Oregon DOT releases DEIS for Eugene-Portland passenger-rail plan

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has unveiled a draft environmental impact statement for a proposed passenger-rail service between Portland and the Eugene-Springfield region.

The document outlines two alternatives for the 125-mile service: One would follow the existing Amtrak Cascades route; the other would include a new route between Springfield and Oregon City along Interstate 5.

ODOT and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) have identified the first option as the preferred alternative, ODOT officials announced in an email.

ODOT has scheduled five meetings in late November and early December to solicit public input on the environmental document.

After the public comment period, ODOT and the FRA will choose a final preferred alternative.