Cotton Belt-CS950130
January 31, 1995
Mr. Mike Eastland
North Central Texas Council of Governments
P.O. Box 5888
Arlington, Texas 76005-5888
Re: Major Investment Study of the Northern Cross Town Corridor
Dear Mr. Eastland:
On January 30, 1995, representatives from the City of Coppell met with representatives from
Dallas Area Rapid Transit System (DART) concerning the future utilization of the Cottonbelt
Railroad Line through the City of Coppell. The City understood that the line would most likely be
used for freight at some point in the future. However, Roger Snoble, Executive Director of DART
stated that there was now conversation concerning the utilization of the track for passenger traffic.
He also stated that a study would need to be performed prior to making that determination.
Because the City of Coppell is not a participant in DART, DART can not expend funds performing
a study within the City Limits of Coppell. It is also our understanding that NCTCOG can and will
take an active role in performing the study if requested to do so.
Let this letter serve as notification that the City of Coppell respectfully requests that the North
Central Texas Council of Governments take the lead role and perform the Major Investment Study
in the Northern Cross Town Corridor for DART. If you should need any additional information
concerning this request please contact Ken Griffin P.E., Assistant City Manager/City Engineer at
304-3679.
Sincerely,
Tom Morton
Mayor
cc: Jim Witt, City Manager
file/cogcrs.twn
Statement
On January 30, 1995, the City Manager, City Engineer and myself met with Roger Snoble and ??
of DART concerning the status of the Cottonbelt Railroad Line on the north side of Beltline Road
through the City of Coppell. DART's representative stated that they were in the process of
authorizing a major investment study of the northern crosstown corridor i.e. the Cottonbelt Railroad
that could be implemented within the next six months. The study itself would not be completed
until early 1997. At that time, the study should show if the Cottonbelt Railroad will be used for
freight or passenger traffic and the potential amount of utilization on a daily basis. The City has
requested that the North Central Texas Council of Government perform the study so that the City
can be an active participant in the study itself. At this time, there is no additional information
concerning the utilization and it is highly unlikely that there will be any additional information for
the next eighteen months. However, any information the City receives will be made available to
the public.