I smell Scott Walker. Or maybe I just stepped in something nasty....

Iowa Pacific introduces intercity passenger-rail service in New York

 

On July 23, Iowa Pacific Holdings subsidiary Saratoga and North Creek Railway (SNC) launched passenger-rail service between North Creek and Saratoga Springs, N.Y. — the first privately operated, for-profit and regularly scheduled intercity passenger-rail service in the United States in more than 40 years, Iowa Pacific officials said in a prepared statement.

 

“While there are numerous privately operated tourist railroads, SNC is operated as a true passenger railway, meeting a stronger set of regulatory requirements for equipment and operations,” they said.

 

Read more at: http://www.progressiverailroading.com/passenger_rail/news/Iowa-Pacific-introduces-intercity-passengerrail-service-in-New-York--27386

Puh-leez.... It's a tourist train: http://www.saratogian.com/articles/2011/07/20/news/doc4e27878578720316115635.txt

 

It's about 40 miles from Saratoga Springs to North Creek in an area that serves ski resorts, camping areas and other outdoors activities. It's OK if you're running a tourist train. Don't try to pretend to be something else.

 

On that score, this railroad is not the first privately run passenger train in 40 years. I can think of the Denver Ski Train that ran until two years ago after taking over from the Denver & Rio Grande Western RR in 1988....

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ski_Train

fun stuff!

 

 

Deep Below Park Avenue, a Monster at Rest

 

By MICHAEL M. GRYNBAUM

Published: July 24, 2011

 

Rome has the catacombs; Paris has its sewers. Now New York will have its own subterranean wonder: a 200-ton mechanical serpent’s head.

 

The 200-ton, 22.5-foot diameter tunnel-boring drill (the Seli)

 

 

An underground  stretch that is being excavated for a train station under Grand Central Terminal. To save time and money, the Spanish contractor overseeing the project will leave the drill behind in Midtown, instead of extracting, dismantling and selling it for scrap.

 

 

It is a gargantuan drill that has been hollowing out tunnels for a train station under Grand Central Terminal. As tall as four men and with the weight of two whales, the so-called cutter head — the spinning, sharp-edged business end of a tunnel boring machine — is usually extracted, dismantled and sold for scrap when the work is done.

 

But the Spanish contractor overseeing the project is taking a different approach. It believes it can save time and money by simply leaving it behind, dormant and decayed, within the rocky depths of Midtown Manhattan. The drill’s final resting place: 14 stories beneath the well-tended sidewalks of Park Avenue.

 

more:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/25/nyregion/deep-below-park-avenue-a-200-ton-drill-at-rest.html?_r=1&ref=nyregion

 

show me the moneyy!!

 

 

MTA wants $250M from city for 2nd Ave line, Grand Central expansion

 

By JENNIFER FERMINO, Transit Reporter

 

Last Updated: 6:10 PM, July 27, 2011

Posted: 6:09 PM, July 27, 2011

 

 

The MTA wants City Hall to fork over an extra $250 million to pay for the Second Avenue Subway and the expansion of Grand Central Terminal, saying the city should share the wealth since the massive transit projects will boost their bottom line for decades to come.

 

The transit agency said that property values around Manhattan’s East Side will soar once they have completed the two mega-projects, substantially increasing New York City’s tax revenue.

 

The city has already pledged to pay $300 million to the MTA for the projects by 2015, but the MTA thinks they should get more because of the added tax revenue they will bring to the city.

 

"The MTA is making significant investments which we know over time will result in increased real estate value," said Robert Foran.

 

He pointed out that the city agreed to foot the bill for the expansion of the no. 7 line for similar reasons.

 

"The reason the city is paying for that is the city is able to capture real estate appreciation," he said.

 

The Second Avenue Subway and the East Side Access project — which will bring the Long Island Rail into Grand Central — are both slated to be finished in 2016.

 

Barring a massive infusion of cash, the MTA runs out of money to pay for those projects by the end of the year.

 

 

Read more: http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/mta_wants_from_city_for_expansion_TsQPuH5ktIK83u8FF1bvFI#ixzz1TLkydxOP

PennDOT: Keystone Service Again Breaks Record with 1.33 Million Trips

 

Amtrak’s Keystone Service between Harrisburg and Philadelphia saw a new ridership record of 1.33 million trips last fiscal year, state Transportation Secretary Barry J. Schoch, P.E., said today.

 

Ridership from July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011 totaled 1.33 million, which was a 5-percent increase from the previous fiscal year’s record of 1.27 million trips.

 

“More people are realizing that taking the train is a great option at a time when our highways are overburdened and gas prices are fluctuating,” Schoch said.

 

“This year marks another strong year for the Keystone Service,” said Joe McHugh, Vice President of Government Affairs and Corporate Communications for Amtrak. “The continued increase in ridership is a testament to the efforts and strong partnership between the commonwealth and Amtrak to provide quality, convenient and efficient rail service for Pennsylvanians.”

 

Read more at: http://www.whptv.com/news/local/story/PennDOT-Keystone-Service-Again-Breaks-Record-with/AI-GywNvxkuSkmo7_0oKGA.cspx

NCDOT News Release

 

NCDOT AND DURHAM CHRISTEN #1869 “CITY OF DURHAM"

Tuesday, August 02, 2011

 

(RALEIGH) -- The North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Rail Division recentlycommissioned the #1869 “City of Durham” commuter locomotive into service for the use in NCDOT’s daily “Piedmont” passenger train service.  The newly-refurbished locomotive, was christened by former Miss Durham and the current Miss North Carolina, Hailey Best,  is one of three purchased with funding from the Federal Recovery and Reinvestment Act. 

 

“Today, in recognition of Durham’s long-standing support of Amtrak and NCDOT’s passenger rail program, we are here to dedicate and christen one of our newly-refurbished locomotives in honor of this great city, and its citizens,” said N.C. Transportation Secretary Gene Conti.

 

 

The #1869 “City of Durham” locomotive will enter service this week.  It follows in the footsteps of the renovation of the Durham Train Depot two years ago.  Both efforts are designed to showcase Durham as a municipality with a rich and storied history when it comes to rail service in North Carolina. 

 

 

“Transportation is an integral part of linking communities, improving mobility and stimulating our local economy, said Durham Mayor Bill Bell. “ With recent revitalization activities in downtown Durham and increased investments throughout the city, we have seen how investments in the city’s infrastructure have made business investments in Durham even more attractive, which has a positive impact on our local economy.”

 

 

The #1869 “City of Durham” is painted in the NCDOT “Piedmont” paint scheme, which incorporates the colors and symbols of North Carolina’s state flag.  NCDOT names its locomotives for the cities along its passenger rail corridor.  Each locomotive’s number corresponds to the incorporation or charter date of the city after which it is named.

 

 

The locomotive has been completely refurbished mechanically, electrically and structurally.  The 3,000 horse power, 12 cylinder prime mover engine has been upgraded to EPA Tier 0+ emission standards. New Head End Power generator systems have been installed and are EPA Tier II complaint.  As a result of this work, the service life of each locomotive will be extended 15 years. 

 

 

The rebuilt worked was competitively bid and awarded to American Motive Power of Dansville, NY.  The cost of purchasing and rebuilding each locomotive is $1.3 million.  That represents 1/3 of the cost of a comparable new passenger locomotive.

 

 

***NCDOT***

 

https://apps.dot.state.nc.us/pio/releases/details.aspx?r=5248

Four-way pact paves way for second Osage River bridge in Missouri

 

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), Union Pacific Railroad, Amtrak and the Federal Railroad Administration have signed a service agreement that will prompt construction of a second rail bridge over the Osage River, MoDOT officials announced.

 

Funded by federal stimulus funds, the $28.3 million project will eliminate the last single track portion between St. Louis and Jefferson City, Mo. The bridge also will eliminate the last single track bottleneck, which causes delays for freight and Amtrak trains on the eastern segment of the St. Louis-to-Kansas City corridor, according to MoDOT.

 

“This is a critical project that will alleviate congestion along a vital trade and passenger transportation artery,” said Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon in a prepared statement. “Once the bridge is in operation, the rail corridor across Missouri will become even more important for our state and the entire country.”

 

Read more at: http://www.progressiverailroading.com/mow/news/Fourway-pact-paves-way-for-second-Osage-River-bridge-in-Missouri--27525

Cross-posted from the Marcellus-Utica nat gas thread in the biz section....

 

Marcellus Shale regions a target for rail, air hubs

BY ROBERT SWIFT (HARRISBURG BUREAU CHIEF)Published: August 8, 2011

 

HARRISBURG - Freight railroad lines and airports in the Marcellus Shale drilling regions would be targeted for improvements under recommendations made by two gubernatorial commissions.

 

The Governor's Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission and Transportation Funding Advisory Commission both addressed the issue in reports released within the past two weeks.

 

....The Marcellus commission recommends giving priority to an evaluation of rail freight systems in the Marcellus regions in order to relieve the burden on roads and bridges from transporting sand, water and pipe to serve gas well operations. Another suggestion is for the state to partner with local rail authorities to seek federal rail freight dollars for this effort.

 

To address these needs, the commission recommends creating an "Intermodal Transportation Fund" for rail freight, aviation, passenger rail and ports across the state. Revenue from an existing surcharge on tickets for moving vehicle violations that currently goes to the all-purpose state General Fund could be diverted to the new intermodal fund, the commission said.

 

If that happens, the report projects $7 million in new revenue for aviation in fiscal 2012-13 going up to $11 million in five years and $9 million for rail freight in fiscal 2012-13 going up to $17 million in five years. The entire fund would have $54 million in 2012-13.

 

 

Read more: http://standardspeaker.com/news/marcellus-shale-regions-a-target-for-rail-air-hubs-1.1185495#ixzz1UYNUiJUs

There is finally some good news to report up here, in Michigan, regarding the speed restrictions which have plagued Pontiac/Detroit-Chicago service since early June.

 

Earlier this week, while at the dedication of Pontiac's new Transportation Center, state Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle announced that a $4.3 million maintenence agreement with Norfolk Southern (owner of the route between Detroit and Kalamazoo) would begin soon with improvements completed by mid-September.

 

This is good news for time keeping on this line and is thought by some to be a condition of the purchase of the line from NS by MDOT, for which money has already been set aside.  The purchase of the line by the state will then allow the state of Michigan to spend other stimulus dollars that have been set aside for structural and signalling improvements to the line. 

 

It is interesting to note that this work is being done under a Republican administration in Lansing.

They definitely need that third track -- due to passenger train traffic congestion. There are so many Metrolink commuter and Amtrak intercity trains on that section between LA and Fullerton that trains are having to wait up to 20 minutes for a clear track....

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_DOT%20107-11.shtml

 

California Receives Additional $55 Million for Passenger Rail Projects

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

DOT 107-11

Friday, August 12, 2011

Contact: Brie Sachse

Tel.: (202) 493-6024

 

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has received $55 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration for safety and capacity improvements to intercity passenger rail routes.  A $38 million grant will allow for construction of a third track between Los Angeles and Fullerton, and supplement previous construction performed by Caltrans to reduce delays.  A $3.4 million grant will be used for a new track at the Oceanside station on the LOSSAN (Los Angeles to San Diego) Corridor, allowing Metrolink commuter trains to move off the mainline, reducing congestion and delays    A $13.5 million grant will be used for Positive Train Control (PTC) between San Onofre and Moorpark, building on the previous funding received from the U.S. Department of Transportation for PTC implementation along the LOSSAN Corridor.

 

####

 

 

And this is just days after another grant OK'd to California......

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2018-11.shtml

 

Secretary LaHood Announces $179 Million to California for Continued Development of Integrated, Statewide Passenger Rail Network

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA18-11

Monday, August 08, 2011

Contact: Brie Sachse

Tel.: 202-493-6024

 

$86 Million Will Extend High-Speed Rail Service Along Central Valley Segment, the Backbone of the Los Angeles to San Francisco Corridor

 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced $179 million for the State of California to continue building a statewide, passenger rail network with both high-speed and intercity service.  Funding will kick-start several major projects throughout the state including the construction of new tracks, the purchase of next generation trains and the installation of high-tech signaling systems. 

 

“California voters and train passengers have said it loud and clear, they want access to a world-class rail system in California.” said Secretary LaHood.  “These projects ensure passenger rail is built to support a thriving California economy in the 21st century, while creating thousands of new construction and manufacturing jobs today.”

 

Through federal investments and voter-approved state investments, California is laying the groundwork for the nation’s first 220 mph high-speed rail system that will deliver sub-two hour trip times to Los Angeles and the Bay Area.  The rail dollars will also be used to improve existing intercity service throughout the state, including the acquisition of new trains.

 

“With 20 million more people expected to be in California within the next 40 years, we can’t build enough highways and airport runways to accommodate the demand,” said Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo.  “Passenger rail will play a much greater role in how Californians move throughout the state to ensure California’s economy keeps moving forward.”

 

Californians are already seeking convenient alternatives to high gas prices and congested highways, as the state currently boasts some of the busiest rail corridors in the nation.  The Pacific Surfliner has the 2nd highest ridership figures in the nation, and the Capitol Corridor had more than 1.5 million riders in 2010.  Highlights of today’s announcement include:

 

Central Valley High-Speed Rail

 

·        The California High-Speed Rail Authority will receive $86.4 million for the Central Valley project, extending the current 110 mile segment an additional 20 miles to Merced and Bakersfield, advancing completion of the backbone of the Los Angeles to San Francisco corridor.

 

Regional Equipment Pool

 

·        Caltrans will receive $68 million for new trains servicing intercity routes.  The funding is part of a multi-state procurement between California, Michigan, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri and Washington State to pool resources, maximizing the purchase of next-generation American-made trains. Along with $100 million from a previously awarded grant to California, the money will allow for the purchase six new locomotives and forty new passenger cars.

 

Pacific Surfliner – San Diego to San Luis Obispo

 

·        Signaling/Safety - Positive train control (PTC) will be installed between San Onofre and San Diego.  This signaling system will increase railroad safety and efficiency by monitoring and controlling train movements.  Over $24.9 million was awarded to Caltrans to install the system.

 

A strict “Buy America” requirement for high-speed rail projects ensures that U.S. manufacturers and workers will receive the maximum economic benefits from this federal investment. In 2009, Secretary LaHood secured a commitment from 30 foreign and domestic rail manufacturers to employ American workers and locate or expand their base of operations in the U.S. if they are selected for high-speed-rail contracts.

 

Thirty-two states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia are currently laying the foundation for high-speed rail corridors to link Americans with faster and more energy-efficient travel options. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and annual appropriations have provided $10.1 billion to put America on track towards providing new and expanded rail access to communities and improving the reliability, speed, and frequency of existing service. Of that, more than $6 billion has been obligated to date.

 

####

this is a seriously amazing flyover animation of the denver union station redevelopments:

 

http://www.unionstationdenver.com/

 

 

Downeaster supporters: N.H. should share costs for rail service

By Jennifer Keefe / Foster’s Daily Democrat, Dover, N.H.

Saturday, August 20, 2011

 

DOVER -- Supporters of maintaining and expanding the much-used Amtrak Downeaster rail service through New Hampshire say the state should pony up.

 

New Hampshire doesn’t contribute financially to the railroad’s operation despite passenger service that’s provided in Durham, Dover and Exeter that makes up a large portion of the Downeaster’s ridership as it travels from Maine to Massachusetts.

 

But Peter Burling, chairman of the New Hampshire Rail Transit Authority, warns there could be consequences if New Hampshire doesn’t kick in some funds in support of the service.

 

While Burling noted the decision is a legislative one, he said he recognizes the benefits of rail transit and the high volume of use in New Hampshire.

 

Read more at: http://news.bostonherald.com/news/national/northeast/view/20110820downeaster_supporters_nh_should_share_costs_for_rail_service/srvc=home&position=recent

Updated: Today at 12:09 PM

 

Maine panel picks train layover site near homes in Brunswick

The board votes 7-0 for the west Brunswick location after pressure to select one of two other sites.

By Dennis Hoey [email protected]

Staff Writer

 

 

The governing board of the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority has selected a site in west Brunswick near Bouchard Drive to build a $4 million layover facility for Downeaster passenger trains.

 

Board members voted 7-0 in favor of the site at a meeting Monday in Portland. Up to three passenger trains will be stored inside a 650-foot-long garage once train service is extended north from Portland.

 

Inclusion of Bouchard Drive on the list of three potential sites for the facility infuriated neighborhood residents, who fear Downeaster trains will generate noise, vibration and fumes that will harm their quality of life. Many of those residents turned out for a public hearing Thursday in Brunswick.

 

Read more at: http://www.pressherald.com/news/train-panel-picks-site-near-homes-for-layovers_2011-08-24.html

From Iowa....

 

Panel hears support for 10-cent increase in gas tax

More passenger rail is a good idea, too, a transportation advisory commission is told.

1:55 AM, Aug. 25, 2011|

 

A 10-cent-per-gallon increase in Iowa’s

gasoline tax was a popular idea

Wednesday night as farmers and business

and county government officials bemoaned

the deterioration of the state’s 114,000-

mile road system.

 

About a dozen people spoke at a public

forum sponsored by Gov. Terry Branstad’s 2

020 transportation advisory commission,

which is studying road funding issues in

cooperation with the Iowa Department of

Transportation. The panel will make

recommendations later this year to the

Iowa Legislature, which is expected to

consider proposals to raise the gasoline tax

when it convenes in January.

 

Most speakers told the panel that Iowa

needs to generate more revenue to

preserve Iowa’s network of roads and

bridges, which is aging and requires

extensive repairs. Several also spoke in

support of a plan to establish passenger

rail service between Chicago and Iowa City

and eventually to Des Moines and Omaha.

About 60 people attended the meeting at

the Embassy Suites Hotel in downtown Des

Moines.

 

Read more at: http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20110825/NEWS10/308250030/-1/LIFE04/Panel-hears-support-10-cent-increase-gas-tax

Iowa. More progressive than Ohio on transportation matters? Oy....

Ohio.... "the hole in the doughnut."

Yep. I posted the Iowa article on my e-mail networks which generated a response by someone noting that Indiana isn't a bastion of transportation progressivism either. Well........

_______________________

 

No, but the Indiana Department of Transportation:

 

--> requested, received and invested (ie: didn't send back to DC) a 100% federal PRIIA grant of $71.4 million (added to Norfolk Southern Corp. in the amount of $4 million) to construct new siding tracks and crossover switches to enhance traffic capacity on the Norfolk Southern mainline tracks between Porter, IN and the Illinois state line, used by Amtrak's Michigan and East Coast passenger trains. Ohio, of course, gave its money back.

 

--> is the collector, holder and distributor of 0.67% of the state sales and use tax in addition to mass transit taxes from participating local governments statewide for public transit capital and operating costs via a state government-held Public Mass Transportation Fund. Indiana's PMTF distributed $41.7 million in 2009, or four times what Ohio spent on transit that year. Ohio has no such transit fund and no dedicated revenues to transit.

 

--> has the Commuter Rail Service Fund (CRSF). It receives 0.123% percent of the state’s general sales and use tax revenue, as well as state collections from the indefinite-SITUS tax on distributable property of railroad car companies. These are distributed to commuter transportation districts for maintenance, improvement, operations and long-term capital projects of commuter rail service (presently only NICTD, which received $12.6 million from the state in 2009).

 

--> has the Electric Rail Service Fund (ERSF), a special state fund generated from property tax on a railroad company’s distributable property that provides service with a commuter transportation district. The only qualifying service is in NW Indiana for South Shore/Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District trains. From the ERSF, INDOT provided $137,000 to NICTD in 2009.

 

Combined, INDOT allocated $54.3 million to public transit in 2009 (this was a reduction from the prior year due to the recession), including $12.7 million to regional passenger rail. And it is administering a $75 million intercity passenger rail improvement project. SOURCE: http://www.in.gov/indot/files/2009IPTAnnualReport.pdf. Furthermore, in 2007, the Indiana legislature raised the state sales tax from six percent to seven percent, and lowered the PMTF portion of this from 0.76 percent to 0.67 percent for the coming years. But this produced an increase of about $7 million per year in state funding for transit. SOURCE: http://www.in.gov/indot/files/2007IPTAnnualReport.pdf

 

So while Indiana isn't exactly a multi-modal, progressive transportation state, if Ohio copied what INDOT is doing, it would be considered a clear sign of progress for Ohio by any sober observer. Why did All Aboard Ohio urge $17 million per year from Ohio DOT for passenger rail? It wasn't because we're a rail cult. It's because we wanted Ohio to catch up to the bottom-feeders among other DOTs.

Rail Improvement

The Missourian 

.Posted: Wednesday, August 31, 2011 6:32 pm | Updated: 8:25 am, Wed Aug 31, 2011.

 

Riders on Amtrak between St. Louis and Kansas City are pleased to learn that a bottleneck on the rails will be eliminated. A second rail bridge over the Osage River west of Hermann will be constructed. The cost will be $28.3 million and work is scheduled to begin this fall.

 

The project will eliminate the last single-track portion between Jefferson City and Kansas City. It also will remove the last single track bottleneck to cause delays for freight and Amtrak trains on the eastern segment of the St. Louis to Kansas City corridor.

 

Read more at: http://www.emissourian.com/opinion/editorials/article_edfc2185-b7e1-574b-abc1-9d56262f2d0d.html

Another bottleneck. Good thing Ohio punted these funds to states that care about infrastructure, jobs, growth, the future.....

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2020-11.shtml

 

TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY LAHOOD ANNOUNCES

$34 MILLION TO ALLEVIATE CONGESTION AT ONE

OF THE LARGEST RAIL BOTTLENECKS IN AMERICA

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA 20-11

Thursday, September 01, 2011

Contact: Brie N. Sachse

Tel.: (202) 493-6024

 

U.S. Department of Transportation also Announces $15 Million to Pave the Way for a Houston – Dallas-Fort Worth High-Speed Passenger Rail Corridor

 

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today joined with Texas officials and railroad industry leaders to announce nearly $50 million in rail investments to bolster both passenger and freight service through the state, and jumpstart planning for high-speed rail between Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth. 

 

A $34 million TIGER II grant will fund major rail improvements on the Tower 55 project in Fort Worth, TX, and reduce traffic delays by 100,000 hours per year. The Tower 55 project will alleviate congestion at one of the busiest railroad intersections in the United States, where ten freight and passenger rail routes converge and carry more than 100 trains per day.  The high volume of trains currently results in lengthy delays for area commuters and passengers, which will be greatly reduced thanks to these rail upgrades. 

 

In addition, the U.S. Department of Transportation today announced a $15 million high-speed rail grant for Texas that will jumpstart engineering and environmental work on a high-speed rail corridor linking two of the largest metro areas in the U.S., Dallas-Fort Worth to Houston.  The State of Texas is one of 32 states across the country currently laying the foundation for future high-speed rail service that will connect Americans more quickly, efficiently and safely than ever before. 

 

“These projects are part of President Obama’s bold vision for investing in freight and passenger rail projects that will create jobs and grow our economy over the long-term by moving people and goods more quickly and efficiently than ever before,” said Secretary Ray LaHood.  “Through our robust public-private partnership with state, local and industry partners on the Tower 55 project, we’re eliminating a longstanding bottleneck for freight rail, creating capacity to handle future rail demand as our population grows, and strengthening the foundation for economic development across the region.” 

 

In addition to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s investment, the City of Ft. Worth, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), BNSF Railway (BNSF) and Union Pacific Railroad (UP) are providing funding to help install new signaling, bridge upgrades, a third track line, and improved street and pedestrian crossings.  Once complete, rail capacity will increase by more than 30 percent, making it more efficient for rail freight shippers and improve commuter rail reliability and performance.

 

“Tower 55 is a crossroads of the North American continent,” said Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison.”  This project will allow the Tower to go from a legacy chokepoint to the model of a freight and passenger checkpoint, a facility featuring efficiency, safety, and convenience.”

 

According to Senator John Cornyn, “Tower 55 is a crossroads of the Texas economy. These improvements will help ensure our state remains the economic leader it is while improving the safety and commute times of those within Fort Worth.”

 

"The Tower 55 improvement project will create hundreds of jobs and will bring in over $1 billion to our economy while upgrading one of the most congested rail intersections in the country,” said Congresswoman Kay Granger.  “ Tower 55 is the crossroads of the rail industry in Texas and this grant is a great example of what can be achieved when federal, state, and local partners work together with the private sector to find solutions."

 

“This is about safety and economic well-being,” said Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. “When the trains back up, cities all the way into Denton County face blocked rail crossings. And goods moving from the North to the South and the East to the West are delayed. Improvements to Tower 55 not only benefit Fort Worth, but the state of Texas and the nation as well.”

 

"This project could not have happened without the unprecedented collaboration of a number of entities that supported this essential project," said Texas Transportation Commissioner William Meadows.  "The Tower 55 Multimodal Improvement Project exemplifies the strong commitment of the Texas Department of Transportation to comprehensive transportation planning, and an acknowledgment that a transportation system includes many different and diverse components."

 

“Partnerships have been a vital part of Fort Worth’s continued efforts to protect and preserve our quality of life,” said Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price. “So, it is appropriate — and not the least bit surprising — that another vital partnership has produced more positive results. This collaboration will address serious challenges to our region’s mobility and commerce, and, more importantly, to the safety of our residents.”

 

The Tower 55 project will create approximately 900 jobs, and provide greater safety with reduced delays for motorists and pedestrians at area highway-rail crossings and bridges.  With decreased train delays and blocked crossings, the project will achieve a projected 1.9 million ton reduction in carbon emissions from idling locomotives and automobiles.  Construction is expected to begin in early 2012.  In addition to the $34 million TIGER II grant, the project will be funded with  matching contributions, including:  $1 million from TxDOT; a $1 million from the City of Ft. Worth; and $65 million from BNSF and UP. 

 

Under the U.S. Department of Transportation’s popular Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) program, $600 million has been awarded to 42 capital construction projects and 33 planning projects in 40 states for crucial upgrades to highways, bridges, transit systems, rail lines, bicycle and pedestrian paths and ports.  TIGER II grants were awarded to projects that promote innovative, multimodal transportation, increase energy-efficiency and provide significant economic benefits to an entire metropolitan area, region or the nation.

 

####

Feds OK high-speed train route to Twin Cities

Published September 02, 2011, 12:00 AM

By: John Myers, Duluth News Tribune

 

The Federal Rail Administration has approved a route for the Northern Lights Express passenger train proposed between the Twin Ports and the Twin Cities.

 

The 155-mile route approved — the one preferred by promoters of the passenger train — would use existing BNSF Railway track from Duluth to Minneapolis along the Interstate 35 and Minnesota Highway 65 corridors.

 

The approval was announced Wednesday at the regular meeting of the Minneapolis-Duluth/Superior Passenger Rail Alliance that oversees efforts for the proposed high-speed train.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/208245/

shouldn't he be working?  :laugh:

 

 

 

 

more:

http://gothamist.com/2011/08/02/video_second_ave_subway_constructio.php

FRI SEP 02, 2011 AT 11:50 AM PDT

Tea party Republicans cheer federal investment in Texas rail project

 

OMG, I cannot believe Rick Perry is allowing this to happen in his own state!

 

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has joined with Texas officials and railroad industry leaders to announce nearly $50 million in rail investments to bolster both passenger and freight service through the state, and jumpstart planning for high-speed rail between Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth.

 

Isn't that a violation of the Tenth Amendment or something? Tea party Republicans have got to be LIVID about this obvious act of SOCIALISM. Except:

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2011/09/02/1012916/-Tea-party-Republicans-cheer-federal-investment-in-Texas-rail-project

Stumbled across this, interesting multi-modal site in KCMO

 

http://www.cic-kc.com/

 

CenterPoint Intermodal Center - Kansas City

 

This 1,340-acre development includes a 1,000-acre Industrial Park located directly adjacent to the newly-opened Kansas City Southern Intermodal Facility. With infrastructure in place, these sites are build-ready for facilities up to 1+ million square feet.

http://www.marp.org/?p=3356&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

 

Work on the Amtrak Wolverine line is progressing (includes video)

September 13, 2011 by admin

Filed under: News

 

Crews are dillegently working on the Norfolk Southern tracks that the Amtrak Wolverine and Blue Water trains use between Dearborn and Kalamazoo and are expected to be finished by the second or third week of September 2011 according to an Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) official.

 

Over the past year, Norfolk Southern has deferred some maintenance to the track while it negotiates the sale of the railroad to the State of Michigan.

 

Poor track conditions have slowed train speeds during the past few months. Train speeds of 60 mph will be restored on this segment, in preparation for even higher speeds in years to follow.

 

“That’s why we had to step forward and stabalize the track regardless of whatever we have going on.” said Tim Hoeffner of MDOT’s rail office, referring to the negotiations.

 

MDOT and Norfolk Southern entered into a $4.2 million maintenance agreement in early August. The work to be done by Norfolk Southern includes replacing ties, smoothing the track, and improving grade crossings on the 135-mile section. Passengers on Wolverine Trains 350 and 353 are bussed between the Pontiac and Jackson stations as well as all stations in between. See this bulletin for more information.

 

MARP member Larry Krieg observed the track crews near Ypsilanti and shot and narrated this video of the work being performed:

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2021-11.shtml

 

U.S. Department of Transportation Announces $32.5 Million Grant to Finalize Expansion Plan of Boston’s South Station

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA 21-11

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Contact: Brie N. Sachse

Tel.: (202) 493-6024

 

U.S.  Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced an award to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) for $32.5 million to expand and enhance the historic South Station in Boston.  The station currently operates beyond its capacity and expects an estimated 50 percent increase in high-speed intercity passenger rail travel in the coming years along the Northeast Corridor, making expansion necessary.

 

“These dollars will allow South Station to expand and meet the needs of the traveling public,” said Secretary LaHood. “Revitalizing and modernizing South Station is not only crucial to accommodating projected population growth, it will create jobs and grow the region's economy.”

 

The grant will allow MassDOT to complete all necessary environmental reviews as well as preliminary engineering activities for the station expansion, including:

 

 Development of a new layover facility for train storage during off-peak times.

 

 Improvements to existing tracks, platforms, interlockings, passenger facilities, and other infrastructure.

 

 Demolition and relocation of an existing, adjacent U.S. Postal Service General Mail Facility to construct  new passenger facilities, including  tracks, platforms, waiting areas with connections to existing platforms and tracks and the adjacent South Station Bus Terminal.

 

 Design passenger enhancements through improved streetscape,  pedestrian, bicycle, local transit, and vehicular facilities in and around the station, including the re-opening of Dorchester Avenue for public use.

 

 Develop a cost estimate for the construction phase of the project.

 

 Consideration of opportunities for joint public/private development over an expanded South Station.  Such development agreements exist at New York’s Penn Station and Union Station in Washington, DC.

 

South Station offers  travelers  access to Amtrak’s high-speed Acela service as well as Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) commuter rail, intercity bus, rapid transit and bus rapid transit services, including direct service to Boston Logan International Airport.  MassDOT will contribute $10.5 million to this phase of the project.

 

“This is not only a great project for Boston’s MBTA commuters, but for all rail travelers in New England,” said Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo.  “Amtrak’s Acela, Northeast Regional, Downeaster and Lake Shore Limited all utilize South Station, handling more than 1.3 million passengers in 2010.”

 

Thirty-two states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia are currently laying the foundation for high-speed rail corridors to link Americans with faster and more energy-efficient travel options. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and annual appropriations have provided $10.1 billion to put America on track towards providing new and expanded rail access to communities and improving the reliability, speed, and frequency of existing service. Of that, more than $7.4 billion has been obligated to date.

 

####

U.S. TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY LAHOOD ANNOUNCES NEARLY $20 MILLION FOR RAIL LINE RELOCATION PROJECTS ACROSS THE U.S.

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA 22-11

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Contact: Brie N. Sachse

Tel.: (202) 493-6024

 

Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood today announced that eight cities and states will share $19.4 million to replace, relocate and improve segments of railroad track in order to enhance safety, livability, and economic development.  The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) received 51 applications from across the country for the Rail Line Relocation and Improvement (RLR) grants, seeking more than $202 million.

 

“The strong desire to improve infrastructure and foster economic development throughout America is evident in the overwhelming demand by our nation’s cities and states,” said Secretary Ray LaHood. “These strategic investments will help advance President Obama’s vision to create jobs, build livable communities, and stimulate economic growth through local projects that deliver the greatest public benefits.”

 

FRA’s RLR Grant Program assists projects that improve community livability and promote economic development by addressing the effects of rail traffic on safety, roadway and pedestrian traffic, overall quality of life and local area commerce.  Funding for these grants is made available through annual appropriations and requires a 10 percent contribution from the project sponsor.  Rail line relocation dollars announced today will fund the following projects:

 

 

Port of San Francisco, California – Quint Street Yard Track and Signal Improvements – $2,970,000 to improve an approximately one mile-long spur connecting a Caltrain mainline track to the San Francisco Rail Yard.  The mainline is under consideration for use as part of the California high-speed rail project, and the current condition of the spur track limits the frequency, weight and length of trains that can use the track, causing delays. The improvements will allow freight trains to operate at higher speeds and clear the mainline more quickly, significantly reducing delays to Caltrain commuter trains and future high-speed rail trains.

 

Sprague, Connecticut – Providence & Worcester Railroad Willimantic Branch – $5,302,900 to upgrade track on the Providence and Worcester Railroad Company’s Willimantic Branch, allowing freight operations to increase speed from 10 mph to 40 mph.  Located in a rural section of east central Connecticut, the Willimantic Branch serves local shippers, and improvements will provide for more efficient movement of freight shipments originating from or destined to customers across the nation or overseas.

 

Maryland Department of Transportation– Canton Area Rail Improvement Project, $1,742,240 for the expansion of a Canton Railroad Company yard facility.  The short line railroad serves industrial customers in and around the Port of Baltimore.  Current switching operations often cause major motor vehicle traffic delays, requiring traffic to be rerouted around the yard.  The improvements will permit more efficient switching operations, and create additional car storage, which will help reduce traffic congestion.

 

Tavares, Florida – Florida Central Railroad Upgrade and Rehabilitation, $2,200,000 to upgrade a segment of track on the Florida Central Railroad in Lake and Orange counties, allowing increases in speed from 10 mph to 40 mph.  Coupled with additional track and bridge repairs, freight service can be restored to areas currently not served by rail.  The improvements may also benefit potential future SunRail commuter service and an excursion train service between Orlando and the City of Mt. Dora.

 

Minnesota Department of Transportation – K-Line Rail Improvement Project, $1,469,556 to improve and extend a municipally-owned rail spur.  The line connects to an industrial park in the City of Wadena, where last year, tornados caused severe damage to local homes and businesses.  Extending the track will enable a local shipper, whose current location forces it to route traffic close to a high school, to relocate its operations to the industrial park.

 

Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department – Arkansas Midland Railroad/Warren Branch, $2,721,435 to rehabilitate and improve 40 miles of track along the Warren Branch of the Arkansas Midland Railroad, a short line railroad located in the Arkansas Delta.  The planned improvements will remedy poor track conditions caused by inadequate drainage and heavy freight loads, which have contributed to washouts, broken rails, derailments and slow orders that reduce train speeds.

 

Springfield, Missouri – West Wye Connection Track, $1,898,444 to relocate an existing “Wye” track (a triangular junction utilized for rail switching and turning) that runs through the center of Springfield to the western side of the city.  The project will enable the permanent removal of 23 highway-rail grade crossings, increasing roadway safety in the area while improving railroad operational performance.

 

Alaska Railroad – Milepost 142 Curve Alignment, $1,141,840 to reduce the curvature of the Alaska Railroad mainline adjacent to the Native Village of Eklutna.  The realignment and improvements will increase track speeds, reduce noise and improve operating safety and efficiency.  A new access road will also allow vehicles to access trains for inspection and car repair, and provide Eklutna, Inc. tribal members access to their property.

 

In September, as part of the Rail Line Relocation Grant Program, FRA will issue a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for more than $11.5 million (made available through annual appropriations), with applications due 30 days later.  The notice will be published at www.fra.dot.gov and available through the Federal Register later this month.

 

####

More, more, more.... How do you like it? How do you like it?

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2024-11.shtml

 

U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood Announces $83 Million for New England High-Speed and Intercity Passenger Rail Projects

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA 24-11

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Contact: Brie Sachse

Tel.: 202-493-6024

 

U.S.  Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced $82.7 million to improve high-speed and intercity passenger rail in Rhode Island, Maine, Connecticut and Vermont.  The dollars will provide needed upgrades to the Northeast Corridor, Connecticut’s New Haven – Springfield line, Maine’s Downeaster route and the Vermonter service.   

 

“These are the kinds of investments that will improve reliability and on-time performance and attract more passengers,” said Secretary LaHood. “We are creating jobs throughout New England, building our rails with American-made materials and growing the New England economy.”

 

A highlight of the rail dollars includes:

 

Rhode Island Department of Transportation.  $26.2 million for the design and construction of an electrified third track parallel to the Northeast Corridor’s main line, and a new platform for the station in Kingston, RI.  The third track will permit faster trains to overtake slower trains, reducing congestion and improving on-time performance on the Northeast Corridor for Amtrak and commuter trains.  Throughout the Northeast Corridor from Washington, D.C to Boston, $1.75 billion is being invested to improve service.

 

Rhode Island Department of Transportation.  $3 million for preliminary engineering and environmental reviews for American with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant platforms at the Providence station on the Northeast Corridor. The project also includes improved parking and pedestrian access, station repairs, potential reconfiguration of transit circulation and drop-off facilities, and future tunnel improvements.

 

Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA).  $20.8 million to alleviate congestion and reduce delays on segments of Amtrak’s Downeaster service. The project will provide critically needed double track, as well as signal and highway-rail grade crossing improvements between Wilmington and Ballardville, MA.  Aging rail will be replaced with new, continuously-welded rail between Lawrence and Bradford, MA. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates commuter trains on this line, and on-time performance for the Downeaster has deteriorated due to bottlenecks within this area.  Currently, the Downeaster operates from Boston to Portland, ME, and is expanding to Brunswick, ME thanks to previous, federal grants totaling $38 million. 

 

Connecticut Department of Transportation.  $30 million for 6 miles of new double-tracks from Hartford to Windsor, CT, which will connect with an existing siding to create a 9-mile double-tracks segment on Amtrak’s New Haven-Springfield  line.  In addition, a new 8,500-foot siding will be added through the Hartford Yard to better clear freight trains off Amtrak’s main line.  Together, this added capacity will substantially relieve existing congestion in the Hartford area and will support future increases in rail service. The project also includes repairs and maintenance to bridges, signal improvements, and grade crossing improvements.  Connecticut previously received $40 million for double track work between New Haven and Hartford to reduce delays and improve travel time.

 

Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans). $2.7 million for a 16-mile extension of improved signal and train control technology to enhance the safety and operation of the Amtrak Vermonter service. Additionally, upgrades to the dispatch communication system will be made to enhance its reliability.  VTrans previously received $50 million for improvements to the 190 miles of track between St. Albans and Vernon, VT servicing the Vermonter.  The collective improvements will result in increased speeds, reduced travel time, and greater reliability. 

 

Thirty-two states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia are currently laying the foundation for high-speed rail corridors to link Americans with faster and more energy-efficient travel options. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and annual appropriations have provided $10.1 billion to put America on track towards providing new and expanded rail access to communities and improving the reliability, speed, and frequency of existing service.

 

####

More federal investments being made elsewhere thanks to John "Dr. No" Kasich.........

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2025-11.shtml

 

U.S. Department of Transportation Announces $31 Million to Improve Rail Service in Washington State

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA 25-11

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Contact: Brie N. Sachse

Tel.: (202) 493-6024

 

U.S.  Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced $31.1 million for the State of Washington to improve intercity passenger and freight rail service on the Cascades line.

 

“The investments we’re making in the Cascades line will improve reliability and service for passengers while putting people to work on crucial rail projects,” said Secretary LaHood. “It’s a win-win because these investments will also help create jobs and grow the economy by building and maintaining railways with American-made materials.”

 

A highlight of the rail dollars includes:

 

• Pacific Northwest Corridor – $16.1 million for design, environmental review and construction work to stabilize and improve track structure along the rail line between Blaine, WA, and the Columbia River Bridge in Vancouver, WA.  The upgrades along this route will increase service reliability by reducing the number of closures and delays due to inclement weather.

 

• Vancouver-Port Access Rail Improvements – $15 million for construction of a new, rail access route to the Port of Vancouver, including grade separation at an existing rail crossing which has acted as a significant choke point for rail traffic.  This enhancement will substantially minimize delays affecting freight trains and Amtrak’s Cascades service.  The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the Port of Vancouver are contributing a combined total of $22 million to this project. Construction is expected to begin in July 2012.

 

Amtrak’s Cascades Service is one of its faster growing routes.  Ridership grew 10 percent in 2010 to 838,251 passengers, and is trending to break that record in 2011.

 

“Ridership continues to grow with travelers choosing Amtrak Cascades in record numbers,” said Washington Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond. “Securing these federal dollars gets us going on improvements to make the service more reliable so our passengers can get to their destinations on time,” she said.

 

Thirty-two states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia are currently laying the foundation for passenger rail corridors to link Americans with faster and more energy-efficient travel options. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and annual appropriations have provided $10.1 billion to put America on track towards providing new and expanded rail access to communities and improving the reliability, speed, and frequency of existing service.

 

####

they did it -- we have a second avenue subway!  :clap:

 

Second Ave. Subway

What it’s for: Running from 125th St. down to the Financial District, it will reduce overcrowding and delays on the Lexington Ave. subways and give East side straphangers another subway option.

When it’ll open: The MTA says December 2016; feds say February 2018

What it costs: The MTA says $4.4 billion; feds say $4.8 billion

 

***

 

 

Breakthrough!

 

2nd Ave. Subway’s tunnel dug

 

By BILL SANDERSON and COLIN MIXSON

 

Last Updated: 3:46 AM, September 23, 2011

 

Posted: 2:57 AM, September 23, 2011

 

 

All it needs now are tracks, stations and trains.

 

Tunnel boring ended yesterday on the long-delayed Second Avenue Subway, making it possible to at least walk underground from 96th to 63rd Street.

 

The project -- talked about since the 1920s -- hit a major milestone when a tunnel-digging machine broke through a wall into the existing crosstown tunnel at East 63rd Street.

 

“The Second Avenue Subway is for real this time,” said MTA chief Jay Walder.

 

Read more: http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/manhattan/breakthrough_w5HktUeqtXtuoaJF3yr87H#ixzz1YlnpHY1h

eastside access gets some loot

 

East Side Access

What it’s for: It will bring eight new LIRR tracks to Grand Central Station (along with approximately 162,000 daily riders), speeding up commutes while also easing congestion at Penn Station, most riders’ current end point.

When it’ll open: The MTA says September 2016; feds say April 2018

What it costs: The MTA says $7.3 billion; feds say $8.1 billion

 

***

 

 

East Side Access Project Receives $246 Million

 

By Ivan Pentchoukov

Epoch Times StaffCreated: Sep 21, 2011Last Updated: Sep 21, 2011.

 

 

NEW YORK—What costs $7.3 billion and is the biggest infrastructure project in the nation? If you have walked through the Grand Central Terminal recently, it was right underneath your feet.

 

The East Side Access Project will route the Long Island Railroad underneath the East River from Queens to Grand Central Terminal, bringing service to Manhattan's East Side. The Federal Transportation Authority (FTA) released $215 million in fiscal year 2012 funding, and $31 million in fiscal year 2011 funding for the project earlier this month.

 

The project lies entirely in U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney's district. Maloney pushed for continued funding for the project.

 

more including renders

http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/united-states/east-side-access-project-receives-246-million-61933.html

 

lower manhattan fulton street transit center progress.

 

Fulton St. Transit Center

What it’s for: It will connect five stations, 11 train lines and offer retail stores to some 300,000 daily riders.

When it’ll open: 2014

What it costs: $1.4 billion

 

***

 

 

09/09/2011 02:25 PM

 

 

Fulton Street Transit Center's $1.4B Renovations Aim To Revitalize Downtown Manhattan

 

By: Tina Redwine

 

 

Following the destruction left in the wake of 9/11, the Fulton Street Transit Center is undergoing a $1.4 billion renovation that MTA officials hope will make it the “jewel” of the city’s transit system. NY1’s Tina Redwine filed the following report.

 

The Fulton Street Transit Center is no longer just a series of subway stations, and it will certainly look like much more when it’s finished in three years.

 

Visitors will be able to walk underground all the way from Fulton and Broadway to the World Trade Center transit hub, PATH station, World Financial Center and even out to catch a ferry to New Jersey.

 

video

http://www.ny1.com/content/news_beats/transit/146807/fulton-street-transit-center-s--1-4b-renovations-aim-to-revitalize-downtown-manhattan

 

and the westside #7 train extension is almost done

 

No. 7 Train Extension

What it’s for: It will bring additional train service to the far West side, extending the 7 train to 34th St. and 11th Ave.

When it’ll open: Dec. 2013

What it costs: $2.1 billion

 

***

 

 

Final Work to Begin on 7 Train Extension

 

September 14, 2011 1:02pm | By Mathew Katz, DNAinfo Reporter/Producer

 

click to see all pictures (6 photos)

 

 

MANHATTAN — West Siders who endure a blocks-long hike to the subway on a daily basis are one stop closer to having the train come to them.

 

The MTA announced that work will begin this month to complete an extension of the 7 train into Hell's Kitchen.

 

The $2.1 billion project will extend the line west to a new station at 34th Street and 11th Avenue. The train currently runs between Flushing, Queens and Times Square.

 

 

RELATED CONTENT

•Future 7 Train Station and Tunnel Revealed in Photo Tour

•City Considers Plan to Extend 7 Train to New Jersey

 

 

Read more: http://www.dnainfo.com/20110914/chelsea-hells-kitchen/final-work-begin-on-7-train-extension#ixzz1YlqZ6X00

 

nj transit has a variety of much less flashy projects on the in various stages:

 

 

PROJECTS:

 

Hudson-Bergen Light Rail  -- COMPLETED

Trans-Hudson Express (THE) Tunnel: Access to the Region's Core  -- CANCELLED

Meadowlands Station  -- COMPLETED

Monmouth-Ocean-Middlesex  (Rdeis)

Extension of the Newark Light Rail (NLR) to Newark Broad Street Station  -- COMPLETED

West Trenton Line

Central New Jersey Route 1 Bus Rapid Transit (Configuration)

Lackawanna Cutoff  (EA is done)

Northern Branch Corridor Project

Northwest Multi County Intermodal Transportation Initiative (Study)

Trenton-Camden River Line  -- COMPLETED

 

 

http://www.njtransit.com/tm/tm_servlet.srv?hdnPageAction=CapImprProjectsTo

 

I appreciate the terrific news, but please do not post entire copyrighted articles. It's been a standing rule for two years here. Thanks!

Well.... At least an Ohio train (the Lake Shore Limited, Chicago - Toledo - Cleveland - Buffalo - New York/Boston) will benefit from these investments:

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2026-11.shtml

 

U.S. Department of Transportation Announces

Nearly $150 Million for New York Corridor

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA 26-11

Friday, September 23, 2011

Contact: Brie N. Sachse

Tel.: (202) 493-6024

 

U.S. Department of Transportation Announces Nearly $150 Million

for New York Empire Corridor

 

U.S.  Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced $149.3 million for the New York State

Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to upgrade high-speed and intercity passenger rail service on

the Empire Corridor. The improvements will increase capacity and reliability, while reducing delays

and travel time on several Amtrak routes, including the Empire Service, Lake Shore Limited, Maple

Leaf, Adirondack, and Ethan Allen Express.

 

“These unprecedented investments, using American made materials, will improve passenger travel

while creating good-paying jobs,” said Secretary LaHood. “President Obama’s bold vision for

passenger rail will change transportation in New York and the United States, helping relieve

congestion on our roadways and reducing our dependence on foreign oil.”

 

A first grant, for $91.2 million, will allow NYSDOT to add a 17-mile second mainline track between

the Albany-Rensselaer and Schenectady stations. The existing single track causes significant

delays, requiring trains to wait up to 26 minutes for the rail line to clear when another train is

traveling in the opposing direction.  Construction is expected to begin in late summer 2012.

 

A second grant, for $58.1 million, will fund track and platform improvements at the Albany-

Rensselaer and Schenectady stations, as well as the relocation of signal wires on the Hudson Line,

which have been prone to outages.  These improvements will result in greater reliability and

on-time performance, more flexibility in train schedules and reduced congestion between freight and

passenger trains.  The Schenectady Station improvements are part of a downtown revitalization

program.  Improvements to both stations are expected to begin in late summer

2012.

 

“Through the cooperation and diligence of NYSDOT and Amtrak, working with CSX, rail partners are

coming together to deliver improved service,” said Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. 

“Passengers will see a reduction in delays and better reliability as a result of this additional

rail capacity in Central New York.”

 

Thirty-two states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia are currently laying the foundation

for high-speed rail corridors to link Americans with faster and more energy- efficient travel options.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and annual appropriations have provided $10.1

billion to put America on track towards providing new and expanded rail access to communities

and improving the reliability, speed, and frequency of existing service.

 

####

Ann Arbor to benefit as Michigan moves to purchase and rehab Norfolk Southern rail line

Posted: Tue, Sep 27, 2011 : 5:59 a.m.

By Ryan J. Stanton

Political Reporter

 

The state of Michigan is making moves to purchase and rehabilitate the Norfolk Southern Railway line that passes through Ann Arbor — another positive sign for high-speed rail.

 

A Senate appropriations bill including nearly $400 million in rail-related spending is expected to move on the floor of the state House this week, and it's expected to pass.

 

"This legislation is the first step towards accepting the hundreds of millions of dollars our Congressional delegation has secured for Michigan's rail infrastructure," said state Rep. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor, calling it good news for the I-94 corridor and the entire state.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.annarbor.com/news/ann-arbor-to-reap-benefits-of-nearly-400m-in-expected-rail-improvements-in-michigan/

Reading through these past several posts..... Ohio looks evermore like the hole in the doughnut. :-( :oops:

It's worse than that, something which I will show shortly in map form. I'm working on some messaging pieces for the media.

Oh, BTW......

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2028-11.shtml

 

U.S. Department of Transportation Awards North Carolina and Virginia $48 Million to Develop High-Speed Rail Between Raleigh, NC and Washington, DC

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA 28-11

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Contact: Brie Sachse

Tel.: 202-493-6024

 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced $48.3 million for North Carolina and Virginia to advance the development of the Southeast High-Speed Rail Corridor, which will link Raleigh, NC, to Washington, DC via Richmond, Va.  These grants will ultimately spur high-speed and intercity passenger rail development as far south as Charlotte, NC, and Atlanta, Ga., and to the Tidewater Region of Hampton Roads and Norfolk, Va.

 

“Thanks to the investments we are making today, Americans across the Southeast will have convenient access to faster, more efficient passenger rail connecting to destinations all along the Northeast Corridor,” said Secretary LaHood.  “Passenger rail will also help alleviate traffic along congested sections of I-95, foster economic development and provide Americans with a greener, cleaner, more sustainable way to travel.”

 

The federal investment announced today will fund a number of high-speed rail projects in North Carolina, Virginia, and Washington, DC:

 

• North Carolina – $4 million for environmental and design work for the construction of a new connection between Raleigh and Richmond, that could reduce travel time to just two hours between the two cities, a reduction of one hour and 30 minutes from the current schedule. The North Carolina Department of Transportation, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation, will contribute $3.9 million toward this project.

 

• Virginia – $44.3 million for environmental analysis and preliminary engineering to prepare for the construction of the Southeast High-Speed Rail Corridor between Washington and Richmond. The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation will contribute $11.1 million toward this project.

 

“The population growth we have seen over the last decade in the Southeast is just the tip of the iceberg compared to what we will see by the middle of the century,” said FRA Administrator Joseph C. Szabo.  “The cooperation between these states and DOT has shown a strong will to connect the region by high-speed rail and ensure the region’s economy keeps moving and growing.

 

Thirty-two states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia are currently laying the foundation for high-speed rail corridors to link Americans with faster and more energy-efficient travel options. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and annual appropriations have provided $10.1 billion to put America on track towards providing new and expanded rail access to communities and improving the reliability, speed, and frequency of existing service. Of that, more than $7.6 billion has been obligated to date.

 

####

It's worse than that, something which I will show shortly in map form. I'm working on some messaging pieces for the media.

 

Can't wait. Ohio is the true vacuum nature abhors.

Sorry for the inconvenience. I moved the post about "north of the lake CHI-NYC passenger rail" to a more appropriate thread....

 

http://www.urbanohio.com/forum2/index.php/topic,12036.msg579069.html#msg579069

 

 

The East Side Access Project will route the Long Island Railroad underneath the East River from Queens to Grand Central Terminal, bringing service to Manhattan's East Side. The Federal Transportation Authority (FTA) released $215 million in fiscal year 2012 funding, and $31 million in fiscal year 2011 funding for the project earlier this month.

I presume that Long Islanders now have  to debark from the LIRR in Jamaica and take a long walk through the Jamaica station to catch a different train into Manhattan.

Depends. Some LIRR trains terminate at Jamaica, while others continue all the way to Penn Station. Manhattan-bound riders can either transfer to a Penn Station train, or take the subway. The walk from the LIRR platforms to the subway station isn't particularly long (the entrance is at the north end of the LIRR concourse), although the walk to the AirTrain that serves JFK Airport is a little longer.

The FRA sure is busy pushing the awards out the door with these grant agreements. Gee, must be near the end of the fiscal year.......

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2029-11.shtml

 

U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood Announces $13.6 Million for Oregon Intercity Passenger Rail Projects

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA 29-11

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Contact: Brie Sachse

Tel.: 202-493-6024

 

U.S.  Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today awarded a $13.6 million grant to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to modernize the Portland Union Station, upgrade passenger rail service along Amtrak’s Cascades route and continue further development of an integrated, statewide rail network

 

“These investments will improve passenger and freight rail service in Oregon,” said Secretary LaHood. “By providing more efficient and reliable rail service, we are building a stronger economic future.”

 

A highlight of the rail dollars provided includes:

 

• $4 million to fund preliminary engineering and environmental work for track replacement and expansion, facility upgrades to comply with the Americans with Disability Act, as well as energy conservation measures at Portland Union Station. These improvements will reduce train station congestion and accommodate forecasted increases in passenger service.  ODOT will contribute $1 million to this project.

 

• $1.3 million to support final design and construction of additional work on the station’s roof and other structural upgrades, coupled with a $5.9 million grant previously awarded by FRA for roof replacement.  In addition to additional roof replacement and seismic upgrades, work will also include replacing gutters, downspouts, repairing skylights and windows, and insulation in the attic.

 

• $4.2 million for a draft and final environmental work and service planning to identify improvements for the Cascades route from Eugene to Portland, OR.  ODOT will contribute $5.8 million for this phase of the project.

 

Amtrak’s Cascades Service, which operates between Eugene, OR to Vancouver, BC, is one of the railroad’s fastest growing routes.  Ridership increased 10 percent in 2010 to a record-breaking 838,251 passengers, and is trending to break that record in 2011.

 

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Depends. Some LIRR trains terminate at Jamaica, while others continue all the way to Penn Station. Manhattan-bound riders can either transfer to a Penn Station train, or take the subway. The walk from the LIRR platforms to the subway station isn't particularly long (the entrance is at the north end of the LIRR concourse), although the walk to the AirTrain that serves JFK Airport is a little longer.

I couldn't figure that out from the LIRR site.  The routes turn into bland grey lines to cross the river into Manhattan.  thanks

Good news from Michigan:

 

The Michigan House Appropriations Committee voted SB 237 out of committee earlier this morning. This bill has $18.75 million as the state's share of funding for a $358.9 million federal grant (plus $20.45 million in local and private funds, for a total of $398.1 million) that will allow the state to acquire Norfolk Southern Corp.'s Kalamazoo-Dearborn segment of the Chicago-Detroit Wolverine Corridor as well as make improvements to that corridor, replace or build stations, etc.

 

A floor vote was just held in the full House. It passed; given immediate effect --  Yeas 101, only 8 Nays

 

This is a substitute bill, so the Senate has to resolve differences from the version it passed. Stay tuned. The word is that the substitute has to do with human services, not trains :)

 

The governor is expected to sign the bill.

Even though Florida's governor shit-canned their HSR project, doesn't mean they've stopped doing everything with rail. Neither should Ohio's stakeholders just because their governor won't do anything with rail right now.....

 

Miami Central Station project breaks ground

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

 

Construction of South Florida's first complete ground transportation hub began Tuesday, September 27 when Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Ananth Prasad joined local officials and representatives of Amtrak, Greyhound, Miami-Dade Transit Metrorail and Metrobus and Tri-Rail for a "shoveling of dirt" ceremony, launching the final component of the massive $2 billion Miami Intermodal Center Program.

 

"The Miami Central Station is the crown jewel of the MIC Program," said FDOT Secretary Ananth Prasad. "It will make a significant difference for residents and visitors by giving them transportation choices within this one location."

 

Covering 16.5 acres, the $147 million facility is located just east of the recently-opened Miami Rental Car Center and is bounded by NW 25 Street on the north, NW 37 Avenue on the east, NW 21 Street on the south and NW 38 Court on the west.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.rtands.com/newsflash/miami-central-station-project-breaks-ground-4556.html

 

http://www.micdot.com/miami_central_station.html

 

 

 

 

Before coming here I didn't know that a Mpls-St Paul light rail line was under construction. The first thing I thought when riding by was: photo thread. Businesses there are surely taking a hit, what with the signs up saying to support University Ave businesses and the narrow, fenced in sidewalks. I might also have to ride the North Star commuter rail line that passes by my apartment sometime before it gets too cold.

Warning! Warning! Ohio is surrounded by states that are pursuing rail development! We must escape before the walls close in on the only sane state still left in the Northwest-Midwest region!!! Oh wait, you mean Ohio isn't smarter than everyone else??

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_DOT%20129-11.shtml

 

News Digest: Pennsylvania’s Keystone Rail Corridor Receives $40 Million from USDOT

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

DOT 129-11

Friday, September 30, 2011

 

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today awarded a $40 million grant to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to eliminate delays in and out of Harrisburg on Amtrak’s Keystone Corridor.  The project consists of replacing aging track and signals with modern technologies.  The Department of Transportation had previously funded $23 million to the Keystone Corridor to improve safety and allow future train speeds to increase from 110 mph to 125 mph.  The Keystone corridor operates between New York, Philadelphia and Harrisburg and is Amtrak’s fourth most heavily traveled route.  Since train speeds along the route were increased to 110 mph in 2006, ridership has grown by more than 37 percent to 1,227,075 passengers in 2010.  Contact: Brie Sachse (202) 493-6024.

 

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