Train delays might get a little shorter as the N.C. Department of Transportation enacts a plan to improve freight and passenger railroads in the state over the next 25 years.
The plan aims to expand mass transit options and their economic benefits as well as improve the current railways between military bases and ports, according to the Comprehensive State Rail Plan.
“The rail plan is an extremely extensive and comprehensive program,” said Paul Worley, rail division director with NCDOT.
Changes to the railway system will come in the form of 13 new bridges, the closure of several train crossings and the addition of 32 miles of second track — which will allow adjacent train traffic to proceed in both directions.
Worley said under the new program, he expects the current $1.88 billion direct impact on the state economy to increase.
Reductions in emissions and pollution costs, as well as a decreased number of auto accidents, will further reduce indirect costs of the railway program.
The money for the new railways comes from a stimulus grant of more than $546 million made by President Barack Obama in 2010.
While this might seem like a delayed use of funds, Worley said the project is moving quickly.
“We had to spend a couple of years negotiating with the railroads because we did not want to start on the project (until) the rail companies made a strong commitment,” he said.