The State Bond Commission is expected to approve $260 million to help pay for the improvements needed for high-speed trains running through Connecticut and western Massachusetts, The Associated Press reports.
The commission, chaired by Gov. M. Jodi Rell, is scheduled to meet Tuesday at the Legislative Office Building and vote to borrow the money for the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield rail line.
The $260 million is Connecticut’s matching portion for a $220 million federal grant that’s being sought. The state filed its application Aug. 6.
The money will cover station upgrades, new stations and pay to double-track the remaining 25 miles of the 62-mile line. Double-tracking allows trains to pass one another.
Officials hope to bring high-speed, intercity rail service within five years.
