Amtrak gets $4.3B to improve intercity passenger rail network
Amtrak is set to modernize its intercity passenger rail network, upgrading train fleets and bringing Amtrak-served stations into compliance with Americans with Disability Act standards, using recent funds from the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law. Amtrak received $4.3 billion this fall from the infrastructure law, part of a total of $22 billion in supplemental funding over the next five years, which is in addition to annual grant appropriations. [smartcitiesdive.com]
L.A. Metro breaks ground on advanced utility work for LRT project
L.A. Metro has broken ground on advanced utility work for the first segment of the East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project. L.A. Metro plans to award the main construction contract in early 2023, with the first line segment expected to open between 2028 and 2030. Cost estimates range from $1.6 to $2 billion. The new 6.7mi (10.8 km) light-rail line will connect the communities of Van Nuys, Panorama City, Arleta and Pacoima in northwest Los Angeles. [progressiverailroading.com]
MassDOT, Amtrak, CSX seek $108 million in rail improvements between Springfield and Worcester
MassDOT and rail companies Amtrak and CSX Corporation have applied for $108 million in federal transportation money to help fund improvements along the 53 miles of railroad between Springfield and Worcester. Once the improvements happen, the plan is to add two daily Amtrak trips between Boston, Worcester and Springfield as a first phase of east-west rail. [masslive.com]
Amtrak again delays resumption of 1 of 2 daily round trips from St. Louis to KC
Continued delays in deploying newly built train cars has spurred Amtrak to extend a temporary service cutback on the St. Louis-to-Kansas City River Runner route two additional weeks. Defects — including one that shuts down passengers’ laptops — have been found throughout the cars. One of two daily round trips between the two cities, suspended October 24th, is now set to resume December 16th instead of this week. [stltoday.com]
