SAFETEA-LU Opens the Door

It appears that several Transit Agencies were just waiting for some Federal Money to be appropriated, which is exactly what SAFETEA-LU did. By my count, there are four or five new Requests for Quotations for new light rail and commuter rail projects. Responding to these has occupied most of my time lately, and I apologize for the lack of posts here at Rip Track.

At least two of these Agencies have appeared on last summer's Rippers List, both Best and Worst. So lining up at the funding trough earlier than others does not mean a spot on either list is assured.

but one thing is clear. The Agencies who represent constituents who understand the value of Light Rail and Commuter Rail are only too happy to get the money that goes unclaimed by those Agencies who must still convince voters of these benefits. That unfortunate debate still goes on to the detriment of many.