Congress Divided Over Texas Bullet Train Project Future

North Texas leaders are rallying to save the bullet train connecting Dallas and Houston, urging Congress to drop restrictions that could block funding and stall a project with major economic and transport potential. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Federal Dispute Over Bullet Train Funding

The Regional Transportation Council (RTC) voted to send a letter to lawmakers opposing appropriations bill language that bans federal funding for high-speed rail in Texas.

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This restriction targets projects similar to the Amtrak Texas High Speed Rail Corridor, also known as the Texas Central Railway Project. Supporters warn the measure could slow progress on the bullet train, undermining years of planning.

Dallas projects a $5 billion economic boost from the line, while Arlington and Fort Worth are funding separate studies on a regional high-speed connection. Advocates argue it will ease road congestion, cut travel times, and improve safety.

Political Opposition and Private Investment in Bullet Train

Opponents, including Dallas City Council member Cara Mendelsohn, claim Congress acted deliberately to end the project. She cited Congressman Jake Ellzey, who praised the termination of a $64 million Amtrak planning grant earlier this year.

Ellzey calls the project a misuse of taxpayer dollars and opposes its reliance on eminent domain. He insists it is not truly privately funded, pointing to past state and federal funding requests.

Fort Worth-based Kleinheinz Capital Partners has taken over leadership after Amtrak’s grant ended. Regional transportation director Michael Morris believes private sector involvement could accelerate the bullet train’s completion without federal operator support.

Arlington Mayor Jim Ross maintains local leaders will back projects benefiting their communities, regardless of political disagreements in Washington.

Source: www.houstonpublicmedia.org

FAQ

What is the bullet train project in Texas?

It’s a proposed high-speed rail line between Dallas and Houston, aiming to cut travel time to about 90 minutes. More details are available at Texas Central.

Who funds the bullet train?

Currently, Fort Worth-based Kleinheinz Capital Partners leads private investment, but the project previously sought state and federal grants, including a $64 million Amtrak planning grant.

Can the bullet train proceed without federal funding?

Yes, but private investment must fully cover costs. Advocates believe local and regional support can sustain the project if congressional funding bans remain.

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