VIA says operations will continue despite new travel restrictions
While new restrictions on travel in and out of the provinces of Ontario and Quebec begin today, VIA Rail Canada says in a notice on its website that it will “continue all scheduled services,” adding, “Passengers are responsible to comply with provincial restrictions.” The CBC reports Ontario’s new order prohibits non-essential travel into the province; Quebec, in turn, has closed its borders to travelers from Ontario, where COVID-19 cases are on the rise.
Colorado economic agency to chip in funds for purchase of Burnham Yard
The Colorado Economic Development Commission will provide $7.5 million to the state’s Department of Transportation so it can buy the former Union Pacific Burnham Yard in downtown Denver, a 59-acre property which figures in both the expansion of Interstate 25 and improvements to the local passenger rail network. The Denver Post reports the state DOT will provide another $7.5 million and borrow $40 million for the purchase. About 16 acres of the land will be needed for the transportation projects, with the rest likely to be sold for private developments. The DOT first made an offer for the land in 2019, but budget constraints created by the COVID-19 pandemic placed the deal in jeopardy [see “Digest: Texas Central is a railroad …,” Trains News Wire, May 8, 2020].
San Francisco Muni to reopen additional light rail line in May
Faster-than-expected progress on maintenance work will allow San Francisco Muni to resume service on an additional light rail line in May. KRON-TV reports the K Ingleside line will resume operation May 15, along with the N Judah. Only the N Judah line had previously been expected to reopen on that date. “Our ability to make this announcement of additional Muni service is a true testament to the collaboration between Muni staff, our labor unions, and community partners,” said Julie Kirschbaum, SFMTA Director of Transit. “We know that key transit connections are critical to the city’s economic recovery, and we’re thrilled to re-open the subway and ramp up service.”
