New agreement prioritizes Houston regional rail development

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
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U.S. Rep. John Culberson (R-TX-7) and Houston Metro Board Chairman Gilbert Garcia made an agreement, which they say paves the way for future transportation solutions to address the growing needs of the region.

 

The agreement prioritizes the development of commuter rail for the US 90A/Southwest Rail Corridor (SWRC) and requires Metro to receive voter approval before expanding rail on either Richmond Avenue or Post Oak Boulevard.

“It is time for something like this to happen because the needs of mobility are extraordinary,” said Garcia. “It crosses all political persuasions and it crosses all socio-economic lines.”

The agreement outlines several key provisions, including support of a state governance bill with a regional focus; $190 million in Federal Transit Authority funding for future transit projects; prioritization of 90A commuter rail; $587 million in matching transit credits; $300 million in federal funds over three years for buses, park & ride expansion and HOV improvements; Metro’s agreement to not oppose changes to federal or state law to memorialize the cooperative agreement; no rail on Richmond Avenue west of Shepherd Drive or on Post Oak Boulevard north of Richmond unless voters approve and the support the will of the voters.

“What today symbolizes is a new era of cooperation and agreement with Metro,” said Rep. Culberson. “We all agree that Houston has grown more than any other city in the country because of our strong economy. As people move here, it makes our transportation problems even more acute.”

 

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