Durham city leaders think of ways to enhance rail travel across the Triangle

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Durham city leaders are thinking about ways to improve connectivity in the future by potentially adding a passenger rail stop in Research Triangle Park.

"This is one of the fastest growing areas in the entire country," Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams said.

The Piedmont and Carolinian pass through RTP multiple times daily but do not stop. In a letter, the City of Durham is asking the NCDOT to conduct a feasibility study to determine whether adding a passenger rail stop in the area near South Miami Boulevard and Highway 54 will help the rapidly growing region.

"The hope is with this site that we will integrate an inner-city rail stop from the NC By Train services to the same location, so that whether you're coming from Raleigh, Durham or farther, you have an opportunity to end your journey at this regional transfer center," Doug Plachcinski said.

Plachcinski is the executive director of the Triangle West Transportation Planning Organization.

Although the study hasn't started yet, he said he envisions better connectivity in the area. According to the NCDOT, ridership is at an all-time high.

"This gives us the ability to increase our transportation, our public transportation routes and frequency," Plachcinski said. "That means it's more reliable and more convenient for the customers."