Federal officials and representatives from North Carolina and Virginia have approved a final environmental study Thursday on plans for a shorter rail line linking Richmond to Raleigh. North Carolina’s Department of Transportation approved a route that allows trains to run as fast as 110 mph between the two state capitals. The proposed route cuts 35 miles from the current Amtrak path, thereby reducing the travel time from North Carolina to Washington by 75 miles. NC Department of Transportation officials estimate they will need $4 billion to buy land, lay tracks and build roads, bridges and stations along the route. Full funding for the project has not yet been secured.
SOURCE: ABC 11
