15 replies to this topic

[The Dutchman]

Here is my further prediction: The rail operator(s) will build a new "station" for the Las Vegas end of the run. It will likely be a siding outside the downtown, so that there is no direct access to the casino-hotels. The trains will be met by special buses hired by or operated by the casinos and the passengers will be boarded at the remote station for direct transport to the participating casino. Thus: captive customers. In this way the business model of subsidizing the trains will actually work. Of course, the non-gamblers can still buy the "package," and go sight-seeing, or they can pay for a private taxi into town at their own nickel. But I bet you a cheeseburger that a new station is going to get constructed outside of town. Otherwise, the project cannot funnel captive customers.

[KevinKorell]

When the Desert Wind was running, it directly served one downtown casino hotel (I believe it was the Union Plaza) in Glitter Gulch. Weren't those captive customers too? Of course it would have been difficult for other casinos to lure the passengers away once they detrained right next to the slot machines in the original casino. If the HSR line returns to that station, I'll be on my way to Connecticut to claim my cheeseburger.

[pelican]

Wonder if they talked to Amtrak or UP yet. I know that using Amtrak helps in some ways, but Amtrak can't get UP to agree to run their own train to LV.

[KevinKorell]

From Metro Magazine, 5/11/10:

Las Vegas Railway purchases first trainset

Las Vegas Railway Express Inc. ("X" Train), a Delaware company, announced it executed an agreement with Transportation Management Services to acquire its first set of passenger railcars for its "X Train" project.

Go read this story.

[KevinKorell]

From AT&T Yahoo! Finance, 5/13/10:

Las Vegas Railway Express, Inc. Selects Allen & Caron for Investor Relations, Corporate Communications

Las Vegas Railway Express, Inc. (OTC.BB:XTRN - News) announced today that it has selected Allen & Caron Inc. as its agency for investor relations and corporate communications. With offices in Irvine, CA, New York City and London, Allen & Caron will help Las Vegas Railway Express, Inc. develop an effective outreach program to increase visibility in the investment community and business/financial media.

More

[KevinKorell]

Progressive Railroading, 5/13/10:

Two Las Vegas railroads continue to gear up for launch

Las Vegas’ two planned passenger-rail lines, Las Vegas Railway Express Inc. (X Train) and the Z-Train Ltd., recently took additional steps toward launching service between Sin City and southern California.

This article here.