Big Bear, Ca, October 25, 2011, 3:00pm – Since 2009 the Southern California Association of Governments also known as SANBAG has conducted a study for alternative modes of transportation to the San Bernardino Mountain Areas. InfraConsult, lead consultant on the project has worked with SANBAG’s Technical Advisory Committee, and sought input from the US Forest Service, and other state and federal agencies over this time period to develop various alternative routes. The consulting group found that an alternative transportation would be a good solution to help address future transportation needs. A cog rail system was recommended, as InfraConsult says that is the only mode of transportation that has demonstrated its ability to operate long distances through steep mountain terrain and inclement weather. The best result would provide passengers of the cog rail with a 72 minute ride up the mountain, with the worst result taking a possible 114 minutes. Multiple options and routes are being looked at, and nothing definite has been determined at this time. The next step is for SANBAG to look for federal, state or county funding for the 20-year project.
