Study supports HSR track on Texas highways
One of the most effective and cost-efficient ways to build high-speed rail in the state, the University of Texas at Arlington found. Highway land is already owned by the state, eliminating the need to spend potentially billions of dollars buying or leasing private property.
ARLINGTON, Texas — A University of Texas at Arlington study concluded that one of the cheapest and most effective ways to build high-speed rail in Texas could be to place the tracks right on top of highway right-of-way, the Star-Telegram reported.
The key to the finding is that highway land is already owned by the state, eliminating the need for whoever builds high-speed rail to spend potentially billions of dollars buying or leasing private property — and possibly having to seize some of it through eminent domain. For the full story, click here.
More Rail
Transit Expands Agency Partnerships, Reaching 200 Official App Partners
COO Jake Sion discusses Transit’s growth, the success of its Transit Royale program, and how technology is helping agencies improve the rider experience.
Read More →
Trinity Metro Breaks Ground on $270M TEXRail Extension
The 2.1-mile extension will connect Fort Worth’s Medical District and Near Southside to downtown, surrounding communities, and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.
Read More →
Bringing Austin’s First Light Rail System to Life
Austin Transit Partnership CEO Greg Canally discusses the city's nearly 10-mile light rail project, its collaborative approach to project delivery, the importance of community engagement, and the milestones ahead as construction approaches in 2027.
Read More →
Metra Draft Plan Outlines Costs, Service Improvements for Regional Rail
The Systemwide Network Plan identifies infrastructure needs and potential investments to expand all-day, bidirectional rail service across the Chicago region.
Read More →
Amtrak Completes First Street Tunnel Upgrades, Restores Service
The nine-day construction project included replacing aging track infrastructure and modernizing switch systems near Washington Union Station.
Read More →
FRA Announces $2.3B for Passenger, Freight Rail Projects Nationwide
The CRISI Grant Program funding will support rail infrastructure improvements, safety upgrades, and projects aimed at improving freight and passenger rail service across 45 states and Washington, D.C.
Read More →
Caltrain’s Electrification Drives a New Era of Ridership Growth
The railroad’s shift to electric service has brought more frequent trains, stronger customer satisfaction, and increased ridership, earning it APTA’s Outstanding Public Transportation System award.
Read More →
FTA Advances $164M Broward County Commuter Rail Project
The proposed 10.5-mile commuter rail extension would connect Fort Lauderdale and Aventura, expanding passenger rail options in South Florida.
Read More →
New York MTA Launches Historic $1.9B Signal, Track Modernization Project
Funded in part by congestion pricing revenue, the project will replace nearly century-old signals along the A and C lines in Brooklyn and Queens.
Read More →
LA Metro Breaks Ground on East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Project
The 6.7-mile line will add 11 stations along Van Nuys Boulevard, expand access to jobs and regional transit connections, and support Metro’s broader efforts to improve mobility as rail ridership grows.
Read More →