Portal Bridge to get millions in federal funding – is the Gateway Project next?
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has elevated New Jersey’s Portal Bridge to the engineering phase, making the bridge eligible for over $766 million in federal funding. The $1.8 billion project to replace the 100-plus-year-old bridge will also receive funding from the state of New Jersey and Amtrak. The Portal Bridge connects to the tunnel that crosses underneath the Hudson River to New York City. The Gateway Project involves the construction of a new tunnel. That endeavor will cost $30 billion and still has not received support from the White House. [rtands.com]
Eurostar to test facial biometrics for ‘walk-through’ check-in
Eurostar will test a walk-through facial biometric verification system which will enable passengers to complete contactless ticket checks and border exit processes at London’s St Pancras International station. A smartphones app will use biometric analysis of selfie-type images to authenticate passports and other submitted travel diocuments. A kiosk at the station wil allow travellers without access to smartphones to complete the same process. Once testing is completed, the system is envisaged to go live by March 2021. [railwaygazette.com]
VIA Rail to require passengers to wear face masks as of Tuesday
VIA Rail says passengers will be required to wear masks as of Tuesday to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 when physical distancing can’t be maintained. The Montréal-based passenger rail service says it is making the change as ridership increases with the gradual reopening of the economy. The policy is in line with Transport Canada guidelines for wearing face coverings for planes, trains, ships and public transit. Masks must be worn throughout trips, except for when eating or drinking and when physical distancing is not possible in stations and at boarding. [cp24.com]
