Princeton’s “Dinky” rail line only covers a distance of 2.7 miles, making it the shortest regularly scheduled commuter train in America. But some people in this college town think a bus would be a more economical way to make the trip from Princeton University to Princeton Junction, which provides rail service to both New York City and Philadelphia. So the tiny train which made its first trip in 1865 might soon be a thing of the past, joining former riders Woodrow Wilson, Howard Taft, and Albert Einstein in the history books.

The Princeton Regional Planning Board is concerned that the short length of the Dinky’s tracks make it impractical in modern times. Marvin Reed says, “the Dinky is reliable only as far as it goes, and we’re not going to get the advantage of being able to get transit into the main part of town unless we go to a different kind of technology.” Reed believes a Bus Rapid Transit System, which would run more frequently and make more stops, would allow for more practical and cost-effective travel.

But some sentimental residents belive the Dinky’s historical significance and aesthetic beauty should take precedence over all else. Eileen Morales from the Historical Society of Princeton explains, “it evokes an era from the 19th Century that has largely disappeared, and a train is a much more civilized way of traveling, I think, for many people, moreso than taking a bus, or being in your car in the midst of all the traffic.”

A longing to stay connected to the past isn’t the only reason residents want to keep the Dinky intact.  Many residents worry a Bus Rapid Transit System would cause traffic headaches for years to come.  Furthermore, Princeton Borough Council President Andrew Koontz says, “it is a commuter rail service that has continued to work.  It has not outlived it’s usefulness by any means, and plus, it’s a special place.  It’s a special place in Princeton’s history, and it would be a shame to lose it.  It would be a mistake to lose it.”

On an average weekday, 1100 riders pay $2.75 to ride the legendary line. A presentation on the Dinky proposal is expected sometime after summer.