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Today, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced it has obligated $461 million in high-speed rail funds for the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). The funds will cover 24 rail projects, including the construction of double track between Charlotte and Greensboro, and 12 bridges that will eliminate 30 grade crossings.

The grant agreement was signed by the state of North Carolina, Norfolk Southern Railway, North Carolina Railroad and Amtrak. The state-owned North Carolina Railroad Co. currently leases track to Norfolk Southern Railway and Amtrak operates the passenger rail services on the state’s behalf. NCDOT will work with NS to design and construct the rail line improvements and improve travel times, while covering the cost of maintenance incurred during construction.
 
“This is the sixth agreement between the states and a host freight railroad for a major high-speed rail corridor funded under the Recovery Act, and it ensures that these grants will improve passenger rail service in North Carolina, while preserving the world class freight rail system we have today,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood in a prepared statement.

NCDOT is set to receive a total of $545 million in high-speed stimulus funds, including $59 million to purchase and refurbish equipment that would enable the state to provide a third daily round trip between Charlotte and Raleigh, and upgrade stations in Cary, Burlington and High Point.