April 24, 2024 - TRA Newswire -

Texas Congressman Troy Nehls, Chairman of the House Transportation Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous MAterials, speaking in a pre-recorded video before the Southwestern Rail Conference said "on the record, I strongly support using federal money for the Railroad Crossing Eliminiation Program. I believe closing as many crossings as possible will not only save lives but will reduce congestion on our rail network benefiting both freight and passenger," according to Nehls. 

Hear Subcommittee Chairman Nehls: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMN3SHYwcpw

Chairman Nelhs said he will hold a hearing on commuter rail and was shocked to hear that its been twenty years since the last time stakeholders were heard. "Commuter railroads deliver over half a billion passenger trips each year and are a vital part of how people traverse our nation." The Congressman indicated his support for high-speed rail in America where it makes sense. "As our states grow, so should our infrastructure and I beleive having a variety of transportation options is preferable." 

The South Texas chairman said that despite the Norfolk Southern railroad accident at East Palestine, Ohio "I am pleased with the overall safety record our of rail network and the continuing efforts of stakeholders to deploy state of the art technology and policies that reduce safety incidents. Contrary to the media reports, railroad accidents and injuries are down 27 percent from 2000 to 2023," said Nehls.