The Federal Railroad Administration will award funding to projects aimed at improving and building new intercity rail connections.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) opened a $1 billion round of grants for expanding intercity passenger rail outside the Northeast Corridor.
As Dan Zukowski explains in Smart Cities Dive, the funding, part of the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail program, is aimed at promoting the construction or improvement of intercity rail lines and infrastructure. Eligible projects include new or improved rail service as well as programs that improve safety or reliability, environmental reviews, and other planning projects.
Jennifer Mitchell, former FRA deputy administrator, said at the American Public Transportation Association conference that the program is part of the FRA’s broader vision “to have a much more frequent, reliable connection between cities across the country.”
FULL STORY: FRA opens $1B intercity passenger rail grant funding round

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.

How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.

Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.

Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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