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: Pennsylvanias 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 Amtraks 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 Amtraks 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.

 

####

 

Let's not pay any attention to what those crazies in other states are doing. We are ideologically pure here. Just move on. Nothing to see.

News out of New Jersey and the USDOT regarding the ARC tunnel funding.....

 

http://transportationnation.org/2011/09/30/breaking-arc-settlement-reached/

Laugh about it, but I am seriously considering leaving Ohio as soon as I qualify to draw a pension.

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!!!

Laugh about it, but I am seriously considering leaving Ohio as soon as I qualify to draw a pension.

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!!!

 

Can't blame you.

Virginia approves 100-million dollar rail project  

5:58 p.m. EDT, September 29, 2011

 

Next year, drivers will have the option to travel by train to Richmond and Washington DC thanks to a state-approved multi-million dollar project to build a train station next to Harbor Park in Norfolk.

 

The project includes two Amtrak trains that will run daily.

 

Once this multi-modal transportation facility is up and running, somewhere in this general area, there will be two trains per day: one leaving Norfolk in the morning at 5 a.m. and getting to DC at 9 a.m. and then a returning train in the afternoon, leaving DC at 3 p.m. and arriving here in Norfolk at 7 p.m.

 

Full story and Video at: http://www.wtkr.com/news/wtkr-state-approves-100million-dollar-rail-project-to-be-built-next-to-harbor-park-20110929,0,1271138.story

 

Video: http://www.wtkr.com/videobeta/f7927700-2b59-47e7-9af8-cab2e4d4816c/News/State-approves-project-to-build-train-station-in-Norfolk

Transit hub in Normal could be example for Springfield

By TIM LANDIS ([email protected])

The State Journal-Register

Posted Oct 02, 2011 @ 11:00 PM

 

NORMAL — The community of Normal is less than a year away from the scheduled opening of a four-story, $43 million transportation hub that will combine train, taxi, bus and other public transportation systems in one downtown location.

 

Springfield, meanwhile, is still looking.

 

Normal has not had the controversy — though there has been controversy — over high-speed trains and freight traffic that has stalled Springfield’s plans, said Wayne Aldrich, development director for Uptown Normal.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.sj-r.com/top-stories/x824871982/Transit-hub-in-Normal-could-be-example-for-Springfield

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 better news from Michigan:  The aforementioned bill was signed into law with HUGE amounts of bi-partisan support.  I wish I could figure out why our Republicans work differently than your Republicans.

 

Even better news from Michigan:  The aforementioned bill was signed into law with HUGE amounts of bi-partisan support.  I wish I could figure out why our Republicans work differently than your Republicans.

 

See the second item at www.allaboardohio.org for an explanation of the difference.

This is Michigan's reward for its legislative action last week (see also http://allaboardohio.org/2011/09/30/that-%E2%80%9Cstate-up-north%E2%80%9D-is-cleaning-buckeye-state%E2%80%99s-clock/ for background and relevance to Ohio)......

 

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2030-11.shtml

 

U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood Awards $196 Million to Reduce Train Travel Time by 30 Minutes between Detroit and Chicago

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA 30-11

Wednesday, October 05, 2011

Contact: Brie Sachse

Tel.: 202-493-6024

 

U.S.  Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today awarded a $196.5 million grant to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) for track and signal improvements between Detroit and Kalamazoo, MI.  These improvements will allow for speeds up to 110 mph on 77 percent of Amtrak’s Wolverine and Blue Water services between Detroit and Chicago, resulting in a 30 minute reduction in travel time between those destinations. 

 

“This is an important investment that will reduce travel time, improve reliability and on-time performance, and attract more passengers,” said Secretary LaHood. “We are creating jobs in Michigan, building our rails with American-made materials and growing the regional economy.”

 

Dollars for this 135 mile segment between Detroit and Kalamazoo will support preliminary engineering, final design and construction.  The project includes new, continuously welded rail and ties, fiber optic lines and infrastructure to support a positive train control system, rebuilding 180 highway-rail grade crossings, and gates and flashers at 65 private highway-rail grade crossings.  The project will create approximately 800 new jobs during the construction phase, which is expected to begin late spring 2012, and will facilitate service to current and future freight rail customers, including major shippers like Ford Motor Company.

 

"Investing in rail service will spark economic development in communities along a corridor linking Detroit and Chicago, two vital Midwest cities," said Governor Rick Snyder. "A faster, reliable passenger rail system is a priority for younger generations and vital to Michigan's ability to compete globally as businesses look to locate or expand. The rail improvements will also hasten the transport of freight, a priority for Ford Motor Company and other Michigan businesses along the route."

 

“This funding will help move Michigan and the nation forward by making high-speed rail a part of our economic infrastructure," said Senator Carl Levin. "Our economic competitors around the world have long enjoyed the benefits of high-speed rail service between their cities. They have demonstrated that high-speed service can create jobs and promote economic growth, and that it can provide a more energy-efficient alternative."

 

"Construction of new high-speed lines will create jobs and generate more business activity in Michigan," Senator Debbie Stabenow said. "This effort will not only boost our economy, it will provide residents with more transportation options. With gas prices as high as they are it is critically important that travelers have more choices in addition to driving."

 

“The obligation of Michigan’s rail funding is a critical step forward for high-speed rail service from Detroit to Chicago,” said Congressman John Dingell.  “As a co-author of legislation that created one of the first high-speed rail assistance programs in the country, I believe rail is essential to maintaining and improving the economic competitiveness of the United States.  The development of rail and transit creates immediate and needed construction jobs, retains and recruits local businesses, and reduces our Nation’s dependence on foreign oil.  I thank Secretary LaHood, FRA and the Michigan Department of Transportation for their hard work on this project.”

 

In addition, MDOT is designated to receive $150 million DOT grant later this year to purchase this 135 mile segment of track, when grant conditions are met.  This will allow for the implementation of 110 mph service along the corridor that will bring improved passenger service, ensure capacity for freight operations through double tracking on the busiest freight segment and deliver long-term economic benefits to the State of Michigan.

 

The Wolverine and Blue Water routes are part of the Midwest rail network, which has a population base of about 29 million people 100-500 miles from one another.  Midwestern states have been working cooperatively together to plan and further develop an integrated, multi-state passenger rail network.  In addition to the goal of expanding service to new cities, trains in the system will travel at 110 mph on the primary routes and 90 mph on secondary lines, reducing travel time, and increasing reliability and on-time performance.

 

####

More from Michigan......

 

http://www.michigan.gov/mdot/0,4616,7-151-9620_11057-263585--,00.html

 

MDOT seeks to improve both passenger and freight rail lines with purchase of Norfolk Southern Railway track

Contact:  Jeff Cranson, MDOT Director of Communications, 517-335-3084

Agency: Transportation

 

(Editor's note: See Fast Facts at end of release.)

 

October 5, 2011 -- The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) today announced an agreement with Norfolk Southern Railway (NSR) to purchase a critical 135-mile segment of railroad track between Kalamazoo and Dearborn. The track is part of Amtrak's Wolverine passenger rail service and also provides freight services to major Michigan companies, including Ford Motor Co. The $140 million purchase was made using Federal Railroad Administration grant funds, which includes an affordable state match.

 

The purchase will enable MDOT to stabilize and upgrade the track for both passenger and rail freight services. NSR will retain an exclusive freight easement to preserve and grow its freight business.

 

"Investing in rail service will spark economic development in communities along a corridor linking Detroit and Chicago, two vital Midwest cities," said Gov. Rick Snyder. "A faster, reliable passenger rail system is a priority for younger generations and vital to Michigan's ability to compete globally as businesses look to locate or expand. The rail improvements will also hasten the transport of freight, a priority for Ford Motor Company and other Michigan businesses along the route."

 

MDOT ownership of the Kalamazoo-Dearborn segment, combined with Amtrak ownership between Kalamazoo-Porter, Ind., will ensure that nearly 80 percent of the Chicago-Detroit/Pontiac Accelerated Rail Corridor will be in passenger-friendly ownership, giving greater control over the services.

 

"This important rail infrastructure upgrade will lead to long-term economic benefits for Michigan," said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. "We plan to work with Norfolk Southern and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to grow the freight business along this corridor, while supporting intercity passenger rail travel, which has shown remarkable growth in Michigan in the past several years."

 

"Norfolk Southern is pleased to support Governor Snyder and Secretary LaHood in this important transportation infrastructure improvement project," said CEO Wick Moorman. "Ensuring capacity for freight operations while improving service for passengers will help the Detroit to Kalamazoo rail line reach its highest, best use. Norfolk Southern will continue to serve freight customers on the line."

 

MDOT has been working in cooperation with the FRA and Amtrak in planning for implementation of 110 mph passenger service over this route. The FRA had selected for award approximately $350 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding and High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail Program funding to MDOT for the acquisition and upgrade of the line.

 

In addition to the purchase and upgrades, MDOT agreed to build a double track on the busiest freight segment of the line east of Ypsilanti to ensure adequate capacity for both freight and passenger operations. The new track will benefit the production operations of Ford Motor Co., among others.

 

"We believe this investment in intercity passenger rail will reduce travel times, improve service reliability and allow for future increases in services, which will increase ridership and revenue," said Timothy Hoeffner, administrator, MDOT Office of Rail. "It will set the stage for additional passenger rail service after the completion of the accelerated rail project. And, because NSR retains the freight business, Michigan has a nationally recognized Class 1 operator willing to grow and enhance freight business, which is critical to Michigan's economic growth."

 

FAST FACTS:

 

- Record 480,000 passengers on the Wolverine in FY 2010, with FY 2011 ridership exceeding those numbers by 13 percent (one month left to report.)

- Improvements will allow speeds up to 110 mph on nearly 80 percent of the route between Detroit and Chicago, resulting in a 30-minute reduction in travel time, improved reliability and on-time performance.

- $140 million purchase price, using FRA High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail Program grant funds, which includes a state match.

 

MDOT: Working with our partners at airports, bus systems, marine and rail to find innovative solutions for Michigan's transportation systems.

 

Related Documents

>  AMTRAK Wolverine Service - 228149 bytes  http://www.michigan.gov/documents/mdot/AMTRAK_Wolverine_Service_365474_7.pdf

 

Freight is still limited to 45 MPH on Class 1, right?

 

I came across this Sunday:

 

 

Class 1 CSX track, which is good for 75 MPH based on their posted sign. I've seen Amtrak run at a speed higher than 45 MPH, yet their freight seemingly does not. I assume for safety reasons that freight speeds are capped due to weight?

Freight is still limited to 45 MPH on Class 1, right?

 

I came across this Sunday:

 

 

Class 1 CSX track, which is good for 75 MPH based on their posted sign. I've seen Amtrak run at a speed higher than 45 MPH, yet their freight seemingly does not. I assume for safety reasons that freight speeds are capped due to weight?

 

See page 3 at:

http://www.fra.dot.gov/downloads/PubAffairs/track_standards_fact_sheet_FINAL.pdf

A nice summary........

 

US High Speed Rail Association Update 

Greetings!

 

$$ For High Speed Rail Keeps Coming! 

 

A central topic of our upcoming High Speed Rail Conference in New York City will be money and the NEC.  A number of grants were given out recently to advance HSR in this corridor:

 

Northeast Corridor: Our conference could not be more perfectly timed with the USDOT announcement to release $745 million to upgrade Amtrak infrastructure in the NEC: http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_DOT%20110-11.shtml  We are looking forward to hearing directly from Secretary Ray LaHood to hear his perspective and additional details about this effort.

 

New York: Awarded $150 Million for high-speed and intercity passenger rail service on the Empire Corridor to increase capacity and improve reliability.  We are looking forward to hearing directly from Commissioner Joan McDonald-NYDOT. http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2026-11.shtml.

 

Connecticut: Awarded $30 million in federal funding for the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield passenger rail corridor. We are looking forward to hearing directly from Commissioner James Redeker -ConnDOT.  http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2024-11.shtml 

 

Pennsylvania: Awarded $40 million to PADOT to eliminate delays in and out of Harrisburg on Amtrak's Keystone Corridor by replacing aging track and signals with modern technologies. We are looking forward to hearing directly from Deputy Secretary Fauver-PADOT.  http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_DOT%20129-11.shtml

 

Maryland: Awarded $22 million to complete preliminary engineering and environmental work for replacement and expansion of the Susquahanna River Bridge. We are looking forward to hearing from directly from Secretary B. Swaim-Stanley-MDOT.  http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2023-11.shtml

 

Massachusetts: Awarded $33 million to expand and enhance the historic South Station in Boston. The station currently operates beyond its capacity and expects an estimated 50% increase in high-speed intercity passengers in the NEC corridor. We are looking forward to hearing directly from Secretary Richard Davey-MassDOT. http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2021-11.shtml

 

Be where the action is (and the money) at our upcoming High Speed Rail Conference in New York City!

 

http://www.ushsr.com/events/newyork2011.html

U.S. TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY LAHOOD AND ILLINOIS OFFICIALS BREAK GROUND ON CHICAGO HIGH-SPEED RAIL PROJECT

Project Will Reduce Delays and Create Nearly 1,500 Jobs

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

CHICAGO – U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today helped break ground on the “Englewood Flyover” project, a critical component to the Chicago hub of the Midwest high-speed rail network. The construction project will build a bridge to separate traffic along two railroads, allowing 130 trains per day to move more quickly through one of the worst bottlenecks in North America. The investment will improve on-time performance of passenger trains, reduce freight congestion and create nearly 1,500 jobs.

 

Secretary LaHood was joined by Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, U.S. Congressmen Bobby Rush and Dan Lipinski, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and other state and local elected officials, as well as business, labor and civic leaders.

 

“Projects like this one are exactly why President Obama has made transportation such a big part of the American Jobs Act,” said Secretary LaHood. “We have workers on site today, American factories producing new supplies, and when the project is completed, people and goods will move more quickly and easily through the Midwest, making the region a better place to start a business or hire new workers.”

 

The $133 million construction project is funded through a $126 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s high-speed intercity passenger rail program, with a $6.6 million contribution from Governor Quinn’s Illinois Jobs Now! Construction program. This marks the start of the second major construction project in the Midwest, as work is also under way on the Chicago-St. Louis High-Speed Rail Corridor.  Workers will build a bridge to carry 78 daily North-South Metra Rock Island commuter trains and approximately 60 East-West intercity passenger and freight trains that operate on the Norfolk Southern corridor.  The new bridge will allow all trains to pass through without conflict and is designed to allow for additional tracks to be added to both corridors to accommodate future growth.

 

“The Englewood Flyover will make life easier for tens of thousands of commuters every day and put people to work immediately,” Governor Pat Quinn said. “This vital project will eliminate a problem spot and set the stage for future passenger rail growth while boosting Illinois’ position at the economic engine of the Midwest.”

 

“Nearly two years ago, many of us gathered here to announce $133 million in funding – including $126 million through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act – to begin rebuilding the rail system right here on the South Side of Chicago. When the Englewood Flyover project is complete, freight and passenger train will move more efficiently, saving time and money. But, more importantly, as a result of this federal funding, the hard hit construction industry in the Chicago metro area will see 1,500 jobs – good-paying jobs that can’t be outsourced. If we are going to continue growing our economy, we need more projects like this one, not fewer, which is why the American Jobs Act is so important,” Senator Dick Durbin said.

 

“The potential construction jobs and contracts from The Flyover arrive right on time for residents and business owners in the First Congressional District,” said Congressman Bobby Rush.  “For years people living and working in this neighborhood have endured the smoke and noise from idling trains in their community.  I am working hard to make sure that women and minorities have every opportunity to work and obtain contracts and to participate as we lay the groundwork for high speed rail that will carry our community, city, nation and economy forward.”

 

"Every day, nearly 1,300 trains pass through Chicago-making it one of the busiest rail hubs in the United States," said Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel. "CREATE will invest in critically needed improvements to increase the efficiency of passenger and freight rail infrastructure, enhance the quality of life for residents and ensure Chicago remains a competitive destination for travel and trade."

 

“There aren’t many projects that deliver this kind of bang for the buck,” Congressman Dan Lipinski said. “As a linchpin of the CREATE rail modernization project, it’s critical to modernizing our aging rail system, preserving our status as America’s transportation hub, and boosting long-term job creation in northeastern Illinois. Having obtained the initial $100 million for CREATE back in 2005, I’m very glad we’re finally breaking ground."

 

Since the 1990s, Midwestern states have planned an intercity passenger train network that connects the 40 largest cities in the Midwest with over 60 roundtrips from downtown Chicago each day. The Englewood project will benefit passengers traveling along an improved corridor from Detroit, which has been awarded several grants for construction projects to increase speeds to 110 mph. Travelers from Cleveland, Indianapolis and Cincinnati will also see fewer delays thanks to the new bridge.  The project is part of the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency Program (CREATE), a public-private partnership between the state, city and railroads aimed at untangling Chicago’s infamously snarled railroads where conflicts cause delays across all modes of travel.

 

A strict “Buy America” requirement ensures U.S. manufacturers and workers receive the maximum economic benefits from this federal investment. The project will boost domestic manufacturing of railway supplies. According to Railway Supply Institute, Illinois railway suppliers account for over $4.5 billion in sales each year, more than any other state in the nation. U.S. DOT previously announced a $782 million investment for a fleet of next-generation American-made trains to operate across the Midwest and in California.

 

 

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. To date, U.S. DOT has invested $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.

 

 

Here's the link to the above PR:

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2031-11.shtml

 

This project will also benefit the four daily Amtrak trains which serve the Ohio cities of Bryan, Toledo, Sandusky, Elyria, Cleveland and Alliance, plus the thrice-weekly Amtrak service to/from Cincinnati and the cross-river towns of Maysville, South Portsmouth, Ashland and Huntington. These services are proposed by Amtrak to be improved as early as next year, including daily service to Cincinnati and an additional daily rail connection to New York City. All of this represents the early steps to evolve, as funding and market conditions permit, toward high-speed rail in travel corridors between Chicago and Ohio's cities.

 

Details emerging on MDOT purchase of train track from Kalamazoo to Dearborn

Published: Tuesday, October 11, 2011, 11:54 AM    Updated: Tuesday, October 11, 2011, 1:07 PM

By Rosemary Parker | Kalamazoo Gazette

 

LANSING — The details about who will pay for what are beginning to emerge on Michigan Department of Transportation's announcement last week that it will purchase a critical 135-mile segment of railroad track between Kalamazoo and Dearborn.

 

The track is part of Amtrak's Wolverine passenger rail service and also provides freight services to major Michigan companies, including Ford Motor Co., according to a news release from MDOT.

 

The $140 million purchase will enable MDOT to upgrade the track for both passenger and rail freight services. Norfolk Southern Railway, the track's current owner, will retain an exclusive freight easement to preserve and expand its freight business, an arrangement that was figured into the purchase price, said Jeff Cranson, director of communications for MDOT.

 

This 135 miles is in addition to 530 miles of track MDOT already owns, Cranson said.

 

Read more at: http://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2011/10/details_emerging_on_mdot_purch.html

 

I really like what Michigan is doing with rail -- all under the leadership of a Republican Governor. This planning work is essential before federal construction dollars can be had......

 

Woodward Light Rail projects gets $2 million federal grant for study on Birmingham extension

4:27 PM, Oct. 13, 2011

 

The federal government today granted $2 million to an effort to study whether Detroit’s fledgling Woodward Light Rail project, now designed to run from downtown to 8 Mile Road, should keep chugging north up to Birmingham.

 

The money is another strong indicator of federal support for the $550-million plan to bring light rail to metro Detroit. The U.S. Transportation Department has already awarded Detroit $25 million for the initial phases of the project, with Mayor Dave Bing’s office saying construction could start as early as next year.

 

Michigan’s U.S. Sens. Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow announced today that the Transportation Department approved $2 million for a study on extending the rail line north through Ferndale and Royal Oak ending at Maple Road in Birmingham. Supporters say suburban support of the project will be key to its success, and having it go into Oakland County will muster crucial early backing.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.freep.com/article/20111013/NEWS05/111013054/Woodward-Light-Rail-projects-gets-2-million-federal-grant-study-Birmingham-extension

^ as good a starter line route as any for detroit, that would be a nice kickstart for the city if it happens.

 

***

 

fulton street transit center construction from this morning:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

related redevelopment across the street

 

 

 

 

 

October 14, 2011 9:30 AM

MDOT: Amtrak sets ridership records in Michigan

| | | | | | 

 

GRAND RAPIDS (AP) — Amtrak trains in Michigan had record ridership in the fiscal year that ended in September, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation

 

All three of Amtrak's services in the state experienced ridership and revenue increases, The Grand Rapids Press reported.

 

In all, Amtrak's Michigan routes collected $27.7 million in ticket revenue during the past year.

 

Read more at: http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20111014/FREE/111019933#

And to the east.....

 

Amtrak leasing track corridor

Deal with CSX a key step in developing high-speed service from here to NYC

By ERIC ANDERSON Business editor

Updated 04:59 p.m., Tuesday, October 18, 2011

 

RENSSELAER -- In what's being called an "historic" agreement, Amtrak plans to lease 100 miles of track and right-of-way between Poughkeepsie and Schenectady from CSX Corp., essentially taking control of the corridor.

 

Under the agreement, expected to take effect early next year, Amtrak would be responsible for operations, maintenance and for capital improvements along the rail line.

 

A CSX spokesman said the agreement would enable the passenger railroad to enhance service on the route between the Capital Region and New York City, while "ensuring vital freight rail service in the area."

 

Read more: http://www.timesunion.com/business/article/Amtrak-leasing-track-corridor-2223867.php#ixzz1bF2Pk35s

KJP...this relates to your post no. 2771 in this thread regarding the Woodward Avenue light rail study moving forward in Detroit.

 

It has been years since I have been to Detroit, but I was under the impression that significant sections of Detroit through which Woodward pass have "density" issues.  I don't know if that is one of the factors in the complicated formula the federal government uses to determine whether a transit project is entitled to federal funds, but it would seem to me that the Woodward route is not that much different from the Euclid Corridor which could not meet the criteria for funding for rail as I understand it.  Have things changed? (or I am just wrong?)  If they have is it due to a Democratic Administration or just more stimulus related.  Thanks.

Well, Woodward Avenue was legendary in "cruising" circles back in the muscle car days, meaning it had a lot of fast food joints and drive-ins. More burnout rubber has been laid on that street that probably any other in the world.

KJP...this relates to your post no. 2771 in this thread regarding the Woodward Avenue light rail study moving forward in Detroit.

 

It has been years since I have been to Detroit, but I was under the impression that significant sections of Detroit through which Woodward pass have "density" issues.  I don't know if that is one of the factors in the complicated formula the federal government uses to determine whether a transit project is entitled to federal funds, but it would seem to me that the Woodward route is not that much different from the Euclid Corridor which could not meet the criteria for funding for rail as I understand it.  Have things changed? (or I am just wrong?)  If they have is it due to a Democratic Administration or just more stimulus related.  Thanks.

 

The federal funding criteria change from time to time. When the GOP had control of the House of Representatives, its transportation committee chairs urged tighter "cost-effective" ratings with their project values determined over shorter periods which favored BRT, "BRT-light" and high-occupancy vehicle lanes on interstates. After the Democrats gained the majority, the criteria was changed to weigh in favor of transit projects that promoted economic development and created values over the longer-term (30 years). This favored rail projects such as Detroit's Woodward LRT and Pittsburgh's North Shore LRT.

 

Problem is, considering the long planning horizons for federally funded projects, you never know what the funding criteria will be when you finish. If it has changed from what it was when you started, then you have to do more planning work to address the new criteria. It could mean abandoning your preferred alternative (such as rail or BRT) and consider a BRT-light project. Or abandon the whole project altogether.

 

This happened with the Euclid Corridor in Cleveland, as it was proposed to use buses powered from overhead wires. In the early 2000s, the GOP changed the criteria to an extreme cost-effectiveness standard, which ruled out all rail projects and most BRTs. A decade ago, the only new-start transit projects being funded out of federal transit money was high-occupancy vehicle lanes on freeways. But after RTA discarded the overhead electric wires and recalculated its projected findings, Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones was able to get funding to build the Euclid Corridor.

 

Detroit is fortunate that their light-rail project planning is being completed at a time when rail transit projects are getting funded. All any city can do is move forward under the federal criteria in force at the present time.

^Thanks for the reply and information.

By the way, NOACA rejected rail in the Euclid Corridor, not the feds. A $700 million rail option that included a subway between Tower City and CSU was the most highly rated option among all the alternatives considered. And under mid-1990s FTA criteria, it would have won rail construction funding.

 

Since NOACA is the agency through which federal funds are distributed to Northeast Ohio surface transportation projects, their blessing was required for the City of Cleveland and GCRTA to move forward with rail in the Euclid Corridor. Just about all other NOACA board members from throughout the NOACA region did not want so much federal transportation funds for Northeast Ohio going to this one project.

By the way, NOACA rejected rail in the Euclid Corridor, not the feds. A $700 million rail option that included a subway between Tower City and CSU was the most highly rated option among all the alternatives considered. And under mid-1990s FTA criteria, it would have won rail construction funding.

 

Since NOACA is the agency through which federal funds are distributed to Northeast Ohio surface transportation projects, their blessing was required for the City of Cleveland and GCRTA to move forward with rail in the Euclid Corridor. Just about all other NOACA board members from throughout the NOACA region did not want so much federal transportation funds for Northeast Ohio going to this one project.

 

The 1950s subway loop (killed by Al Porter, after feds approved a loan for the starter rapid, and voters overwhelmingly approved of the subway loop), the Dual Hub (Killed by NoACTION), and last year, the 3-C's Amtrak line, (even after the $400M starter money gift from Obama, it was still killed by Republicans (it was going to be tough sledding w/ the GOP, even if Strickland won,... it just so happened that he didn't, so right-o wacko Kasich did the deed for GOP legislators)...

 

Is there a theme here?  Like, it's not the FEDS that are killing transit options here, but rather the backward locals who keep thwarting the needs and even the will of the people.  The question is, when are we going to collectively grow a spine and, at the very least, stop rewarding these knuckle-draggers at the polls (that includes rewarding them by not not voting? ... an act which has too often indirectly elected these clowns)

I really like what Michigan is doing with rail -- all under the leadership of a Republican Governor. This planning work is essential before federal construction dollars can be had......

 

Woodward Light Rail projects gets $2 million federal grant for study on Birmingham extension

4:27 PM, Oct. 13, 2011

 

The federal government today granted $2 million to an effort to study whether Detroits fledgling Woodward Light Rail project, now designed to run from downtown to 8 Mile Road, should keep chugging north up to Birmingham.

 

The money is another strong indicator of federal support for the $550-million plan to bring light rail to metro Detroit. The U.S. Transportation Department has already awarded Detroit $25 million for the initial phases of the project, with Mayor Dave Bings office saying construction could start as early as next year.

 

Michigans U.S. Sens. Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow announced today that the Transportation Department approved $2 million for a study on extending the rail line north through Ferndale and Royal Oak ending at Maple Road in Birmingham. Supporters say suburban support of the project will be key to its success, and having it go into Oakland County will muster crucial early backing.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.freep.com/article/20111013/NEWS05/111013054/Woodward-Light-Rail-projects-gets-2-million-federal-grant-study-Birmingham-extension

 

While I'm thrilled to see Detroit's new-found love for things transit, this is not a wise extension.  I mean, do you really think you're going to lure a car-driving culture like greater Detroiters to a 17 mile street trolley with a thousand stops?  Just building a trolley line just to say they have transit isn't the smart approach (even in a metro area whose suburban bus system is, indeed, called SMART!).  Even if on mainly private ROWs, (which the Woodward line probably won't be), 17 miles for radial LRT line is a bit much.  Dallas and LA have them, but their lines are largely on private, high-speed ROWs, largely next to freight rail... Now, if the Woodward line jogged over to Grand Trunk freight/Amtrak line at 8 Mile/State fairgrounds, it would be considerably better.  Still, restoring the commuter Line out to Pontiac would make more sense.

I really like what Michigan is doing with rail -- all under the leadership of a Republican Governor. This planning work is essential before federal construction dollars can be had......

 

Woodward Light Rail projects gets $2 million federal grant for study on Birmingham extension

4:27 PM, Oct. 13, 2011

 

The federal government today granted $2 million to an effort to study whether Detroits fledgling Woodward Light Rail project, now designed to run from downtown to 8 Mile Road, should keep chugging north up to Birmingham.

 

The money is another strong indicator of federal support for the $550-million plan to bring light rail to metro Detroit. The U.S. Transportation Department has already awarded Detroit $25 million for the initial phases of the project, with Mayor Dave Bings office saying construction could start as early as next year.

 

Michigans U.S. Sens. Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow announced today that the Transportation Department approved $2 million for a study on extending the rail line north through Ferndale and Royal Oak ending at Maple Road in Birmingham. Supporters say suburban support of the project will be key to its success, and having it go into Oakland County will muster crucial early backing.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.freep.com/article/20111013/NEWS05/111013054/Woodward-Light-Rail-projects-gets-2-million-federal-grant-study-Birmingham-extension

 

While I'm thrilled to see Detroit's new-found love for things transit, this is not a wise extension.  I mean, do you really think you're going to lure a car-driving culture like greater Detroiters to a 17 mile street trolley with a thousand stops?  Just building a trolley line just to say they have transit isn't the smart approach (even in a metro area whose suburban bus system is, indeed, called SMART!).  Even if on mainly private ROWs, (which the Woodward line probably won't be), 17 miles for radial LRT line is a bit much.  Dallas and LA have them, but their lines are largely on private, high-speed ROWs, largely next to freight rail... Now, if the Woodward line jogged over to Grand Trunk freight/Amtrak line at 8 Mile/State fairgrounds, it would be considerably better.  Still, restoring the commuter Line out to Pontiac would make more sense.

]

 

Though you bring up some very valid concerns, clvlndr, I think that down the middle of Woodward is the right move.  Though the dedicated ROW of the parralel GTW line would relieve interference from street traffic, it would bypass the active downtown areas of Ferndale and Birmingham and also miss the Detroit zoo by about a half mile.  Though the route down Woodward would miss the busy downtown Royal Oak area, it wouldn't miss by much. 

 

I'm also afraid that if the line were to go down the GTW ROW it would be "out of sight and out of mind."  Going down the middle of Woodward makes it hard to miss and keeps it front and center.  That would encourage more use, in my opinion.  If I am not mistaken, there is quite a bit of street running in Dallas and Denver's systems and they seem to do quite well. 

 

Don't get me wrong:  I would love to see service along the GTW main north from Detroit.  It should be more of an express service and should extend all the way to Flint (easily switching over to the lightly-used CSX line from Holly to the north).  That's a topic for another day, I suppose.  One can always dream.

Jeff, I understand your point; you make great sense.  But I think jogging Light Rail over to GTW, at least at 8 Mile/State Fair grounds makes more sense imho (hell, I'd shift the line over to the GTW ROW at New Center... but then, I'm not running things): 

 

WOODWARD: paradoxically, it's a combo of being too slow for effective rail but too fast (auto-wise) to be pedestrian friendly (I'm talking north of 8 Mile into Oakland County)... There is some traffic calming at Ferndale, but overall, Woodward's high-speed current existence doesn't seem conducive for TOD development (again, accept at Ferndale).

 

WOODWARD MISSES ROYAL OAK, while GTW goes right to it's heart.  Let's face it, while Ferndale's an important (and growing walking district), Royal Oak is clearly the big fish along the corridor, it's residential and commercial density is unmatched for the region; Woodward, even though about 3/4 mile distant, is too far away for effective LRT coverage of RO's core area... The current Royal Oak Amtrak station + adjacent SMART transp center is perfectly located.  An LRT station addition would fit in very well here. 

 

Again, Royal Oak would be the northern terminal for LRT along the GTW corridor (maybe with 1 more stop up to 12 Mile), but that would be it.  Commuter rail should connect w/ LRT and serve Birmingham/Bloomfield Hills/Pontiac...

 

But we'll see.  The fact Detroit's moving on rail is a plus, of course.  I'm very happy to see this.

Years ago when Royal Oak was just becoming the hip place for people to be, I would see the GTW trains roaring through town on many a weekend evening.  I often wished they had been passenger trains to whisk me to my destination after a few too many, shall we say "Vernors."

 

Perhaps a better route for light rail in Royal Oak would be to peel off Woodward at Main St. and jog back over to Woodward at 11 Mile. 

 

By the same token, it should go up Old Woodward in Birmingham.  However, if it did go up the GTW ROW it would be closer to the high density office and shopping area along Big Beaver Road.

Below is from Transportation Secy. LaHood.

 

http://fastlane.dot.gov/2011/11/california-high-speed-rail.html

 

November 01, 2011

California plans for new jobs and a bright future

 

Congratulations to California Governor Jerry Brown, the California High-Speed Rail Authority and its board members. The business plan they released today maps out a sound, step-by-step strategy for building a world-class high-speed rail network.

 

In 2008, Californians voted to develop a state high-speed rail program. Today’s plan—with its phased implementation, ridership and revenue assessments, and public-private funding model—brings that vision one step closer to reality.

 

This project will create one million construction jobs, put Americans to work at suppliers and assembly plants all over the country, reduce time stuck in traffic or on the tarmac, and save small businesses and families from pain at the pump.

 

California will also become a better place to start or grow a business. By moving shorter trips to rail, California’s airports will have more room for international flights. A several-hour drive between cities can be reduced to an hour on the train. Businesses will get better access to customers, workers, parts, and products.

 

Today’s report also offers us a glimpse into what California could look like without high-speed rail.

 

The state’s current transportation network was built for 25 million people, but California’s population has quite simply grown out of it. In fact, by 2050, California will be home to 60 million people, roughly equivalent to California absorbing the entire population of Texas. Fortunately, high-speed rail will allow California to manage the challenges of accommodating more people and growing its economy.

 

That’s because California’s leaders know the state cannot afford to do nothing. Traffic already costs Californians $18.7 billion annually in lost time and wasted fuel; adding 50 percent more drivers will choke the state’s economy. Doing nothing will also choke two of America’s busiest and most important international airports—San Francisco and Los Angeles—with short-hop travel that would be more efficient on high-speed rail.

 

Instead, California has a plan to turn their transportation challenges into opportunities for job creation and economic growth. Construction workers will not only go back to work building high-speed rail; American manufacturers and suppliers will see new orders and business. And as these high-speed rail corridors are built out, other businesses and economic development will follow.

 

High-speed rail is also far less expensive than paying for the highway, road and airport expansions that would be necessary to accommodate California’s projected population boom. To cope with its growth, the state would have to spend $171 billion, adding 2,300 new highway miles, 115 new airport gates and 4 new airport runways. And even so, in some parts of the state there is simply no room left to expand highways or runways any further.

 

However, for less than half the cost of that approach, and with a range of economic and environmental benefits to offer, California is getting into the high-speed rail business.

 

I want to commend the state’s leadership for seeing their high-speed rail vision through. They are doing exactly what California’s voters asked for: connecting the Golden State with a reliable, 21st century transportation system.

 

###

Locals give input on rail plan

MoDOT seeks residents’ opinions for future train service 

Marshall White

St. Joseph News-Press 

 

State officials came to hear from area residents Tuesday about Missouri’s rail service and what improvements should occur.

 

“I was shocked and pleased to see the increased number of passengers using the Missouri River Runner service between Kansas City and St. Louis,” said Dan Hausman, Buchanan County Eastern District commissioner.

 

According to Missouri Department of Transportation reports, the state-supported passenger service and Amtrak lines have seen significant increases in the last five years, from 335,000 passengers yearly to 489,000 annual passengers.

 

Read more at: http://www.newspressnow.com/localnews/29657903/detail.html

Think about that ridership number. Two trains a day in each direction linking Kansas City-St. Louis with very little enroute population (Jefferson City is probably the biggest town) and an average speed of 50 mph carried 489,000 people last year.

 

3C Corridor with three trains a day each direction linking Cleveland-Cincinnati with Columbus, Dayton and Springfield (roughly the size of Jefferson City!) at an average speed of 50 mph was projected to carry 500,000 people in its first year and rise to 600,000 after several years. The naysayers said people would not ride it in those numbers.

 

The show-me state is the latest to show that Ohio's inexperienced naysayers are wrong.

States Ramping Up Action on Passenger Rail

 

This report summarizes the findings of a study on state initiatives to deliver on high-speed and intercity passenger rail grants. This brief report, and an accompanying website at www.highspeed-rail.org, also include project profiles from 15 states to show the type of work being conducted and the progress to date. The study addresses economic development resulting from new investment; the kinds of projects being developed by states, including project profiles from 15 states; quick facts on passenger rail; AASHTO's recommendations for passenger rail; and other information. The Federal Railroad Administration has approved $4.28 billion in passenger rail projects as of February 14, 2011.

 

This is a free online item for all AASHTO E-Affiliates. Follow the link under "Free Publications" on your "My Bookstore" page. For print copies, see related item.

South suburbs hope to learn from Denver in developing new Metra train line

By Gregory Tejeda Times Correspondent | Posted: Thursday, November 3, 2011 12:00 am

 

LANSING | South suburban officials who hope to develop a new Metra southeast commuter train line between Chicago and Crete are hoping to learn from the example of Denver, where officials are developing a new system of commuter trains and buses.

 

In Denver, the Regional Transportation District financed the project in large part through a Public-Private Partnership Structure. Such a set-up encouraged private companies to invest their money in the project, which was then used to actually build portions of the new system.

 

It also means those companies will be responsible for actually maintaining the transit system once it is complete, although district officials will have control over the fare structure to use the system.

 

Read more: http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/illinois/chicago/south-suburbs-hope-to-learn-from-denver-in-developing-new/article_cc72b46d-d66a-5fb6-9782-809b55f35648.html#ixzz1ceaMNUNE

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2034-11.shtml

 

U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary LaHood Awards $7.9 Million for Station Upgrades in Washington State

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA 34-11

Thursday, November 03, 2011

Contact: Brie Sachse

Tel.: 202-493-6024

 

U.S.  Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today awarded $7.9 million for the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to construct a new station in Tukwila, WA, replacing the current, temporary wooden structure and creating enhanced intermodal and parking facilities.

 

Secretary LaHood has encouraged Congress to pass the transportation piece of the American Jobs Act, which would fund badly-needed projects in Washington State and around the country and put thousands of Americans back to work.

 

“Station improvements like these will help to strengthen the rail system and economy in the Northwest,” said Secretary LaHood. “These projects will create good jobs, and continue to support the growth of passenger rail in the region.”

 

The improvements will provide enhanced access to the Amtrak Cascades and ST Sounder services, with dedicated long term parking, improved pedestrian and bus connections, and passenger amenities including platforms and shelters.

 

Amtrak’s Cascades Service, which operates between Eugene, OR to Vancouver, BC, is one of the railroad’s fastest growing routes.

 

####

CSX, State of Florida Close on SunRail Transaction

 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - November 3, 2011 - CSX Corporation today completed the previously announced transaction with the State of Florida to sell a 61-mile rail corridor for the SunRail commuter railroad.

 

The commuter system is expected to begin initial operations in 2014 in a corridor along Interstate 4. SunRail will serve the Orlando area as well as Volusia, Seminole, Orange and Osceola counties.  Under the agreement, CSX will retain an exclusive freight easement to operate on the SunRail line in order to continue to provide all common carrier services to its customers.

 

"Today's closing represents a significant milestone in this public-private partnership that accommodates Central Florida's need for a transportation alternative to congested highways, while preserving and expanding environmentally friendly and efficient freight rail capacity," said Louis Renjel, vice president-strategic infrastructure.

 

Over the next eight years, CSX and its affiliates plan to invest $500 million into Florida rail infrastructure to support economic growth and job creation in the state.  This investment is primarily supported by proceeds from the transaction.

 

CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia. CSX's network connects more than 240 short line and regional railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports. More information about CSX Corporation and its subsidiaries is available at www.csx.com.

 

Contact:

Gary Sease

Corporate Communications

1-877-835-5279

 

OK, Columbus. What's your response to keeping young professionals in town and happy?

 

Mayor Ballard rolls out mass transit plan for state lawmakers

1:23 PM, Nov. 9, 2011

Written by

Mary Beth Schneider

 

Only hours after clinching his re-election as Indianapolis mayor, Greg Ballard went to the Statehouse to kick off his next campaign: Landing a mass transit system for central Indiana.

 

Ballard, a Republican, met at 11:30 a.m. today with Speaker of the House Brian Bosma, R-Indianapolis, and Senate Appropriations Chairman Luke Kenley, R-Noblesville, to discuss his top priority in the legislative session that begins Jan. 4.

 

"Certainly coming into the session we want to try to figure out a way to enhance mass transit in the city of Indianapolis and the region," Ballard said.

 

....During the campaign both Ballard and his Democratic opponent, Melina Kennedy, said they support the concept of transit but insisted they needed more details before championing the Indy Connect proposal by the Central Indiana Task Force for increased IndyGo bus service and rail lines to the suburbs.

 

The biggest stumbling block: Cost. The task force's proposal was estimated to cost about $2.4 billion, evenly split between local government and federal funds.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.indystar.com/article/20111109/NEWS05/111090396/Mayor-Ballard-rolls-out-mass-transit-plan-state-lawmakers?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|IndyStar.com

subway beatdown! cellphone cameras are really life changing tools for transit users --

 

http://www.ny1.com/content/news_beats/transit/150866/subway-beating-suspects-caught-on-video

Some new pictures of the MNRR M8's on the New Canaan Branch

 

METRO-NORTH--9144 at Springdale Cemetery OB.  2 of 2 by milantram, on Flickr

 

METRO-NORTH--9125 crossing CT 106 n of Springdale IB.  1 of 2 by milantram, on Flickr

 

METRO-NORTH--9125 crossing CT 106 n of Springdale IB.  2 of 2 by milantram, on Flickr

 

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_DOT%20151-11.shtml

 

DOT 151-11

Friday, November 18, 2011

Contact: Brie Sachse

Tel.: (202) 493-6024

 

Secretary LaHood Announces Award for Oklahoma City to South Texas High-Speed Rail Corridor

 

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today awarded $5.6 million to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for planning and environmental work to advance the development of the Oklahoma City-South Texas Corridor. Future intercity passenger rail service will connect Oklahoma City, Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio and South Texas – some of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the nation.  The analyses funded by the grant will examine future ridership and revenue forecasts, capital costs, environmental issues, and routing and station location options, among other important planning considerations.  Earlier this year, Secretary LaHood announced a similar planning grant for high-speed rail service between Dallas-Fort Worth and 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.  Contact: Brie Sachse (202) 493-6024.

 

####

But wait! There's more!

 

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%20-11.shtml

 

U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood Announces $21 Million to Improve California’s Intercity Passenger Rail Service

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA -11

Friday, November 18, 2011

Contact: Brie Sachse

Tel.: 202-493-6024

 

U.S.  Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced the award of $21 million for the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for engineering to begin on three projects to improve Southern California’s Pacific Surfliner Corridor, one of the nation’s most popular passenger corridors.

 

“These dollars will help Californians to have better access to faster, more efficient passenger rail service throughout the state,” said Secretary LaHood. “The projects will help relieve congestion, create jobs and help ensure the world’s eighth largest economy continues to grow.”

 

Highlights of the rail projects include:

 

• Pacific Surfliner Corridor in the City of Oceanside: $4 million for preliminary engineering and environmental work for the construction of second main track and replacement of an aging railway bridge over the San Luis Rey River. This project will help alleviate residual train delays in the area and provide on-time performance benefits to intercity passenger trains. The project will also connect two existing sections of double track.

 

• Pacific Surfliner Corridor in the City of Del Mar:  $7 million for preliminary engineering and environmental work for the construction of a 1.1 mile section of second main track, replacement of a timber trestle railway bridge built in 1916 and signal improvements. This project also includes a permanent seasonal rail platform with direct access to the Del Mar Fairgrounds, a major trip generator in San Diego County. When constructed this project will help alleviate current train delays, increase operational flexibility and improve on-time performance for intercity, commuter and freight operations.

 

 

• Pacific Surfliner Elvira to Morena Double-Track Project: $10 million for design, environmental and engineering work. When constructed, this project will connect two sections of double track, resulting in a 10.3-mile stretch of double track.  This is part of the long-range plan to double track the San Diego segment of the corridor that will alleviate train delays, increase operational flexibility, improve on-time performance, and remove a capacity constraint to future intercity passenger rail service on the Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Corridor.

 

####

http://www.fra.dot.gov/roa/press_releases/fp_FRA%2037-11.shtml

 

U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood Awards Nearly $1 Billion for California High-Speed Rail Construction

 

U.S.Department of Transportation

Office of Public Affairs

Washington, D.C.

www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm

News

 

 

FRA 37-11

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Contact: Brie Sachse

Tel.: 202-493-6024

 

Building First Segment Will Employ More Than 100,000 People over Next Five Years

 

WASHINGTON - U.S.  Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today awarded a $928.6 million grant to the California High-Speed Rail Authority for initial construction of California High-Speed Rail. Construction will begin next year in Fresno, creating tens of thousands of jobs in California.

 

“California’s population will grow by 60 percent over the next 40 years,” said Secretary LaHood. “Investing in a green, job creating high-speed rail network is less expensive and more practical than paying for all of the expansions to already congested highways and airports that would be necessary to accommodate the state’s projected population boom.”

 

Today’s grant, when combined with voter-approved state support and previously-awarded federal dollars, will fund the construction of the first usable segment of the California system in the Central Valley. In the recently released business plan, the Authority embraced a phased implementation similar to those used for international systems.  The first construction project will put more than 100,000 people to work during the next five years. Over the course of the network’s construction, more than one million jobs are expected to be created, and the economic activity spurred by the new system is expected to add up to 450,000 new non-high-speed rail jobs to the California economy by 2040.

 

California’s 220-mph high-speed rail system will connect to the rest of the state’s transportation network, improving local, regional and international mobility. Travelers moving throughout the state will connect to local transit and commuter service to reach their final destinations, reducing the need to add more highway trips through a state that is home to six of the ten most congested metropolitan areas in the nation. A recent study by the Texas Transportation Institute found Californians consumed more than 38 million gallons of fuel while stuck in traffic last year.

 

California is one of thirty-two states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia that are laying the foundation for high-speed rail corridors that will link Americans with faster and more energy-efficient travel options. To date, the U.S. Department of Transportation has invested $10.1 billion to put American communities on track towards new and expanded rail access and improved reliability, speed, and frequency of existing service.

 

####

This is a staff editorial, as expressed by the newspaper:

 

One more sign of light rail strength

The Virginian-Pilot

November 25, 2011

 

A poll from Christopher Newport University puts numbers to something that everyone in Hampton Roads already knows: We pine for a way to get around the region that doesn't involve getting in a car and sitting in traffic.

 

As if the surprising success of The Tide wasn't clue enough, the CNU poll shows that a large majority of folks in Norfolk and Virginia Beach want light rail extended.

 

The number in Virginia Beach was 76 percent; in Norfolk, 84 percent. The only disagreement is over where The Tide should roll next. In Virginia Beach, the choices are the Oceanfront and Town Center. In Norfolk, the first targets would be the Oceanfront, the Navy base and Town Center.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://hamptonroads.com/2011/11/one-more-sign-light-rail-strength

Three states work to form coalition to keep passenger rail in area

 

By Candi Hill

La Junta Tribune-Democrat

Posted Nov 25, 2011 @ 05:03 AM

 

 

LA JUNTA, Colo. — Amtrak officials have said they have no interest in moving the Southwest Chief line from its current route, but that doesn’t mean the future of the line is set in stone.

 

A group of about 30 concerned city and county officials, state official representatives, passenger rail supporters and community members from the three states — Colorado, Kansas and New Mexico — which will be economically affected if the route moves met in La Junta last week to begin forming a Southwest Chief  Coalition.

 

The coalition will work together to discuss obstacles, find supporters, look at funding sources — all as a unified voice.

 

 

Reade more at: http://www.bcdemocratonline.com/news/x2087819916/Three-states-work-to-form-coalition-to-keep-passenger-rail-in-area

 

Dammit, Nooz! You beat me to posting that article by mere minutes! So I will edit my post to leave only my comment:  Transportation doesn't "just happen" nor is its existence always assured. It has to be sustained through organization, something that Ohioans often don't understand. Train services in Ohio have had to be rerouted or discontinued because not enough communities were willing to take the kinds of actions reported above.

The Day before Thanksgiving @ Newark Penn station - Amtrak - NJT - PATH - Newark LRT

 

 

NJT & Newark Light Rail @ Newark Broad Street

Thanks. Over what time period (1 hour, 2 hours, etc) was "The Day before Thanksgiving @ Newark Penn station - Amtrak - NJT - PATH - Newark LRT" filmed?

 

Thanks. Over what time period (1 hour, 2 hours, etc) was "The Day before Thanksgiving @ Newark Penn station - Amtrak - NJT - PATH - Newark LRT" filmed?

 

 

6-7.30pm...just after the height of rush hr...

Troy debates sending back $8.5 million in U.S. aid for transit center

12:34 AM, Nov. 29, 2011

 

Mass transit proposals are gaining speed in metro Detroit, but Troy's new mayor said she wants to stop a decade-long effort to build a transit center at the Troy-Birmingham border.

 

Mayor Janice Daniels, an activist in Michigan's Tea Party, campaigned against spending $8.5 million in federal funds for the rail-passenger project.

 

At Monday's Troy City Council meeting, several speakers echoed Daniels' wish to let the federal funds expire. Others voiced support for approval by the Dec. 19 funding deadline.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/201111290300/NEWS05/111290436