Battery-powered passenger rail line in Johnson County on hold

CRANDIC cites liability and regulatory concerns in its withdrawal of support

By: Annie Smith Barkalow|January 31, 2025

Pop-Up Metro uses existing low-density freight rail lines and battery-propelled passenger cars as an economic, sustainable option for public transit. CREDIT POP-UP METRO

A concept that would utilize the CRANDIC rail line for a battery-powered passenger rail between Iowa City and North Liberty is on hold, after the railroad told local stakeholders that leasing the line is not a viable option with “many parts of the ultimate vision yet to be determined.”

Johnson County Supervisor Rod Sullivan made the announcement at the board’s meeting Jan. 30.

“It looks like all the different options…

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Battery-powered passenger rail line in Johnson County on hold

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