Physical, operational, and performance characteristics of the light rail mode. Paper presented at the National Conference of the Transportation Research Board, Philadelphia, June 1975.

An overview of the light rail mode is presented. General characteristics and application of the are described, emphasizing the versatility of its guide way, the railway track. Physical characteristics of the right-of-way and ranges of dimensions for right-of-way and vehicles are discussed, just as stations. Basic technical simplicity of the light rail mode is pointed out as a significant virtue. Operating characteristics are indicated. Frequency of service is discussed, and ranges for various traffic control systems are given.