State Ready to Apply for High-Speed Rail Funds

State transportation officials say they're ready to apply for funding for a high-speed passenger rail project.

Friday, April 17th 2009, 10:30 am

By: News 9


Staff and Wire Reports 

OKLAHOMA CITY - State transportation officials say they're ready to apply for funding for a high-speed passenger rail project.

President Barack Obama says $8 billion will be available to develop high-speed rail in the U.S.

"We're really enthused about it," Roy Williams with the Oklahoma City Chamber said. "I think it would be great for Oklahoma City."

The Federal Railroad Administration has identified a corridor that includes Oklahoma City, Tulsa, San Antonio, Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin and Little Rock as one of 10 possible projects.

"At some point in time we need a national interconnected high-speed rail system and you need to begin somewhere," Williams said. "We're glad that we show up as being on one of those beginnings."

Oklahoma Department of Transportation spokeswoman Terri Angier says the state has been anticipating the process and is ready to apply for funding.

"The department certainly is interested in high-speed rail, there's no doubt about that and we're excited about the opportunity that may be presented in stimulus," Oklahoma Department of Transportation Director of Capital Programs Tim Gatz said.

Mayor Mick Cornett said the city needs to ensure it's a destination on the high-speed rail system.

"The future of economic development will go to the cities that are on transportation corridors and if high-speed rail is part of America's future transportation needs, Oklahoma City needs to make sure it's a part of it," Mayor Cornett said.

The Federal Railroad Administration says grants could be distributed by late this summer.

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