Passenger Bus, Rail and Motorcoach Industry News

Train manufacturer claims it does not have to deliver two new train sets. The point of contention goes back to last year, when the state didn’t pay the $4.6 million Talgo claimed it was owed for ongoing work on the trains. The parties disagreed on who would pay to test the trains.

Although federal rail officials show no signs of yielding, Gov. Scott Walker's administration may be gambling on the possibility that a Republican will be in the White House by the time the issue is decided.

Said the short-sightedness of Gov. Walker and the Republican-led legislature is killing job creation in the Milwaukee-Chicago corridor.

In a letter, a state lawyer said the costs of testing the trains are rising and that they do not meet federal accessibility standards for the disabled. A spokesperson for Talgo Inc. denied both points and warned the cancellation could lead to legal action.

The Wisconsin legislature committee voted to end four newly formed regional transit authorities, including one responsible for a proposed commuter rail line from Milwaukee to Kenosha. Lawmakers also voted to cut funding for bike and pedestrian paths.

Some of the money that Gov. Walker is now seeking was originally allocated for the Milwaukee-to-Madison route he previously turned down.

Gov. Scott Walker’s budget repair bill may significantly increase transportation costs. Federal funding can only be issued when transit workers have collective bargaining rights, which the bill aims to take away.