Ten Austin-area House Representatives signed a letter to House Speaker Joe Straus (R-San Antonio) urging him to support an amendment to Senate Bill 1 that would provide $91 million annually for rail improvement projects statewide.
"Rail is a critical part of our transportation infrastructure and a priority in Texas," the lawmakers wrote.
Patrick Rose (D-Dripping Springs), who represents Hays County, signed the letter, as well as Reps. Valinda Bolton (D-Austin) Dawnna Dukes (D-Austin), Dan Gattis (R-Georgetown), Donna Howard (D-Austin), Diana Maldanado (D-Round Rock), Doug Miller (R-New Braunfels), Mark Strama (D-Austin), Elliott Naishtat (D-Austin) and Eddie Rodriguez (D-Austin).
One of the projects that could benefit from the rail funding is the Austin-San Antonio Intermunicipal Commuter Rail District, a proposed 110-mile rail line that would connect Georgetown to San Antonio, including stops in the Buda/Kyle area and San Marcos.
Last month, the Texas House passed a measure as an amendment to the state budget bill that would allocate $91 million per fiscal year for the Texas Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund.
The amendment was attached to SB 1 and is awaiting Senate approval.
Voters approved the creation of the Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund in 2005, but the Legislature has not yet allotted the Rail Fund any money.
