How fast could the proposed Amtrak Bluegrass line go on existing track? How long would it take between stations? Answers depend on speed limits of existing track and timetable conflicts with freight traffic. This study answers the track speed question, and addresses the conflict question by noting where track is double (allowing passing) or single.
Gest Street Yard is the zero mile for this study because Norfolk Southern doesn't mark Union Station on their timetable. Tracks cross the Ohio River via the Cincinnati Southern bridge. Ludlow is adjacent to a nature preserve with hiking trails, in the area of Northern KY that commutes by car to Cincinnati.
Erlanger provides service to the Cincinnati/Northern KY airport (CVG). Its historic wooden passenger train depot is preserved trackside, with a historic caboose and a modern playground. Erlanger is a commuter suburb of Cincinnati.
Walton is a commuter suburb at the southern end of the traffic-congested area of northern KY.
Georgetown is a county seat and home to the biggest Toyota auto plant in the world. Residents frequently travel to Lexington for work and play.
Lexington is a county seat. One of Kentucky's biggest cities, it is home to high-tech manufacturing, the University of Kentucky, and regional medical centers.
Winchester is a county seat in the heart of Kentucky's horse country near some of Kentucky's major river recreation areas. Residents frequently travel to Lexington for work and play.
Tracks cross the L&N Bridge over the Kentucky River at Ford KY on this segment. Richmond is a county seat and home to Eastern Kentucky University. Residents also travel to work in Lexington and in Berea auto parts factories.
Berea is the arts capitol of Kentucky. Known for pottery, weaving, and woodwork, it is also home to Berea College and numerous auto parts manufacturers. Local tourists travel to Berea to hike and bike its trails. Its historic brick passenger train depot is preserved adjacent to the tracks in the center of the arts district.
Livingston is a tiny town in rugged Rockcastle County that maintains hiking and biking trails, has horse-riding and kayaking outfitters, and hosts outdoor music festivals.
This segment includes Crooked Hill, some of CSX's most rugged track. It features stunning views, steep grades, sharp turns, and numerous tunnels. London is a county seat with major bakery factories and a livestock auction. The bicycle capitol of Kentucky, it features an annual road race and outdoor recreation attractions.
Corbin is 18 miles from Cumberland Falls state resort park. Its historic passenger train station is owned by the historic society, located adjacent to the track.
KD Subdivision study in progress
Tracks cross the Hiwassee River at 10 mph on the Calhoun Bridge on this segment. Chatsworth provides access to hiking trails. Its historic wooden passenger train depot is owned by the historic society, but has been relocated away from the track.