The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has received $550 million from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to advance construction for a new passenger rail route between Raleigh and Richmond, Va.
The S-Line Raleigh-to-Richmond Passenger Rail Line will significantly cut back travel times for rail users. The department anticipates that the completed line will be designed for trains moving up to 110 mph, saving travelers up to 90 minutes between the cities.
Main project components revolve around adding new tracks and upgrading existing infrastructure to support new trains and more frequent trips. The entire installation will include modern technology that outperforms the department’s existing passenger rail service. Other core details include:
- Roadway grade separations.
- Concrete crossties.
- High speed switches.
- High-level platforms.
- Freight bypass tracks.
- Positive Train Control.
- Advanced signal systems.
NCDOT plans to build multiple bridges and overpasses to reduce crossing paths between trains and vehicles. The project also calls for bicycle and pedestrian paths alongside other travel options for communities along the S-Line.
Raleigh Union Station will be updated to accommodate the upcoming S-Line. The department plans to build a second platform, remove at-grade railroad crossings and reconstruct the Morgan State Bridge at its current location.
Photo by Bill Silveira from Pexels
For more of the latest from the expansive government marketplace, check Government Market News daily for new stories, insights and profiles from public sector professionals. Check out our national contracting newsletter here.
