monorail system

Guam studies monorail system

GUAM Mass Transit Authority (GMTA) is to commission a feasibility study into a monorail system, estimated to cost the territory US$63 million. Authority General Man ager Fred Santos said a monorail transportation system was the only practicable solution to the island’s prob lems about 15,000 vehicles are impor ted each year and Guam’s road network could be expanded infinitely. The time was coming when the island needed a reliable transport system and alleviation of traffic congestion.

The first step for the GMTA was to invite bids for the feasibility study, and the estimated cost was based on linking most of the island.

Santos said if the monorail went ahead, it would be built in three stages.

Stage one would link the airport and San Vitores, stage from Dededo through San Vitores to Tamuning and Agana, while the final phase would cover installation from Agana through the naval station to Merizo.

Each monorail car would be equipped with rubber tyres to eliminate noise pollution. They would carry 76 passengers and travel at 105 kilometres per hour. The monorail plan also calls for linking bus shuttle service, with 36 common stops. The system will aim at

being self-supporting.

The authority currently operates 30 buses on Guam and employs 50 people.

The monorail shuttle will mean the purchase of another 17 buses. □