On the 23rd, Ibaraki Prefecture made a final decision to extend the metropolitan area new urban railway Tsukuba Express (TX) to Tsuchiura. Connects with JR Joban Line Tsuchiura Station. We will proceed with a study to materialize the extension concept, such as an extension route that can secure profitability. At a regular press conference held on the same day, Ibaraki Prefectural Governor Kazuhiko Oigawa said, "It's a solid choice. I think it's desirable for Ibaraki Prefecture to move on after building a track record in extending the line."
Efforts to realize the extension are divided into three phases: ▽ Phase 1 = enhancement of feasibility ▽ Phase 2 = adjustment and refinement ▽ Phase 3 = determination of specific plan contents. When asked about the timing of each phase, Governor Oigawa replied, "I can't say for certain yet." He emphasized that the railroad route necessary for the development of national politics is "a big key to whether it can be included in the report of the Transportation Policy Council (an advisory body to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism)."
In making the final decision on where to extend the line, the prefectural government compiled a draft extension based on the recommendations of the third-party committee, and solicited public comments from May 1 to 30. The pros and cons of the extension (283 people who submitted opinions (including organizations)) were 82% in favor and 12% against.
In response to voices of concern about the low profitability of the project and the development of areas along the railway lines, Governor Oigawa firmly said, "Both 1 and 2 are profitable." He said, ``The best way to dispel the concerns of the opposition is to come up with measures to improve business profitability, including not only fare revenue but also surrounding development.''
