New Haven-Springfield stakeholders vow plan for progress

Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor
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ConnDOT

Talks Sept. 10 between Amtrak, Connecticut and federal officials resulted in a pledge to move the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield project forward. However, a plan will not be solidified until the end of the month.

 

A joint statement from Connecticut Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, the Connecticut Congressional delegation, Amtrak, U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and Federal Railroad Administration Acting Administrator Sarah Feinberg stated, “The Hartford Line is a top priority for the U.S. Department of Transportation, Governor Malloy, the Connecticut Congressional delegation and Amtrak. Today’s meeting was both positive and productive. It was clear that all of the stakeholders in this process…agree that this project must get done. By the end of the month, we expect to make progress on a path acceptable to all parties that can help move this project forward.”

The New Haven-Hartford-Springfield Rail Program aims to improve the track infrastructure to provide high-speed service between New Haven, Hartford and Springfield, Mass.

Tensions between Gov. Malloy and Amtrak have been escalating due to cost increases and management issues. Gov. Malloy sent a letter to Secretary Foxx in May asking for his help to complete the project, a goal Gov. Malloy wrote was in jeopardy.

Connecticut has pledged $244 million to the project and the federal government has committed $191 million.

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