USDOT streamlining environmental review for multimodal projects
The U.S. Department of Transportation plans to streamline the environmental review process for multimodal projects, to speed development while removing bureaucratic obstacles.
Federal Highway Administration
Virginia seeks project manager for Atlantic Gateway
Virginia is seeking a consultant to manage the rail portion of its $1.4 billion Atlantic Gateway multimodal project connecting Washington and Fredericksburg, Va.
FRA offering $10 million in grant money for crossing safety
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is soliciting applications from states for $10 million in competitive grant funding to improve highway-rail grade crossings and right-of-way along routes that transport energy products such as crude oil and ethanol. Funding comes from the STEP (Safe Transportation of Energy Products) by Rail program administered by PHMSA (Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration).
OLI awards $204,000 for crossing safety public awareness campaigns
Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI), in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), announced on August 11, 2015 more than $200,0000 in grants to 13 State Operation Lifesaver programs for a variety of highway-rail grade crossing safety public education projects, in conjunction with the nonprofit safety group’s ongoing “See Tracks? Think Train!” public awareness campaigns.
FHWA approves CSX Virginia Avenue Tunnel project alternative
The Federal Highway Administration has approved a preferred construction alternative for CSX’s Virginia Avenue Tunnel project, enabling CSX to complete the tunnel’s design and initiate the construction permitting process.
Commentary
Highway homicide affects railroads, too
This is about a highway homicide — and we know who dunnit. The perp long ago was identified by state and federal authorities. Yet Congress refuses to order the collar, closing its eyes to a mayhem playing out at every hour, on every federal-aid roadway and adversely affecting every taxpayer and every motorist in the wallet, while simultaneously turning on its head the concept of economic efficiency.
Phase One of National Gateway completed
Phase One of the National Gateway—a doublestack clearance project connecting CSX’s existing intermodal terminal in Chambersburg, Pa., and its new, state-of-the-art Northwest Ohio Intermodal Terminal hub facility, has been completed on time, and on budget.