Analysis of High-Speed Rail Implementation Alternatives in the Northeast Corridor: the Role of Institutional and Technological Flexibility
Author(s)
Pena-Alcaraz, Maite; Carlson, S. Joel; Archila, Andres F.; Stein, Naomi; Sussman, Joseph M.
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In this paper, an engineering systems framework using the CLIOS Process, scenario analysis, and flexibility analysis is used to study the implementation of a high-speed rail corridor in the Northeast Corridor of the United States. Given the tremendous uncertainty that characterizes high-speed rail projects, the implementation of the alternatives proposed, which are very similar to other commonly accepted ways to implement high-speed rail in the corridor, are analyzed under different scenarios. The results motivate incorporation of flexibility into the alternatives to allow decision makers to adapt as situations evolve. While designing-in this flexibility has a cost, it may facilitate the implementation of the alternatives by enabling adaptation to uncertain outcomes, thereby improving performance.
Date issued
2012-07Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Engineering Systems Division
Series/Report no.
ESD Working Papers;ESD-WP-2012-23