Hunter
07/19/24
Johnson County leaders are discussing the possibility of repurposing an old rail line that runs from North Liberty, through Coralville, and into downtown Iowa City.
CBS2 reports officials are working with a company called Pop-Up Metro to formulate a three year trial run of the transit system. The company repurposes old London Underground trains for short commutes. The train cars retain their original look but are upgraded with charging ports and wireless internet.
The battery –powered train service cost could be covered by federal dollars used for cleaner transportation.
Krista Hershberger, marketing director for Greater Iowa City, told the TV station that adding the rail service would make it more accessible for residents to work in other communities. The service would be free to riders.
No timeframe has been set, but officials are traveling to Pennsylvania next month to see the program in use.