Railroads - getting the most out of them in SimCity 3000

Contributor/author(s): Josh Anderchek

When we plan out railroads, we just connect them all together and run a line where it is needed. Sims then start complaining that the trains are too crowded. Well, I have a way that will almost prevent it, guaranteed!

When building railroads in bigger cities, designate an area where you will build your "Union Station". This will be one of the only connections between all of your rail lines. I suggest placing this station in or near a commercial area. Now from there, build two "non-connecting" railroads, one to residential areas and suburbs, the other to industrial areas. When you place stations along these, you will notice a pattern: all traffic goes through your Union Station (in many cases, it will be at maximum capacity - 877). Now, if some areas (such as your higher aura residential areas and commercial zones) aren't getting good transportation, then run subways from the union station (or other nearby stations) to those outlying areas. These areas will then have great transportation access.

I find that as cities get bigger, other zones are needed. For airports, it is a wise move to run a track from it to the nearest railroad, connecting them with a station or "Sub-Rail Connection" (see related article below).

I also find that ridership is very impressive if you build an independent rail line (not connected to any others) from seaports to industrial areas. This would be (in my terms) an "industrial railroad".

If at any time you are faced with two crossing tracks, don't connect them. Instead, use the "Grade Separation" method to keep these lines apart.

I also find it very realistic if you build your "industrial railroads" (or any other railroads not connected to adjacent zones) either in a trench or on an embankment, then using tunnels to separate crossing roads and tracks.

See also
Suburban train stations