Connecticut DOT applies for $227M in federal funds

Connecticut has submitted an application for $227 million in federal funding to complete the third phase of the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield high-speed intercity passenger rail project. The Connecticut Department of Transportation submitted its application April 4, to the Federal Railroad Administration for the $227 million, which is available due to Florida rejecting the funds earlier this year. "Once implemented, this line will support up to 50 daily passenger trains reaching speeds up to 110 miles an hour - providing some of the best rail service in the nation," Connecticute Governor Dannel Malloy said. "We are underscoring our commitment to this crucial project by investing a total of $259 million in state funds to match the federal funding." "Furthermore," the Governor added, "this project will create about 13,000 construction-related jobs and produce important environmental energy and economic benefits. For communities in the region, the project will offer employment opportunities and serve as a catalyst for new transit-oriented development. It will also support what will be one of the most robust transportation networks in the country - connecting to regional commuter and high-speed trains, Bradley International Airport and the New Britain-Hartford Busway." The FRA has already awarded two grants to Connecticut for Phases 1 and 2 of the NHHS project, totaling $160.9 million and Connecticut has matched that with $161 million in state bond funds. This application is for Phase 3, which will complete the necessary improvements between Hartford and Springfield. Plans include service every 30 minutes during peak rush-hour periods and every 60 minutes during the rest of the day. Projections anticipate 1.26 million riders annually on the NHHS line by 2030. The state expects to complete all design work on the project in 2013 and launch the new service in 2016.