While the economic downturn is slowing many construction projects in Dubai, the city's 47-station light rail system is moving forward on schedule.
"Despite the slowdown, however, construction is progressing on Dubai Metro, an extensive new light rail system intended to ease traffic problems, according to Adnan Al Hammadi, director of rail project construction for the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Partial service is scheduled to begin in September 2009."
"Trains will ply from 5 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. A fare structure has not yet been announced. By the time the $4.2 billion project is completed in 2012, there will be 46 miles of track and a total of 47 stations. Ten of the stations, in central Dubai, will be underground."
"The 32-mile Red Line will stretch from Rashidiya in the northeast to Jebel Ali in the southwest. It will pass through central Dubai, and a large portion of the line will run alongside the city's main and often-clogged artery, Shaikh Zayed Road. The 14-mile-long Green Line will pass through the business districts of Deira and Bur Dubai. Passengers can transfer between the two lines at Union Square and BurJuman Centre, both in central Dubai."
FULL STORY: Despite Economic Slowdown, Dubai Metro on Track

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
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North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

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Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.

How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.

Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.

Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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