Feasibility of a Passenger Rail Travel System between Cranbrook and Golden

 

Mrunalini Dereddy

Integrated Travel Research and Development

November 16, 2025

 

This study evaluates the feasibility of establishing a regional passenger rail service between Cranbrook and Golden, British Columbia. The analysis assesses projected ridership, environmental impacts, and economic performance to determine the service’s long-term viability. Using demographic, tourism, and transportation data, the model forecasts an initial annual ridership of approximately 230,000 passengers, with steady growth of 2.8% per year. The service would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by around 1,800 tones of CO₂ annually and achieve a benefit–cost ratio of 1.4, demonstrating both economic and environmental value. Beyond these metrics, the proposed corridor supports provincial and national sustainability goals, improves accessibility for underserved populations, and enhances regional tourism and economic integration across the Columbia Valley.