The Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy, a conservative NH free-market think tank, released its analysis of commuter rail’s ability to create jobs. The report, “Does Passenger Rail Create Jobs?” looks at the experience of rail service in other parts of the country, and here in NH.
"While studies of proposed passenger rail lines often tout job creation, studies of lines that have been built and operating have found that these projects do not create jobs by themselves, but instead can only influence where already planned investments will happen.” said Josh Elliott-Traficante, the study's author. “We have our own test case right here in New Hampshire with the Downeaster."
The Downeaster, which runs from Boston to Maine, makes stops in Dover, Exeter, and Durham. “The jobs data shows that since rail service began in 2001, Dover has gained jobs, Exeter has lost jobs, and Durham saw virtually no change.”
The report concludes "Rail, whatever its benefits may or may not be, is not a tool to spur job creation."
Click the link to read the full report: Does Commuter Rail Create Jobs?
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