Railfirst

Railfirst is a design philosophy that prioritizes the use of rail transport, particularly trains, as the primary mode of passenger and freight transportation within a region or country. This approach aims to reduce reliance on road-based transport, thereby decreasing congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Railfirst advocates for the development of extensive and efficient rail networks, including high-speed rail, intercity rail, and regional rail services. The philosophy emphasizes the economic, environmental, and social benefits of rail transport, such as job creation, improved connectivity, and enhanced quality of life for residents. Railfirst is often promoted as a sustainable and efficient alternative to road-based transport, particularly in urban areas where space is limited and traffic congestion is a significant issue. However, critics argue that railfirst may not be feasible or cost-effective in all contexts, and that other modes of transport, such as cycling and walking, should also be considered. Despite these debates, railfirst remains a prominent concept in urban planning and transportation policy discussions.