Kentucky Transportation Cabinet seeks public feedback on draft rail plan

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is seeking public input on a draft version of the 2014 Statewide Rail Plan, which highlights current freight- and passenger-rail services, and strategies for improving and expanding rail in the state.

An update to the 2002 Statewide Rail Plan, the 2014 draft plan identifies strategies and policies that conform to goals stipulated in KYTC's strategic plan. The cabinet recognizes that an effective rail system will help alleviate highway congestion, boost economic development, improve public safety and reduce greenhouse-gas emissions, KYTC officials said in the plan's introduction.
 
KYTC's Division of Planning and Multimodal Programs partnered with Parsons Brinckerhoff to publish the draft rail plan. The project team conducted two public meetings in February and a stakeholder meeting in May, and incorporated feedback into the draft plan.

The latest draft addresses such topics as state railroad funding, rail safety and security, rails-to-trails programs in the state, and public and industry outreach efforts. The plan also targets intermodal connectors within the state's larger freight-transportation network that link freight facilities to other modes, shippers, haulers, manufacturers and distribution networks. KYTC is seeking input on a list of roadways near rail facilities that should be included in the state's list of intermodal connectors.
 
KYTC launched a 45-day public review period on the draft state rail plan on Aug. 1 and is accepting comments through Sept. 16.