Could Fresno get a light rail?

FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Light rails are a common feature in big cities because they are a good way to reduce traffic, thanks to their passenger capacity – and Fresno could be getting one of its own that will connect it to other cities, even outside the county.

Caltrans awarded the Fresno Council of Governments $700,000 earlier this month for the “Fresno Metropolitan Light Rail Feasibility Study.” The study aims to evaluate the economic, social, and environmental benefits that the zero-emission light rail could bring to the city.

A light rail transit is rapid transit that operates electric-powered single cars or short trains on fixed rails, which can carry more passengers than a bus over greater distances in a metropolitan area.

The study will also plan for “connectivity and accessibility of sustainable, quality transportation for underserved communities.”

If it’s determined that a light rail is beneficial to the city, the zero-emission train would use the San Joaquin Valley Railroad (SJVR) to connect Fresno, Firebaugh, Kerman, Mendota, Reedley, San Joaquin, Fowler, Selma, Kingsburg, Sanger and Dinuba.

This would be done after the plan is reviewed and agreed upon by the railroad.

“We look forward to working with our public agency partners and the selected consultant to outline the importance of freight rail and our plans for future growth. Any future plans to utilize SJVR right-of-way must be reviewed and agreed upon by the railroad to ensure that we can continue moving existing customers’ freight safely and efficiently while also safeguarding our own ability to grow,” Tom Ciuba, a spokesperson for SJVR, told YourCentralValley.com

YourCentralValley.com reached out to the Fresno Council of Governments, but hasn’t heard back.