Potential partnership on the horizon to revive high-speed rail

Dallas, Texas - In a recent effort to advance the previously stalled Dallas-Houston bullet train project, Amtrak has collaborated with Texas Central. This move signifies the resurgence of a plan, initiated in 2013, promising a swift 90-minute commute between Dallas and Houston.

Both Amtrak and Texas Central are now diligently examining ways to rejuvenate the initiative. Their collective effort involves an exhaustive research process, culminating in applications to multiple federal programs. This evaluation includes more in-depth studies and a more refined design, primarily focusing on the vital Dallas to Houston route.

Amtrak Senior Vice President of High-Speed Rail Development Programs, Andy Byford, remarked in an official statement, “The Dallas to Houston Corridor is a promising opportunity if we consider expanding high-speed rail in this country. Major, rapidly expanding metropolitan regions, such as Houston and Dallas, indeed merit enhanced high-speed intercity rail services.”

However, this optimism from stakeholders isn't universally shared. The project's ten-year journey has encountered stiff resistance, notably from federal entities, rural landowners, and the farming community. Much of this opposition stems from concerns over the train's potential to traverse lands at substantial speeds, with farmers and ranchers at the forefront of this resistance.

The dispute notably escalated in June 2022 when the Supreme Court of Texas ruled in favor of Texas Central, granting them eminent-domain rights under Chapter 131 of the Texas Transportation Code. This decision facilitated potential land acquisitions from unwilling owners. Yet, shortly before this judgment, Texas Central faced significant internal challenges, including abrupt management departures and a leadership change.

The unexpected departure of Texas Central’s executive team, coupled with CEO and President Carlos Aguilar’s resignation, garnered significant media attention. Aguilar's public statement on LinkedIn, referencing a misalignment of stakeholder vision, was followed closely by the board of directors disbanding.

Interestingly, Texas Central's project had a distinct edge over similar ventures due to its commitment to solely private funding for the rail. As Texas Central President Tim Keith mentioned in 2017, the rail's funding was expected to be “entirely covered by ticket sales,” potentially reducing the construction expenses by a notable 20%.

The bullet train's potential remains substantial, potentially boosting the region's economy, reminiscent of the optimism displayed in 2016. In that year, Texas Central received the "Next Big Idea" award from the North Texas chapter of the Urban Land Institute, recognizing the projected $36 billion economic boost over its first 25 years.

However, various critiques have emerged. The libertarian Reason Foundation, in particular, critically examined Texas Central's plans. Their research questioned the project's funding mechanisms and the projected construction costs, suggesting that the anticipated expenses and revenue might be understated.

Yet, with Amtrak's recent involvement, there seems to be a renewed spirit of determination surrounding the project. Key figures in both Dallas and Houston, including their mayors, have expressed strong backing. The project has also garnered support from the labor sector, with union leaders like Jerry Wilson voicing support due to potential job creation.

Dallas Mayor, Eric L. Johnson, commented, “Dallas stands at the heart of a rapidly growing region. Pioneering ventures like this could significantly enhance Dallas's future prospects. A high-speed rail could redefine our transportation landscape, spurring economic growth and improving Texas-wide connectivity.”

Echoing this sentiment, Houston's Mayor Sylvester Turner stated, “Collaboration between these entities could expedite the necessary planning for a contemporary, eco-friendly rail system bridging Houston and Dallas.”

Credit: The Texas Tribune, Dallas Metro News, Amtrak