The Federal Transit Administration has authorized the Fort Worth Transportation Authority to begin construction on the 27-mile TEX Rail commuter rail line, the agency confirmed late Monday.
What’s known as a letter of no prejudice means the agency, also known as The T, can break ground in July, procure project materials and begin construction activities planned for the first six months.
“We are delighted to receive the letter of no prejudice today,” said Paul Ballard, president-CEO of The T, commenting in a news release.
“We can now secure the prime contract and all subcontracts while locking in current pricing. This has been a long journey and we can’t wait to get started on construction next month,” Ballard said.
The T can begin spending local funds it has in reserves while awaiting the full funding grant agreement, said Bob Baulsir, vice president of railroads and procurement.
“This is a great day for TEX Rail and FWTA – and it’s the beginning of a great rail system that will serve thousands in our region,” Baulsir said.
TEX Rail is planned to extend from downtown Fort Worth, across northeast Tarrant County, through North Richland Hills and Grapevine, and into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport’s Terminal B.
The commuter rail line, expected to begin service in late 2018, is projected to serve more than 8,000 daily riders at nine stations by the end of the first year of operation. By 2035, nearly 14,000 daily riders are projected to ride the system.