Economics

If we have the foresight to imagine a future that is different from the gridlock we see and experience today, then future generations will thank us for our small part in defending Colorado's unique quality of life.

Vail Monorail image

Capital Cost
The total cost of the system is estimated at $4 billion, approximately $23 million per mile. This cost is 2/3 of the cost of expanding the highway by just two lanes (one in each direction) but results in many times the additional highway capacity: the system is equivalent to six dry highway lanes, nine tunnel lanes, and ten snow-packed lanes).

Economic Viability
There are many profitable rail transit / transportation systems. A key to profitability is to use a for-profit operator. To break even, the system needs to divert passengers from the highway, beginning with an estimated 5% and increasing as congestion on the highway worsens. The system will break even when it attracts just a small part (25 to 30%) of the projected growth in traffic. Even with this level of traffic diversion, congestion will inevitably increase, inducing yet more people to ride the monorail. The system will not require an ongoing operating subsidy.

Ownership
It is envisioned that the guideway will be owned by the people of Colorado, just like the highway. Monorail vehicles will be privately owned by a for-profit operator(s) such as those who operate vans, buses, etc. The private operator(s) will pay a fee or toll for the use of the guideway, operating much like a public airport. Following full deployment, the State of Colorado will not be in the transportation business.

Link to CDOT Testimony on Macro Economics.


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