The Federal Transit Administration awarded a Letter of No Prejudice (LONP) to the Fort Worth Transportation Authority (FWTA) for TEX Rail, which means that construction for the 27-mile commuter rail can break ground next month.
The LONP authorizes FWTA to proceed with procurement of all materials and construction activities planned for the first six months.
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“We are delighted to receive the Letter of No Prejudice today,” said President/CEO Paul Ballard. “We can now secure the prime contract and all subcontracts while locking in current pricing. This has been a long journey and we can’t wait to get started on construction next month.”
Bob Baulsir, VP, railroads and procurement, said the LONP means FWTA can start spending the local funding it has in reserves while awaiting the Full Funding Grant Agreement. “This is a great day for TEX Rail and FWTA — and it’s the beginning of a great rail system that will serve thousands in our region.”
TEX Rail will extend from downtown Fort Worth, across northeast Tarrant County, through North Richland Hills and Grapevine, and into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport’s Terminal B.
The commuter rail line, which will begin service in late 2018, is projected to serve more than 8,000 daily riders at nine stations by the end of the first year of operation. By 2035, nearly 14,000 daily riders are projected to ride the system.
The plan outlines funding for transit operations, capital projects, and freight and passenger rail initiatives, as state officials seek public input on priorities shaping mobility and infrastructure across the Commonwealth.
Under Secretary Duffy, the grant program’s revamped criteria will prioritize safety; the American family; and workforce development, job quality, and wealth creation, according to a press release.
The agencies, San Diego MTS and NCTD - San Diego Railroad, which share a fare system (PRONTO), proposed the changes to help address their respective financial sustainability strategies.
The ATP board’s approval of the KAP team enables ATP to begin pre-construction activities, including advancing design, initiating permitting, and preparing the site for future construction.
The railroad has issued a formal request for proposals to manufacturers for more than 800 new passenger railcars that will serve 14 long-distance routes nationwide.
The delivery marks the first car in a 374‑vehicle order and begins the arrival of a new generation of higher‑capacity, more reliable, and more comfortable trains for one of the country’s busiest commuter rail systems.
BART recorded 5,403,140 exits in March, making it the highest monthly ridership since the pandemic and surpassing the previous high set in October 2025 (5,346,890 exits).
The station was rebuilt as part of SEPTA’s Station Accessibility Program, making it fully ADA accessible with new elevators, ramps, and high-level platforms.