Providing an Economical Means of Transportation:

A Feasibility Study English 212: Technical Writing

Sarah A. Bujno

OverviewIntroductionCriteriaMethodsResearch ResultsConclusionsRecommendations

IntroductionConducted research regarding the feasibility

of implementing a rail way system between Alaska and Washington.

Determined if a need for a more economical means of transportation exists and whether Alaskans would participate in such a service.

Gathered research regarding the following topics:Inexpensive TravelUse of Rail ServiceInterest in Rail Transport

Criteria For FeasibilityOnce implemented, can the proposal offer

inexpensive travel to Washington?Will people actually use the proposed

service?Is there an interest in transportation by rail

in and out of Alaska?

MethodsConducted research through the UAA Consortium Library

on transportation in Alaska.Developed and distributed detailed questionnaire.Reviewed the Alaska Railroad Corporation’s website for

data regarding the cost of service and average revenues.Reviewed the AMBIT Economic Feasibility report for an

Alaska – Canada Rail Link (2010).Calculated the average projected fuel costs and revenues

regarding this project.Interviewed several community members on their ideas

of bridging a gap between Alaska and the contiguous United States.

Travel by Rail: Inexpensive TravelWith a projected revenue of approximately

$3,799,620 prices can potentially be set at $275 roundtrip (half the cost of an airline ticket) if not lower.

Adding a community tax of 2% would cost just over five dollars per ticket and earn almost $6,000 to give back to the community!

Fuel costs will be the most substantial operating cost will only be 8% of revenues earned roundtrip.

Trip Classification MilesProjected Revenue

(Miles x $4.04)

One Way Trip 2,250 $1,899,810

Round Trip 4,500 $3,799,620

Use of Rail ServiceResults based on questionnaire distributed

October 2012:76% of respondents answered they would be

willing to travel by rail from Anchorage to Seattle if the service were available.

83% of respondents answered that their finances limit the frequency of their ability to travel by air.

The above responses indicate that a rail way system, if implemented would be beneficial to Alaskans and that it would be used often enough to justify implementation.

Interest in Rail Transport 90% of respondents answered there is a need for a more

economical means of transportation. 93% of respondents answered that they exclusively fly coach with

no responses indicating flying first class exclusively. 47% of respondents answered that they only fly out of state once a

year. The above data suggests that it is too expensive for most to fly out

of state and when they can they can only afford to fly coach.

33%

47%

17%3%

Amount of Alaskans That Travel By Air

Every six monthsOnce a yearOnce every 2-3 yearsNever

ConclusionsThere is a clear interest and need for an economical

means of transportation in and out of Alaska that can be supported by the Alaska – Washington rail link.

Revenues would exceed operating costs and would be a benefit to Alaskans. Revenues taxed at 5% would provide $5,945.50 in funding to give back to the community.

The disadvantages to a lengthy trip can be overcome and with the exponential growth in technology could potentially be decreased with time; it will also pose no worry to those without alternative means.

It would be feasible and cost effective to implement the Alaska – Washington rail link.

RecommendationsImplement the Alaska – Washington Rail link.Assign Anchorage to Seattle fares to be no more

than $275.00, to increase customer appeal and create steady competition.

Require a 2% community tax to be distributed wherever most needed in the community.

Market to appeal to the target demographic of individuals between the ages of 18-35.

Provide means of entertainment for passengers at an extra charge with built in televisions and/or wireless internet.

The End