Excerpt from "The Power of Pittsburgh" Brochure by permission from the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance.

Pennsylvania provides the ideal location to introduce this new technology. With Pennsylvania's winding rivers, ridges and topography what better place to install a proven technology as a show case for the region and proof of its applicability throughout the U.S.

Pittsburgh is an ideal location to begin this project. The Pittsburgh Landscape is uniquely challenged by both rivers and steep ridges. Primary automobile traffic access to Pittsburgh is limited in the east by the Squirrel Hill Tunnel, in the west by the Fort Pit Tunnel and Fort Pitt Bridge and in the south by the Liberty Tunnels and Liberty Bridge.

Pittsburgh International Airport is also ranked as the nation's first and the Worlds 3rd best airport.

The installation of a Maglev system in the Pittsburgh area will extend the Pittsburgh airport into smaller towns making it more accessible and affordable for the average traveler.

Pittsburgh also has the necessary technical and manufacturing expertise to "Americanize" the Maglev System for U.S. applications.

The Transrapid elevated maglev system with its dedicated right-of-way would be an ideal technology to help alleviate Pittsburgh's traffic problems. Using the ability to climb steep grades posed by Pittsburgh's hills while minimizing the disturbance to legacy structures and landmarks will also minimize the impacts associated with the installation of a maglev system.

The system will also create the start of an expanding regional system that will bring economic industry growth and jobs to the region while serving as the impetus for revitalization of the area.

Quick Facts

Project Meets Legislative Requirements

• Financially Viable – Self Sustaining
  

• Demonstrates Full System Capability
  

• Serves a real world need
  

• Has National Significance
  

• Demonstrates Partnership Potential

Driven by Ridership and Need

• Pittsburgh East/West Traffic Problem
  

• Funnel Effect of Pittsburgh Traffic
  

• No Viable Alternative Solutions
  

• Pittsburgh is Large User of Bus and North/South LRT
  

• No Rail Link Airport to Downtown and Beyond
  
  

Strong, Experienced Team in Place

• Strong Industry Shareholder Team
  

• Solid Labor Support
  

• University Support
  

• Solid Political Support Federal, State & Regional
  

• Fourteen Year Team Cohesion
  
  

Fabrication Capability

• Recognition that Precision Fabrication is Key
  

• Devoting Significant Attention on Precision Fabrication
  
  

Economic Development

• Creation of a New Transportation Industry
  

• Integrating Existing and Emerging Technologies