The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) announced Thursday the allocation of $400,000 in Interstate Rail Compacts (IRC) funding to the Southern Rail Commission (SRC) Rail-Ready Project. The project will support administrative capacity, operations, and initiatives to expand passenger rail operations across the South.
“The Interstate Rail Compacts Program funding has the power to shape not only the Southern Rail Commission’s operations, but also the future of passenger rail service across the Gulf South,” said Knox Ross, Chairman of the Southern Rail Commission. “These dollars will support expanded operations, allowing us to dedicate additional time and resources to the development of comprehensive and successful passenger rail corridors. We are extremely grateful to our partners at the local, state, and federal level who continue to champion the Southern Rail Commission, advocate for funding and opportunities, and help our commission move the needle.”
IRC funding will support costs associated with commission administration; rail corridor planning; intercity passenger rail promotion; federal grant application preparation; and rail operation coordination, providing the critical support needed to expand the SRC’s current operations and advocacy.
“As funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law advances transformative rail projects in communities around the country, FRA is supporting all elements needed for new passenger rail services, from planning and development to the implementation of service,” said FRA Administrator Amit Bose. “The Interstate Rail Compacts Grant Program fills a vital need by providing entities implementing interstate rail compacts with the resources to build up an organizational and human infrastructure for the fluid operation of new services that will meet the needs of local communities.”
The grant allocation is supported by the $5.8 million allocation to the IRC through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). IRC funding is not eligible to directly fund rail capital projects. However, the SRC is permitted to use funding allocations to support activities that prepare entities to deliver rail capital projects within our region that are in alignment with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s strategic goals. The SRC will provide a 50 percent non-federal match.
SOUTHERN RAIL COMMISSION RECEIVES FEDERAL FUNDING FOR PASSENGER RAIL CORRIDORS
Southern Rail Commission and Amtrak Announce Project Progress
Southern Rail Commission Applauds STB’s Approval of Canadian Pacific Railway Limited and Kansas City Southern Rail Company Merger
Southern Rail Commission Applauds STB’s Approval of Canadian Pacific Railway Limited and Kansas City Southern Rail Company Merger
Today the Surface Transportation Board announced the approval of the Canadian Pacific Railway’s (CP) acquisition of Kansas City Southern (KCS) freight rail company. The Southern Rail Commission (SRC) has favored the merger, as the tracks owned by KCS will be transferred to CP who has previously announced that they will work with Amtrak, SRC and other local partners in the efforts to start passenger rail service along multiple routes. The conjunction of the two railroads will be known as Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC).
Amtrak is anticipating a beneficial working relationship with CPKC, as the two have already agreed to share the tracks along the I-20 corridor and between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. CPKC has also committed to funding infrastructure improvements along the routes. This collaboration will lead to the expansion of long-distance passenger rail service in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Texas, aiding in the economic development of cities along the routes.
Knox Ross, Chairman of the SRC, said, “I want to thank the STB for this historic decision, which will ultimately result in a long working relationship with CPKC. This is a win for passenger rail service in our southern states and will positively impact all priority projects established by the SRC. SRC will work as a trusted partner to CPKC in making passenger rail service a more available mode of transportation for all.”
The decision becomes effective April 14, 2023.
SOUTHERN RAIL COMMISSION AND AMTRAK ANNOUNCE PROGRESS ON PASSENGER RAIL CORRIDORS ACROSS THE SOUTH
The Southern Rail Commission (SRC) welcomed elected officials and stakeholders from Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida to New Orleans for the commission’s quarterly stakeholder meeting. The SRC, along with Amtrak, announced key project milestones for passenger rail projects within the I-20 Corridor and along the Gulf Coast.
I-20 Corridor Passenger Rail
In November 2022, the SRC, Senator Cassidy and Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis hosted a workshop in Monroe and since then, the cities of Monroe, Ruston, Vicksburg have worked collaboratively to advance the project.
“This is another example of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act paying off for Louisiana. The partnership between Amtrak, the Southern Rail Commission, Mayors Walker, Ellis, and Arceneaux connects north Louisiana cities with all points East and West,” said Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA).
Amtrak announced it will lead the Federal-State Partnership Program application for the I-20 Corridor to submit to the FRA in April of 2023. The application will support the extension of passenger rail service from Meridian, Mississippi to Dallas/Fort Worth along the I-20 corridor.
“As the entity responsible for providing the nation’s long-distance intercity passenger rail service, Amtrak will work with our partners to seek the funds needed to study expansion and improvement options where strong stakeholder support exists and initial analysis show opportunity.” said Amtrak Vice President of Network Development Nicole Bucich. “With the encouragement and support of federal, state and local officials, this application is the first step in determining the feasibility of this concept and the benefits and challenges, including federal funding commitments, of expanding Amtrak service to the I-20 route.”
“This has the potential to be the first new Amtrak service of its kind in more than 25 years and it would come in an area that has long been underserved by passenger rail, said SRC Chairman Knox Ross. “Now that we have a way forward for new state-sponsored corridor service between New Orleans and Mobile, the I-20 route has been identified by the SRC as its next priority.”
Amtrak has reached an agreement with Canadian Pacific Railway to conduct the study, pending STB approval of the acquisition of Kansas City Southern, who currently owns the existing rail line.
Gulf Coast Passenger Rail
Amtrak is currently running familiarization trips for the highly anticipated return of passenger rail service between New Orleans and Mobile. The SRC announced they are in current discussions with Amtrak to name the service, with expectations to share the final naming decision in the near future.
The SRC also discussed a partnership with Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves as Amtrak prepares to re-establish rail service between New Orleans and Mobile, to establish through feeder bus services. Bus services will connect Pensacola and surrounding communities to the station in Mobile and increase mobility throughout the Gulf Coast.
Baton Rouge to New Orleans Passenger Rail
Representatives from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) discussed federal funds the state is currently pursuing to advance the Baton Rouge to New Orleans Passenger Rail project. The state has hired consultants to conduct federally required environmental studies along the route.
LADOTD submitted a grant application for Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program funding to support the replacement of the Bonnet Carré bridge in addition to an application for the Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program.
While LADOTD is developing the Corridor Identification and Development Program application for this project, Transportation for America and the SRC are leading application development for the New Orleans to Mobile, Meridian to Dallas/Fort Worth, and the Shreveport to Baton Rouge corridors.
More information on the SRC’s priority projects and recent progress can be found online at southernrailcommission.org.
Amtrak Train Crews Begin Required Gulf Coast Training: Safety education campaign previewed
Amtrak train crews will begin required familiarization trips next week, learning the physical characteristics of the future route by operating Amtrak locomotives and railcars between Mobile, Ala., and New Orleans. This process will continue for several months, in conjunction with the freight railroads that will host the service, to qualify engineers and conductors to begin Amtrak passenger train service on a 2023 date to be announced.
Also, next week, Amtrak and our partners with the Southern Rail Commission, including the host railroads and state and local transportation officials and the Gulf Regional Planning Commission, will begin a public education campaign with Operation Lifesaver, the industry-sponsored safety program.
It has been more than 17 years since Amtrak trains have been on this route, and the public needs to continue to be safe along and in the vicinity of the privately owned railroad tracks and train platforms. Amtrak trains tend to be smaller, lighter and faster than freight trains, but all trains can need hundreds of yards to stop from track speed, even with emergency braking.
WHO: Amtrak, Southern Rail Commission, Operation Lifesaver representatives
WHAT: Amtrak crew qualification training underway
Safety campaign previewed (with videos to be distributed)
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 8
10 a.m. CT in Pascagoula, Miss.; 12 noon CT in Gulfport, Miss.
WHERE: Future Amtrak Station Platform, 505 Railroad Avenue, Pascagoula, 39567
Future Amtrak Station Platform, 1419 27th Avenue, Gulfport, 39501
CONTACT:
Amtrak Media Relations
Marc Magliari
312 544.5390
Dog Walker Safety Animation
Motorcycle Safety Animation
SURFACE TRANSPORTATION BOARD NEGOTIATIONS RESULT IN A WIN FOR GULF COAST PASSENGER RAIL
November 22, 2022 – Amtrak, CSX Transportation, Norfolk Southern, and the Alabama State Port Authority filed a motion Monday to inform the Surface Transportation Board (STB) that a settlement agreement has been reached to support passenger and freight rail service within the Gulf Coast Corridor.
This settlement indicates a bright future for passenger rail service not only along the Gulf Coast, but throughout the southern United States. Collaboration and effective negotiations between passenger rail providers, the freight rail industry, and our local, state, and federal government agencies proves that there is a path forward for re-establishing and expanding passenger rail service.
Knox Ross, Chair of the Southern Rail Commission (SRC) stated, “I’m incredibly delighted by this settlement agreement, and we will continue to build on this momentum by working with all involved parties – especially the communities who have been waiting so long for passenger rail – to prepare for service to start.”
The negotiating parties requested for the case to be held in abeyance while executing the conditions identified within the settlement agreement. The parties are not able to provide further comment on the terms of the agreement at this time.
ALIGNED SUPPORT EXPRESSED FOR FUTURE I-20 CORRIDOR PASSENGER RAIL SERVICE
On Thursday, U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and City of Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis welcomed leaders and stakeholders from Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, and Alabama as they convened to discuss funding opportunities to bring the I-20 Corridor Passenger Rail Service from conversation to implementation.
The I-20 Corridor represents an ongoing effort to connect the economies and residents of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia with passenger rail service. The proposed service spans from the mega-region of Dallas-Fort Worth to Atlanta through connections with Amtrak’s Texas Eagle, City of New Orleans, and Crescent trains with new stations proposed in Monroe, Shreveport/Bossier, Ruston, and Vicksburg.
The meeting, hosted in partnership with the Southern Rail Commission (SRC) and Transportation for America, consisted of project updates, plans for stations presented by communities along the corridor, passenger rail funding opportunities and coordination on next steps. Attendees included the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Amtrak, Canadian Pacific, Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS), Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), along with state and local elected officials, and passenger rail stakeholders from Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, and Alabama.
“Today’s event reflects an incredibly exciting time for passenger rail service,” said FRA Administrator Amit Bose. “Today also reflects the strong collaboration and success of the SRC and its partners, providing an example of what we would like to see happen across the country. The I-20 Corridor has tremendous potential, and the FRA is eager to continue working with state and local leaders in planning and pursuing funding for passenger rail service.”
Sen. Cassidy spearheaded the convening and noted the powerful collaboration of federal, state, and local leaders and stakeholders who gathered at the event to support the passenger rail effort.
“This is about how we can build economic development for Louisiana, Mississippi, and east Texas in a way that makes life better for those who live there,” Sen. Cassidy said. “One of the ways we move forward is through better transportation and infrastructure. To succeed, we have to have vision, strategy, and cooperation. This conference gives us the strategy and cooperation to do that. Now we just have to execute.”
“It was an honor to host leaders and stakeholders from across state lines to discuss a project that is vital in driving future economic opportunities for northeastern Louisiana,” said Mayor Ellis. “The City of Monroe is eager to take advantage of this opportunity to bring new visitors to our city and showcase the incredible things we have underway in Monroe.”
In 2021, Canadian Pacific Railway proposed a merger with Kansas City Southern freight railroad, and once approved, is committed to partnering with Amtrak who would operate passenger rail service on the tracks along the I-20 Corridor. Over 30 local organizations from across the southern region previously submitted resolutions supporting this merger and the passenger rail service, illustrating a shared vision for a connected I-20 Corridor.
The recent passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, supported in large part by Sens. Cassidy and Wicker, increases the likelihood of the project coming to fruition, providing $66 million in funding for passenger and freight rail service.
The FRA has expressed strong support for expanding the national long-distance passenger rail system and expressed their commitment to serving states that benefit from greater connectivity.
“The Southern Rail Commission expresses its gratitude to Senator Cassidy, Senator Wicker, Senator Hyde-Smith, the Federal Railroad Administration, and other key stakeholders who are committed to the vision of the I-20 Corridor project for their diligent efforts to ensure this project obtains the resources it needs,” stated Knox Ross, SRC chairman. “With funding available, an agreeable freight, and strong leadership at the state, local, and national level, we are confident that this project will soon be underway.”
The SRC is leading conversations on passenger rail service initiatives to connect the south with comprehensive railways. More information on the commission’s mission, projects, and history can be found online at www.southernrailcommission.org.
LOUISIANA AWARDED $20 MILLION IN RAISE GRANT FUNDING FOR BATON ROUGE-NEW ORLEANS PASSENGER RAIL
The U.S. Department of Transportation announced the allocation of $20 million in Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant funding to advance the Baton Rouge to New Orleans rail project.
RAISE grants are intended to help communities modernize their infrastructure, and in Louisiana, the funds will be used to advance the real estate acquisition, design, and construction of train stations in both Baton Rouge and Gonzales, Louisiana in anticipation of Amtrak’s operation of passenger rail service connecting the regions of Baton Rouge to New Orleans.
“The Southern Rail Commission commends Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome of the City of Baton Rouge/ East Baton Rouge Parish and Mayor Barney Arceneaux of the City of Gonzales for seeking these grants and providing the necessary local matching funds; and we greatly appreciate our partners at Transportation for America and Sustainable Strategies for their hard work and grant writing support. These combined efforts resulted in this major step forward,” said Knox Ross, Chairman of the Southern Rail Commission. “Connecting our major cities in Louisiana with passenger rail has been a priority project for the Southern Rail Commission over the last decade. We previously secured $375,000 in grants from the Federal Railroad Administration for Baton Rouge to develop master plans for two stations, and for Gonzales and Laplace to begin planning their stations. We are excited about this continuing progress and investment to bring this service to reality.”
The Baton Rouge to New Orleans rail project envisions twice daily trips with stops at stations in Baton Rouge’s downtown and health district, Gonzales, LaPlace, Louis Armstrong International Airport and the Union Passenger Terminal in New Orleans, with further connections to other Amtrak destinations.
The project is anticipated to serve as a catalyst for economic development by offering improved access to jobs and economic opportunity, while also serving the region’s evacuation strategy.
To date, the SRC has been successful with aiding communities within the corridor in securing RAISE, CRISI, TOD/RIFF, REHAB, and Opportunity Zone grant funding to advance the project.
Amtrak & Southern Rail Commission Officials Available to News Media This Week
Join us to watch the STB’s hearing and talk with officials
The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) will hold an evidentiary hearing regarding CSX and Norfolk Southern railroads blocking Amtrak from operating passenger trains between Mobile and New Orleans. For more than seven years, this important service has been discussed and repeatedly studied, including by a working group led for 18 months by the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration. The hearing will be live streamed into our meeting rooms in both Pascagoula and Bay St. Louis. Visual aids and interview opportunities will be available.
What: Media Availability with Amtrak representatives and SRC officials
When: Monday and Tuesday, April 4 & 5, Pascagoula, Miss., Opening statements from the parties are expected shortly after the hearing begins at 8:30 a.m. on 4/
Where: Pascagoula City Hall, 603 Watts Avenue, 39567, Council Chambers
WHEN: Wednesday (and Friday, if needed), April 6 & 8, Bay St. Louis, Miss.
WHERE: Bay St. Louis Longfellow Civic Center/Old Town Community Hall
(with parking garage), 122½ Court Street, 39520
Background: After more than five years of data-driven and federally led studies, Amtrak initiated a process before the STB in 2021 to require CSX and NS to permit the operation of two daily Amtrak trains between New Orleans and Mobile. Under STB procedures, CSX and NS will be required to provide Amtrak access to their railroads for this service or prove to the public why they cannot successfully host these trains in accordance with the law.
Amtrak, CSX, NS, SRC and others began work on returning service to the Gulf Coast in 2015, producing an FRA Gulf Coast Working Group plan in 2017 that laid out the necessary steps to beginning Amtrak service on the route and laying out potential improvements, many of which have been funded since 2019. Prior to service start, a station track at Mobile would need to be built and repairs made at stations, projects Amtrak has been pursuing during recent months.
Amtrak has a legal right to use this route, which has sufficient capacity to host these trains and up to $66 million in targeted improvements has been granted to support the new intercity passenger rail service along this line. These potential investments have been reviewed, approved and funded by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Amtrak and others.
President Biden’s Infrastructure Bill Provides Opportunities for Gulf Coast States
President Joe Biden signed into law today the largest infrastructure bill in recent history making available new funding to connect the Gulf Coast states of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama to the national passenger rail network and potentially offering significant funding for launching passenger service between city pairs such as Baton Rouge to New Orleans, Meridian to Dallas, and New Orleans to Mobile.
The signing of this bill marks the second time Biden has committed funding for passenger rail that could potentially be available for Louisiana to start passenger rail service between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. When he visited New Orleans in 2016 as Vice President, he spoke about the $300 million in stimulus funds that were available for the project that were rejected by the former governor stating he “wished he could bring them back.”
“Biden has delivered on his commitment to passenger rail and the timing for this infrastructure bill couldn’t be better as the SRC has been working towards the fruition of our priority projects, and we now intend to seize the opportunity to take full advantage of the funding to implement our vision,” said Knox Ross, SRC Chairman. “We also extend the SRC’s sincere thanks to Senator Cassidy of Louisiana who worked tirelessly on the details of the bill and Senator Wicker of Mississippi who has long championed the needs of more rural areas by making sure they can meet the demands for passenger rail and access federal funding to connect these areas to the national network.”
This bipartisan bill provides funding for substantial upgrades to stations, railways, and passenger rail connections across the country. The SRC recently announced other grant funding for stations along the New Orleans to Mobile rail route in anticipation of passenger rail service starting in 2022. That decision is pending the Surface Transportation Board’s hearing scheduled for February 15, 2022, of Amtrak’s case asking the STB to require CSX to allow passenger trains to operate on the Gulf Coast route.
U.S. House of Representatives Passes $1 Trillion Infrastructure Bill Benefiting Southern Passenger Rail Expansion
The U.S. House of Representatives passed the historic infrastructure bill that will lead to new development opportunities for passenger rail throughout the nation including expanded service targeted by the SRC. This follows the Senate’s passage of the bill in August and President Biden is expected to sign the bill into law with his full support.
This bipartisan bill will allow for critical upgrades to railways and passenger rail connections across the country. The Southern Rail Commission supports the passage of this bill as it will bring modern transportation opportunities for the three partner states, generating positive impacts for growth and expansion as well as economic development.
“The House’s passage of this bill is transformative for our region, and we are one step closer to seeing our vision for passenger rail expansion in the South come into fruition,” said Knox Ross, SRC Chairman. “The bill also contains new funding to support the ongoing work of our commission to bring more connectivity and rail development to the South and along the Gulf Coast.”
This bipartisan bill contains numerous items benefiting passenger rail, aligning with the SRC’s initiative priorities:
Provides $66 billion for passenger rail and another $36 billion that can be applied to passenger rail
Authorizes 10 new commissions based on the SRC model with operating funding support up to a match of $1 million per year
Revises Amtrak’s mission to prioritize connectivity over profits and restructures it’s board of directors to ensure a broader national perspective
Protects long distance service from termination
Requires food and beverage service upgrades as well as improvements to the on-board experience to all passengers
The SRC is currently working with local elected officials and leaders across the South, as well as with their federal delegation and Amtrak, to restore passenger rail service to the Gulf Coast and expand connection opportunities throughout the region.
SOUTHERN RAIL COMMISSION AWARDS FOUR GRANTS FOR PASSENGER RAIL STATIONS
The Southern Rail Commission will award grant funding from the Federal Railroad Administration to the cities of Gulfport, Miss. Bay St. Louis, Miss., Pascagoula, Miss., and Birmingham, Ala. to complete construction and enhance accessibility for each of their local passenger train stations.
SRC will award a total of $953,338 in four grants: Gulfport will receive $246,500, Bay St. Louis will receive $270,000, Pascagoula will receive $186,838 and Birmingham will receive $250,000. Each of these grants required a local match of the same amount. The grant funding allows for investments in existing station rail facilities that ensure safe access and better connectivity to and from the station, including amenities such as lighting, sidewalks, parking areas and surrounding area development, which could improve ridership potential and expand the economic opportunity that comes with station redevelopment.
“As we anticipate the return of Gulf Coast service in early 2022, I am so proud to provide this funding to these cities which leverages their local investment in preparing their stations to be ready for the return of passenger rail,” said SRC Chairman and Mississippi Commissioner Knox Ross. “Local leaders have been committed to these projects and have expressed incredible enthusiasm about the economic growth that passenger rail will bring to our member states and the Gulf Coast.”
“Birmingham is a central transport hub in the South, and we fully understand the vitality that investments in transit-oriented development can bring,” said SRC Secretary and Alabama Commissioner Stephen McNair. “Birmingham’s project will create seamless connections for travelers between long distance passenger rail and local transit service through its beautiful multimodal station.”
Earlier this year, Amtrak announced their intent to begin passenger rail service between New Orleans and Mobile in January 2022. Amtrak also made a commitment to invest in completing all needed repairs within the railroad path of travel and constructing new accessible, well-lit, ADA compliant platforms. The funding for the first three years of operations for the New Orleans to Mobile service has been secured, but the start of service is pending a decision by the Surface Transportation Board on Amtrak’s right of access to operate passenger service along the Gulf Coast corridor, due to be decided in December 2021.
This allotment represents the second round of grant funding by the SRC who previously awarded $525,000 to four entities for station area planning. The SRC anticipates awarding a third round of grants in 2022.
U.S. SENATE PASSES HISTORIC BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE BILL SETTING UP GULF COAST PASSENGER RAIL RESTORATION
The U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan infrastructure bill today that includes investing an unprecedented $66 billion for the nation’s passenger rail programs, projects, and operations. The bill in total authorizes $1 trillion in new spending for roads, bridges, broadband, electric, water, and rail infrastructure. The unprecedented funding in passenger rail signifies a win for the Southern Rail Commission as numerous items in the bill align with the SRC’s strategic priorities.
“The Senate’s action today in passing this bill provides historic levels of funding for passenger rail that allow for unprecedented expansion and development,” said Knox Ross, Mississippi Commissioner for the SRC. “This bill’s passage coupled with the Surface Transportation Board’s decision last week to move forward with Gulf Coast passenger rail service brings the SRC one step closer to turning the commission’s aspirational goals for the South into a reality.”
A distinguishing component of the final infrastructure bill is the redefining of Amtrak’s mission to be one of a valuable service to the American people which should be invested in to serve the entire nation rather than selected portions of the country. Items directly impacting the SRC include:
Provides billions in new annual funding for Amtrak operations and network upgrades.
Allocates $1.5 billion per year for the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Grants program with a 50 percent match required, which could be used for the proposed service between Baton Rouge to New Orleans.
Allocates up to $1 million per year of federal matching funds for interstate rail compacts such as the SRC.
Provides $15 million for the U.S. Department of Transportation to analyze the restoration of long-distance trains that have been terminated by Amtrak.
Boosts funding levels for rail grant programs such as Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program ($1 billion per year), and the Restoration and Enhancement Program ($50 million per year).
Makes the Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing Program more financially useful to eligible entities.
Allocates $500 million per year for rail grade-crossing removals.
Allocates $1.5 billion a year for Local and Regional Project Assistance Program.
Provides $50 million per year for ensuring train stations are ADA compliant.
Changes to the composition of the Amtrak Board of Directors, designating one seat for a representative of the disability community, two seats for Northeastern Corridor service, two seats for long-distance service, and two seats for state-supported rail service representatives. In addition, the CEO of Amtrak can no longer serve in the role as President of the Board.
Directs Amtrak's business goals to include "competitive fares, mail and express, make certain food served meets the needs of its customers, provide economic benefits to communities, support and maintain established long-distance routes."
Creates a working group to recommend food changes that will address the dietary needs of long-distance passengers, provide local food and beverages on state supported trains, survey the passengers for input with a goal of increasing ridership.
Directs the Surface Transportation Board to set up a passenger rail decision desk and staff with up to ten people with passenger rail expertise.
The SRC looks forward to seeing the bill debated in the House and anticipates ultimate passage by both chambers.
The SRC is currently working with local elected officials and leaders across the South, as well as with their federal delegation and Amtrak, to restore passenger rail service to the Gulf Coast and expand connection opportunities throughout the region.
SURFACE TRANSPORTATION BOARD DECISION SIGNALS PROGRESS FOR GULF COAST PASSENGER RAIL
The Surface Transportation Board delivered a pivotal decision today which signals another step forward in returning passenger rail service to the Gulf Coast. The Southern Rail Commission issued this statement:
“This STB decision is incredibly gratifying, and the Southern Rail Commission is pleased that the STB refused CSX’s and Norfolk Southern’s effort to dismiss Amtrak’s petition for access to operate passenger rail between New Orleans and Mobile,” said Knox Ross, Mississippi SRC Commissioner. “We are especially pleased that STB found no need for an environmental review and set an aggressive hearing schedule to resolve this process within an expeditious timeframe that could meet Amtrak’s stated goal of starting passenger service in January 2022. Our communities are ready for the return daily rail service.”
On March 16, 2021, Amtrak filed a petition with the STB requiring that the freight railroads, CSX and Norfolk Southern, provide access on the line between New Orleans and Mobile to allow Amtrak to perform all necessary preparations for Gulf Coast Service to commence in January 2022. The freight railroad companies responded by filing a motion requesting that the STB dismiss Amtrak’s application.
Today, the STB denied that motion to dismiss Amtrak’s application, issued a decision that establishes a procedural schedule with a hearing set in December 2021, and appointed an administrative law judge to resolve all discovery disputes.
U.S. SENATE BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE BILL INCLUDES MULTIPLE WINS FOR SOUTHERN RAIL COMMISSION
The U.S. Senate finalized the bipartisan infrastructure bill over the weekend which includes $66 billion for rail programs, projects, and operations, representing an unprecedented investment in the nation’s passenger rail system. The Senate will begin debate today on the infrastructure bill that in total authorizes $1 trillion in new spending for roads, bridges, broadband, electric, water, and rail infrastructure. The bill also fundamentally redirects Amtrak's mission as defined by Congress from one of "achieving a performance level to justify expending public money" to meeting the urban and rural passenger rail needs across the entire United States.
The bill contains numerous items related to passenger rail that wholly align with the Southern Rail Commission’s strategic priorities:
Provides billions in new annual funding for Amtrak operations and network upgrades.
Allocates $1.5 billion per year for the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Grants program with a 50 percent match required, which could be used for the proposed service between Baton Rouge to New Orleans.
Allocates up to $1 million per year of federal matching funds for interstate rail compacts such as the SRC.
Provides $15 million for the U.S. Department of Transportation to analyze the restoration of long-distance trains that have been terminated by Amtrak.
Boosts funding levels for rail grant programs such as Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program ($1 billion per year), and the Restoration and Enhancement Program ($50 million per year).
Makes the Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing Program more financially useful to eligible entities.
Allocates $500 million per year for rail grade-crossing removals.
Allocates $1.5 billion a year for Local and Regional Project Assistance Program.
Provides $50 million per year for ensuring train stations are ADA compliant.
Changes to the composition of the Amtrak Board of Directors, designating one seat for a representative of the disability community, two seats for Northeastern Corridor service, two seats for long-distance service, and two seats for state-supported rail service representatives. In addition, the CEO of Amtrak can no longer serve in the role as President of the Board.
Directs Amtrak's business goals to include "competitive fares, mail and express, make certain food served meets the needs of its customers, provide economic benefits to communities, support and maintain established long-distance routes."
Creates a working group to recommend food changes that will address the dietary needs of long-distance passengers, provide local food and beverages on state supported trains, survey the passengers for input with a goal of increasing ridership.
Directs the Surface Transportation Board to set up a passenger rail decision desk and staff with up to ten people with passenger rail expertise.
“This bill is a defining moment in the history of the Southern Rail Commission’s work, and we thank our congressional leaders whose support of this bill will deliver monumental direct benefits to our Gulf Coast region,” said Mississippi Commissioner, Knox Ross. “New funding will not only support and expand the ongoing work of our commission but will also allow for new passenger rail projects and create sustainable opportunities for growth, connectivity, and economic development along the Gulf Coast and throughout the region.”
The SRC is currently working with local elected officials and leaders across the South, as well as with its federal delegation and Amtrak, to restore passenger rail service to the Gulf Coast and expand connection opportunities throughout the region.
FRA BACKS FORMATION OF INTERSTATE RAIL COMPACTS USING SOUTHERN RAIL COMMISSION AS MODEL
Federal Rail Administration Deputy Administrator Amit Bose expressed full support for the formation of interstate rail compacts throughout the country, pointing to the Southern Rail Commission as a model organization at the SRC’s quarterly meeting today.
“The Federal Railroad Administration believes that interstate compacts, recognizing Southern Rail Commission as a great example, deliver results and hold tremendous promise in advancing intercity passenger rail development,” Bose said. “We know the important role in states coming together, like the Southern Rail Commission.”
The FRA’s support for commissions like the SRC follows the U.S. House of Representative’s passing of the Interstate Rail Compacts Advancement Act, which will authorize up to 10 multistate passenger rail commissions and provide states with matching operating funds of up to $500,000 annually. The newly formed commissions would be modeled after the SRC’s demonstrated best practices and through the organization’s lessons learned.
Bose added that a strong and ongoing relationship between the FRA and SRC is critical for promoting economic growth in the region stemming from passenger rail expansion. He also spoke to the importance of matching federal dollars for local rail efforts, acknowledging that local resources for funding are not limitless. Matched federal funding would double the SRC’s annual operating budget.
“As an administration, it’s important to show that there is a federal rail program in place that is not just short term, but will be available long term,” Bose said. “We want to make sure there is consistent and dedicated funding available at the federal level that shows partnership and allows for groups at the local level to make their own decisions.”
Additionally, Bose welcomed the SRC’s suggestion for a national convention of all multistate rail compacts as a way to come together, engage and share best practices with one another for continued development and effective operations.
Amtrak representative Todd Stennis shared the FRA’s support for passenger rail development in the southern region by announcing the FRA’s approval for Amtrak’s funding of infrastructure improvements to rail platforms along the Gulf Coast. This is an important investment in these communities, saving cities hundreds of thousands of dollars and preparing the Gulf Coast region for resumed passenger rail service.
Bose, who was able to ride the first inspection train in 2016, concluded his remarks with, “I am so looking forward to riding the train again, for real this time, thanks to all the work done by this commission.”
AMTRAK FILING PETITION WITH SURFACE TRANSPORTATION BOARD TO EXPEDITE GULF COAST SERVICE
The Southern Rail Commission released the following statement today in response to Amtrak’s announcement that it will be filing a petition with the Surface Transportation Board:
“We lost passenger rail service along the gulf coast fifteen years ago when Hurricane Katrina damaged the rails and while those tracks have been repaired, passenger rail did not restart. Congress directed the FRA to lead an analysis to determine everything it would take to return service, and the SRC worked with the FRA to deliver that report in 2017 which identified $66 million in infrastructure needs. We have that funding now secured and we are ready to move forward,” said Knox Ross, Mississippi SRC Commissioner. “Our local communities are frustrated by all the years of studying and waiting, and we are hoping this public and transparent process will resolve all outstanding issues so that service can begin soon.”
The STB is a federal independent board established by Congress with regulatory oversight over rail systems and their business relationships to protect the interest of all users of surface transportation networks and to resolve disputes when they cannot be resolved by other means. Amtrak has the right of access to operate passenger service along the gulf coast corridor and has requested that the STB expedite their application to support their intent to start service between Mobile and New Orleans in January 2022. The STB will make a determination whether they will hold a hearing or find another way to reach a resolution.
Congress created the Gulf Coast Working Group in the 2015 federal transportation reauthorization called FAST Act to perform an exhaustive study on restoring the service, which was a process administered by the FRA. The GCWG report was completed in July 2017 identifying FRA’s priority infrastructure projects along the gulf coast. In June 2019, SRC was awarded a $33 million federal grant through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program to complete major infrastructure and capital improvements necessary for expanded freight capacity and service restoration. These federal grants also leverage matching commitments from the States of Louisiana and Mississippi for a total of $66 million in funding available to allow Amtrak to move ahead with launching daily passenger service between New Orleans and Mobile.
AMTRAK TO COMPLETE PLATFORM REPAIRS ON GULF COAST STATIONS
Today, Dr. David Handera, Amtrak Vice President of Stations and Accessibility, made the following remarks at the quarterly meeting of the Southern Rail Commission:
“Amtrak recently dispatched a full team to assess the remaining work underway on stations along the Mobile to New Orleans route to ensure they are ready for passenger rail service to start in 2022,” said Dr. David Handera. “Amtrak will work with the cities on a phased approach to initially modify the existing platforms and complete all needed repairs in the path of travel. Amtrak’s intent is to pay for these repairs, subject to FRA approval, and also to invest in constructing new accessible, well-lit, ADA complaint platforms in phase two. We are working with FRA on assembling funding sources for short-term and long-term repairs, and will work collaboratively with the cities to redirect current grant funds towards other station upgrades that improve the path of travel to the station, such as accessible parking, lighting, and other depot amenities.”
With funding secured for the first three years of operations for the New Orleans to Mobile service, Amtrak recently announced they intend to start service in January 2022. The SRC has secured over $66 million in federal grants and local matching funds for improvements to railroad infrastructure that will benefit passenger and freight service along the route. The SRC awarded grants to Mobile, Gulfport, Biloxi, Pascagoula, and Bay St. Louis for planning and improvements to rail stations along the Mobile to New Orleans route. Under Amtrak’s new commitment, Amtrak would repair existing platforms in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi and Mobile in phase one and install new platforms in phase two. In Pascagoula, Amtrak would bring in a temporary platform in phase one and install a new platform in phase two.
In Mobile, the city plans to locate the rail station at the new Mobile airport at Brookley Field, but is awaiting the final results of an alternatives analysis before determining the final station location. Amtrak officials stated, “We cannot commit to investment in additional locations today in Mobile, but will work closely with Mobile officials on their plans which would follow Amtrak’s normal course of planning for new station development.”
The Southern Rail Commission recently issued a Notice of Funding Availability soliciting applications from communities within Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama for station improvements. Responses are due today at 5 p.m.