This paper presents the "after" part of a before-after benefit-cost case study of the FHWA railroad relocation and grade separation demonstration project in Elko, Nevada. The object of the demonstration project was to reduce the effects on a small western city of two transcontinental railroads passing through the downtown. Construction began about 1979 and finished in 1983. The after benefit-cost study was completed in 1987 as part of an overall before-after report submitted to FHWA, the Nevada Department of Transportation, and the City of Elko. The main result of the benefit-cost study was the quantification and pricing of the primarily social and environmental benefits of the railroad relocation, including flood control as well as reduction of noise, vibration, accidents, and considerable delay and disruption in the downtown. Depending on the discount rate, benefit-cost ratios of 0.61 to 1.12 were calculated. Approximately 80 percent of the benefits went to the community and 20 percent to the railroads.
Abstract