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Dallas Area Rapid Transit’s (DART) light-rail expansion recently was recognized by consulting firm CG/LA Infrastructure L.L.C. as one of the top 100 global infrastructure projects.

With the opening of the Green Line’s first section in September, DART remains on schedule to nearly double its light-rail network to 90 miles by 2013. CG/LA Infrastructure’s list cites projects that provide communities “vision and a competitive boost,” according to a prepared statement.

Meanwhile, North County Transit District's (NCTD) SPRINTER line won a 2009 “Project of the Year” award from the American Public Works Association. The awards recognize organizations that “promote excellence in the management and administration of public works projects,” according to the association.

NCTD’s SPRINTER began service in March 2008 on a 22-mile route between Oceanside and Escondido, Calif., which currently is used by more than 8,000 riders daily.

A California short line received an award, as well. Pacific Harbor Line Inc. (PHL) obtained a “Salute to Industry” award from the Harbor Association of Industry and Commerce. The award honors the short line for “taking extraordinary steps” to reduce air emissions, according to a statement. The association also presented similar awards to BNSF Railway Co. and Union Pacific Railroad.

PHL replaced and expanded its locomotive fleet with 22 clean-diesel units, which can reduce particulate emissions by 70 percent and nitrogen oxide emissions by 46 percent, as well as cut fuel usage 7 percent to 9 percent, compared with conventional locomotives.