Ohio wins $400 million for 3C passenger rail
CincyPAC is hailing yesterday’s announcement that the federal government will award $400 million to Ohio to revive passenger train service along Ohio’s 3C corridor, connecting Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Cincinnati.
“This train will do more than connect the 3Cs and Dayton,” said Jack Shaner, Deputy Director for the Ohio Environmental Council.
“The 3C will deliver precious cargo to Ohio: Conserved fuel and cleaner air from more energy efficient transportation; more convenient, safe, and productive travel; and new commerce from stepped-up downtown development and travel and tourism opportunities. Today, 30 years of study ends and the action begins.”
According to the White House (http://bit.ly/dtgc2r) and the Federal Railroad Administration (http://bit.ly/bKRKEM):
· The $400 million in federal stimulus funds will fund track upgrades, grade crossings, new stations, maintenance facilities, and other projects along Ohio’s 250-mile 3C corridor. This project also includes planning for necessary equipment that can support future service improvements.
· The 3C is expected to offer three daily round trips at speeds up to 79 mph.
· The 3C will serve a population of more than 6.8 million people (nearly 60 percent of Ohio’s population)—one of the most populous corridors in the United States.
· Nearly 40 colleges and universities lie in close proximity to the route, as do the headquarters of 22 Fortune 500 companies.
State officials hope to have trains up and running next year along the 3C corridor.