On February 8, 2011 the Obama Administration announced that it plans to invest an additional $53 billion in high-speed and intercity rail service over the next six years. The plan calls for giving 80 percent of Americans access to high-speed rail within 25 years.
So when will the Triangle see high speed rail, commuter rail and light rail transit?
Raleigh will see noticeable improvements in rail service over the next few years. Track improvements made possible through high-speed rail funds approved early last year will help increase the speed of NC trains from 79 to 90 mph in some areas with future high-speed rail connections to Richmond and Washington D.C.
But there is much more coming, as a plan to provide additional rail options and expand bus service in our community has been discussed on this blog many times.
Though it’s been quiet lately, public meetings on rail alignment and station locations are expected to be held early this spring. Check out Triangle Regional Transit Program for updates from Capital Area Friends of Transit
A recent article in the Midtown Magazine by Illyse Lane does an excellent job of explaining the types of rail technologies being discussed, and why our attention is critical to the process. With support by those living downtown, we are able to create an environment that is friendly to residents, the ecosystem, the city, and the eastern seaboard. Get on board now!
You can read a PDF of the magazine article here.
This Midtown Magazine article was written by Illyse Lane, and was featured in their January/February edition. The Midtown Magazine is now online! Visit them at www.midtownmag.com