NCDOT, NS, Amtrak and NCRR sign agreement to begin modernization project
Written by jrood
North Carolina has reached an agreement with Norfolk Southern Railway Company, Amtrak and N.C. Railroad Co. that allows construction to begin on the state's rail modernization program, bringing more than 4,000 jobs to the state in the short run and boosting economic activity over the longer term. "Rail is a critical component in North Carolina's economic development infrastructure," North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue said. "Improving speed and efficiency for both passenger and freight services demonstrates our commitment to the future." "Norfolk Southern joins with the North Carolina Railroad in supporting improvements to North Carolina's rail network, for the benefit of passengers and long-term economic development," said Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman. The agreement, approved by the Federal Railroad Administration, releases $461 million in 100 percent federal funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that will pay for upgrades to tracks between Raleigh and Charlotte, bridges and crossing safety improvements, station expansions in four cities along that path and construction of a maintenance facility in Charlotte. The funding also will enable North Carolina to improve the speed and reliability of passenger service, add a fourth daily round trip between Charlotte and Raleigh in coming years and refurbish locomotives and rail cars. The state will proceed with 24 construction projects in 11 counties, ranging from adding double tracks between Charlotte and Greensboro to building a dozen new bridges to eliminate 30 at-grade highway crossings. Under the agreement, North Carolina will work with Norfolk Southern to design and construct the rail improvements. "We're grateful to Norfolk Southern for partnering with us in putting people back to work and better serving shippers in North Carolina," said State Transportation Secretary Gene Conti. "We'll be providing an improved transportation alternative for travelers that also saves energy, reduces carbon emissions and protects the environment."
