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Gov. Walker proclaims it Wisconsin Freight Rail Week

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker has proclaimed October 19 to 25 Wisconsin Freight Rail Week, where the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and the Transportation Development Association of Wisconsin (TDA) will team up to promote, educate and celebrate the freight rail system that contributes to the state’s economy, environment and quality of life.

UP begins $90 million Port Laredo expansion

Between 2014 and 2040, freight moving in Texas is projected to nearly double, from two billion tons to more than 3.75 billion tons. A state advisory committee warned that such an extreme increase could worsen an already congested state highway system and alternative modes, such as rail, will be more important than ever if the state is to remain economically competitive.

NJDOT leadership change underway

The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Commissioner Jamie Fox will make his anticipated transition back to the private sector by the end of the month, when NJDOT Deputy Commissioner Joseph Bertoni will take over as acting commissioner.

USDOT unveils Build America Transportation Investment Center

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) recently unveiled its Build America Transportation Investment Center (BATIC), which will serve as the single point of contact and coordination for states, municipalities and project sponsors looking to utilize federal transportation expertise, apply for federal transportation credit programs and explore ways to access private capital in public-private partnerships.

PHMSA provides grants to train rural responders on hazmat rail incidents

The U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is awarding grants totaling $5.9 million to provide hazardous materials training for volunteer or remote emergency responders. The Assistance for Local Emergency Response Training (ALERT) grants will go to three non-profit organizations that will provide training for incidents involving shipments of crude oil, ethanol and other flammable liquids by rail.