Madison lands $218 million in federal funds for passenger rail | The Locally Times
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The federal award covers most final design and construction costs, but the state has not committed its 20 percent share or operating funds.
The City of Madison learned on October 16 that $218 million in federal funds have been secured to expand Amtrak's Hiawatha West project, a step toward returning passenger rail service to Madison for the first time in more than 50 years. ## What changes The federal funds will help connect Madison to Milwaukee with stops in Pewaukee and Watertown, according to the release. Combined with existing service to Illinois, the project would allow passenger rail from Madison to Chicago and beyond, possibly as soon as 2030. The money will pay for the majority of the final design and construction costs, which will upgrade tracks, improve crossings, expand rail capacity and construct stations in Madison and other cities. ## What happens next The release states the next step is a commitment from the state to fund its share of the design and construction costs, 20 percent of the total cost, as well as annual operating funds. The city has supported the process by conducting a passenger rail station study, supporting planning efforts, and coordinating with Amtrak and WisDOT, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. The city's proposed capital budget includes funding to support the construction of a Madison station. The release encourages residents to contact their state lawmaker and share their thoughts on the project.