Stuart Sunshine

U.S. High Speed Rail Coalition unveils roadmap with guidance on how to launch high-speed rail project June 17, 2024 The first-of-its-kind action plan is intended to equip advocates with practical tips, realistic expectations and strategic support as they work to launch new high-speed train projects in their regions. The U.S. High Speed Rail Coalition unveiled a roadmap with guidance on how to launch a high-speed rail project. The first-of-its-kind action plan is intended to equip advocates with practical tips, realistic expectations and strategic support as they work to launch new high-speed train projects in their regions.  “High-speed rail lines are complex megaprojects with unique challenges,” said Bernard Cohen, senior advisor for planning and operations at Alternate Concepts Inc., as well as former Massachusetts Department of Transportation secretary and the principal author of the roadmap. “We’ve created a practical guide that demystifies what’s involved in launching a new high-speed rail project.”  The report, “High-Speed Rail Projection Initiation: A Roadmap for Advocates”, focuses on five key building blocks of success:   Organization   Technical planning   Strategic engagement   Project funding   Compelling communications  The report argues that long-term, strategic advocacy campaigns are required to launch new high-speed projects. When designing campaigns, advocates must be fully aware of potential pitfalls, as well as likely sources of support and opposition.    The roadmap notes that a recent survey by Public Policy Polling for the Coalition found that 72 percent of U.S. registered voters support the creation of a nationwide high-speed rail network in the U.S. According to Ezra Silk, political director of the U.S. High-Speed Rail Coalition, a major goal of the report is to help build a grassroots movement for a national high-speed rail network.  “Launching high-speed rail involves technical experts but you don’t need to be a transportation planner to take the lead in bringing high-speed rail to your community,” Silk said. “Millions of Americans want high-speed rail and this report will help give them the tools they need to turn their bullet train dreams into reality.”  The roadmap was designed by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. In May, the 600,000-member union announced a voluntary recognition agreement with Siemens Mobility to represent workers who will build the trainsets for the Brightline West high-speed rail project that will connect Las Vegas, Nev., to southern California by 2028. 

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Reason #7: Short Line Eligibility CRISI is the only major infrastructure grant program where short line railroads are eligible applicants. Seven Reasons to Love CRISI Grants via Railway Age https://lnkd.in/emj-Mxby

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BRT projects can contribute to enhanced #mobility by providing efficient, accessible and sustainable #transportation. HNTB's Sean Libberton and E. Gregory Thorpe, PE share insights on a collaborative program management approach that can streamline delivery to bring that vision to reality. https://bit.ly/3xM7eS5

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🚆 California Awards $1.3 Billion in Transit and Intercity Rail Funding! 🚆 In a big boost for California's transportation infrastructure, the state has awarded $1.3 billion in funding through the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP). This funding is set to support projects across transit and rail systems, aimed at improving connectivity, sustainability, and accessibility throughout California. Some of the major goals for this investment include: 🌍 Reducing Emissions: By enhancing public transit, California is making strides toward its climate goals, helping to reduce congestion and emissions. 🏙️ Expanding Access: New transit routes and intercity rail improvements will provide better access for residents across urban and rural areas. 🔧 Modernising Infrastructure: With aging transit infrastructure, this funding is crucial for upgrading systems to meet current and future demands. At NEO International, we see this as a transformative step forward for rail and transit infrastructure in the U.S., and we’re excited to support businesses involved in these projects. Through NEO Construct and NEO Mission Critical, we connect skilled professionals with the projects that will shape the future of sustainable transportation. This investment is not only a win for California but also a signal of the growing importance of sustainable and resilient infrastructure across the nation. We’re ready to help power these changes by delivering the talent that makes it all possible. 💬 Interested in learning more about how NEO International can support your infrastructure projects? Let’s connect and discuss how we can bring the right expertise to your team. #Transit #Infrastructure #Rail #California #SustainableTransportation #NEOConstruct #NEOMissionCritical #TalentAcquisition #GreenJobs #FutureOfTransportation #NEOInternational #PositivelyImpactingPeople

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On Thursday, October 24, 2024, California Secretary of Transportation Toks Omishakin announced at the North Berkeley BART Station that BART has been awarded $25 million from the Cycle 7 Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) for the North Berkeley Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Mobility Enhancements Project. “This funding makes possible two plazas plus bike and pedestrian improvements, which will help transform the North Berkeley BART station area into a mixed-use, sustainable community,” says BART Board Director Rebecca Saltzman, who represents the station. “By enhancing access to public transit and improving bike and pedestrian infrastructure, projects like this will reduce dependency on personal vehicles.” Key project components include BART rider parking within a TOD garage, publicly accessible open spaces including an intermodal transit plaza, and walking and biking enhancements around the station. The TOD will transform the main North Berkeley Station parking lot into housing and open space. The TIRCP funds are critical to supporting investments that enhance access to BART for current and future BART riders. TIRCP funds will be used to enhance walking and biking infrastructure and augment multimodal connections. These enhancements are expected to boost ridership by facilitating safe pedestrian and bike access and promoting non-automotive transportation. The estimated total cost for the Mobility Enhancements Project is $37 million. Remaining funding sources are from local and state contributions. The overall North Berkeley Station TOD project prioritizes affordable housing, aligns with BART’s TOD Policy goals and meets the strategic objectives of the TIRCP program. The project will consist of five residential buildings that will be built in phases. BART estimates that the 739 new homes in the TOD, with approximately half affordable for households at or below 80% of Area Median Income, would generate roughly 750 new trips per day by 2031.

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"The US is experiencing a critical influx of capital into public transit... the industry is now racing to catch up. However, this urgency has led to inefficiencies and waste in the procurement of rolling stock and infrastructure development." — Gabriel J. Lopez-Bernal, President of Icomera North America In the US, many agencies have deferred asset renewal for decades, and now face significant gaps in current knowledge and experience for procuring new products and technologies. At the American Public Transportation Association Rail Conference, we sat down with Gabriel J. Lopez-Bernal, President of Icomera North America, to explore strategies for maximizing the impact of modern-day investments in rail. Read the interview here: https://lnkd.in/e4Eae4Hp #Rail #USA #APTA #Icomera #Investment

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🚂 US Railroads Poised for Growth Amid Improved Service and Resiliency   Analysts at the RailTrends conference report that U.S. Class I railroads have significantly improved their service and resiliency, positioning them for potential volume growth. Despite challenges such as international container surges and natural disasters, railroads like BNSF, Union Pacific, CSX, and Norfolk Southern have demonstrated robust operational performance. Improvements in train speeds, dwell times, and overall service consistency have been noted, with intermodal volumes growing by 10% this year. Analysts believe these advancements could help railroads capture more freight volume, reversing years of decline in certain sectors.   At John S. James Co., we understand the importance of reliable transportation and logistics services. Our expertise in customs brokerage and freight forwarding ensures your cargo moves efficiently through any disruptions. Trust us to manage your logistics needs with precision and care. Visit johnsjames.com to learn more about our comprehensive services.   #Railroads #FreightForwarding #CustomsBrokerage #Logistics #SupplyChain #JohnSJamesCo #Intermodal #BNSF #UnionPacific #CSX #NorfolkSouthern #RailTrends #Transportation #USRail #VolumeGrowth #ServiceImprovement #Resiliency #TradeCompliance #ShippingIndustry #GlobalTrade #RailIndustry

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CHSRA Releases Final EIR/EIS Needed to Connect San Francisco to Downtown L.A. The California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) on May 24 released the final environmental documentation for the more than 30-mile segment between Palmdale and Burbank in Southern California. This is the last key environmental document needed to connect San Francisco to downtown Los Angeles. The document is on track to be presented to CHSRA’s Board of Directors for consideration during a two-day board meeting June 26 and 27. With board approval, the project will have environmental clearance for 463 miles of the Phase 1 system between downtown San Francisco and downtown Los Angeles and could begin preparing this segment for construction as funding becomes available. All that remains to environmentally clear the full 494-mile Phase 1 system of the project is the Los Angeles to Anaheim segment, which CHSRA says it expects to finalize next year. #chsra #ushighspeedrail #railwayprojects #sustainabletransportation https://lnkd.in/gc3rDZSk

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Ridership is returning to pre-pandemic levels and it’s important to remember safety first. As developers build and expand, it’s cost effective to consider the implications of working near rail lines and having to coordinate with the railroads. There are 7 major railroads in the U.S. and more than 500 short lines, which means over 150,000 miles of track with approximately 210,000 at-grade crossings. UNICUS Consulting can save you time and money when planning your next project or if problems have developed during current operations. We coordinate between the government, railroads, and developers to streamline the complicated and often confusing process of permitting, diagnostics, and project management. We are eager to make your lives easier!

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ALERT to my RR freight colleagues… California (and other) political proponents NOW HAVE access to a University of Texas complex modeling tool upon which to test their RR FREIGHT DECARBON CONCEPT PLANS as to the investments hurdles and alternate outcomes of substituting different locomotive POWERED fuel sources. Addressing the question — how much cost? For which specific public benefit as well as private benefits — … YES. A tool that monetizes the potential outcomes of deploying very different technology solutions. Then, figuring out according to the project risks — how to share in the CAPEX check writing. Keep your eye out for the University of Texas simulation model and deep dive report text. On RR FREIGHT ELECTRIFICATION. Now delivered and under review at the FRA in Washington. Are you ready for some serious economic/engineering risk-reward dialogue and numbers crunching California? If you are: then the next step is an interview with Tyler Dick and Mike Iden — and Rydell Whittall. They are three of the four authors. It’s time to pick their brains. Figure out the possible investment options outcomes — before finalizing regulations you might later regret. Use the science. Cheers! Jim Blaze. The prileged to have participated 4th author

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Check out this video introduction to the Los Angeles Metro Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project.

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Strategic investments in North America's rail infrastructure aim to boost capacity and efficiency across the network. Learn about the new initiatives and collaborations shaping the future of rail transportation: https://lnkd.in/eYNYMbsX #RailInvestment #Transportation

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Building on the historic support from the Biden-Harris infrastructure law, FTA is proposing improvements to National Transit Database reporting to ensure FTA collects accurate, comprehensive data that benefits the transit industry, communities and riders. Improved data collection will enhance safety reporting, trip planning and accessibility information. bit.ly/3NNtY8L

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Today U.S. Department of Transportation announced the 2024 recipients for the annual #RAISE Grant. These grants will distribute monies for a variety of connectivity and mobility projects across the U.S. and the territories for everything from ports to pedestrian sidewalks. A few of these included rail and multimodal components as well. In the Central and Southwest U.S. the two that stand out include the City of Rapid City #SouthDakota which will pursue a comprehensive safety and improvement plan for a variety of at-grade crossings downtown. In addition, the I-40 TradePort Corridor is also included. This project will plan the development of a regional multi-hub supply chain system stretching approximately 805 miles through California, Arizona, and New Mexico. Planning activities will focus on two hubs in #Arizona and one hub in #NewMexico. Shout out to Adam Wasserman, Bernalillo County, Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance, Port of Los Angeles, CIty of Winslow, City Of Kingman, Elevate Rapid City, South Dakota Department of Transportation, and many other for their work on these efforts! https://lnkd.in/gjbXf-Q3

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🚍 Foothill Transit in West Covina, CA has secured a $16.89 million grant from the California State Transportation Agency's TIRCP Program (Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program). This funding will allow Foothill Transit to purchase 30 hydrogen fuel cell buses and enhance transit connectivity in the region. 💼 The introduction of Line 295 will significantly improve access for historically underserved communities, linking them to the Metro A Line and key educational and employment centers. This initiative aligns perfectly with TIRCP’s mission to ensure that at least 25% of funds benefit disadvantaged populations. Doran Barnes, CEO of Foothill Transit, expressed enthusiasm about this grant, stating, “Enhanced connectivity, efficiency, and accessibility makes a greener, happier, and more prosperous future for Southern California.” 🌱 California's TIRCP program is pivotal in utilizing proceeds from the state's Cap-and-Trade system to modernize transit systems while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. With over $10 billion awarded to various projects statewide, this funding is crucial for advancing transportation infrastructure and innovation. #SustainableTransit #HydrogenEnergy #FoothillTransit #TIRCP #CaliforniaInnovation #GreenFuture #BetterMobility https://lnkd.in/ehvmWBXA

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Eight years ago today, I had the honor of participating, alongside Jeff Lindley with the Federal Highway Administration, Pat Jones with IBTTA, and Tom Knuckey with AtkinsRéalis, in a pivotal Congressional hearing before the Subcommittee on Transportation and Public Assets of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. Our discussions focused on the ambitious goal of achieving toll interoperability across the U.S. and North America. While we may not have achieved full national interrogability yet, the discussions happening in October at IBTTA’s Annual Meeting in Cleveland, Ohio are a clear example of how much has progressed and changed since we testified to Congress eight years ago. Together, we have expanded access to electronic toll collection to tens of millions of drivers and are providing real time savings to countless families. Our ambitions are nowhere near complete as we look to further advancements that include in-vehicle payment technologies, digital payment gateways, retail adaptability and seamless incorporation into existing platforms like iOS and Android devices. Reflecting on the progress we’ve made since then, I’m proud of the strides the industry has taken towards a more efficient and interoperable in car payment system. The journey has been challenging, but as we have seen from the progress the benefits for drivers are worth it. For those interested in revisiting the discussions and insights, here are a couple of videos: https://lnkd.in/eQt6c6_a https://lnkd.in/erz-TwBS Let’s continue to innovate and push for advancements in transportation infrastructure. Please share your thoughts in the comments on the progress we’ve made so far and what still needs improvement! #TollInteroperability #TransportationInnovation #ReflectingOnProgress

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