PHILADELPHIA — Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter and CSX Chairman, President and CEO Michael J. Ward joined together to celebrate the construction of an improved rail route that generates hundreds of jobs.
The completed project will create an improved double-stack rail corridor to expand Philadelphia’s freight transportation options and position the region for future growth.
The event was held at an active rail construction site in Philadelphia where workers are increasing clearances at 16 overhead bridges. By improving clearances, this project will allow a faster, more efficient rail connection with the Midwest, and will create over 1,200 direct and indirect jobs.
“This project is good news for Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” said Governor Rendell. “I am proud to support this environmentally friendly, cost-effective double-stack improvement project that will provide long-term economic benefits for Pennsylvania and the nation.”
“The City of Philadelphia is pleased that this project will provide economic and environmental benefits to the residents of Philadelphia for years to come,” said Mayor Nutter.
The project is funded by a $10 million contribution from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, over $12 million from CSX, and an additional $10 million shared equally by two federal sources.
“I especially want to thank the many CSX employees and their union affiliates who are working on this project and helping us address the regional and national transportation needs,” said Michael Ward.
