Feds’ rail money could slow down in NC House bill

RALEIGH, NC(AP)– North Carolina’s new slice of money from
the federal government to improve Piedmont passenger train service
could be pushed back under legislation being considered by state
lawmakers.

The House Transportation Committee scheduled debate Tuesday on a
measure that would bar the state Department of Transportation from
accepting federal funds for a high-speed rail project without
permission by the General Assembly.

The requirement could make it more difficult for state DOT to
spend $461 million in federal grants announced last week to cut
time between Raleigh and Charlotte by building new tracks and
eliminating highway crossings.

Bill sponsor Rep. Ric Killian of Charlotte said he’s worried the
state will be left with a big annual bill to operate the service.
At least three other states have rejected similar high-speed money.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)