These are from TTA’s FAQon the proposed regional train system.

“Why does the Triangle need the rail system?”
?[to] support efforts in the Triangle region to encourage more compact forms of development?

This is one of only 4 reasons given and has nothing to do with transportation, but is strictly about social engineering.

“Will the train reduce traffic congestion?”
?There will be a slight reduction in the amount of traffic congestion?? [emphasis added]

This is the best they can say?

“Will there be increased intersection congestion?”
?There will be intersection congestion when the trains pass, similar to?a new traffic light?Trains will cross intersections more than 100 times a day. The wait time is 45-60 seconds a cycle??

In other words, the answer is yes.

“Will the train improve air quality?”
?Although air quality is improved by taking cars off the road [answer to previous question suggests that this effect will be ?slight?], the diesel powered engines?produce NOX, which also affects air quality.? [Note: NOX is the most significant pollutant contributing to the formation of ground level ozone.]

What is interesting to note is that it doesn’t say that pollution will be reduced.