The investments cover the northeast corridor, an expansion of service in the midwest and new locomotives and rolling stock.
Twenty-four states, the District of Columbia and Amtrak submitted nearly 100 applications, competing to be part of the investment, which is intended to create tens of thousands of jobs, improve mobility and stimulate American manufacturing. The Federal Railroad Administration selected 15 states and Amtrak to receive US$2.02 billion for 22 high-speed intercity passenger rail projects as part of a nationwide network that will connect 80% of Americans to high-speed rail in 25 years.
"Earlier this year, President Obama and I made a commitment to improve and expand America's transportation system, including the development of a modern, national high-speed rail network," said vice president Joe Biden. "And today, we’re announcing investments that will continue our progress toward making this vision a reality. These projects will put thousands of Americans to work, save hundreds of thousands of hours for American travelers every year, and boost US manufacturing by investing hundreds of millions of dollars in next-generation, American-made locomotives and railcars."
“The investments we’re making today will help states across the country create jobs, spur economic development and boost manufacturing in their communities,” said LaHood.
A strict “Buy America” requirement is in place for the high-speed rail projects. In 2009, LaHood secured a commitment from 30 foreign and domestic rail manufacturers to employ American workers and locate or expand their base of operations in the US if they are selected for high-speed-rail contracts.
Got a story? Email news@theconstructionindex.co.uk
