesses, schools, and other stakeholders to understand their transportation needs and preferences.

Conduct thorough feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments to ensure the system aligns with the island's unique landscape and sustainability goals.

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Integration with Existing Infrastructure:

The transportation system should be designed to integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure, such as the sugar mill trolley Mauka and the scenic bike-walk path Makai. This integration will enhance connectivity and offer passengers more travel options.

 

Multi-Modal Transportation:

Encourage multi-modal transportation by providing convenient connections to other forms of public transit, like buses and shuttles. This approach will offer passengers flexibility in their travel choices and further reduce single-passenger car usage.

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Promoting Tourism:

Highlight the ART train-bus hybrid system as an eco-friendly and efficient way for tourists to explore Kauai's beautiful landscapes and attractions. This promotion can attract more visitors and contribute to the island's tourism industry.

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Public-Private Partnerships:

Forge strategic partnerships with local businesses, hotels, and commercial centers to create incentives for their involvement in funding and supporting the transportation system.

Offer exclusive advertising opportunities on the train-bus hybrids and at stations to entice businesses to invest in the project.

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Piloting and Expansion:

Consider piloting the ART train-bus hybrid system on one or two Mokus initially to assess its success, gather feedback, and make necessary adjustments before expanding to the remaining Mokus.

Monitor ridership and revenue generation to demonstrate the system's viability and potential for expansion to other regions if successful.

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Environmental Benefits:

Emphasize the positive environmental impact of the ART train-bus hybrid system, such as reduced emissions and traffic congestion. Encourage the community to embrace sustainable transportation options to create a greener and more resilient island.

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Educational Campaigns:

Conduct educational campaigns to raise awareness of the benefits of public transportation and the ART train-bus hybrid system in particular. Focus on the long-term advantages, including cost savings, reduced carbon footprint, and enhanced community well-being.

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Government Support:

Seek support from local and state governments to secure grants and funding opportunities for sustainable transportation projects. Advocacy for policy changes that prioritize public transit and encourage reduced reliance on private vehicles.

In conclusion, the implementation of the ART train-bus hybrid transportation system on Kauai has the potential to revolutionize the island's transportation landscape. By engaging the community, forging partnerships, and promoting sustainability, the system can provide an efficient, accessible, and environmentally friendly alternative to car travel. Addressing the growing issue of congestion and considering the impact of transportation on climate conditions is crucial for Kauai's long-term development and well-being. The ART train-bus hybrid system presents an exciting opportunity to transform the island's transportation infrastructure and pave the way for a more connected and sustainable future.