I’ve always wondered why these studies tend to avoid recommending things like new track connections.
The way that passenger trains operate at Selma feels kind of slapdash as well. The curved platform for the Carolinian/Silver Star is just… odd. The way this study proposes complicated, multi-stage turning moves to turn between Raleigh and Fayetteville is kind of case in point.
Thinking about how to fix this, here is my proposal:
Now some armchair engineer stuff:
-All curves as shown are 833ft radius. With no superelevation and the US standard of 3 inches of unbalance, that means 25mph. If you could get that to 900ft and allow 4 inches of unbalance, speeds could be 30mph. Regardless, turnouts would be standard no. 15’s (which are a dime a dozen, and good for 30mph).
-All trains that stop at Selma use the same platform.
-The CSX A-line is raised above the NCRR on a flyover, through trains that don’t stop at Selma would use it.