This is the largest loan issued through the RRIF program to date, and the dollars will finance the purchase of 70 high-performance, electric locomotives from Siemens Industry USA. These locomotives are more energy-efficient and will enable Amtrak to improve frequency, performance and reliability for regional and intercity routes along the Northeast and Keystone Corridors.

“President Obama has a bold vision to provide Americans with a world-class, passenger rail network, while giving American manufacturers and suppliers nationwide an opportunity to get into the rail business,” LaHood said. “The Obama Administration is committed to making strategic, long-term investments that create jobs and boost the economy now, and this financing plan is already putting Americans back to work at assembly plants and supply companies in Ohio, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia.”

Siemens Industry USA is adding 250 new manufacturing jobs in order to design and build 70 new energy-efficient locomotives for Amtrak. Three of Siemens’ U.S. manufacturing plants will deliver the equipment order, with traction motors and gear units being produced in Norwood, Ohio, traction converters and braking choppers being built in Alpharetta, GA, and final assembly of the locomotives in Sacramento, Calif. The RRIF loan will also upgrade maintenance facilities and allow for the purchase of spare parts needed to support the new locomotives.

Suppliers from communities around the country will soon be tapped by Siemens Industry USA to provide components for the order, further boosting U.S. manufacturing. For example, PHW, Inc. a company based in East Pittsburgh, PA, has already been contracted to manufacture safety-related parts for the locomotives.

“The RRIF program is a model of how we can leverage federal dollars to spur private investment and build up the economy,” Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo said. “It provides steady, affordable financing for major rail construction and expansion projects, and best of all, it comes at zero cost to the taxpayer.”

As part of a comprehensive plan to modernize and expand its fleet of equipment, the 70 Amtrak Cities Sprinter ACS-64 locomotives – still in the final design phase – will replace existing units that have been in service for 20-30 years with an average of 3.5 million miles traveled. The electric locomotives will begin operating along regional and intercity routes in 2013 on the Northeast and Keystone Corridors, which together serve more than one million Amtrak passengers every month.

The project, which will get under way late r this summer, will eliminate one of the nation’s largest rail bottlenecks. The Illinois Department of Transportation contributed $6.6 million to the $133 million project.

The Englewood Flyover is a grade separation project south of Chicago Union Station that eliminates one of the most delay-prone intersections in the entire Amtrak system. It separates Rock Island District Metra commuter trains from Amtrak passenger trains traveling on the Norfolk Southern (NS) corridor.

“Untying rail congestion in Chicago is critical to developing a Midwest passenger rail network that will connect the 40 largest markets in the Midwest,” LaHood said. “Building the Englewood Flyover will put Americans back to work this summer and create new orders in our domestic supply chain.”

An agreement between Illinois, NS and Amtrak also lays the groundwork for an additional express track for high-speed trains to points east and south. Amtrak utilizes the NS line for all trains from Detroit, Cleveland, Cincinnati and Indianapolis into Chicago. The State of Illinois will serve as the hub of the Midwest passenger rail network.

The Englewood Flyover project is part of the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program, a partnership between the State of Illinois, the City of Chicago, freight railroads, Metra and Amtrak, to remove and reduce train congestion throughout Chicagoland and the Midwest region.

This congestion impacts all modes of transportation, forcing more trucks on to the highways, limiting access to airports, and reducing the capacity of railroads, limiting the regions effectiveness as the nation’s transportation hub, officials contend. In addition to the intercity passenger benefits, the Englewood Flyover will also reduce freight and commuter delays, keeping more people and freight off Chicagoland’s congested highways.

“Not only will Illinois see the benefit of new construction jobs and some desperately needed congestion relief, this is a great opportunity for Illinois suppliers to bid on new orders,” said Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. “Illinois has more railway suppliers than any other state in the country, and does more than $4.5 billion in sales each year.”

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and annual appropriations have, to date, provided $10.1 billion to put America on track towards providing new and expanded rail access to communities and improving the reliability, speed, and frequency of existing service. Of that, nearly $6 billion dollars has already been obligated for rail projects. This $126 million obligation was funded through the Recovery Act. In the Midwest, construction started last fall on the Chicago-St. Louis corridor.

The Englewood Flyover will mark the first construction between Chicago and Detroit, which has received several grants. The Midwest has also received an award for a new fleet of domestically-built trains.

The money will pay for the design of a positive train control (PTC) technology system that increases railroad safety and efficiency by monitoring and controlling train movements, which will help integrate California’s rail network with high-speed passenger service.

“Keeping people safe is our top priority and positive train control technology will ensure California’s rail network transports passengers more safely and efficiently than ever before,” said Secretary LaHood. “This comprehensive safety technology will improve passenger service along the highly-traveled corridor between San Francisco and San Jose and will ultimately benefit the entire high-speed rail system in California.”

The grant will enable the CHSRA and the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board to develop a system that will improve schedule management along the dominant San Francisco-San Jose corridor and by extension, help improve train schedules along the entire California railroad network. In addition, the grant will be used to design a PTC system that will accommodate the existing 52-mile corridor and provide support for high-speed trains.

PTC also keeps passengers and railroad workers safer by maintaining safe train separations preventing non-compliance with train speed limits, protecting roadway workers in authorized work zones and providing protection against train movement over misaligned switches. Once installed, the San Francisco-San Jose system will meet the congressionally-mandated provisions of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008.

Representative Anna G. Eshoo (D-Palo Alto), who has been working with the Department of Transportation to secure this vital funding, welcomed Transportation Secretary LaHood’s announcement:

“This is great news for Peninsula residents. This technology will improve Caltrain’s safety and efficiency,” said Rep. Anna Eshoo.” This this is an important first step in making Caltrain a 21st century transportation system.”

Other members of the federal working group also released statements of support for this funding:

“This $16 million in federal funds means faster commutes for our constituents,” said Rep. Michael Honda. “As a Member of the House Budget Committee and the House Appropriations Committee, I recognize that the only way for America to get back to work is for our nation to invest in a 21st century transportation system that will get us there. Improving Caltrain and laying the ground work for high-speed rail has a direct, positive impact on my constituents, and these federal funds show that their hard-earned tax dollars are being efficiently and effectively returned to their communities in visible and meaningful ways.”

“As our country’s highways and roads grow more congested, we desperately need to invest in alternative forms of transportation,” noted Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose). “I support the Federal Rail Administration’s efforts to modernize America’s rails, and this is a step towards more efficient, safer, and faster rail travel. It’s investments like these that are going to keep America competitive as the load on our transportation infrastructure continues to grow.”

“With this investment, we continue to improve California’s public transportation services, creating good jobs, reducing traffic and pollution, and contributing to the health and vitality of California’s economy,” said Rep. Garamendi. “I thank all those responsible for their valiant work in making this dream a reality.”

“The decision of the FRA is the right choice for our time because scarce dollars will be used for the best purpose—increasing safety on the vital Caltrain corridor,” said Rep. Jackie Speier.

Thirty-two states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia are currently laying the foundation for high-speed rail corridors to link Americans with faster and more energy-efficient travel options. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and annual appropriations have, to date, provided $10.1 billion to put America on track towards providing new and expanded rail access to communities and improving the reliability, speed, and frequency of existing service. Of that, more than $5.8 billion dollars has already been obligated for rail projects.

A strict “Buy America” requirement for high-speed rail projects ensures that U.S. manufacturers and workers will receive the maximum economic benefits from this federal investment. In 2009, Secretary LaHood secured a commitment from 30 foreign and domestic rail manufacturers to employ American workers and locate or expand their base of operations in the U.S. if they are selected for high-speed-rail contracts.

Twenty-four states, the District of Columbia and Amtrak submitted nearly 100 applications, competing to be part of an historic investment that will create tens of thousands of jobs, improve mobility and stimulate American manufacturing.

“Earlier this year, President Obama and I made a commitment to improve and expand America’s transportation system, including the development of a modern, national high-speed rail network,” Vice President Joe Biden said. “And today, we’re announcing investments that will continue our progress toward making this vision a reality.

“These projects will put thousands of Americans to work, save hundreds of thousands of hours for American travelers every year, and boost U.S. manufacturing by investing hundreds of millions of dollars in next-generation, American-made locomotives and railcars,” Biden added.

Both the Pacific Surfliner and San Joaquin lines experienced a surge in ridership over the last decade; the Pacific Surfliner service saw more than 65percent in ridership growth, and San Joaquin service experienced a 45 percent increase in ridership. This new equipment will accommodate the ridership growth with additional cars and locomotives available for improved service.

“With gas prices at record highs, President Obama is committed to making sure Americans can choose safe, efficient passenger rail options for reaching their destinations,” LaHood said. “Thanks to this investment in new, American-made cars and locomotives, Californians will continue to enjoy the congestion relief, economic growth, and affordable travel provided by these popular rail lines.”

This money will allow Caltrans to purchase 27 bi-level intercity rail passenger cars and two diesel-electric intercity locomotives that comply with uniform standards that create a level playing field allowing U.S.-based manufacturers to more effectively compete.

Fostering healthy economic competition will drive down costs for rail owners and operators and the traveling public. Maintenance and repair costs will be lower because of reduced parts acquisition costs. Training can also be streamlined with just one type of equipment, allowing faster turnaround for repairs.

“We are very pleased to fund this first order for rolling stock under the new Next Generation design standards,” said Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. “These standards benefit manufacturers and suppliers, the railroad industry and overall passenger safety, utilizing the best technology available.”

To date, approximately $5.7 billion dollars has been obligated throughout the country for rail projects funded by the Recovery Act and annual appropriations. President Obama’s vision is to connect 80 percent of Americans to high-speed rail within the next 25 years. This strategic investment is putting America on track towards that goal, providing an integrated passenger rail network with trains operating at all speeds and connecting to additional transit options, serving as a core component of our nation’s future transportation network.

A “Buy America” requirement for high-speed intercity passenger rail projects also ensures that U.S. manufacturers and workers will receive the maximum economic benefits from this federal investment. And, in 2009, LaHood secured a commitment from 30 foreign and domestic rail manufacturers to employ American workers and locate or expand their base of operations in the U.S. if they are selected for high-speed-rail contracts.

As a result, one of the world’s largest natural gas deposits will receive the rail transportation improvements needed to meet growing demand, officials said.

“Projects like this advance President Obama’s vision to create jobs, support U.S. energy sources and reinvigorate the economy,” LaHood said. “Building an innovative, transportation network with world-class railways will help local businesses compete now and in the future.”

The project – which includes 200 miles of track improvements and bridge rehabilitation – is expected to create more than 300 construction jobs in Pennsylvania. . These upgrades will expand the capacity, efficiency and safety of Pennsylvania’s short line rail network in Lycoming, Centre, Blair and Northumberland counties.

The grant, a part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s TIGER II (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) program, will be matched by $4.6 million from the Susquehanna Economic Development Association – Council of Governments Joint Rail Authority.

Work can now begin on innovative rail projects that will create new manufacturing and construction jobs, spur economic development in corridors and, in the long-term, develop a national transportation network with world-class railways.

“We have heard the call of the American people to build the safest, fastest and most efficient ways to move people and goods,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “Thanks to the leadership of President Obama, communities across the country are already feeling the economic benefits of rail and today we take another step forward, bringing new jobs to our citizens. Through high-speed rail, we are helping America win the future.”

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has been working collaboratively with states to move grants from “award to obligation,” ensuring high-speed intercity passenger rail projects can get underway and put American people to work.

The grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s TIGER II (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) program will be matched by $1.2 million from the City of Chadron.
“Under President Obama’s leadership, projects like this one are creating jobs, reinvigorating the economy and building a world-class transportation network that our businesses need in order to compete now and continue to grow in the future,” said Secretary LaHood.

The project, which will lead to improved freight mobility and safety in the area, includes the replacement of switches, ties, rail and ballast on 7.5 miles of main line track, and 1.2 miles within the Chadron Rail Yard. It will rehabilitate an existing car storage track and upgrade 22 timber bridges. When complete, the improved track will allow the railroad to accommodate the standard 286,000 pound cars used by regional construction and building industry and agricultural industry shippers.

“This project will boost our economic competiveness making it easier and less expensive for businesses to ship their products,” said Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. “This targeted investment will also increase safety for railroad workers and improve railroad reliability through the replacement of aging infrastructure.”

Under the U.S. Department of Transportation’s popular TIGER II program $600 million has been awarded to 42 capital construction projects and 33 planning projects in 40 states for crucial upgrades to highways, bridges, transit systems, rail lines, bicycle and pedestrian paths and ports. TIGER II grants were awarded to projects that promote innovative, multimodal transportation, increase energy-efficiency and provide significant economic benefits to an entire metropolitan area, region or the nation.

FRA’s Safety Advisory addresses the need to follow federal regulations and railroad operating rules that govern the procedures for leaving rolling equipment in the clear of adjacent tracks. This Safety Advisory is in response to two recent incidents where railroad employees were killed during switching operations.

“Equipment inappropriately left on adjacent tracks is a serious and potentially life threatening matter,” said Joseph C. Szabo, Federal Railroad Administrator. “We can take important steps to increase awareness and stop this dangerous practice.”

The FRA Safety Advisory recommends that railroad companies review the recent incidents with employees and reinstruct them on procedures and rules governing leaving rolling equipment clear of adjacent tracks. It also recommends that railroads review job briefing procedures.

“This plan will help West Virginia identify rail lines that will best serve shippers and passengers well into the future,” said Secretary LaHood. “It is an important part of the President’s plan to win the future by targeting critical rail projects.”

The grant will be matched by $1 million from the State of West Virginia. The plan will inventory existing freight and passenger rail lines in the state and analyze the potential for new freight, high-speed, intercity and commuter corridors, including tourist railroads.

“Planning for freight and passenger rail has been ignored for too many years, and state rail plans will create a sound basis for future, targeted investment,” said Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. “Such plans are all part of the President’s long term vision to best use our railroads and create new opportunities for rail.”

To date, more than $5.3 billion has been obligated to States under the Federal Railroad Administration’s High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail Program.