As of this week, the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) is prepared to move forward on a Rule of Particular Applicability for the Texas Central Railway’s High Speed Rail project that will span from Dallas to Houston.
While said rule is project-specific, it means that the Federal Railroad Administration will now be able to start writing the regulation that will apply to this particular railroad. It also opens the door to a necessary environmental impact study and a record of decision, which the railroad intends to pursue simultaneously.
“Securing DOT’s commitment to move forward with the Texas High Speed Rail Project is a significant win for all Texans, especially those who live in the Twelfth District, because it will create job opportunities, boost our economy, increase mobility and spur productivity in the Lone Star State,” U.S. Rep. Kay Granger (R-TX) said. “I’m pleased DOT recognized the importance of high speed rail, and am encouraged they will be moving forward with the regulatory process required to advance the project.”
Granger, the top Republican on the House Appropriations Committee, has been pushing for USDOT action on the project since 2017 when she led a letter addressed to Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao.
“The Federal Railroad Administration’s action on the RPA marks a major achievement to make this project a reality for all Texans,” Drayton McLane Jr., Texas Central chairman of the Board, said. “This is a bold move by the Secretary, and the Department of Transportation, to ensure we implement the safest passenger rail system in the world.”