Fresno, CA

The Center for Air Quality and Transit Technology of Central California (CATTCC) conducted a ten year study on the viability of a light rail system for the Fresno area. The study found CyberTran (a lightweight, electric train system) to be “most suitable for Central California’s transit needs.” CyberTran uses a large number of small vehicles, and operates on elevated guide ways. It can operate on speeds of 35mph to 150 mph.

According to the CATTCC’s study, CyberTran would “operate along the highest density corridors throughout the Fresno metropolitan area, taking advantage of existing light-rail Rights-of-Ways.” A CyberTran system would “boost Amtrak ridership” by providing access to Fresno’s Amtrak station.

The Study points out Amtrak is the only rail system which “services the entire Central Valley.” The bus system in Fresno, the largest town in the Central Valley, is limited, and the distance between Fresno and other towns rules out walking or riding bikes. “People have no functional transportation alternative other than driving automobiles.”

A Fresno area CyberTran system would provide many benefits, namely reducing “dangerous toxic air quality levels in the San Joaquin Valley.” It would also reduce the amount of auto accidents and lessen traffic congestion.