Builders of Denver commuter rail lines seek $111 million in lawsuit
The consortium that built and maintains most of the commuter rail lines for Denver’s Regional Transportation District, has increased to $111 million the amount it is seeking from the RTD in a lawsuit set to go to court in September. Colorado Public Radio reports the amount sought by Denver Transit Partners is a $31 million increase over the company’s previous estimate in 2018. RTD, in a countersuit, is seeking $27 million from Denver Transit Partners. At issue are the crossing-gate issues that forced the consortium to use flaggers at crossing gates on the A line between downtown and Denver International Airport, and delayed the opening of the G line to Arvada. Denver Transit Partners is seeking reimbursement for the cost of flaggers and other costs. A trial is scheduled to begin Sept. 21.
Florida DOT tells SunRail to find other projects or it will build extension to DeLand
The Florida Department of Transportation is saying it may extend the route of Orlando-area commuter railroad SunRail to DeLand, Fla., even though SunRail’s parent agency has voted against that northward extension. WFTV-TV reports the Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission has voted not to extend the route to DeLand and would hold $34 million in federal money for other projects, but Florida DOT is saying it will undertake the 12-mile, $74 million extension unless other capital projects are identified by October. Officials are drafting a response and may call a special meeting to address the issue.
CTA to use $880 million in bonds for capital projects
The Chicago Transit Authority is bringing $880 million in bonds to market to finance capital projects including expansion of the Red Line, Red-Purple line modernization, signal upgrades, and railcar and bus purchases. The Bond Buyer reports the offering or planned use of its proceeds is not related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
