Progress Renewed for Moline-to-Chicago Passenger Rail. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Progress Renewed for Moline-to-Chicago Passenger Rail.
Credit: File An Amtrak connection from the Quad Cities to Chicago has sat in limbo for over a decade, leaving $177 million in federal funds unused since 2010.

A critical extension has revived the long-delayed Moline-to-Chicago Passenger Rail project. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) approved an additional 1.5 years to utilize $177M in federal funds.

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This extension provides stakeholders with an opportunity to advance the much-anticipated passenger rail service. Secured initially in 2010, the funds were at risk of expiration due to delays in track upgrades.

Challenges Persist for Moline-to-Chicago Passenger Rail

Despite the extension, negotiations remain unresolved between the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and Iowa Interstate Railroad. These discussions focus on upgrading 55 miles of track essential for the rail line’s completion.

Moline City Administrator Bob Vitas expressed optimism, emphasizing the need for urgency. “The shorter extension ensures stakeholders will work faster,” he said. “Prolonged delays have hampered progress despite significant investments, including ‘The Q’ station.”

Constructed in 2018, “The Q” station spurred local developments like a new hotel and pedestrian pathways. However, passenger trains have yet to arrive, leaving the station unused.

Future Prospects

Congressman Eric Sorensen confirmed state funding of $225M remains available, complementing the federal funds. Stakeholders are optimistic that this financial backing will expedite final agreements and construction.

The rail line aims to provide economic benefits, improved transportation, and greater connectivity for the Quad Cities region. Officials hope the extension will mark a turning point for this transformative project.

By focusing on timely action and collaborative efforts, the Moline-to-Chicago Passenger Rail project could finally overcome its decade-long delays and deliver on its promise to the community.

Source: www.wqad.com

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