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High Performance Railroads: Interstate II for the 21st Century
800 Jaguar Lane * Dallas * Texas * 75226
www.TexasRailAdvocates.org
Our mission is to accelerate Texas's economic growth and enhance the quality of life enjoyed by its people by advancing the development of rail service to its full potential as a carrier of freight and passengers. |
Transportation Commission hears about Rail Division - Shortfall on Rail Relo Funding (Austin) - June 24, 2009. The good news: The Texas Transportation Commission got their first look at a proposed Rail Division for TxDOT at a workshop today along with a briefing on funding for several rail projects. The bad news: Legislative wrangling with the language of the Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund means no money allocated for the next two years. In a presentation on the development of rail for Texas, TxDOT Assistant Director Phil Russell outlined why the Transportation Commission should focus on both passenger and freight rail planning for the future. He outlined what a proposed Rail Division would look like. With a Rail Division Director, there would be four departments under that to-be-named person's perview including Operations, Railroad Crossings, Safety and Project Development. Commissioners indicated that it would be a wise move to create a Rail Division. Commissioner Bill Meadows (Tarrant County) voiced that "the Commission needs to take a leadership position on rail", citing that other states are far ahead of Texas on rail planning and development. The Commission also heard that $3 million dollars will be spent on rehabilitation projects on the state owned South Orient Railroad north of San Angelo and that $8.7 million has been allocated toward to the Austin-San Antonio passenger rail project. Grim news came from TxDOT Chief Financial Officer Jim Bass who indicated that the way the legislature structured the Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund this year, there are three financial tests that must be met before funds are available. It does not look like Rail Relo will meet the test and will probably lose out on $182 million toward worhtwhile projects for the next two years. Special session to tackle transportation issue - three bright spots in Texas rail legislation Updated 6/27/09 Many are hopeful that the upcoming special session of the legislature in Austin, which starts July 1st, will complete its work on the Texas Department of Transportation's Sunset Review. House Bill 300 died a painful death at the end of the regular session when time ran out. A provision Texas Rail Advocates support calls for a Rail Division to be established within the transportation department, which would bring the state up to par with many others around the nation. A flurry of bills that would allow residents of counties to vote on a local-options tax to fund transportation services within their region fell to deaf ears in Austin. This effectively killed road and rail improvements for the North Texas Region under the local-options idea and, for the time being, sidetracks the North Texas Rail initiative. The legislature failed to understand that Texas' citizens want regional solutions to regional transportation problems. The local-options concept could have also applied to other cities and regions that have critical transportation flow problems. Senate Bill 1382 (Senator John Carona's bill) directs TxDOT to be the leader in coordination of a Statewide Passenger Rail System. This is important because our federal administrators want to deal with one "gatekeeper" per state, i.e. the DOT, when it comes to rail issues. It's a rather simple bill that sailed though both houses and now waits for the governor's approval. In essence is says that TxDOT is to facilitate the development and interconnectivity of rail systems in this state, the department shall coordinate activities regarding the planning, construction, operation, and maintenance of a statewide passenger rail system. The department shall coordinate with other entities involved with passenger rail systems, including governmental entities, private entities, and nonprofit corporations. It also includes a long term plan for a statewide passenger rail system. The department shall prepare and update annually along-term plan for a statewide passenger rail system. Information contained in the plan must include:
Once signed, this Act takes effect September 1, 2009. Senate Bill 581 (Senator Wentworth) gives broader powers to Intermunicipal Commuter Rail Districts (couldn't there be an easier way to say this!). The bill clarifies which governmental entities can be a part of a commuter rail district and also states that the district may acquire, construct, develop, own, operate, and maintain intermodal and commuter rail facilities, interrcity or other types of passenger rail services, inside, or connect political subdivisions in, the district. Also signed was House Bill 646 (Representatives Hughes and Eltife). It authorizes the governor to enter into and provides advance legislative approval for Texas’ participation in the Southern High-Speed Rail Compact with the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. A commission is empowered to study the feasibility of interstate rapid rail service, hold hearings, and perform studies. Rail fans Celebrated at Dallas Union Station and Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center Sat., May 9
The Dallas News made a video report of the National Train Day at Union Station. Additionally, Karl Ziebarth, TRA Board Member, was mentioned in a Dallas Morning News Article entitled "National Train Day events let the good times roll" on May 10th! Some events were held at the Dallas Union Station, in downtown Dallas, where visitors got a rare chance to see operating railroad equipment up close.
Some events were gekd at the Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center, in downtown Fort Worth - where visitors got a rare chance to see operating railroad equipment up close.
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South Central Corridor Conference
The 2009 Conference was held January 15 & 16 at the Sheraton in downtown Dallas. More info can be found at the 2009 Conference Web page! We should have all the presentations and videos up in a week or two.
The Looming Transportation Crisis in North Texas
Surface transportation infrastructure investment must be made in order to maintain the quality of life of North Texas citizens and sustain our North Texas economy. The North Texas Commission has prepared a Power Point presentation on passenger rail expansion. Follow this link to the section named The Looming Transportation Crisis and view the Passenger Rail Expansion presentation. www.ntc-dfw.org
By road, rail and air from Dallas to Austin
(June 14, 2008) Dallas - They went by air, by road and by rail. The Dallas Morning News sent four reporters on a trip from Dallas to Austin to see how long it takes, what hassles you have to go through and what a trip would cost. For comfort, the train was crowned king. For actual rail fare, it was cheap. For time, it was dead last.
Again, because of inaction by our state and federal legislators, we are stuck with few transportation choices in an era of rising costs and congestion. When will Austin and Washington wake up to developing a dynamic passenger and freight rail system for our citizens?
For more on Dallas Morning News writer Jake Batsell's trip on the Amtrak Texas Eagle, follow this link for the story and a video: www.dallasnews.com/video/index.html?nvid=254127
Increased Texas Rail Service
With Texans facing gridlock on the highways, “winglock” in the air, and an enhanced need for transportation options as another hurricane season develops, the Texas Association of Rail Passengers (TXARP) and the Texas Rail Advocates (TRA) detailed today how a recent proposal by the National Association of Railroad Passengers (NARP) could expand and modernize passenger train travel in Texas and around the nation... <Link to Full Press Release>.
Two Texas Regional Council of Governments signed on for passenger rail service
"Today a tree has been planted." With those words Michael Morris, Transportation Director for the North Central Texas Council of Governments announced that a passenger rail pact was signed between the Dallas-Fort Worth multi-county regional government agency and the East Texas Council of Governments.
The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding was signed at the recently restored Mineola, Texas Amtrak station on Wednesday, August 7 with 75 County judges, transportation officials, civic representatives and rail advocates present to what some of the officials called a historic document.
"Through this effort, we hope to be able to enhance the funding of transportation that affects not only this region, but also the North Central Texas region," said Chad Adams, Ellis County judge. "If (high speed rail) stopped at the county line or region, it would be ineffective." The councils now look for congressional support to support passenger train service and upgrading of freight rail goods movement between the Texas two regions and beyond.
South Central Corridor Garners Rail Industry Support
Two rail organizations have offered their support for the initial study of the South Central High Performance Rail Corridor. The Texas Shortline & Regional Railroad Association and the Texas Alliance of Rail Districts both issued letters that call for a study and upgrade to the rail corridor that runs through Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas. In his letter, Steven P. George, President of the Texas Shortline and... [ see full article in the blog ]
TRA Conference Brochure on the South Central High Performance Rail Corridor
Case for the Corridor
The Case for the South Central High Performance Rail Corridor by Frederick Plous.
TxDOT Rail System Plan
Learn about TxDOT’s Texas Rail System Plan.
Board Meeting
The next TRA Board Meeting will be July 8th, at the Center for Non-Profit Management, 2900 Live Oak St., Dallas, TX 75204, near downtown Dallas. The meeting is an open meeting and rail advocates are encouraged to participate. The meeting will start at 6:30pm and usually lasts about an hour. Unless otherwise announced, Board Meetings are held at this same location usually on the first Wednesday of the month (but not this month due to a schedule change around 4th of July events).
Heartland Flyer turns 10
Amtrak's Heartland Flyer celebrated 10 years of daily service between Fort Worth and Oklahoma City on Saturday, June 13 with a celebration at the Oklahoma City station.
The Flyer is a joint effort of the Texas Department of Transportation, Oklahoma DOT and Amtrak and runs on BNSF Railway lines between the two cities. The service continues to increase in ridership and revenue and is one of the most highly rated corridor trains as in Amtrak's customer service satisfaction reports. The Heartland Flyer Coalition, a grass-roots volunteer organization, has been a dynamic force in promoting the rail service.
Texas on board for high-speed rail efforts
(June 1, 2009)
From Texas Department of Transportation
Keep Texas Moving e-newsletter
High-speed rail could gain traction in Texas with several state and federal efforts.
President Obama recently introduced a plan to build a nationwide high-speed rail system, with two routes in Texas. The plan would tap $8 billion from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, as well as $5 billion from the federal budget over the next five years. The Federal Railroad Administration plans to award its first round of grants this summer.
The first round of funding would focus on ready-to-go projects, and a second round would call for comprehensive proposals that encompass entire corridors or significant sections. Additional grants would provide start-up funding to plan corridors that are not ready for construction.
The proposed corridors crossing Texas include the South Central Corridor, which would link Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, Texarkana, Oklahoma City and Tulsa; and the Gulf Coast Corridor connecting Houston with New Orleans, Mobile and other cities in the Southeast. The Texas Legislature is considering several bills that would position the state to access the federal funds. One would create a government corporation to develop and seek funding for a high-speed rail system for Texas. Another would offer tax breaks for private rail builders, and an additional bill would create a rail division at the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to increase focus on passenger rail.
The Texas Legislature is considering several bills that would position the state to access the federal funds. One would create a government corporation to develop and seek funding for a high-speed rail system for Texas. Another would offer tax breaks for private rail builders, and an additional bill would create a rail division at the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to increase focus on passenger rail.
PRESIDENT OBAMA ANNOUNCES A VISION FOR HIGH SPEED RAIL IN THE U.S.
Details are available on the Federal Railroad Administration website at http://www.fra.dot.gov/us/content/44
Note that there are TWO higher speed rail corridors in Texas that are key components in this proposal.
Additional information and map of the corridor are available at www.texasrailadvocates.org near the bottom of the homepage. Download the brochure at http://texasrailadvocates.org/Conf-Jan-2006/brochure/brochure-small.pdf
(The following from the FRA Website):
A Vision for HighSpeed Rail in America
Highlights of Strategic Plan
April 16, 2009
This plan outlines the President’s vision to build a network of high-speed rail corridors cross America. It is the first high-speed rail requirement under the American Recovery nd Reinvestment Act 0f 2009 (ARRA).
VISION—Proposal is to transform the nation’s transportation system, by rebuilding existing rail infrastructure while launching new high-speed passenger rail services in 100-600 mile corridors that connect U.S. communities. Similar to how interstate highways and U.S. aviation system were developed in 20th century: partnership between public sector and private industry, including strong Federal leadership that provided a national vision.
OBAMA ADMINISTRATION IS MOVING AHEAD OF SCHEDULE TO STAND UP THIS NEW PROGRAM—Strategic rail plan issued just 58 days after passage of ARRA, before the Congressional deadline. Application procedures expected to be published also before Congressional deadline—this spring. First round grant awards expected to be announced before the end of this summer, up to three years ahead of the schedule required by law.
COMMITMENT TO HIGHSPEED RAIL—Unprecedented $8 billion investment in high-speed rail: $8 billion in ARRA considered a down payment on a national network of corridors, along with $1 billion per year for at least 5 years (proposed in FY 2010 budget). Completion of vision will require long-term commitment from both the Federal Government and States.
BENEFITS OF HIGHSPEED RAIL—Promotes economic expansion (including new manufacturing jobs), creates new choices for travelers in addition to flying or driving, reduces national dependence on oil, and fosters urban and rural community development.
HIGHSPEED RAIL IS GREEN— Today’s intercity passenger rail service consumes one-third less energy per passenger-mile than cars. It is estimated that if we built high speed rail lines on all federally-designated corridors (on map), it could result in an annual reduction of 6 billion po
1unds of CO2. o TRANSPARENT APPROACH—projects selected for funding based on merit/benefits of investment.
High Speed Rail Vision
Ten major corridors are being identified for potential high-speed rail projects
Also, opportunities exist for the Northeast Corridor (Washington, Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia, Newark, New York City, New Haven, Providence, Boston) to compete for funds for improvements to the nation’s only existing high-speed rail service, and for establishment and upgrades to passenger rail services in other parts of the country.
OUTREACH—Administration will take a collaborative approach to formulate program; will work with stakeholders to gather feedback on strategic plan and help shape the program.
More Info is at:
BNSF chief talks about passenger rail
From Fort Worth Star-Telegram, April 1, 2009
WASHINGTON — BNSF Railway’s CEO Matt Rose testified Wednesday before Congress, but not about freight rail issues. The chairman of the Fort Worth-based rail company spoke about the future of high-speed passenger rail at a hearing of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development. "As a freight railroad CEO, a member of the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission, and an early supporter of the One Rail coalition, I’ve had a lot of opportunity to think about what our country’s vision for passenger rail ought to be," he told lawmakers. Here are some excerpts from his prepared testimony before the subcommittee, headed by Rep. John Olver, D-Mass.
"It is possible to increase speeds from 79 mph to 90 mph on tracks that both freight and passenger trains use."
"At sustained speeds in excess of 90 mph, passenger train operations will need to be segregated from freight operations on separate track."
"It took $4-a-gallon gas to show us that passenger train options are important to providing a fuel-efficient alternative to the highway for millions of Americans."
— Maria Recio
Stimulus/Recovery Update
Amtrak passenger train stations in Texas will benefit from $2,665,000 in improvements as part of a national share of transportation upgrades through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Complete details can be found at
Of significance: the Beaumont, Texas station (or lack of a station since it has only been a concrete slab with no amenities nearby) will receive $1,250,00 for a station and platform along with $14,000 for mobility improvements. Many other Texas Amtrak train stations will benefit from the stimulus funds that include bringing the stations up to ADA compliance.
A list of projects from the Amtrak site:
I-35 Corridor Advisory Council Report: Texas' Rail Future
(Austin) - October 12, 2008. The I-35 Corridor Advisory Committee report was presented to TxDOT officials Wednesday, October 12 and in it the report highly recommends rail improvements along the corridor. Other recommendations include developing a Task Force to take advantage of HR2095, the most far reaching federal legislation in decades for passenger intercity rail; establishing a Rail Division at TxDOT; capitalizing the Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund and establishing a dedicated source of funding for rail development.
Link to the Citizen's Report on the Current and Future Needs of the I-35 Corridor.
TRA to TXDOT: Create a Task Force for the South Central Rail Corridor and a Rail Division within TXDOT!
October 30, 2008 (Dallas) - In public comment given before the Texas Transportation Commission meeting in Dallas today, Texas Rail Advocates Executive Administrator Peter LeCody urged the Commissioners to implement a Task Force for development of the South Central Rail Corridor in the light of recently enacted federal legislation. TRA is also calling for the creation of a dedicated Rail Division within the Texas Department of Transportation so that it will be equipped to handle large scale rail projects in the future.
The text of LeCody's comments to the Commissioners follows:
Texas Rail Advocates is a non-profit organization educating the public and elected officials about the benefits of improved rail transportation in Texas and the Southwest. Our mission is to accelerate Texas's economic growth and enhance the quality of life enjoyed by its people by advancing the development of rail service to its full potential as a carrier of freight and passengers.
With the passage of HR2095 The Railroad Safety Enhancement Act, signed into law on October 16, 2008 by President Bush, a new era for passenger and freight rail development has begun for Texas. Language in the Act calls for development of the South Central and Gulf Coast Rail Corridors, which have been designated by the U.S. Department of Transportation as key rail transportation corridors in the country. The South Central Rail Corridor connects the social and economic spine of Texas with Oklahoma and Arkansas while the Gulf Coast Rail Corridor connects Houston and Southeast Texas easterly to New Orleans. There are provisions in the act for an 80% federal / 20% state match for rail corridor development. Texas will be competing with other rail corridors around the country for future funding. Therefore, Texas Rail Advocates urges the commission to establish a Task Force to develop a Corridor Development Action and Implementation Plan.
In order to meet the transportation challenges of tomorrow, Texas Rail Advocates also calls for the commission to establish a Rail Division within TxDOT, as other states have done, including Oklahoma and New Mexico. A Rail Division would be responsible for coordinating future higher speed passenger and freight rail development, safety initiatives, industrial access to rail services to help ensure that companies have the railroad tracks needed to transport freight and materials, track and station improvements, corridor preservation and responsibility for state safety oversight of transit agencies with rail-fixed guideway systems; including street cars and trolleys operated by other government bodies. A Rail Division could also coordinate projects from the Federal Transit Administration and Federal Railroad Administration to maximize any available federal funding. And a dedicated Rail Division would serve as the TxDOT liaison with private and public sector rail operators, rail shippers, communities and other stakeholders.
Passenger and freight rail will play a larger role in Texas' transportation future. Let's get there by laying the roundwork now. A Task Force for the Corridors now and a Rail Division for TxDOT sooner rather than later.
Rail MOU
In the spirit of the 139th anniversary of the joining together east and west of the Transcontinental Railroad at Promontory Summit, there took place an historic signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding on May 10th bringing together East Texas and North Central Texas Council of Governments with Northwest Louisiana Council of Governments.
Information on this historic event can be found at:
www.eastxcc.com/national_train_day
3rd Annual South Central High Performance Rail Corridor Conference
Our conference was held January 25-26, 2007, at the DFW International Airport Hyatt Regency Hotel. Click for a wrapup of the conference including presentatio materials and video streaming.
New York spending $60M for rail
The State of New York is providing $60M to improve rail infrastracture improvements. More in the blog.
Amtrak Chairman calls for passenger Service in Texas
AMTRAK Chairman David Laney, speaking in Austin on Friday, pointed out that both Florida and Texas are poised for explosive population growth in the next 30 years and that without a serious commitment for commercial rail growth, it is unacceptable from a transportation point of view. (continued)
