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The States for Passenger Rail Coalition has identified $1.4 billion in “ready-to-go” transit projects nationwide and is urging Congress to include funding for some of them as part of a second economic stimulus bill. Members of Congress are expected to return to Washington, D.C., this week to discuss the Stimulus II economic package.  

For every $1 billion invested in passenger-rail projects, 30,000 new jobs are created, according to the coalition. In addition, intercity passenger-rail investment spurs transit-oriented development near stations and increases demand for retail services in and around stations.

Rail industry suppliers would benefit, as well. Investments in track, signals and equipment are needed to address rail congestion and add passenger-rail service, the coalition said.