DOT Announces $2.4 Billion For 54 High-Speed Rail Projects

By Ji Hyun Yoo

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced during a conference call Thursday that the U.S. will be delivering $2.4 billion in grants for 54 high-speed rail projects.

The projects are located in 23 states. According to DOT, the largest award went to California, which received more than $901 million, including $715 million for the construction of new high-speed rail lines.

LaHood said that the grants would help expand job creation and provide a boon to industry.

“States understand that high-speed rail represents a unique opportunity to create jobs, revitalize our manufacturing base, spur economic development and provide people with an environmentally friendly transportation option,” said LaHood.

The announcement follows the allocation of $8 billion in Recovery Act funds for high-speed rail projects at the start of the year.