Texas Central Partners and Amtrak have declared that they are looking at ways to advance planning and analytical work for the envisioned 205 mph high-speed rail link between Dallas and Houston.
Less than 90 minutes would be needed to travel between the two largest cities over the roughly 240-mile route. Additionally, it would enhance the southern region’s long-distance services and other new and enhanced lines.
Webuild and Lane Construction were given the job of building this line in 2021. However, since then, the project has been put on hold due to political alterations and legal actions to confirm land rights.
By further researching and moving the project forward, Amtrak and Texas Central are now hoping to give it new life.
High-Speed Rail Development Programmes Senior Vice President at Amtrak, Andy Byford, stated:
“The Dallas to Houston Corridor is a compelling idea and has significant possibilities if we are going to bring additional high-speed rail to our country. We are proud to bring our experience to this potential project’s evaluation and to explore opportunities with Texas Central so the state can meet its full transportation needs. We believe that many of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing metropolises, like Houston and Dallas, deserve more high-quality high-speed, intercity rail service.
In order to support additional research and design work for the possible Dallas to Houston line, Texas Central and Amtrak have submitted proposals to numerous federal programmes. This includes the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail (FSP-National) grant programme, the Corridor Identification and Development project, and the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure Safety and Improvements (CRISI) grant programme.
In order to enhance ridership and persuade people to switch their journeys to the rail, the projected high-speed rail service would shorten travel times, boost dependability, and increase capacity.
Once completed, it is anticipated to save 65 million gallons of fuel, remove 12,500 vehicles from I-45 each day, and lower greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 100,000 tonnes annually.
Houston’s mayor, Sylvester Turner, said:
For the City of Houston and this project, the partnership between Texas Central and Amtrak represents a significant turning point. The transit initiatives that assist economic development and improve the quality of life for our citizens are priorities for our city. The proposed alliance between these two businesses will hasten the planning and research required for the successful implementation of a cutting-edge, effective, and eco-friendly rail system linking Houston and Dallas. I applaud everyone involved for their commitment to this revolutionary endeavour.