Baltimore Maglev project approved for passenger railroad franchise

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
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Baltimore Washington Rapid Rail (BWRR) and The Northeast Maglev (TNEM) say that the Maryland Public Service Commission has approved BWRR's application to acquire a passenger railroad franchise previously held by the Washington, Baltimore and Annapolis Electric Railroad Company. The railroad franchise was abandoned in 1935.

 

BWRR and TNEM are working to deploy a Superconducting Maglev (SCmaglev) system that would connect Washington and Baltimore in 15 minutes.

“We are pleased that the commission recognized the tremendous benefits of the SCmaglev system for greater Baltimore and Maryland. The transfer of this railroad franchise is an exciting first step in making this transformational project a reality,” said Wayne Rogers, chairman of BWRR and chairman and chief executive officer of TNEM. “We look forward to working with Federal, state and local government officials and other stakeholders to move this project forward.”

It is said that SCmaglev will provide frequent, reliable service that will fundamentally improve the region – creating jobs, enhancing access and reducing road congestion and emissions. The service will also enable connections between city centers and major airports.

In September, BWRR and TNEM opened a new headquarters located in the heart of Baltimore’s central business district. Last week, the state of Maryland was awarded a $27.8 million grant for the project. In the coming months, BWRR and TNEM will focus on conducting an Environmental Impact Statement process, which will help determine routes, Federal Railroad Administration safety reviews and Surface Transportation Board construction reviews.

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