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Today, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) obligated $13.6 million to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to modernize Portland Union Station, upgrade passenger-rail service along Amtrak’s Cascades route and continue developing plans for an integrated, statewide rail network.

ODOT will use $4.2 million of the funds to conduct draft and final environmental work and service planning to identify improvements for the Cascades route between Eugene and Portland. ODOT will contribute $5.8 million toward the project.

Another $4 million will be used to fund preliminary engineering and environmental work for track replacement and expansion, and facility upgrades to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and address energy conservation measures at Portland Union Station. The improvements will reduce train station congestion and accommodate forecasted increases in passenger service, according to USDOT.

ODOT also will use $1.3 million to help fund final design and construction for additional work on Portland Union Station’s roof, as well as other structural upgrades. The funds will be coupled with a previously approved $5.9 million federal grant to cover the roof replacement. The project also includes replacing gutters and downspouts, repairing skylights and windows, and insulating the attic.