A $14.6 billion package of rail improvement projects, called the "biggest modernisation of our railways since the Victorian era," has been announced by the UK's governing coalition.
Seen as a means to boost the ailing economy and help "close the north south divide," the list of projects to be funded includes the electrification of several lines, and investments intended to boost the capacity and integration of routes across Northern England and Wales.
The plan announced today includes funds to complete current projects oriented around the capital (Crossrail and Thameslink), and funding for new projects that will "mean faster journey times, more seats and spruced up stations,
with many regions in England and Wales benefiting, especially across the
north of England," writes
Critics point with concern to the ambitious plan's reliance, at least in part, on fare increases. "Campaign for Better Transport chief executive Stephen Joseph said the
investment was good news, but the two years of fare increases would mean
many passengers could not afford its benefits."
FULL STORY: £9bn railway investment announced by coalition
MBTA to Electrify its First Commuter Rail Line
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority will electrify the 9 mile Fairmount Line, the shortest of their 12 commuter rail lines, using battery-electric multiple units. The first BEMU trains are projected to be operating in early 2028.
Rail Electrification: Caltrain adds BEMUs to its EMU Order
Caltrain, the San Francisco-to-San Jose commuter railroad, plans to begin electrified operation next year on its 49-mile mainline. A 28-mile extension south to Gilroy would continue to be served by diesel trains, with one train powered by battery.
Alternative Railroad Electrification
Rather than building costly overhead electrification infrastructure to convert a Chicago-area commuter rail line from polluting diesel power to emission-free electricity, the Metra Board of Directors chose a far less expensive and quicker route.
Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto
The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.
National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions
Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.
Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50
A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.
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