METRO TAKES A MOMENTOUS LEAP TO EXPAND LIGHT RAIL

More vehicles off city roads…
More transportation options…
Access to more jobs…
And, more money injected into the local economy.

The first work order for one of the largest public works infrastructure projects in the city’s history has been issued. METRO is expanding its light-rail network.

During the festive ceremonies held on July 13, 2009, METRO broke ground on two light-rail lines – the North and Southeast corridors. While showered in confetti, elected officials and Houston residents and business owners watched the unveiling of a life-size model of METRO’s new train.

“These light-rail lines will connect our communities in ways they have never been connected before,” said METRO Chairman David S. Wolff. “They will provide improved access to jobs, to health care and to the educational institutions which are so important to our city.”

The two light-rail lines – along with the East End line already under construction – will add about 14 miles of light rail to METRO’s existing Main Street Red Line. That number will grow to 30 miles of new rail when the University and Uptown Lines are built.

Members of the Texas delegation in Washington, D.C., gave their kudos, saying the projects would employ thousands and infuse money into the local economy.

“We are here today all united to open this next phase of a great transit system for my hometown Houston,” said U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX).

The METRO Solutions plan is a tall order to fill. The initial phase of the $1.46 billion contract calls for spending $632 million and is expected to generate some 25,000 jobs. Small and local businesses will receive $300 million to $385 million in eligible contract work.

The first work order for $121 million has been signed. So what’s next? The relocation of utilities.

If you missed the historic groundbreaking event – please click here to watch Connecting Communities, a short documentary highlighting the momentous day.