Historic deal opens up investment on New York rail lines

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Amtrak and CSX have signed a deal which will allow a $181 million series of improvements to be made to lines around New York.

The agreement gives Amtrak full control of the Hudson Line between Schenectady and Poughkeepsie, giving passengers services priority over freight on the 94-mile line.

For decades signals have been designed to freight standards, and all planning and construction was subject to approval and control of the freight railroad.

Improvements can now be carried out which will reduce congestion along the Empire Corridor from New York City to Niagara Falls.

Governor Andrew Cuomo said: “High-speed rail is a critical part of the transportation network of New York State’s future and these four projects made possible by an historic and long-awaited agreement between passenger and freight rail partners are another step toward improving New York State’s economy by fostering a rail system that is fast, reliable and efficient for business and leisure travelers, as well as for companies shipping goods across the state.”

Projects now underway include construction of an additional track between Rensselaer and Schenectady, building a fourth track at Rensselaer station, level crossing improvements along the Empire Corridor South and signal line improvements south of Albany.

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