Dallas-Fort Worth

Core Express Service

Scoping Summary Report Appendix

Final

Prepared for:

Federal Railroad Administration and

Texas Department of Transportation

Prepared by:

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc.

June 2015
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 2

Table of Contents

A. Public Scoping Meeting Materials and Notifi cation ......................................................3

I. Federal and Texas Register Notices .......................................................................4

II. Newspaper Advertisements ...................................................................................8

III. TxDOT Press Release ..........................................................................................24

IV. Email Notifi cations ...............................................................................................26

V. Environmental Justice Outreach ..........................................................................41

VI. Public Scoping Meeting Presentation ................................................................49

VII. Public Scoping Meeting Display Boards ...........................................................56

VIII. Public Scoping Meeting Information Materials ................................................62

B. Agency Scoping Meeting Agenda ................................................................................73

I. Letters of Invitation to Potential Cooperating Agencies ......................................74

II. Agency Scoping Meetings List of Invited Agencies ............................................ 88

III. Agency Scoping Meeting Agenda .......................................................................92

IV. Agency Scoping Meeting Presentations .............................................................94

V. Agency Scoping Meeting Minutes ..................................................................... 100

C. Public and Agency Comments and Responses ....................................................... 111
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

A. Public Scoping Meeting

Materials and Notifi cation
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

I. Federal and Texas Register 

Notices
53094 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 172 / Friday, September 5, 2014 / Notices 

balance in terms of sectors, 

demographics, and other factors 

relevant to the TACA’s needs. 

Request for Nominations 

The Office of the U.S. Trade 

Representative is soliciting nominations 

for membership on the TACA. To be 

appointed to the TACA, the following 

eligibility criteria must be met: 

1. The applicant must be a U.S. 

citizen. 

2. The applicant must not be a fulltime employee of a U.S. governmental 

entity. 

3. If serving in an individual capacity, 

the applicant must not be a federallyregistered lobbyist. 

4. The applicant must not be 

registered with the U.S. Department of 

Justice under the Foreign Agents 

Registration Act; 

5. The applicant must be able to 

obtain and maintain a security 

clearance. 

6. For representative members, who 

will comprise the overwhelming 

majority of the TACA, the applicant 

must represent a U.S. organization 

whose members (or funders) have a 

demonstrated interest in issues relevant 

to trade and development in subSaharan Africa or that (a) is directly 

engaged in the import or export of goods 

or sells its services in sub-Saharan 

Africa, or (b) is an association of such 

entities. 

For eligibility purposes, a ‘‘U.S. 

organization’’ is an organization, 

established under the laws of the United 

States, that is controlled by U.S. 

citizens, by another U.S. organization 

(or organizations), or by a U.S. entity (or 

entities), as determined based on its 

board of directors (or comparable 

governing body), membership, and 

funding sources, as applicable. To 

qualify as a U.S. organization, more than 

50 percent of the board of directors (or 

comparable governing body) and more 

than 50 percent of the membership of 

the organization to be represented must 

be U.S. citizens, U.S. organizations, or 

U.S. entities. Additionally, at least 50 

percent of the organization’s annual 

revenue must be attributable to 

nongovernmental U.S. sources. 

7. For members who will serve in an 

individual capacity, the applicant must 

possess subject matter expertise 

regarding international trade and 

development issues relevant to subSaharan Africa. 

To be considered for TACA 

membership, interested persons should 

submit the following to Julia Friedman 

at iape@ustr.eop.gov: 

1. Applicant’s name, title, affiliation, 

and contact information. 

2. If applicable, a sponsor letter on the 

U.S. organization’s letterhead that 

contains a brief description of the 

manner in which international trade 

affects the U.S. organization and why 

the applicant should be considered for 

membership. 

3. Applicant’s personal resume. 

4. An affirmative statement that the 

applicant and, if applicable, the U.S. 

organization the applicant represents 

meet all eligibility requirements. 

Applicants who meet the eligibility 

criteria will be considered for 

membership based on the following 

factors: Ability to represent the 

sponsoring U.S. entity’s or U.S. 

organization’s and its subsector’s 

interests on trade and development 

matters; knowledge of and experience in 

trade and development matters relevant 

to the work of the TACA; and ensuring 

that the TACA is balanced in terms of 

points of view, demographics, 

geography, and entity or organization 

size. 

Dated: August 29, 2014. 

Jewel James, 

Assistant U.S. Trade Representative, 

Intergovernmental Affairs and Public 

Engagement. 

[FR Doc. 2014–21126 Filed 9–4–14; 8:45 am] 

BILLING CODE 3290–F4–P 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 

Federal Railroad Administration 

Environmental Impact Statement for 

Dallas–Fort Worth Core Express 

Service 

AGENCY: Federal Railroad 

Administration (FRA), Department of 

Transportation (DOT). 

ACTION: Notice of Intent to prepare an 

environmental impact statement (EIS). 

SUMMARY: The Federal Railroad 

Administration (FRA) is issuing this 

notice to advise the public that FRA and 

the Texas Department of Transportation 

(TxDOT) intend to prepare an 

environmental impact statement (EIS) 

pursuant to the National Environmental 

Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) for the 

impacts of constructing and operating 

enhanced intercity passenger rail 

services between Dallas and Fort Worth 

(Proposed Action). The EIS will 

evaluate route and operational 

alternatives for intercity passenger rail 

in the corridor that currently is only 

served by Amtrak’s long distance Texas 

Eagle service. 

DATES: FRA invites the public, 

governmental agencies, and all other 

interested parties to comment on the 

scope of the EIS. All such comments 

should be provided in writing, within 

ninety (90) days of the publication of 

this notice, at the address listed below. 

Comments may also be provided orally 

or in writing at the scoping meetings. 

Scoping meeting dates, times and 

locations, in addition to related 

information about the EIS for the 

Dallas–Fort Worth Core Express service 

can be found online at http://

www.fra.dot.gov/Page/P0214. 

ADDRESSES: Written comments on the 

scope of the EIS may be mailed or 

emailed within ninety (90) days of the 

publication of this notice to Michael 

Johnsen, Lead Environmental Protection 

Specialist, Office of Program Delivery, 

Federal Railroad Administration, 1200 

New Jersey Avenue SE., MS–20, 

Washington, DC 20590 or 

Michael.johnsen@dot.gov. 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 

Michael Johnsen, Lead Environmental 

Protection Specialist, Office of Program 

Delivery, Federal Railroad 

Administration, 1200 New Jersey 

Avenue SE., MS–20, Washington, DC 

20590 or Michael.johnsen@dot.gov, or 

Melissa Neeley, Rail Projects Manager, 

Environmental Affairs Division of the 

Texas Department of Transportation, 

118 E. Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas 

78704. Telephone (512) 416–3014, 

email: Melissa.neeley@txdot.gov. 

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The EIS 

will be prepared in accordance with the 

National Environmental Policy Act of 

1969 (NEPA) and the Council on 

Environmental Quality (CEQ) 

regulations for implementing NEPA and 

the FRA’s Procedures for Considering 

Environmental Impacts as set forth in 64 

FR 28545, dated May 26, 1999 

(Environmental Procedures). The EIS 

will also address Section 106 of the 

National Historic Preservation Act, 

Section 4(f) of the U.S. Department of 

Transportation Act of 1966 (49 U.S.C. 

303), Executive Order 12898 and 

USDOT Order 5610.2(a) on 

Environmental Justice and other 

applicable Federal and state laws and 

regulations. The EIS will address 

environmental issues of concern and 

will include: 

• Describing the purpose and need for 

the Proposed Action. 

• Describing the environment likely 

to be affected by the Proposed Action. 

• Identifying the reasonable 

alternatives that satisfy the purpose and 

need for the Proposed Action. 

• Describing the no-build or no-action 

alternative to serve as a baseline for 

comparison. 


rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with NOTICES
Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 172 / Friday, September 5, 2014 / Notices 53095 

• Describing the potential 

environmental impacts associated with 

the reasonable alternatives and 

mitigation to address significant 

impacts. 

FRA, in cooperation with TxDOT, 

will prepare the EIS for the Dallas–Fort 

Worth Core Express service. The 

Proposed Action would provide a 

passenger rail connection between 

Dallas and Fort Worth by means of an 

as-yet undetermined rail technology and 

establish connectivity with other 

transportation services in Dallas and 

Fort Worth, including two planned 

high-speed rail systems: Dallas–Houston 

(the Central Texas High Speed Rail 

Project) and Oklahoma City–Dallas–Fort 

Worth–Austin–San Antonio (the Texas 

Oklahoma Passenger Rail Service). As a 

part of the EIS, the impacts of various 

alternatives and route alignments will 

be analyzed including shared corridors 

with other existing linear infrastructure, 

such as railroads, roads, and utilities. In 

addition, the EIS will analyze the 

potential impacts of stations, power 

facilities and maintenance facilities to 

support Core Express operations. This 

EIS will build upon and incorporate the 

forthcoming findings of the Texas 

Oklahoma Passenger Rail Service Tier 1 

EIS, and its decisions and 

recommendations for the Fort Worth– 

Dallas connection. FRA hosts Web sites 

for the related passenger rail projects in 

the region, which can be found on 

FRA’s Web site at http://

www.fra.dot.gov/Page/P0715. 

The EIS will describe an analysis of 

technology-neutral alternatives in the 

study area and evaluate the specific 

environmental impacts of reasonable 

alternatives in sufficient detail to allow 

FRA to make decisions incorporating 

environmental concerns consistent with 

NEPA goals and procedures. The 

evaluation will be conducted using a 

combination of Geographic Information 

System (GIS) data, field investigations, 

site visits and sampling. The primary 

environmental resources located within 

the study area that may be affected are: 

Residential, commercial, and industrial 

properties; streams and floodplains; 

wetlands and wildlife habitat; cultural 

resources; protected lands; and open 

space. FRA and TxDOT will develop 

alternatives that avoid and minimize 

impacts to these resources. 

Minimization and mitigation measures 

will be identified within the EIS where 

appropriate. 

In accordance with NEPA, the FRA 

and TxDOT invite comments and 

suggestions regarding the scope of the 

EIS from all interested parties to ensure 

that all issues are addressed related to 

this proposal, all reasonable alternatives 

considered, and any significant impacts 

are identified. Letters describing the 

project’s NEPA process and soliciting 

comments will be sent to appropriate 

federal, state, and local agencies, Native 

American tribes, and private 

organizations who might have 

previously expressed or who are known 

to have an interest in the Proposed 

Action. Federal agencies with 

jurisdiction by law or special expertise 

with respect to potential environmental 

issues will be requested to act as a 

Cooperating Agency in accordance with 

40 CFR 1501.16. 

In coordination with FRA, TxDOT 

will lead the outreach activities 

beginning with scoping meetings (dates 

to be determined). Public involvement 

initiatives including public meetings, 

access to a Web site, and outreach will 

continue throughout the EIS process. 

Opportunities for public participation 

will be announced through mailings, 

notices, advertisements, press releases 

and a FRA-hosted EIS Web page, 

accessible at http://www.fra.dot.gov/

Page/P0214. One or more public 

hearings will be held after the Draft EIS 

is released and made available for 

public and agency review. Public notice 

will be given for the time and place of 

public hearings. 

Comments or questions concerning 

the Proposed Action and the scope of 

the EIS are invited from all interested 

parties and should be directed to the 

FRA at the address provided above. 

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 4321 et. seq. 

Issued in Washington, DC, on August 28, 

2014. 

Corey Hill, 

Director, Office of Program Delivery. 

[FR Doc. 2014–21173 Filed 9–4–14; 8:45 am] 

BILLING CODE 4910–06–P 

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 

Federal Transit Administration 

Innovative Public Transportation 

Workforce Development Program 

(Ladders of Opportunity Initiative) 

AGENCY: Federal Transit Administration 

(FTA), DOT. 

ACTION: Notice of funding availability. 

SUMMARY: The Federal Transit 

Administration (FTA) announces a 

Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) 

for the Innovative Public Transportation 

Workforce Development Program 

Ladders of Opportunity Initiative. FTA 

will make available approximately $7.85 

million in funds appropriated in Fiscal 

Year 2013 and Prior Years, in support of 

this effort. This NOFA solicits proposals 

that promote innovative nationally and 

regionally significant public 

transportation workforce development 

models and programs that invest in 

America’s economic growth and help 

build ladders of opportunity into the 

middle class for American workers. 

DATES: Complete proposals are due by 

11:59 p.m. EDT on November 4, 2014. 

ADDRESSES: All proposals must be 

submitted electronically through the 

GRANTS.GOV ‘‘APPLY’’ function. All 

entities intending to apply should 

initiate the process of registering on the 

GRANTS.GOV Web site immediately to 

ensure completion of registration before 

the submission deadline. Instructions 

for applying can be found on FTA’s Web 

site at http://www.fta.dot.gov/grants/

13093_3561.html and in the ‘‘FIND’’ 

module of GRANTS.GOV. Mail and fax 

submissions will not be accepted. 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For 

specific information regarding the areas 

of research targeted within this NOFA, 

please contact Betty Jackson, Workforce 

Development Program Manager, Office 

of Research, Demonstration and 

Innovation, phone: (202) 366–1730, fax: 

(202) 366–3765, or email: 

betty.jackson@dot.gov. A TDD is 

available at 1–800–877–8339 (TDD/

FIRS). 

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

I. Discretionary Program Overview 

A. Authority 

Section 5322(b) of Title 49, United 

States Code authorizes FTA’s 

discretionary Innovative Public 

Transportation Workforce Development 

Program, pursuant to which FTA makes 

grants to transit agencies and other 

entities to undertake workforce 

development activities, including those 

that create employment training 

programs, increase minority and female 

employment in transit, conduct research 

on public transportation and training 

needs, and provide training and 

assistance for minority business 

opportunities. Under this authority, 

FTA is issuing this funding opportunity 

for the Innovative Public Transportation 

Workforce Development, Ladders of 

Opportunity Initiative. FTA plans to 

fund nationally or regionally significant 

public transportation workforce projects 

that will assist in building ladders of 

opportunity for American workers to 

move into the middle class, as well as 

build the critical skillset needed in the 

public transportation industry. 

B. Policy Priorities 

Supporting a highly-skilled transit 

workforce is critical to maintaining a 


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Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

II. Newspaper Advertisements
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 9

The Texas 

Department of 

Transportation 

(TxDOT) and 

Federal Railroad 

Administration 

(FRA) are studying 

a proposed high-speed passenger 

rail service between Fort Worth and 

Dallas. The project will consider 

potential track alignments, station 

locations, and more. 

Please join us at one of three public 

scoping meetings to learn more about 

the project and share any topics of 

interest that should be considered in 

the project’s Environmental Impact 

Statement. 

All meetings will cover the same topics and follow the same format: public information 

open house followed by a brief presentation and opportunity for comment.

For more information about the Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service project, please 

contact Melissa Neeley at Melissa.Neeley@TxDOT.gov, or (512) 416-3014; or visit TxDOT.gov 

and search “DFW Core Express.” 

Join us to discuss this important project!

P U B L I C M E E T I N G S

DALLAS/FORT WORTH HIGH-SPEED RAIL

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. (6 p.m. presentation)

Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center

Second Floor Community Meeting Room

1001 Jones Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. (12:30 p.m. presentation)

North Central Texas Council of Governments 

Transportation Council Room

616 Six Flags Drive, Arlington, TX 76005

Thursday, November 20, 2014

4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. (6 p.m. presentation)

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library (Downtown) 

First Floor Auditorium

1515 Young Street, Dallas, TX 75201

If you or someone you know requires special communication, such as language translation, or other accommodations, 

please notify TxDOT at the contact provided above at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

www.TxDOT.gov

Keyword Search: DFW Core Express
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 10

El Departamento 

de Transporte de 

Texas (TxDOT) y 

la Administración 

Federal de 

Ferrocarriles (FRA) 

están estudiando 

una propuesta para 

un tren de pasajeros 

de alta velocidad 

entre Fort Worth y 

Dallas. El proyecto 

considerará 

alineamientos 

potenciales de las 

vías, ubicaciones 

de las estaciones y 

mucho más. 

Por favor 

acompáñenos en 

una de las tres 

juntas públicas 

de acercamiento a la comunidad para aprender más sobre el proyecto y 

compartir cualquier otro tema de interés que debería ser considerado en la 

declaración de impacto ambiental del proyecto. 

Todas las juntas abarcarán los mismos temas y seguirán el mismo formato: una 

casa abierta con información pública seguida de una pequeña presentación y 

oportunidad para declarar comentarios.

Para obtener más información sobre el proyecto de servicio exprés para el 

núcleo de Dallas/Fort Worth, por favor comuníquese con Melissa Neeley al 

correo electrónico Melissa.Neeley@TxDOT.gov o al (512) 416-3014. También 

puede ir a TxDOT.gov y busque “DFW Core Express”. 

¡Acompáñenos a discutir este proyecto importante!

www.TxDOT.gov

Palabra clave para

la búsqueda: DFW Core Express

JUNTAS PÚBLICAS

Tren de alta velocidad en 

Dallas-Fort Worth

Si usted o alguien que conoce tiene una necesidad especial de comunicación, como servicio de traducción en su idioma, o alojamiento por favor 

comuníquese con el contacto de TxDOT que se proporciona anteriormente 

48 horas antes de la junta.

Martes, 18 de noviembre de 2014

de 4:30 p.m. a 7:30 p.m. (la presentación comienza 

a las 6:00 p.m.)

Centro de transporte intermodal de Fort Worth

segundo piso en la sala para reuniones comunitarias

1001 Jones Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102

Miércoles, 19 de noviembre de 2014

de 11:00 a.m. a 2:00 p.m. (la presentación comienza 

a las 12:30 p.m.)

en las oficinas del Consejo de Gobiernos de Norte 

Central de Texas 

en la sala del consejo de transporte

616 Six Flags Drive, Arlington, TX 76005

Jueves, 20 de noviembre de 2014

de 4:30 p.m. a 7:30 p.m. (la presentación comienza 

a las 6:00 p.m.)

librería central J. Erik Jonsson, en downtown

el auditorio en el primer piso

1515 Young Street, Dallas, TX 75201
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 11
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 12
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 13
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 14
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 15
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 16

The Texas 

Department of 

Transportation 

(TxDOT) and 

Federal Railroad 

Administration 

(FRA) are 

studying a 

proposed high-speed passenger 

rail service between Fort Worth and 

Dallas. The project will consider 

potential track alignments, station 

locations, and more. 

Please join us at one of three 

public scoping meetings to learn 

more about the project and share 

any topics of interest that should 

be considered in the project’s 

Environmental Impact Statement. 

All meetings will cover the same 

topics and follow the same format: 

public information open house 

followed by a brief presentation and opportunity for comment.

For more information about the Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service project, please contact 

Melissa Neeley at Melissa.Neeley@TxDOT.gov, or (512) 416-3014; or visit TxDOT.gov and search 

“DFW Core Express.” 

Join us to discuss this important project!

P U B L I C M E E T I N G S

DALLAS/FORT WORTH HIGH-SPEED RAIL

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. (6 p.m. presentation)

Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center

Second Floor Community Meeting Room

1001 Jones Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. (12:30 p.m. presentation)

North Central Texas Council of Governments 

Transportation Council Room

616 Six Flags Drive, Arlington, TX 76005

Thursday, November 20, 2014

4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. (6 p.m. presentation)

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library (Downtown) 

First Floor Auditorium

1515 Young Street, Dallas, TX 75201

If you or someone you know requires special communication, such as language translation, or other accommodations, please notify TxDOT at the contact provided above at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

www.TxDOT.gov

Keyword Search: DFW Core Express
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 17
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 18
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 19
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 20
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 21
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 22
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 23
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

III. TxDOT Press Release
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 25

Contact: Media Relations Phone: (512) 463-8700 Date: Nov. 12, 2014

TxDOT Seeking Public Feedback on High-Speed/Express Rail Between Dallas, Fort Worth

Home > Inside TxDOT > Media Center > Statewide News & Events

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) will host three meetings to receive comments from

the public on the proposed DFW Core Express Service, the proposed 32-mile, high-speed/express rail line between Dallas and Fort Worth. TxDOT and

the FRA are gathering public comments to include in the rail line’s official Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

The public is invited to share input on potential track routes, station locations and any potential impacts such a line could have on the environment. The

public scoping meetings are part of the public comment period that is required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

"Receiving feedback from the public will provide TxDOT and the FRA with the information needed to conduct a thorough environmental and economic

assessment of the project,” said Bill Meadows, chairman of the Commission for High-Speed Rail in the Dallas/Fort Worth region. “The transparency of

the public comment period will also ensure all federal and state guidelines are met for this proposal."

All meetings will cover the same topics and follow the same format: a public information open house followed by a brief presentation and opportunity

for comment. Those unable to attend the meetings in person can still submit comments to official EIS online. The public comment period will remain

open until Dec. 15, 2014.

Public Scoping Meeting Schedule

Tuesday, Nov. 18

4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (6 p.m. presentation, 6:30 p.m. public comments)

Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center

Second Floor Community Meeting Room

1001 Jones Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Wednesday, Nov. 19

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (12:30 p.m. presentation, 1 p.m. public comments)

North Central Texas Council of Government

Transportation Council Room

616 Six Flags Drive, Arlington, Texas 76005

Thursday, Nov. 20

4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (6 p.m. presentation, 6:30 public comments)

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library (Downtown)

First Floor Auditorium

1515 Young Street, Dallas, TX 75201

More information on the project can be found at TxDOT.gov. For media inquiries, contact TxDOT Media Relations at MediaRelations@txdot.gov or

(512) 463-8700.

###

The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, rail, and public transportation

across the state. TxDOT and its 12,000 employees are committed to working with others to provide safe and reliable transportation solutions for Texas

by maintaining a safe system, addressing congestion, connecting Texas communities, and being a Best in Class state agency. Find out more at

TxDOT.gov. Fan us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

IV. Email Notifi cations
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 27

1

Vela, Linda C.

From: Mark Werner, TxDOT <DFWCoreExpress=txdot.gov@mail65.atl11.rsgsv.net> on behalf 

of Mark Werner, TxDOT <DFWCoreExpress@txdot.gov>

Sent: Thursday, November 06, 2014 8:30 PM

To: Vela, Linda C.

Subject: DFW High-Speed and Express Rail: PUBLIC MEETINGS NOV. 18-20

Share Tweet Forward

Para recibir esta información en español, por favor oprime aquí. 

 

View this email in your browser

PUBLIC MEETING

Join us to discuss potential high-speed and express rail between Dallas and Fort Worth!

The Texas Department of 

Transportation (TxDOT) and Federal 

Railroad Administration (FRA) are 

studying a proposed high-speed and 

express passenger rail service 

between Fort Worth and Dallas. The 

project will consider potential track 

alignments, station locations, and 

more. Please join us at one of three 

public scoping meetings to learn more 

about the project and share any topics 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 28

2

of interest that should be considered in 

the project’s Environmental Impact 

Statement. 

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Open House: 4:30-6 p.m. 

Presentation: 6 p.m. 

Public comments: 6:30 p.m.

Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center 

Second Floor Community Meeting Room 

1001 Jones Street 

Fort Worth, TX 76102

This meeting is accessible via public transit. Paid parking is also available 

at on-street meters and in adjacent parking lots.

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Open House: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

Presentation: 12:30 p.m. 

Public Comments: 1 p.m.

North Central Texas Council of Governments 

Transportation Council Room 

616 Six Flags Drive 

Arlington, TX 76005

Free parking is available.

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Open House: 4:30-6 p.m. 

Presentation: 6 p.m. 

Public Comments: 6:30 p.m.

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library (Downtown) 

First Floor Auditorium 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 29

3

1515 Young Street 

Dallas, TX 75201 

This meeting is accessible via public transit. Paid parking is also available 

at on-street meters and in the City of Dallas underground parking garage, 

which is accessible via Young Street (eastbound) between Akard and Ervay 

streets.

This meeting is free and open to the public. Registration will help us better plan for this event and is 

appreciated but not required.

MEETING REGISTRATION

All meetings will cover the same topics and follow the same format: public 

information open house followed by a brief presentation and opportunity for 

comment. For more information about the Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express 

Service project, please visit TxDOT.gov and search “DFW Core Express” or 

contact us using the information below. 

If you or someone you know requires special communication, such as 

language translation, or other accommodations, please notify TxDOT at the 

contact provided below at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

 

Contact Information

We encourage the public to submit comments on or before December 15, 

2014, to be included in the public scoping meeting summary report; however, 

the public can provide comments at any time. For further information, please 

contact: 

 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Rail Planning Section Manager 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 30

4

125 E. 11th Street 

Austin, TX 78701 

(512) 486-5137 

The study area for this effort is shown below. If you live, work, or travel 

within this area, we highly encourage your participation!

Facebook Twitter Website
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 31

5

Our mailing address is:

Texas Department of Transportation 

Rail Planning Section Manager 

125 E. 11th Street 

Austin, Texas 78701 

unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences 

This email was sent to velalc@pbworld.com

why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences

Texas Department of Transportation · Rail Planning Section Manager · 125 E. 11th Street · Austin, TX 78701 · USA 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 32

1

Vela, Linda C.

From: Mark Werner, TxDOT <DFWCoreExpress=txdot.gov@mail70.atl91.mcsv.net> on behalf 

of Mark Werner, TxDOT <DFWCoreExpress@txdot.gov>

Sent: Friday, December 12, 2014 5:58 PM

To: Vela, Linda C.

Subject: REMINDER: DFW High-Speed and Express Rail: COMMENT PERIOD CLOSES 12/15

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View this email in your browser

REMINDER

The initial comment period for the Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service scoping meetings is nearing an 

end. Please share your thoughts with us today.

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and Federal Railroad 

Administration (FRA) are studying a proposed high-speed and express passenger 

rail service between Fort Worth and Dallas. The study, which will span the next few 

years, will consider potential track alignments, station locations, and more. 

Public meetings were held earlier this month to share early information about the 

project and listen to public comments. We'd like to know what issues, opportunities 

or concerns should be addressed as part of the project's review. What questions 

need to be answered? What can you share about your community that the study 

team should know as we get started? 

The comment period related to the scoping meetings is scheduled to close on 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 33

2

Monday, December 15, 2014. While public comments are always welcome, those 

received or postmarked by December 15, 2014 will be included in the scoping 

meeting record. 

We invite you to learn more about the project and submit your comments today! 

View Online Materials

How to Submit Your Comments

We encourage the public to submit comments on or before December 15, 

2014, to be included in the public scoping meeting summary report; however, 

the public can provide comments at any time. Please submit your comments 

via traditional or electronic mail using the following information. 

 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Rail Planning Section Manager 

125 E. 11th Street 

Austin, TX 78701 

(512) 486-5137 

DFWCoreExpress@txdot.gov

The study area for this effort is shown below. If you live, work, or travel 

within this area, we highly encourage your participation!
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 34

3

Facebook Twitter Website

Our mailing address is:

Texas Department of Transportation 

Rail Planning Section Manager 

125 E. 11th Street 

Austin, Texas 78701 

unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 35

4

This email was sent to velalc@pbworld.com

why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences

Texas Department of Transportation · Rail Planning Section Manager · 125 E. 11th Street · Austin, TX 78701 · USA 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 36

1

Vela, Linda C.

From: Mark Werner, TxDOT <DFWCoreExpress=txdot.gov@mail63.atl91.mcsv.net> on behalf 

of Mark Werner, TxDOT <DFWCoreExpress@txdot.gov>

Sent: Monday, November 17, 2014 4:21 PM

To: Vela, Linda C.

Subject: Updated Dallas Parking Information: DFW High-Speed and Express Rail: PUBLIC 

MEETINGS NOV. 18-20

Share Tweet Forward

Para recibir esta información en español, por favor oprime aquí. 

 

View this email in your browser

PUBLIC MEETING

Join us to discuss potential high-speed and express rail between Dallas and Fort Worth!

The Texas Department of 

Transportation (TxDOT) and Federal 

Railroad Administration (FRA) are 

studying a proposed high-speed and 

express passenger rail service 

between Fort Worth and Dallas. The 

project will consider potential track 

alignments, station locations, and 

more. Please join us at one of three 

public scoping meetings to learn more 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 37

2

about the project and share any topics 

of interest that should be considered in 

the project’s Environmental Impact 

Statement. 

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Open House: 4:30-6 p.m. 

Presentation: 6 p.m. 

Public comments: 6:30 p.m.

Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center 

Second Floor Community Meeting Room 

1001 Jones Street 

Fort Worth, TX 76102

This meeting is accessible via public transit. Paid parking is also available 

at on-street meters and in adjacent parking lots.

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Open House: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

Presentation: 12:30 p.m. 

Public Comments: 1 p.m.

North Central Texas Council of Governments 

Transportation Council Room 

616 Six Flags Drive 

Arlington, TX 76005

Free parking is available.

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Open House: 4:30-6 p.m. 

Presentation: 6 p.m. 

Public Comments: 6:30 p.m.

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library (Downtown) 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 38

3

First Floor Auditorium 

1515 Young Street 

Dallas, TX 75201 

PARKING UPDATE: Paid parking is available via Wood Street, north of 

Young Street. This meeting is accessible via public transit.

This meeting is free and open to the public. Registration will help us better plan for this event and is 

appreciated but not required.

MEETING REGISTRATION

All meetings will cover the same topics and follow the same format: public 

information open house followed by a brief presentation and opportunity for 

comment. For more information about the Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express 

Service project, please visit TxDOT.gov and search “DFW Core Express” or 

contact us using the information below. 

If you or someone you know requires special communication, such as 

language translation, or other accommodations, please notify TxDOT at the 

contact provided below at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

 

Contact Information

We encourage the public to submit comments on or before December 15, 

2014, to be included in the public scoping meeting summary report; however, 

the public can provide comments at any time. For further information, please 

contact: 

 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Rail Planning Section Manager 

125 E. 11th Street 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 39

4

Austin, TX 78701 

(512) 486-5137 

The study area for this effort is shown below. If you live, work, or travel 

within this area, we highly encourage your participation!

Facebook Twitter Website

Our mailing address is:

Texas Department of Transportation 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 40

5

Rail Planning Section Manager 

125 E. 11th Street 

Austin, Texas 78701 

unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences 

This email was sent to velalc@pbworld.com

why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences

Texas Department of Transportation · Rail Planning Section Manager · 125 E. 11th Street · Austin, TX 78701 · USA 
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

V. Environmental Justice 

Outreach
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 42

Dallas - Fort Worth Core Express Service Project 

Public Scoping Meeting Agency and Organization Notifications 

The following agencies and organizations received mailings or email notifications of the public 

scoping meetings. 

Agencies and Organizations 

Cities/Counties

City of Dallas Public Information Office 

City of Fort Worth Communications and Public 

Engagement 

City of Arlington Office of Communications 

City of Grand Prairie Communications and 

Marketing 

City of Irving Communications Department 

City of Richland Hills 

City of Hurst Communications & Marketing 

City of Bedford 

City of Euless Communications & Marketing 

Office 

City of Dalworthington Gardens 

Town of Pantego 

Elected Officials Offices

Dallas City Council District 1 

Dallas City Council District 2 

Dallas City Council District 3 

Dallas City Council District 6 

Dallas County Commissioner Precinct 4 District 

Office 

Dallas County Commissioner Precinct 3 District 

Office 

Fort Worth City Council District 4 

Fort Worth City Council District 5 

Fort Worth City Council District 8 

Fort Worth City Council District 9 

Tarrant County Commissioner Precinct 2 

Tarrant County Commissioner Precinct 3 

Tarrant County Commissioner Precinct 4 

Irving City Council Place 1 

Irving City Council Place 3 

Irving City Council Place 4 

Irving Mayor Pro Tem 

Arlington City Council District 1 

Arlington City Council District 4 

Grand Prairie City Council District 1 

Grand Prairie City Council District 5 

Chambers & Business/Development Organizations

American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Texas 

Arlington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 

Asian American Contractors Association of Texas 

Black Contractor Association (Dallas) 

COMTO - Dallas Chapter 

Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce 

DFW Minority Supplier Development Council 

Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 

Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of 

Commerce 

Greater Dallas Asian American Chamber of 

Commerce 

Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 

Greater Dallas Indo-American Chamber of 

Commerce 

Heb Chamber of Commerce 

Irving Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 

Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce 

Greater Grand Prairie Hispanic Chamber of 

Commerce 

Arlington Black Chamber of Commerce 

Regional Hispanic Contractors Association 

Southeast Fort Worth, Inc. 

Southlake Chamber of Commerce 

Southwest Dallas Chamber of Commerce 

Tarrant County Asian American Chamber of 

Commerce 

U.S. Pan Asian American Chamber of CommerceSouthwest 

West Dallas Chamber of Commerce 

West Dallas Business Association 

Arlington Black Chamber of Commerce 

Southeast Fort Worth, Inc. 

East Fort Worth Business Association 

Advocacy Organizations

North Texas Asian American Cultural Association 

NAACP Dallas 

Arlington NAACP Branch 

NAACP Irving-Carrollton Branch 

NAACP Grand Prairie Branch 

NAACP Fort Worth 

100 Black Men of Greater Dallas 

Urban League of Greater Dallas
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 43

Dallas Neighborhood Associations

Trinity Oaks 

Ledbetter Gardens 

Greenleaf Village 

Arlington Park 

Westmoreland Heights 

La L'aceate 

La Loma 

Muncie 

Kidd Springs 

Kessler Neighbors United 

Kessler Square 

Kessler Park 

Kessler Plaza 

East Kessler Park 

West Kessler 

Stevens Park Estates and/or Village 

Stephens Park Village 

Arcadia Park (Cockrell Hill) 

Fort Worth Neighborhood Associations

Fort Worth League of Neighborhood Associations 

East Fort Worth Neighborhoods Coalition 

Neighbors Working Together 

Neighborhoods of East Fort Worth 

Neighborhoods of East Fort Worth 

Riverside Alliance 

United Communities Association of South Fort 

Worth 

Carter Riverside 

Harmony Hills Neighborhood Association 

United Riverside 

Near East Side 

Butler Residents 

West Meadowbrook 

Historic Randol's Mill Valley Alliance 

White Lake Hills 

Dallas Churches

African American Pastors Coalition 

Iglesia Luz del Mundo 

Church El Buen Samaritano 

Victory Outreach Dallas 

New Greater Mt. Zion Baptist 

Arlington Park First Baptist Church 

Faith Assembly of God 

Mt. Olive Baptist Church 

Dallas West Spanish Seventh Day Adventist 

Grand Prairie & Arlington Churches

First Christian Church 

Grand Prairie Spanish 7th Day Adventist 

Iglesia De Dios Pentecostal 

Catholic Church of St. Mary the Virgin 

Lamar Baptist 

Tabernacle Baptist 

Fort Worth Churches

Southcliff Baptist Church 

Pantego Bible Church 

Cornerstone of Faith Church 

Arabic Christian Fellowship 

Crossroads Tabernacle 

Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church 

Grace Bible Church 

The Potter's House Fort Worth Campus 

Fort Worth Recreation Centers

Andrew Doc Session Community 

Community Action Partners (Far Southeast) 

Diamond Hill Community Center 

Eugene Mc Cray Community Center 

Fire Station Community Center 

Handley-Meadowbrook Community Center 

Hillside Community Center 

Martin Luther King Community Center 

North Tri-Ethnic Community Center 

Northside Community Center 

Riverside Community Center 

Sycamore Community Center 

Thomas Place Community Center 

Worth Heights Community Center 

Fort Worth Libraries

BOLD (Butler Outreach Library Division) 

Central Library 

COOL (Cavile Outreach Opportunity Library) 

Diamond Hill/Jarvis Library 

East Berry Branch Library 

East Regional Library 

Ella Mae Shamblee Library 

Haltom City Public Library 

eSkills Library & Job Center 

Northside Library 

Richland Hills Public Library 

Riverside Library 

Seminary South Library 

Fort Worth Senior Centers

Arlington Central Senior Center 

Arlington-New York Senior Center 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 44

Casa Senior Center 

Diamond Hill Senior Center 

Eugene McCray Senior Center 

Fellowship Corner Senior Center 

Goodrich Center for the Deaf Senior Center 

Haltom City Senior Center 

Handley Meadowbrook Senior Center 

Roosevelt Center 

Stop Six Senior Center 

Dallas Recreation Centers

Anita Martinez Recreation Center 

Arcadia Recreation Center 

Arlington Park Recreation Center 

Bachman Recreation Center 

Eloise Lundy Recreation Center 

Exall Recreation Center 

Grauwyler Recreation Center 

Jaycee Zaragoza Recreation Center 

K.B. Polk Recreation Center 

Kidd Springs Recreation Center 

Martin Weiss Recreation Center 

Nash-Davis Recreation Center 

Reverchon Recreation Center 

Dallas Public Libraries

Arcadia Park Library 

Bachman Lake Library 

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library 

Dallas West Branch Library 

Grauwyler Park Library 

North Oak Cliff Library 

Oak Lawn Library 

Preston Royal Library 

Dallas Senior Centers

Elmwood-King New Beginning Senior Center 

Emeritus Center at Mountain View College 

Jefferson Senior Center 

West Dallas Senior Center 

Irving Recreation & Senior Centers

Austin Recreation Center 

Georgia Farrow Recreation Center 

Heritage Senior Center 

Houston Recreation Center 

Lee Park Recreation Center 

Lively Pointe 

Mustang Recreation Center 

Northwest Recreation Center 

Senter Recreation Center 

Irving Public Libraries

Irving Central Library 

East Branch Library 

West Irving Library 

Cockrell Hill

Cockrell Hill Public Library 

Grand Prairie

Charley Taylor Recreation Center 

Dalworth Recreation Center 

Grand Prairie Main Library 

The Summit 

Tony Shotwell Branch Library 

Tony Shotwell Life Center 

Arlington Recreation & Senior Centers 

Dottie Lynn Recreation Center 

Elzie Odom Athletic Center 

Eunice Recreation Center 

Senior Recreation Center at New York Avenue 

Arlington Public Libraries

East Arlington Branch Library 

George W Hawkes Central Library 

Lake Arlington Branch Library 

Northeast Branch Library 

Richland Hills Public Library 

Hurst Public Library 

Bedford Public Library 

Euless Public Library 

Colleges and Universities

El Centro College 

El Centro College West Campus 

North Lake College South Campus 

UTA Office of Communications 

Tarrant County College Southeast Campus Office 

of Public Relations 

Tarrant County College Northeast Campus Library 

Social Service Agencies

Dallas County Health and Human Services 

Tarrant County Public Health 

Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center 

Dallas County Welfare Division 

Dallas County Veteran's Service Office 

Irving Cares 

Catholic Charities Santa Clara Regional 

Community Center 

Catholic Charities West Dallas Family Service 

Center 

Catholic Charities Dallas Family Assistance 

Program 

Catholic Charities Fort Worth Main Campus 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 45

Catholic Charities Fort Worth Arlington Office 

Catholic Charities Fort Worth Northeast Office 

Community Centers & Services

West Dallas Community Centers, Inc. 

West Dallas Community Centers, Inc. 

Catholic Charities Dallas 

Texas State Dept. of Human Services 

Tarrant County Advocate Program 

Dallas County Family Resources 

Vecinos Unidos 

Texas State Dept. of Human Services 

Dallas WIC Program 

WIC Program, Irving 

WIC Program, Fort Worth 

WIC Program, Arlington 

WIC Program, Bedford 

 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 46

Greetings,

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)

are studying a proposed high-speed and express passenger rail service between Fort Worth

and Dallas.

The project is just getting started and will consider potential track alignments, station

locations, and more.

The enclosed fliers provide information about three upcoming public meetings in Dallas, Fort

Worth and Arlington, November 18 through 20, 2014.

The purpose of the meetings is to explain the environmental study for this proposed

passenger rail service and hear from community members about any topics of interest that

should be considered in the project’s federal Environmental Impact Statement. Each of the

meetings will follow the same format and provide the same opportunity for public input.

We are eager to hear from area residents, property owners, business owners, and other

regional stakeholders. Would you please place these in a prominent location so that your

patrons might take one? We are also happy to provide additional copies or an email version

of the flier upon request.

Additional project information is available online at www.TxDOT.gov (keyword search: Dallas Fort

Worth Express).

If you or someone you know requires special communication, such as language translation,

or other accommodations, please notify TxDOT at the contact provided above at least 48

hours prior to the meeting. Please contact Mark Werner at Mark.Werner@txdot.gov or (512)

486-5137 to arrange special accommodations or to ask any questions about the project or

upcoming meetings.

We appreciate your assistance in spreading the word about this important project.

Thank you!
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 47

HIGH-SPEED AND EXPRESS RAIL PUBLIC SCOPING MEETINGS 

Connecting Dallas to Fort Worth 

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is leading the effort to 

develop an environmental study and is working cooperatively with the 

Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to discuss potential high-speed 

and express rail between Dallas and Fort Worth. This plan will identify 

opportunities to invest in higher speed passenger rail between Dallas and 

Fort Worth. The study will include development of: 

a reasonable number of alternatives 

an evaluation of any environmental impacts 

a recommended alignment 

The end goal is to balance the needs of the public in a manner that 

ensures safe, efficient travel. The proposed route would connect 

downtown Dallas with downtown Fort Worth. The study will evaluate the 

alternative alignments as well as alternative station and maintenance 

facility locations. This study will not identify a recommended or preferred 

rail vehicle or technology for the corridor. 

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Open House: 4:30-6 p.m. 

Presentation: 6 p.m. 

Public comments: 6:30 p.m. 

Fort Worth Intermodal 

Transportation Center 

Second Floor Meeting Room 

1001 Jones Street 

Fort Worth, Texas 76102 

Wednesday, November 19, 2014 

Open House: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

Presentation: 12:30 p.m. 

Public Comments: 1 p.m. 

North Central Texas 

Council of Government Offices 

Transportation Council Room 

616 Six Flags Drive 

Arlington, Texas 76005 

Thursday, November 20, 2014 

Open House: 4:30-6 p.m. 

Presentation: 6 p.m. 

Public Comments: 6:30 p.m. 

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library 

Auditorium, 1st Floor, Concourse Area 

1515 Young Street 

Dallas, TX 75201 

Contact Information 

We encourage the public to submit comments 

on or before December 15, 2014, to be included 

in the public scoping meeting summary report; 

however, the public can provide comments at 

any time. For further information, please 

contact: 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Rail Planning Section Manager 

125 E. 11th Street 

Austin, TX 78701 

(512) 486-5137 

www.TxDOT.gov | Keyword: DFW Core Express
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 48

JUNTAS PÚBLICAS SOBRE TREN DE ALTA VELOCIDAD/EXPRÉS 

Conectando a Dallas y Fort Worth 

El Departamento de Transporte de Texas (TxDOT) está liderando el 

esfuerzo para desarrollar un estudio ambiental y está cooperando con la 

Administración Federal de Ferrocarriles (FRA) para hablar sobre la 

posibilidad de un tren de pasajeros de alta velocidad y un tren exprés 

entre Fort Worth y Dallas. Este plan identificará las oportunidades para 

invertir en trenes de pasajeros de alta velocidad o servicio exprés entre 

Fort Worth y Dallas. El estudio incluirá el desarrollo de: 

un número razonable de alternativas 

una evaluación de los impactos al medioambiente 

un alineación recomendada 

El objetivo final es balancear las necesidades del público de una manera 

que garantiza un viaje seguro y eficiente. La alineación recomendada 

conectara el centro de Dallas con el centro de Fort Worth. El estudio 

evaluara las alineaciones alternativas, así como ubicación de las 

estaciones alternativa y las instalaciones de mantenimiento. Este 

estudio no identificara un vehículo ferroviario o tecnología recomendada 

o preferida para el corredor. 

Martes, 18 de noviembre de 2014 

Exhibiciones: 4:30-6 p.m. 

Presentación: 6 p.m. 

Comentarios públicos: 6:30 p.m. 

Centro de transporte intermodal de Fort Worth 

Segundo piso en la sala para reuniones 

comunitarias 

1001 Jones Street 

Fort Worth, TX 76102 

Miércoles, 19 de noviembre de 2014 

Exhibiciones: 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 

Presentación: 12:30 p.m. 

Comentarios públicos: 1 p.m. 

En las oficinas del Consejo de Gobiernos de 

Norte Central de Texas en la sala del consejo de 

transporte 

616 Six Flags Drive 

Arlington, TX 76005 

Jueves, 20 de noviembre de 2014 

Exhibiciones: 4:30-6 p.m. 

Presentación: 6 p.m. 

Comentarios públicos: 6:30 p.m. 

Librería central J. Erik Jonsson, 

El auditorio en el primer piso 

1515 Young Street 

Dallas, TX 75201 

Contáctenos 

Le invitamos al público a someter comentarios 

antes del 15 de diciembre de 2014, para ser 

incluidos en el resumen de la junta pública. Sin 

embargo, el público puede proporcionar 

comentarios en cualquier momento. Para más 

información, comuníquese con: 

TxDOT 

Rail Planning Section Manager 

125 E. 11th Street 

Austin, TX 78701 

(512) 486-5137 

www.TxDOT.gov | Palabra clave: DFW Core Express

Mapa de el área de estudio 

 Servicio Exprés para el Núcleo de Dallas/Fort Worth 
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

VI. Public Scoping Meeting

Presentation
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 50

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Public Scoping Meeting

November 18, 2014

DALLAS/FORT

WORTH CORE

EXPRESS SERVICE

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

PRESENTATION

OVERVIEW

Leslie Wade, Communications Manager

Parsons Brinckerhoff

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Purpose of Today’s Meeting

 Explain plans for the project

 Share what we do know

 Share what we don’t know, but plan to study

 Hear from YOU:

– What questions should be answered in this study?

– Where are the best locations for track and station alignment

alternatives?

– Are there any specific issues of concern?

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Today’s Agenda

 Welcome

 Overview of High-Speed Rail in Texas

 Dallas to Fort Worth Project Overview

 Studying the Project Under the Federal National

Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

 Public & Agency Involvement

 Public Comment Session

 Return to Open House for Q&A

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

HIGH-SPEED RAIL

IN TEXAS

Erik Steavens, Director of Rail, TxDOT

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Existing and Planned Passenger Rail in the Metroplex

 Street car

 Light rail (DART)

 Commuter passenger

rail (TRE)

 High-speed rail
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 51

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

High-Speed Rail in Texas

Dallas/Ft. Worth

population to

grow from nearly

7 M to 10 M by

2035

High-speed and

express

passenger rail

service could

reduce demand

on Texas roads

Multiple studies

now underway in

Texas to connect

major cities

including Dallas

and Fort Worth

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Current Studies and Projects

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Potential High-Speed Rail Corridors in Texas

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Mark Werner, Rail Planning Section

Manager, Rail Division, TxDOT

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Current TxDOT & FRA Rail Studies in the Metroplex

Texas - Oklahoma

City Passenger Rail

Study

• Oklahoma City to

South Texas

• Planning-level

study

• Evaluating a

range of

passenger rail

service options

Dallas to Houston

High-Speed Rail

• Dallas to Houston

• Project-level

study

• Separate

environmental

study

• Texas Central

Railway, private

applicant

Dallas / Fort Worth

Core Express

Service

• Studying

potential highspeed and

express rail

service

• Project-level

study

• In public and

agency scoping

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Texas – Oklahoma Passenger Rail Study

 Big-picture, planning-level

study of existing and

potential rail services

 850-mile corridor

 From Oklahoma City to

South Texas

 Includes potential

alignments between

Dallas and Fort Worth
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 52

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Texas to Oklahoma Study – Metroplex Routes

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

DFW Core Express Study Area

TxDOT is considering these alignments and others for further study.

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Draft Project Purpose and Need

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

What We Know and Don’t Know Today

What we DO Know Today

9Environmental review

process starting

9Potential track alignments

identified in previous

studies

9Alignments identified in

regional transportation

plans (IH 30)

9Study process and

anticipated timeline

What we DON’T Yet Know

8Final track alignments

8Stations: number and

locations

8Types of high or higherspeed train technology

8Environmental impacts

(potential noise, vibration,

etc.)

8Project costs and funding

sources

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

ENVIRONMENTAL

STUDY PROCESS

Jamie Maughan, NEPA Lead, Federal

Railroad Administration (FRA)

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

 NEPA = National Environmental

Policy Act

 Requires the FRA to consider

the environmental impacts of

decisions prior to taking action

 Provides multiple opportunities

for agency and public

involvement

The NEPA Environmental Study Process
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 53

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

What is an EIS?

 EIS = Environmental Impact Statement

 Required by NEPA

 Tool for federal decision making

 Describes the positive and negative

environmental effects of a proposed

action

 "Environment“ includes the natural and

physical environment and the

relationship of peoplewith that

environment

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

What is Scoping?

 Identify any significant environmental conditions or “resources”

that may be affected by the project

 Identify stakeholder concerns early in the process

 Specify what will be studied to assess potential impacts and

determine if more information is needed

 Define reasonable alternatives for avoiding specific impacts,

either as individual scenarios or a range of project alternatives

 Specify possible measures for mitigating potential impacts, to

the extent that they can be identified at the time of scoping

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

What is Being Studied?

Natural Resources

 Air quality

 Energy

 Fish & wildlife habitat

 Wetlands

 Water quality

Community Resources

 Cultural resources

 Economic development

 Historic properties

 Environmental Justice

 Land use

 Noise & vibration

 Safety & security

 Transportation

Plus other issues raised by agencies and members

of the public during the scoping period.

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Considering Historic Resources

National Historic Preservation Act (1966) takes into account the

effects of the undertaking on eligible or listed National Register

properties.

Four Step Process:

 Initiate the process

 Identify historic properties

 Assess effects of undertaking on historic properties

 Resolve any adverse effects

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Areas of Study

 Route/track alignments

 Station locations (how many and where?)

 Maintenance and operation facilities

 Connectivity between other rail & transit

– Oklahoma City to South Texas passenger rail

– Proposed high-speed rail from Dallas to Houston

– DART, TRE and The T rail and bus services

The EIS will also consider alternatives for the following:

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Project Schedule
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 54

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

HOW YOU CAN

PARTICIPATE

Leslie Wade, Communications Manager

Parsons Brinckerhoff

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Public Scoping Meetings

 Three Public Scoping

Meetings

 Day and evening

 Opportunity for public and

agency comment through

December 15

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

 Submit a written comment today (forms available)

 Submit a written comment on the project Web page, via email,

or mail by December 15, 2014

 Comments received after Dec. 15 will still be considered

 Follow the project online and sign up to receive email

communications and notifications

 Request translation or other assistance by contacting TxDOT

(see Contact Info. slide)

How You Can Participate

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

More Information Online

 TxDOT Project Page: www.TxDOT.gov (keyword search Dallas

Fort Worth Express)

 FRA Project Page: www.FRA.dot.gov/Page/P0715

 Commission for High-Speed Rail in the Dallas/Fort Worth

Area: www.dfwhighspeedrail.com

 TxDOT Rail Home Page:

http://www.txdot.gov/inside-txdot/division/rail.html

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Contact Information

FRA: Michael Johnsen

Lead Environmental Protection Specialist

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., MS-20

Washington, DC 20590

Michael.Johnsen@dot.gov; 202.493.1310

TxDOT: Melissa Neeley, Rail Projects Manager

Environmental Affairs Division

Texas Department of Transportation

118 E. Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas 78704

Melissa.Neeley@txdot.gov; 512.416.3014

Website: TxDOT.gov (search Dallas Fort Worth Express)

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

COMMENT PERIOD
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 55

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

What We Know and Don’t Know Today

What we DO Know Today

9Environmental review

process starting

9Potential track alignments

identified in previous

studies

9Alignments identified in

regional transportation

plans (IH 30)

9Study process and

anticipated timeline

What we DON’T Yet Know

8Final track alignments

8Stations: number and

locations

8Types of high or higherspeed train technology

8Environmental impacts

(potential noise, vibration,

etc.)

8Project costs and funding

sources

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

PLEASE STATE

YOUR NAME AND

ADDRESS

Three Minutes per Person
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

VII. Public Scoping Meeting

Display Boards
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 57
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 58
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 59
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 60
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 61
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

VIII. Public Scoping Meeting

Information Materials
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 63

www.TxDOT.gov | Keyword: DFW Core Express

Dallas/Fort Worth Core Express Service

HIGH- SPEED/EXPRESS PASSENGER RAIL

PUBLIC SCOPING MEETINGS

Connecting Dallas to Fort Worth

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is

leading the effort to develop an environmental study and

is working cooperatively with the Federal Railroad

Administration (FRA) to examine a proposal to provide

high-speed/express passenger rail between Dallas and

Fort Worth. This plan will identify opportunities to invest

in high speed/express passenger rail between Dallas

and Fort Worth. The study will include the development

of:

x a reasonable number of alternatives

x an evaluation of any environmental impacts

x a recommended alignment & station locations

Safe & Efficient Regional Travel

The proposed route would connect the cities of Dallas

and Fort Worth. The study will evaluate the alternative

alignments as well as alternative station and

maintenance facility locations. This study will not

identify a recommended or preferred rail vehicle or

technology for the corridor.

Public Meeting Dates and Locations:

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Open House: 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Presentation: 6 p.m.

Public Comments: 6:30 p.m.

Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center

Second Floor Meeting Room

1001 Jones Street

Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Open House: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Presentation: 12:30 p.m.

Public Comments: 1 p.m.

North Central Texas Council of Government

Transportation Council Room

616 Six Flags Drive

Arlington, Texas 76005

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Open House: 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Presentation: 6 p.m.

Public Comments: 6:30 p.m.

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library

Auditorium, 1st Floor, Concourse Area

1515 Young Street

Dallas, TX 75201

Contact Information

We encourage the public to submit comments

on or before December 15, 2014, to be included

in the meeting summary report; however,

comments are welcomed at any time. For more

information contact:

Texas Department of Transportation

Rail Planning Section Manager

125 E. 11th Street, Austin, TX 78701

(512) 486-5137

Public Scoping Meeting Agenda

x Welcome

x Overview of High-Speed Rail in Texas

x Project Overview

x Environmental Process

x Public & Agency Involvement

x Public Comment Session
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 64

What is the Dallas/Fort Worth Core Express Service

Project?

The Dallas/Fort Worth Core Express Service Project

(D/FW Core Express) is an environmental and

preliminary engineering study initiated to evaluate

potential high-speed and express passenger rail

between Dallas and Fort Worth. The project study area

includes Tarrant and Dallas counties and the cities of

Fort Worth, Dallas, Arlington, Bedford, Cockrell Hill,

Dalworthington Gardens, Euless, Grand Prairie, Hurst,

Haltom City, Irving, Pantego, and Richland Hills.

How long is the corridor?

The corridor could be anywhere from 30-40 miles in

length, depending on the route.

What is the status of the project?

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), in

cooperation with the Federal Railroad Administration

(FRA), is preparing a project-level Environmental

Impact Statement (EIS) to evaluate the proposed

project under the National Environmental Policy Act

(NEPA). The project is currently in the initial scoping

phase, during which issues are identified for

consideration in the study.

What are the project’s potential benefits?

This project would provide a convenient, reliable, and

safe transportation alternative while meeting the

expected increase in population and employment in

Tarrant and Dallas counties. The project would also

provide connectivity to an emerging high-speed

passenger rail network in Texas.

What routes are being considered?

Multiple routes are under consideration at this early

stage of the project. A planning-level study of potential

high and higher-speed rail service between Oklahoma

and South Texas identified six potential routes

between Dallas and Fort Worth. These routes generally

follow existing transportation highway and rail corridors

including IH 30 and the Trinity Railway Express (TRE).

Has a cost estimate been prepared?

A cost estimate has not yet been developed and is

dependent on numerous variables such as the

selected route, the location and number of stations,

and the type of train. Preliminary cost estimates will

be prepared once a preferred alternative has been

selected and further analyzed in the study process.

How will the D/FW Core Express be funded?

TxDOT received a $15 million grant from the FRA to

study high-speed and express passenger rail from

Dallas to Fort Worth and in adjacent corridors.

Funding for construction has not yet been identified

and may come from a variety of sources. TxDOT will

explore opportunities for public/private partnerships

and other investment options as part of the study.

Who will own the D/FW Core Express?

Ownership of the D/FW Core Express could be

structured in a variety of ways, including public

ownership, private ownership or a public-private

partnership. Potential ownership structures will be

explored as further study continues.

Where might the stations be located?

Proposed termini include areas in the vicinity of

downtown Dallas and downtown Fort Worth.

Intermediate stops will also be studied.

How fast will D/FW Core Express travel?

The speed will be determined by the type of train

ultimately selected for the D/FW Core Express. The

service being considered is somewhere between

express and high-speed rail or between 70 to 125

miles per hour.

How long will it take to travel between D/FW?

Travel time cannot be established until a route and

specific type of train and rail

technology are selected.

Dallas/Fort Worth Core Express Service

Frequently Asked Questions
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 65

Who makes the final decision?

TxDOT will select a preferred alternative and forward

that recommendation to the FRA, which will issue a

final Record of Decision.

How will input from agency and community

stakeholders be factored into the final decision?

TxDOT will share all input received throughout the

environmental review process from federal and state

agencies and community stakeholders with FRA.

What would be the process for property acquisition

if new rights-of-way are needed?

At this phase in the project, broad corridors, including

highway and rail, have been identified as potential

locations for the D/FW Core Express. The actual rightof-way and alignment would not be determined until

after the completion of the environmental studies.

Once an preferred alternative is identified, we will

need to consider any potential impacts to commercial

and residential property. If properties are impacted by

the preferred alternative, TxDOT will contact property

owners directly to discuss the property acquisition

process and share additional information.

When would construction begin and how long might

it take to build the project?

Several factors would influence the time frame for the

initiation of construction. Funding is a key component

of project advancement. It is still to be determined if

the project would be funded by public or private

sources, or a combination of sources. Additionally,

environmental studies, preliminary and final design,

and right-of-way determination must be accomplished

before construction begins (Fall 2017).

Will this tie into the Houston to Dallas high- speed

rail project currently being studied?

The D/FW Core Express will look to provide

connectivity to other forms of rail, transit, bicycle and

pedestrian facilities, and automobiles including other

potential high-speed rail lines from Dallas to Fort

Worth, Oklahoma City to Laredo, and Fort Worth to

Austin. Connectivity is paramount, which is why TxDOT

and FRA are coordinating with the North Central Texas

Council of Governments, regional transit agencies and

local cities in the study process.

How can I be involved in the study process?

Stakeholders can be involved in the study process by

attending public meetings, signing up to receive

project updates and/or by visiting the TxDOT’s

Facebook (facebook.com/TxDOT) and Twitter

(@TxDOT) pages. To sign up for project updates, email

the project at DFWCoreExpress@TxDOT.gov or visit the

project website at www.txdot.gov (Keyword: DFW Core

Express). Comments on the project can be submitted

via email, or on the project website.

What is the current status of other rail projects in

Texas?

Information about other Texas rail projects are

available on the project webpage and the TxDOT Rail

Division page at TxDOT.gov.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS OR

COMMENTS?

Texas Department of Transportation

Rail Planning Section Manager

125 E. 11th Street

Austin, TX 78701

(512) 486-5137

STAY INFORMED

Visit our website to join our mailing

list and receive email updates about

the project:

www.TxDOT.gov

Keyword | DFW Core Express

Facebook.com/TxDOT

@TxDOT
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 66

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) thank you for

attending the Dallas/Fort Worth Core Express Service project public scoping meeting. We welcome your

feedback about your experience today:

The public information displays were informative.  

The process that will be used to develop the  

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was clearly explained.

Information was presented in an easy to understand manner.  

Study team members were knowledgeable and helpful.  

I understand how I may participate and provide input to the study.  

What are the most important needs this study should address?

COMMENT FORM – PLEASE SHARE YOUR IDEAS

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service Project

Thank you for taking the time to provide us your comments. When you are finished,

please drop this comment form in one of the boxes provided or mail it to:

Texas Department of Transportation, ATTN: Environmental Affairs Division,

118 E. Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas 78704

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Please see reverse side for additional opportunities to comment.
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 67

What environmental (including community) issues should be considered and why?

Please share any additional comments or ideas you may have regarding the study.

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

To join our mailing list, please enter the information below.

(Texas Transportation Code, §201.811(a)(5)): check each of the following boxes that apply to you:

 I am employed by TxDOT

 I do business with TxDOT

 I could benefit monetarily from the project or other item about which I am commenting

FIRST AND LAST NAME EMAIL and/or MAILING ADDRESS
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 68

www.TxDOT.gov | Palabra clave: DFW Core Express

Proyecto de servicio exprés para el

centro de Dallas y Fort Worth

TREN DE ALTA VELOCIDAD/

TREN PASAJERO EXPRES

JUNTAS PÚBLICAS

Conectando a Dallas y Fort Worth

El Departamento de Transporte de Texas (TxDOT) está

desarrollando un estudio ambiental en cooperación con

la Administración Federal de Ferrocarriles (FRA) para

examinar una propuesta para proporcionar servicio de

tren de alta velocidad/tren pasajero exprés entre Dallas

y Fort Worth. Este plan identificara oportunidades para

invertir en tren de alta velocidad/tren pasajero exprés

entre Dallas y Fort Worth. El estudio incluirá el

desarrollo de:

x Un número razonable de alternativas

x Una evaluación de los impactos ambientales

x Una alineación recomendada y ubicaciones

de estaciones

Viajes regionales seguros y eficientes

La ruta propuesta conectaría las ciudades de Dallas y

Fort Worth. El estudio evaluará las rutas alternativas,

así como ubicaciones alternativas para las estaciones

e instalaciones de mantenimiento. Este estudio no

identificará un vehículo de ferrocarril o tecnología

preferida para el corredor.

Fechas y ubicaciones de las juntas públicas:

Martes, 18 de noviembre 2014

Exhibiciones: 4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Presentación: 6:00 p.m.

Comentarios Públicos: 6:30 p.m.

Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center

Second Floor Meeting Room

1001 Jones Street

Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Miércoles, 19 de noviembre 2014

Exhibiciones: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Presentación: 12:30 p.m.

Comentarios Públicos: 1:00 p.m.

North Central Texas Council of Government

Transportation Council Room

616 Six Flags Drive

Arlington, Texas 76005

Jueves, 20 de noviembre 2014

Exhibiciones: 4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Presentación: 6:00 p.m.

Comentarios Públicos: 6:30 p.m.

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library

Auditorium, 1st Floor, Concourse Area

1515 Young Street

Dallas, TX 75201

Información de contacto

Le invitamos al público que sometan sus comentarios a

más tardar el 15 de diciembre 2014, para que sean

incluidos en el resumen de la reunión; Sin embargo, los

comentarios son bienvenidos en cualquier momento.

Para obtener más información de contacto:

Texas Department of Transportation

Rail Planning Section Manager

125 E. 11th Street, Austin, TX 78701

(512) 486-5137

Agenda de la Junta Pública

x Bienvenida

x Visión general de trenes de alta velocidad en Texas

x Descripción general del proyecto

x Proceso ambiental

x Participación publica y de las agencias

x Sesión para comentarios públicos

Mapa de el del área del estudio
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 69

¿Que es el proyecto de servicio exprés para el centro

de Dallas y Fort Worth?

El proyecto de servicio exprés para el centro de Dallas

y Fort Worth (D/FW Core Express por sus siglas en

ingles) es un estudio ambiental y de ingeniería

preliminar iniciado para evaluar el potencial de trenes

pasajeros de alta velocidad y exprés dentro de Dallas y

Fort Worth. El área de estudio incluye los condados de

Tarrant y Dallas y las ciudades de Fort Worth, Dallas,

Arlington, Irving, Grand Prairie, Pantego, Haltom City,

Richland Hills, y Hurst.

¿Que tan largo es el corredor?

El corredor puede ser entre 30 y 40 millas de largo,

dependiendo en la ruta.

¿En que fase esta el proyecto en este momento?

El Departamento de Transporte de Texas (TxDOT), en

cooperación con la Administración Federal de

Ferrocarriles (FRA), esta preparando una Declaración

de Impacto Ambiental (EIS) al nivel de proyecto para

evaluar el proyecto de bajo de la Acta Nacional de

Política Ambiental (NEPA). Actualmente, el proyecto

esta en la fase de determinación del alcance inicial, en

el que se identifican cuestiones para consideración

durante el estudio.

¿Cuales son los beneficios del proyecto?

Este proyecto proporcionara un alternativa de pasaje

que es conveniente, fiable y segura cumpliendo con

el aumento previsto de la población y el emplea en los

condados de Tarrant y Dallas. El proyecto también

proporcionaría conectividad a una red de trenes

pasajeros de alta velocidad que emerge en Texas.

¿Se ha preparado una estimación de los costos?

Una estimación de los costos aun no se ha

desarrollado y depende de numerosas variables, tales

como la ruta seleccionada, la ubicación y el numero de

estaciones, y el tipo de tren. Mas información acerca

de los costos se preparara una vez que la alternativa

preferida ha sido seleccionada y analizada mas a

través de la Declaración de Impacto Ambiental, mas

tarde en el proceso de revisión ambiental.

¿Como se financiara el proyecto?

TxDOT recibió una donación de $15 millones de

dólares del FRA para estudiar las consecuencia

ambientales posibles para trenes pasajeros de alta

velocidad y exprés para el centro de Dallas y Fort

Worth. Los fondos para la construcción aun no han

sido identificados y pueden provenir de una variedad

de lugares. TxDOT explorara oportunidades de

alianzas publicas/privadas, así como otras opciones

de inversión en los pasillos del estudio una vez que la

ruta preferida ha sido identificado.

¿Quien será el propietario del proyecto?

La propiedad del proyecto se podría estructurar en

una variedad de maneras, incluyendo la propiedad

publica, la propiedad privada o una asociación publica

-privada. Estructuras de propiedad potenciales serán

exploradas como parte de la continuación del estudio.

¿Cuales son las áreas que están siendo

consideradas para la ubicación de las estaciones?

Terminales propuestos incluyen áreas en la

proximidad de la estación Unión en Dallas y el centro

de transporte intermodal de Fort Worth. También se

estudiaran las paradas intermedias.

¿Que tan rápido viajara el servicio de trenes

pasajeros de alta velocidad y exprés?

La velocidad será determinada pro el tipo de tren

finalmente seleccionado para el servicio de trenes

pasajeros de alta velocidad y exprés. El servicio que

se esta considerando esta entre tren exprés o tren de

alta velocidad o entre 70 a

125 millas por hora.

Proyecto de servicio exprés para el centro de Dallas y Fort Worth

Preguntas Frecuentes
Scoping Summary Report 

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June 2015 Page 70

¿Cuanto tiempo tomara para viajar entre D/FW?

La duración del viaje no se puede establecer hasta que se

selecciona una ruta y un tipo de tren.

¿Quien toma la decisión final?

TxDOT seleccionara una alternativa preferida y remitida a

la FRA, que emitirá un registro de la decisión final.

¿Cómo se tendrán en cuenta en la decisión final los

comentarios de las agencias y el publico?

TxDOT compartirá todos los comentarios de las agencias

federales y estatales, y los interesados de la comunidad

recibidos durante el proceso de revisión ambiental con

FRA.

¿Cual seria el proceso para la adquisición de propiedad

si se necesitan derechos de vía nuevos?

En esta fase de el proyecto, corredores amplios, incluyendo

los de carretera y de riel, han sido identificados como

lugares potenciales para el servicio de trenes pasajeros de

alta velocidad y exprés. Los derechos de vía actuales y la

alineación no se determinara hasta después de la

finalización de los estudios ambientales. Una vez que se

identifique una alternativa preferida, tendremos que

considerar los impactos potenciales a la propiedad

comercial y residencial. Si las propiedades se ven

afectadas por la alternativa preferida, TxDOT pondrá en

contacto con los propietarios directamente para discutir el

proceso de adquisición de al propiedad y compartir

información adicional.

¿Cuando comenzara la construcción y cuanto tiempo

podría durar?

Hay varios factores que podrían influenciar el marco de

tiempo para el inicio de la construcción. El financiamiento

es un componente clava para el avance del proyecto. Esta

aun por determinarse si el proyecto seria financiado por

recursos públicos o privados, o una combinación de

recursos. Además, los estudios ambientales, el diseño

preliminar y final, y la determinación correcta de derecho

de vías se necesita llevar a cabo antes de que comience la

construcción (Otoño 2017).

¿Será que este proyecto va a proporcionar una conexión

al proyecto de trenes pasajeros de alta velocidad dentro

de Houston y Dallas que actualmente se esta

estudiando?

Este proyecto buscara oportunidades para proporcionar

conectividad con otras formas de instalaciones

ferroviarias, tránsito, bicicletas y peatones y automóviles,

incluyendo otras líneas posibles de trenes de alta

velocidad desde Dallas a Fort Worth, Oklahoma City a

Laredo, y Fort Worth a Austin. La conectividad es de suma

importancia, por lo que TxDOT y la FRA están coordinando

con el consejo de gobiernos de el área de Texas en el norte

central, las agencias de transporte regionales y las

ciudades locales en el proceso de estudio.

¿Como puedo participar en el proceso del estudio?

Usted puede participar en el proceso con asistir a las

juntas publicas, inscribirse para recibir actualizaciones del

proyecto y/o visite las pagines de TxDOT en el Facebook de

TxDOT (facebook.com/TxDOT) y el Twitter (TxDOT) paginas.

Para inscribirse a las actualizaciones de proyectos, envié

su pedida por correo electrónico en DFW Core

Express@TxDOT o visite el sitio de web del proyector en

www.txdot.gov (Palabra clave: DFW Core Express). Los

comentarios sobre el proyecto se pueden enviar por correo

electrónico en una pagina web del proyecto.

¿Cuál es el estado actual de otros proyectos ferroviarios

en Texas?

Información sobre otros proyectos ferroviarios de Texas

están disponibles en el sitio de web del proyecto y en la

página de la división de tren de TxDOT al TxDOT.gov

¿PREGUNTAS O COMENTARIOS

ADICIONALES?

Texas Department of Transportation

Rail Planning Section Manager

125 E. 11th Street

Austin, TX 78701

(512) 486-5137

MANTEGASE INFORMADO

Visite nuestro sitio de web y

inscríbase en nuestra lista de correo

electrónico para recibir

actualizaciones del proyecto:

www.TxDOT.gov

Palabra clave: DFW Core Express

Facebook.com/TxDOT

@TxDOT
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 71

Invitamos sus comentarios verbales sobre el proyecto. Rellene esta tarjeta y comparte tu comenta verbalmente

en la mesa del reportero de la corte - o - llene la tarjeta para hablar durante el período de comentarios públicos

que empieza a las 6:30 p.m.

Si quieres compartir sus comentarios verbales durante el período de comentarios públicos, envíe esta tarjeta a

un miembro del equipo del proyecto o entrégalo en la mesa de registro. Vamos a llamar a su nombre en el orden

que recibamos su tarjeta de registro. Cuando llegue a el micrófono por favor indique su nombre, dirección, y que

organización usted representa en su caso (por ejemplo, una empresa).

Con el fin de escuchar a todos, estamos pidiendo al público a limitar su

comentarios a 3 minutos y que enfoquen sus comentarios sobre el proyecto de servicio

exprés para el centro de Dallas / Fort Worth.

Proyecto de servicio exprés para el centro de Dallas y Fort Worth

Tarjeta de comentario verbal

Invitamos sus comentarios verbales sobre el proyecto. Rellene esta tarjeta y comparte tu comenta verbalmente

en la mesa del reportero de la corte - o - llene la tarjeta para hablar durante el período de comentarios públicos

que empieza a las 6:30 p.m.

Si quieres compartir sus comentarios verbales durante el período de comentarios públicos, envíe esta tarjeta a

un miembro del equipo del proyecto o entrégalo en la mesa de registro. Vamos a llamar a su nombre en el orden

que recibamos su tarjeta de registro. Cuando llegue a el micrófono por favor indique su nombre, dirección, y que

organización usted representa en su caso (por ejemplo, una empresa).

Con el fin de escuchar a todos, estamos pidiendo al público a limitar su

comentarios a 3 minutos y que enfoquen sus comentarios sobre el proyecto de servicio

exprés para el centro de Dallas / Fort Worth.

Proyecto de servicio exprés para el centro de Dallas y Fort Worth

Tarjeta de comentario verbal
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 72

Nombre __________________________________________________________

Organización _____________________________________________________

Dirección _______________________________________________________ Código Postal _________

Correo electrónico (opcional) _____________________________________

(Código de Transporte de Texas, §201.811(a)(5)): indique cada uno de

los cuadros siguientes que se aplican a usted:

Soy empleado de TxDOT

Hago negocio con TxDOT

Podría beneficiar monetariamente del proyecto u otro

elemento sobre que estoy comentando

Nombre __________________________________________________________

Organización _____________________________________________________

Dirección _______________________________________________________ Código Postal _________

Correo electrónico (opcional) _____________________________________

(Código de Transporte de Texas, §201.811(a)(5)): indique cada uno de

los cuadros siguientes que se aplican a usted:

Soy empleado de TxDOT

Hago negocio con TxDOT

Podría beneficiar monetariamente del proyecto u otro

elemento sobre que estoy comentando
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

B. Agency Scoping

Meeting Agenda
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

I. Letters of Invitation to

Potential Cooperating Agencies
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 75

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service Project

 List of Invited Cooperating Agencies

Agency Contact Address

U.S. Army of Corps of Engineers Fort 

Worth District

Mr. Darvin Messer 819 Taylor Street, Room 

3A37

Fort Worth, TX 76102

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Dr. Benjamin Tuggle PO Box 1306

Albuquerque, NM 87103-

1306

Federal Transit Administration Mr. Robert C. Patrick 819 Taylor Street, Room 

8A36

Fort Worth, TX 76102

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Mr. Craig Weeks 1445 Ross Avenue

Dallas, TX 75202

Federal Aviation Administration Mr. Kelvin Solco 2601 Meacham Blvd.

Fort Worth, TX 76137

Federal Highways Administration Mr. Mike Leary 300 East 8th Street, Room 

826

Austin, TX 78701
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Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

II. Agency Scoping Meetings

List of Invited Agencies
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 89

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service Project

Agency Scoping Meetings - October 22 & 27,2014

List of Invited Agencies

Agencies

U.S. Army of Corps of Engineers Fort Worth District

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Federal Transit Administration

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Highways Administration

Texas Historical Commission

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

North Central Texas Council of Governments

Tarrant County

Dallas County

City of Dallas

City of Fort Worth

City of Arlington

Dallas Area Rapid Transit 

The Fort Worth Transportation Authority 

Denton County Transportation Authority 

North Texas Tollway Authority

Dallas/Fort Worth Airport

Trinity River Authority
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June 2015 Page 90
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June 2015 Page 91
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

III. Agency Scoping

Meeting Agenda
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 93

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Agency Scoping Meetings

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

9 a.m. to Noon

North Central Texas Council of Governments - Fred Keithly Conference Room

616 Six Flags Drive, Arlington, Texas

Monday, October 27, 2014

9 a.m. to Noon

Texas Department of Transportation - Room 1-A2

200 E. Riverside, Austin, Texas

AGENDA

I. Welcome and Introductions Melissa Neeley, TxDOT

II. Overview of Passenger Rail in Texas Erik Steavens/Mark Werner, TxDOT

III. Project Description Mark Werner, TxDOT

IV. NEPA Process Overview James Maughan, FRA

V. Project Schedule Melissa Neeley, TxDOT

VI. Agency and Public Participation Process Susan Howard, TxDOT

VII. Next Steps Mark Werner, TxDOT

VIII. Discussion & Questions All
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

IV. Agency Scoping

Meeting Presentations
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 95

Agency Scoping Meetings

Dallas/Fort Worth Core Express Service

October 22, 2014 - Dallas, Texas

October 27, 2014 - Austin, Texas

WELCOME & INTRODUCTIONS

Melissa Neeley, Rail Projects Mgr., Environmental Affairs Div., TxDOT

2

Today’s Agenda

Item Speaker

Welcome & Introductions Melissa Neeley, TxDOT

Passenger Rail in Texas Erik Steavens, TxDOT

Project Description Mark Werner, TxDOT

NEPA Process James Maughan, FRA

Project Schedule Melissa Neeley, TxDOT

Agency and Public

Participation Process Susan Howard, TxDOT

Next Steps Mark Werner, TxDOT

Discussion & Questions

3

PASSENGER RAIL IN TEXAS

Erik Steavens, Director of Rail, TxDOT (Dallas)

Mark Werner, Rail Planning Section Manager, TxDOT (Austin)

4

High-Speed Rail in Texas

National effort

to introduce

high-speed rail

service between

major US cities

High-speed and

express

passenger rail

service could

reduce demand

on Texas

roadways

Multiple studies

are underway in

Texas to provide a

blueprint for

feasible rail

improvements

5

Ongoing Rail Studies

Texas Oklahoma City

Passenger Rail Study

• Oklahoma City to

South Texas

• Tier 1 EIS

• FRA/TxDOT CoLead Agencies

• Evaluating a range

of passenger rail

service options

• 850-mile corridor

Dallas to Houston

High-Speed Rail

• Houston to Dallas

• Tier 2 EIS

• FRA/TxDOT CoLead Agencies

• Texas Central

Railway – private

applicant

Dallas / Fort Worth

Core Express Service

• Dallas to Fort

Worth Rail Service

• Tier 2 EIS

• FRA/TxDOT CoLead Agencies

• Topic of Today’s

Meeting

6
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PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Mark Werner, Rail Planning Section Manager, Rail Division, TxDOT

7

Project Description

 TxDOT and FRA preparing a Tier 2

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Project

 This project is a component of a larger highspeed and intercity rail system planned for

Texas

 Will evaluate route and operational

alternatives for core express intercity

passenger rail between Fort Worth and Dallas

8

Study Area Map

9

NEPA PROCESS OVERVIEW

James Maughan, NEPA Lead, Federal Railroad Administration

10

Purpose and Need

Formal P&N statement under development.

 Purpose

To provide reliable, safe and an economically viable

express passenger rail transportation between Dallas

and Fort Worth.

 Functional Need

To address mobility- and congestion-related issues in

the Dallas / Fort Worth Metroplex.

11

Tiered EIS Process

A phased environmental review process used

in the development of complex projects.

 Tier 1 EIS addresses broad, corridor-level

issues and alternatives

 Tier 2 EIS addresses individual component

projects of the selected alternatives from

the Tier 1 EIS in more detail

12
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 97

NEPA Environmental Process

Tier 1 EIS – TX-OK Passenger Rail Study

Tier 2 EIS – DFW Core Express Service

RECORD OF

DECISION

Identify projects

for further

development

RECORD OF

DECISION

Identify projects

for further

development

SCOPING

Identify what

should be

studied in the

EIS

DRAFT EIS

Compare

proposed

alternatives

including a no

build alternative

FINAL EIS

Respond to

comments and

refine the

analysis in the

draft EIS

FINAL EIS

Respond to

comments and

refine the

analysis in the

draft EIS

DRAFT EIS

Compare

proposed

alternatives

including a no

build alternative

SCOPING

Identify what

should be

studied in the

EIS

13

Scoping Objectives

 Identify any significant environmental conditions or

resources that may be affected by the project;

 Specify study methods and determine data needed

to assess potential impacts;

 Define reasonable alternatives for avoiding specific

impacts, either as individual scenarios or a range of

alternatives; and

 Specify possible measures for mitigating potential

impacts, to the extent that they can be identified at

the time of scoping.

14

What is Being Studied?

Natural Resources

 Air quality

 Energy

 Fish & wildlife habitat

 Wetlands

 Water quality

Community Resources

 Cultural resources

 Economic development

 Historic properties

 Land use

 Noise & vibration

 Safety & security

 Transportation

A broad range of topics including:

15

Potential Alignments

16

Additional Areas of Study

The EIS will also consider alternatives for the

following:

 Station locations

 Maintenance and operation facilities

 Connectivity

17

Section 106

National Historic Preservation Act (1966) takes

into account the effects of the undertaking on

eligible or listed National Register properties.

Four Step Process:

 Initiate the process

 Identify historic properties

 Assess effects of undertaking on historic properties

 Resolve any adverse effects

18
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DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 98

PROJECT SCHEDULE

Melissa Neeley, Rail Projects Mgr., Environmental Affairs Div., TxDOT

19

Project Schedule

20

AGENCY AND PUBLIC

PARTICIPATION PROCESS

Susan Howard, Office of Public Involvement, TxDOT

21

Communication & Engagement

 Cooperating Agencies

 State, Regional and Local Agencies

 Railroads and Other Property Owners

 Section 106 Consulting Parties

 Public Stakeholders

 Environmental Justice Communities

 Other Interested Groups and Individuals

22

Decision Making Process

Recommendation

Technical

Analysis

Agency

Input

Public

Input

Technical Analysis

Input Texas Department of

Transportation

Federal Railroad

Administration

23

Contact Information

FRA: Michael Johnsen

Lead Environmental Protection Specialist

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., MS-20

Washington, DC 20590

Michael.Johnsen@dot.gov; 202.493.1310

TxDOT: Melissa Neeley, Rail Projects Manager

Environmental Affairs Division

Texas Department of Transportation

118 E. Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas 78704

Melissa.Neeley@txdot.gov; 512.416.3014

Website: TxDOT.gov (search DFW Core Express)

24
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 99

NEXT STEPS

Mark Werner, Rail Planning Section Manager, Rail Division, TxDOT

25

Next Steps

 Public Scoping Meetings, Nov. 18-20

 Scoping Summary

– Review Agency and Public Scoping Comments

 Data Collection and Environmental Surveys

 Preliminary Alternatives Evaluation

 Continued Agency and Public Coordination

26

DISCUSSION AND QUESTIONS

Susan Howard, Office of Public Involvement, TxDOT

27

Agency Scoping Meeting

Dallas/Fort Worth Core Express Service

Thank You!
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

V. Agency Scoping

Meeting Minutes
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 101

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service Agency Scoping Meeting

Minutes

Meeting Purpose: Scoping meeting for the Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Project with cooperating and other public agencies.

Meeting

Date/Time/Place

October 22, 2014 / 9 AM – 11:30 AM / North Central Texas Council of

Governments Regional Transportation Council Room, 611 Six Flags Road,

Arlington, Texas

Attendance: 29 including Project representatives

Handouts: Agenda

Copy of Meeting Presentation

Copy of Federal Register Notice of Intent

High-Speed Rail Commission Overview

D/FW Core Express Service (CES) fact sheet

Attendees:

Federal Railroad Administration (FRA): James Maughan

Federal Transit Authority (FTA): Lynn Hayes

US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Reg. 6: Michael Jansky

US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE): Darvin Messer, Billy Standridge

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA): Anita Wilson

North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG): Tom Shelton, Kevin Feldt, Jeff Neal

DFW Airport: Greg Royster, Kristine Lloyd

Fort Worth Transit Authority (The T): Curvie Hawkins

North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA): Lori Shelton

DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit): Chad Edwards

Tarrant County: Randy Skinner

City of Fort Worth: Bryan Beck

City of Dallas: John Brunk

Public Participant: Stanford Lynch, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce

TxDOT Fort Worth District: Curtis Loftis

TxDOT Dallas District: Godfrey Sendawula, Michael Peters

TxDOT: Mark Werner, Melissa Neeley, Becky Ozuna, Jefferson Grimes, Susan Howard

Parsons Brinckerhoff (Consultant): Ed Campbell, Lisa Nungesser, Leslie Wade

Public Involvement Associates (Subconsultant): Judy Meyer

Summary:

Tom Shelton of the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) welcomed the group

to the agency’s facilities and provided safety and housekeeping information.

Melissa Neeley, the Project’s environmental manager with the Texas Department of

Transportation (TxDOT), welcomed the group and reviewed the agenda. A copy of the agenda

appears at the end of this summary.

Erik Steavens, TxDOT Rail Division Director, provided a description of passenger rail activities

taking place in Texas. These included a study of high-speed rail between Houston and Dallas

and another passenger rail study between Oklahoma City, OK, and Laredo, TX. Mr. Steavens also
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 102

explained that express passenger rail service between Dallas and Fort Worth would serve as a

critical link in the effort to provide fast, reliable passenger rail service between major cities in

Texas. At the same time, the project has independent utility as a transportation option within the

Dallas/Fort Worth region.

Mark Werner, TxDOT project manager, and James Maughan, representing the Federal Railroad

Administration (FRA), explained the purpose of the D/FW Core Express Service project and

outlined the process for the development of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Mr.

Werner described the potential rail alignments that were identified in Tier 1 EIS conducted for the

Texas to Oklahoma Passenger Rail Study (TOPRS). The study considered six potential

alternatives, all within existing transportation corridors, and recommended two for more detailed

analysis: the Trinity Railway Express (TRE) corridor and the Interstate 30 (I 30) corridor.

Mr. Maughan described the scoping process under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

and the type of input that was being sought from meeting participants.

Susan Howard with the TxDOT Office of Public Involvement reviewed the agency and public

participation process that will be conducted to ensure there is stakeholder and public input into

the D/FW Core Express Service Project. As a part of the input process from the agencies

participating in the scoping meeting, Ms. Howard then led a discussion regarding opportunities,

concerns, impacts and communications with the group.

The following is a summary of the questions, comments and responses.

GENERAL QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS

Tom Shelton, on behalf of the NCTCOG, noted high-speed rail has been discussed by the

NCTCOG Regional Transportation Council (RTC) for several years. There is a subcommittee of the

RTC dedicated to high-speed rail, which TxDOT may wish to use to facilitate discussions with local

government officials. Tom also noted the current long-range transportation plan in place, Mobility

2035, includes a policy statement and potential corridor for high-speed rail. He stated any

adjustments to the route would be adjusted as needed through the amendment process.

PROJECT OPPORTUNITIES/BENEFITS

Highlights:

 Potential benefits to the economy, mobility and air quality

 Connections to local transit and other transportation networks

 Create a lynch-pin in a larger statewide high or higher speed rail network

 Build on investments already made in a rail corridor in the region (TRE)

Discussion:

Lynn Hayes, on behalf of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), said transit systems within the

region will benefit from the connections to high-speed rail.

John Brunk with the City of Dallas noted the city’s excitement about high-speed rail and the good

that would come from a connection at Union Station to the Dallas to Houston high-speed rail

project and to Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) service. With the development of Houston-to-
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DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 103

Dallas high-speed rail, the opportunity exists for a one-seat ride to and through D/FW. He added

that high-speed rail would have a positive impact on the Dallas economy.

Michael Jansky with the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) applauded the effort to

bring express passenger rail service to the region. More rail options help reduce the number of

cars and vehicles on the road, which results in reduced emissions. The Project is the linchpin

between two high-speed rail efforts. High-speed rail alignments that cross/meet south of Dallas

would create new connections to the south. Opportunities exist to use an existing transportation

or utility corridor for the Project.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) representative Darvin Messer noted a response to join the

study as a cooperating agency has been drafted and would be sent to FRA. He explained the

USACE looks for the least impact to waterways and wetlands in EIS documents. He also noted

the agency neither supports nor opposes any project or alignment, but tries to maintain neutral.

Chad Edwards with DART suggested that agency’s preliminary work on the TRE corridor may be

helpful to the Project study team. He also noted that TxDOT may want to strengthen language in

the Purpose and Need for both the D/FW Core Express EIS and the Dallas to Houston high-speed

rail EIS to make sure a connection at Union Station is included. He also noted that DART sees

opportunities to improve the TRE corridor and provide express passenger rail that could reduce

headways to between 19 and 25 minutes. Currently, TRE service is an hour-long trip along 37

miles, with 10 station stops between Dallas and Fort Worth. Investments already have been

made in that corridor and it seems appropriate to build on that investment, he stated.

The Fort Worth Transportation Authority’s (The T’s) Curvie Hawkins, Jr., noted TRE’s importance to

the region and the importance of having the discussion about the Project taking place with local

and regional agencies. He noted The T has done a lot of work to improve stations on the TRE line

(T&P and Intermodal Transportation Center stations). He added that capacity is an issue at these

locations.

Bryan Beck of the City of Fort Worth said that Fort Worth will make room for the project and a

downtown station.

CHALLENGES/CONCERNS

Highlights:

 Potential impacts to historic properties in downtown Dallas and Fort Worth

 Potential impacts to EJ populations

 Potential impacts to TRE service, ridership and pricing

 Noise and vibration evaluation/methodologies

 Ridership modeling methodology

 Need to align the Dallas-to-Houston high-speed rail EIS and the Project to ensure

connectivity at Union Station

 Potential impacts to Union Station
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Michael Jansky, EPA, noted during prior discussion that a challenge or concern with the Project is

addressing historic preservation and EJ issues that likely exist at both project termini locations.

Curvie Hawkins, The T, noted physical constraints at the T&P and ITC stations in downtown Fort

Worth. He also indicated The T will want to know what impacts express passenger rail service

implemented through this study would have on TRE service, ridership and pricing. If the T&P

station is the end-of-line station, issues at Tower 55 may be involved.

Lynn Hayes, FTA, expressed that the noise and vibration components of the EIS should be allencompassing and the EIS should address EJ issues, cumulative impacts and communications.

James Maughan, FRA, responded by saying that the methodologies for evaluating a range of

impacts are being developed. He requested agencies to review the methodologies and provide

suggestions.

John Brunk, City of Dallas, recommended that TxDOT and FRA tightly align the EIS process with

that of the Houston-to-Dallas high-speed rail project to coordinate alignments and station

planning around Union Station.

Chad Edwards, DART, echoed that the Project should provide a link to the Dallas to Houston highspeed rail project by incorporating such language in the Project’s Purpose and Need Statement.

Erik Steavens noted that TxDOT will strive to achieve system connectivity, but the Project will be

considered to have utility separate from any other rail service. The customer experience will be a

key consideration as both projects are developed. This may include such aspects as ticketing,

baggage handling, cross platforms, etc.

POTENTIAL PROJECT CONSTRAINTS

Highlights:

 Union Station capacity

 TexRail stations and development near T&P station

 Interstate 30 interchanges and managed lanes

 Transportation rights-of-way around DFW Airport

Chad Edwards indicated that DART has several projects in the works that could provide

connectivity to high-speed rail in downtown Dallas, including: 1) planned tunnel project to

increase capacity into downtown; 2) streetcar connections; 3) platform extensions on Red and

Blue light rail lines. Mr. Edwards said that DART will need to know the potential ridership impacts

to Union Station.

Tom Shelton, NCTCOG, said that improvement projects, including managed lanes, SH 360, and

future interchanges, could be an issue at various locations along I 30.

Curvie Hawkins, The T, noted plans for new TEXRail stations at T&P and ITC, as well as new

housing near the T&P station location.
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Greg Royster, DFW Airport, said the east-west rail connections now in place could potentially be

impacted and added that the airport has been working on a north-south connection and

collaborating with TxDOT to preserve right of way.

Randy Skinner, Tarrant County, reported that Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley is working to

address transportation needs and linkages for growth of population in western Tarrant County.

He suggested that the Project team research any projects being planned by the Fort Worth

hospital district and Texas Christian University (TCU) that could impact or be impacted by the

Project.

KNOWN FATAL FLAWS THAT COULD IMPACT THE PROJECT

None noted.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q: While focus of termini stations in Dallas and Fort Worth, isn’t there a potential stop in

Arlington being considered?

A: Tom Shelton of NCTCOG said the Regional Transportation Council supports a three-station

alternative for the Project. NCTCOG has done preliminary work to identify where a station might

be located in Arlington. He stated discussions with Arlington city leaders suggested the city may

be more favorable to integrating transit. NCTCOG recognizes the need to serve the

entertainment venues in Arlington, but also recognizes the need to connect people to DFW

Airport. Different markets will dictate different needs.

Q: Will TxDOT/FRA move ahead with the Project following receipt of a Record of Decision to

proceed, or will a private investor be necessary to move forward?

A: It is TxDOT’s intention to move forward. The EIS will identify opportunities for a third-party

developer to invest in high-speed/intercity passenger rail between Dallas and Fort Worth.

Q: Will the Project EIS speak to the customer experience elements?

A: This level of operational detail will not be included in the EIS, but could be recommended as

necessary to mitigating a connectivity impact.

Q: Who will use the D/FW Core Express Service? Commuters or people who ultimately want to

go to Houston?

A: There is no predominant market identified as of yet, and it is possible the project could be

phased. Initially, the Project might serve only commuters, and later, when high-speed rail is fully

implemented, through travelers may become the predominate users.

Q: How are you determining ridership?

A: The Project team currently is attempting to develop a more investment-grade ridership model.

The team will investigate running the model for the Project with and without Dallas-to-Houston

high-speed rail service in place.
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Q: How will the high-speed rail and transit lines connect? Is there guidance for details of

connections?

A: Not specifically, but FRA can specifiyc mitigations to enhance connectivity. NEPA provides

that opportunity.

Q: Will the Dallas to Houston high-speed rail project affect decisions about the Dallas/Fort

Worth Core Express Service Project?

A. No. This is a stand-alone project.

FUTURE AGENCY COORDINATION AND COMMUNICATIONS PREFERENCES

Highlights:

 Establish a local Technical Advisory Committee

 Work closely with transit agencies

 Provide ample lead time for agency review of documents

 Obtain input from future users of system

 Emails work best to communicate with agency representatives

Several attendees suggested strong regional involvement. Some suggested that TxDOT convene

a Technical Advisory Committee or other similar panel that would provide input on the Project.

Erik Steavens of TxDOT indicated that agency coordination was a priority and would continue, but

that a formal advisory committee was not planned.

Lynn Hayes, FTA, noted it will be critical for the Project team to work closely with DART and The T.

Chad Edwards said DART has a great deal of information available and would like to assist with

corridor identification.

Curvie Hawkins, The T, echoed that a great deal of work has already been done in planning the

TexRail project and indicated that he would be happy to support EIS process.

Darvin Messer, USACE, said more lead time to review environmental documents is desirable.

Michael Jansky, EPA, offered assistance in identifying environmental resources.

Kevin Feldt, NCTCOG, recommended gaining input from the potential users of the service and

recommended going beyond typical public meetings and reaching out to young people including

high school children. Kristine Lloyd of DFW Airport added that TxDOT could use social media to

reach younger audiences.

Communications with agency representatives is best done via email.

Meeting adjourned.
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June 2015 Page 107

Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service Agency Scoping Meeting

Minutes

Meeting Purpose: Scoping meeting for the Dallas / Fort Worth Core Express Service

Project with cooperating and other public agencies.

Meeting

Date/Time/Place

October 28, 2014 / 9 AM – 12 PM/ Texas Department of Transportation –

Room 1-A2 200 E. Riverside, Austin, Texas

Attendance: 23 including Project representatives

Handouts: Agenda

Copy of Meeting Presentation

Copy of Federal Register Notice of Intent

High-Speed Rail Commission Overview

D/FW Core Express Service (CES) fact sheet

Attendees:

Federal Railroad Administration (FRA): James Maughan

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA): Tom Bauchert

US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS): Darren LeBlanc

Texas Historical Commission (THC): Linda Henderson

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD): Laura Zebehazy

Texas Dept. of Transportation (TxDOT): Mark Werner, Melissa Neeley, Jefferson Grimes, Susan

Howard, Julie Beaubien, Jon Budd, Jay Carsten, Carolyn Nelson, John Young, Doug Booher, Tim

Wood, Becky Ozuna, Ray Umscheid, Nicolle Kord

Parsons Brickerhoff (Consultant): Ed Campbell, Lisa Nungesser, Linda Vela, Tusi Partsch

Summary:

Melissa Neeley, the Project’s environmental manager with the Texas Department of

Transportation (TxDOT), welcomed the group and reviewed the agenda. A copy of the agenda

appears at the end of this summary.

Erik Steavens, TxDOT Rail Division Director, provided a description of passenger rail activities

taking place in Texas. These included a study of high-speed rail between Houston and Dallas

and another passenger rail study between Oklahoma City, OK, and Laredo, TX. Mr. Steavens also

explained that express passenger rail service between Dallas and Fort Worth would serve as a

critical link in the effort to provide fast, reliable passenger rail service between major cities in

Texas. At the same time, the project has independent utility as a transportation option within the

Dallas/Fort Worth region.

Mark Werner, TxDOT project manager, and James Maughan, representing the Federal Railroad

Administration (FRA), explained the purpose of the DFW Core Express Service project and

outlined the process for the development of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Mr.

Werner described the potential rail alignments that were identified in Tier 1 EIS conducted for the

Texas to Oklahoma Passenger Rail Study (TOPRS). The study considered six potential

alternatives, all within existing transportation corridors, and recommended two for more detailed

analysis: the Trinity Railway Express (TRE) corridor and the Interstate 30 (I 30) corridor.

Mr. Maughan described the scoping process under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

and the type of input that was being sought from meeting participants.
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June 2015 Page 108

Susan Howard with the TxDOT Office of Public Involvement reviewed the agency and public

participation process that will be conducted to ensure there is stakeholder and public input into

the D/FW Core Express Service Project. As a part of the input process from the agencies

participating in the scoping meeting, Ms. Howard then led a discussion regarding opportunities,

concerns, impacts and communications with the group.

The following is a summary of the questions, comments and responses.

GENERAL QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS

Q: What agencies attended the Agency Scoping Meeting in Arlington?

A: NCTCOG, DART, FHWA, FTA, EPA, Army Corps of Engineers, DFW Airport, City of Dallas, City of

Fort Worth, Tarrant County, and The T.

Tim Wood with TxDOT said that an EPA requirement that applies is general conformity. He also

said do not forget to address indirect and cumulative air quality effects. He suggested reaching

out to Jeff Riley (EPA).

Q: How much of the two alternatives fall within existing rail rights-of-way (ROW)?

A: The TRE corridor is existing rail ROW and the I 30 corridor is not.

Need to invite historic preservation offices for each city. We may want a separate meeting for

historic issues and Section 106 materials for inclusion in public meeting.

John Budd, TxDOT archaeologist, mentioned there is a very important cemetery on the alignment

and we need to be proactive in planning upfront with how to deal with cemeteries.

POTENTIAL CHALLENGES

 Archaeological studies/issues

 Potential liabilities

 Property owner by train station (TMP Warehouse)

 MPO coordination (i.e. air quality analysis)

 Ensure constraints analysis is completed

Q: Has there been any discussion regarding crossings?

A: That will depend on the technology. We will be considering speeds from 70 - 150.

Q: Has anyone done a background study on archaeological issues?

A: The Project team is using Cox Mclain to assist with various environmental issues including

archaeological issues.
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June 2015 Page 109

Linda Henderson, with the Texas Historical Commission, mentioned there is a property owner of

a historic building that could not get HUD financing due to noise levels and it may be a public

concern. She suggested using HUD levels in noise quality analysis because they are much

stricter than TxDOT’s current thresholds.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS

One of the goals in defining alignment is to focus on existing transportation corridors to help

avoid greater impacts. Need to look into the Texas Conservation Action Plan. There are tools to

help us minimize impacts. Most of the concern is with Trinity River.

Identify non-significant impacts and gain agreement amongst agencies. (I.e. indirect/cumulative

air quality impacts needs EPA concurrence)

KNOWN FATAL FLAWS THAT COULD IMPACT THE PROJECT

 Cemeteries- There is a database available to search cemeteries. Need to engage County

historical societies may have information.

 Failure to show general conformity

 Noise (i.e. floating slabs, opera houses, etc.)

BEST PRACTICES FOR COORDINATION

 Quality monthly status reports with key contacts

 Be considerate with review times and allow time for data recovery

 We anticipate executing the programmatic agreement upfront that will lay out the time

frames.

 Suggestion to include Section 106 public involvement

 Incorporate stakeholder lists into public involvement outreach

COMMUNICATION PREFERENCES

 Electronic

 General Project coordination preference is emails with purpose and deadline clearly

shown.

 Historic Commission will need one hard copy.

 Habitat Assessment – Instead of sending to Carter Smith please send to Julie Wicker.

 Tribal consultation – A preliminary list of two tribes has been created and we will

coordinate.
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June 2015 Page 110

WHAT WILL YOU NEED MOVING FORWARD?

 Revised scoping document

 An official cooperating agency letter is not needed.

 On I 30 corridor we may need an Interstate Access Justification Report (IAJR)

 A separate air quality coordination meeting.

Meeting adjourned.
Dallas/Fort Worth 

Core Express Service 

Scoping Report Summary: Appendix 

Draft Version 1 

Prepared for: 

Federal Railroad Administration and 

Texas Department of Transportation 

Prepared by: 

Parsons Brinckerhoff, Inc. 

May 2015

C. Public and Agency 

Comments and Responses
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 112

Dallas - Fort Worth Core Express Service Project 

Public Scoping Meeting Comments and Responses 

TxDOT and FRA received more than 90 comments from members of the public, elected officials and 

local or regional government agencies during the Project scoping period between September 5 and 

December 15, 2014. The comments are categorized for further analysis by FRA, TxDOT and the 

Project team into 11 major themes that cover the following topics: 

Public Scoping Comment Categories and Topics

1. Project Purpose and Need 

2. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)/Environmental 

2A. Human Environment 

 Land Use and Land Use Plans 

- Agricultural Land 

- Regional and Joint Development Opportunities 

 Social and Economic 

- Neighborhoods 

- Community Facilities 

- Environmental Justice 

- Economic Impacts 

- Relocations and Acquisitions 

2B. Physical Environment 

 Aesthetics and Visual Resources 

 Air Quality 

 Hazardous Materials & Solid Waste Disposal 

 Health, Safety, and Security 

 Indirect and Cumulative Impacts 

 Noise and Vibration 

 Topography, Geology & Soils 

 Cultural Resources 

- Archaeological Resources 

- Historic Resources 

 Parks and Recreation Resources 

- Parks & Recreational Areas and Facilities 

- Section 4(f)/6(f) 

2C. Natural Environment 

 Aquatic Habitat 

 Ecological Systems 

 Habitat & Wildlife (Non-Wetlands, including Refuges) 

 Hydrology & Water Resources 

 Water Quality 

 Wetlands 

 Endangered, Rare and Threatened Species 

3. Alignments/Alternatives 

4. Construction/Operation/Design/Technology 

 Construction Issues 

 Design Quality 

 Implementation Planning 

 Maintenance & Support Facilities 

 Mitigation 

 Operational Issues 

 Rail Service/Operations 

 Utility Issues 

5. Cost/Funding/Governance 

 Commission for High-Speed Rail 

 FRA 

 Funding 

 Government/Elected Officials/Legislative 

Policy 

 Project Cost 

 TxDOT 

6. Multimodal Planning 

 Bike/Pedestrian 

 Consistency with Other Plans 

 Regional Growth/Planning 

 Ridership 

 Right of Way 

 Traffic and Roadway 

 Transit Impacts/Connectivity 

 Transportation-Other 

7. Process/Stakeholder Involvement/Legal 

 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) 

 Environmental Process 

 Legal/Litigation 

 Project Description 

 Public/Agency Involvement 

 Request for Meeting 

 Schedule 

 Scoping Process 

8. Statewide Rail System 

9. Station Planning, Location, and Land Use 

10. Comment(s) Noted 

11. Outside of Project Scope 
Scoping Summary Report 

DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 113

 

Official Responses to Scoping Comments 

Per Texas Administrative Code, TxDOT developed responses to comments received. The majority of 

the responses explain how a question will be answered or an issue addressed as part of the 

environmental review process. As indicated above, response codes were generated for each theme 

and correspond to the number indicated. The responses, by theme, are as follows: 

1. Project Purpose and Need 

A draft proposed Purpose and Need statement was developed to obtain public and agency comment 

during the scoping process, as required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The 

comments received as part of the scoping process will be used to inform potential revisions to the 

Project Purpose and Need statement for the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (Draft EIS). The 

Draft EIS will provide the documentation to justify the Project need. 

 

2. NEPA/Environmental Issues 

2A –Human Environment 

The Draft DEIS, will include an evaluation of potential impacts to land use, neighborhoods, 

community facilities, relocations, the socio-economic conditions in the region, and the economic 

impact from the Project. 

2B – Physical Environment 

The Draft EIS will include an evaluation of potential impacts to aesthetics and visual resources, air 

quality, hazardous material sites, health and safety, noise and vibration, historic and cultural 

resources, and parks and recreational areas. 

2C- Natural Environment 

The Draft EIS will include an evaluation of potential impacts to aquatic and terrestrial habitats, 

wildlife, wetlands, streams, water quality, and threatened and endangered species. 

3. Alignments/Alternatives 

Following preparation of the Purpose and Need statement for the Draft EIS, TxDOT and FRA will undertake 

an alternatives screening process to identify the range of reasonable alternatives to be studied in detail in 

the Draft EIS. These alternatives, including alignments and station areas, will build upon those 

recommended in the Texas Oklahoma Passenger Rail Study (TOPRS), as well as other potential 

alternatives identified by members of the public, agencies, and other stakeholders during the public 

scoping process. The alternatives analysis will be shared with the public. It is anticipated that the Draft EIS 

will identify a preferred alternative. 

4. Construction/Operation/Design/Technology 

Design and construction-period impacts of intercity passenger trains with diesel or electric propulsion, as 

well as track design, operational issues, social and environmental impacts, ridership, and other potential 

Project impacts or benefits will be evaluated and included in the Draft EIS. It is anticipated that a preferred 

alternative will be identified in the Draft EIS from these alternatives, which will be shared with the public 

for review and comment. 

 
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DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 Page 114

5. Cost/Funding/Governance 

As part of the Project, potential preliminary estimated costs for construction, operations, and right-of-way 

acquisition, as well as potential funding sources and public-private investment opportunities for rail 

operations and development adjacent to station locations will be identified. This information will be 

considered, along with other factors, in the identification of a preferred alternative for public review and 

comment in the Draft EIS. One of the alternatives evaluated in the Draft EIS will be a “no build” alternative, 

which will consider the impacts to the human and natural environment if the project were not built and will 

serve as the basis of comparison for the “build” alternatives. 

6. Multimodal Planning 

The Draft EIS will include an analysis of the existing transportation systems in the region (automobiles, 

transit, air, pedestrian/bikes), as well as other existing and proposed passenger rail services connecting 

major cities within and outside of Texas. Part of the proposed draft Purpose and Need Statement is to 

develop an intercity passenger rail system that enhances connectivity between the varying systems 

already in the study area. 

7. Process/Stakeholder Involvement/Legal 

Stakeholder participation and transparency are essential elements of the Project and the NEPA process. 

TxDOT and FRA will evaluate many factors in the development of the Draft EIS including public and agency 

comments. Additional opportunities for public engagement and stakeholder input will be provided 

throughout the environmental review process. 

8. Statewide Rail System 

The purpose of the Project is to provide a financially viable, safe, reliable, congestion-relieving and 

environmentally sustainable intercity passenger rail service connecting Dallas and Fort Worth that 

provides a key link between the existing and developing Texas high-performance passenger rail service. 

While standing on its own as a critical part of the region’s transportation infrastructure, the Project will be 

evaluated for its potential to provide a critical link in a future state and/or national passenger rail system, 

including the proposed high-speed rail line between Dallas and Houston on the east, and existing 

passenger rail line from Oklahoma City through Fort Worth, and future connectivity to Austin and/or South 

Texas on the west. 

9. Station Planning, Location, and Land Use 

The Draft EIS will include an evaluation of station area alternatives. The analysis will include reviews of 

existing land use plans and development potential, population and projected ridership for the new 

passenger rail service, access and connections to other modes of transportation, and other social and 

environmental considerations. It is anticipated that a preferred alternative, including general station areas 

will be identified in the Draft EIS for public review and comment. 

10. Comment(s) Noted 

Thank you for your comment(s). They have been noted as part of the Project record.

 

11. Outside of Project Scope 

This issue falls outside the scope of the Project under NEPA.
DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 

Record 

Number Name Public Stakeholder Comments/Issues Identified Theme 

1 Unknown Because I am legally blind I need mass transit options. It will be important for 

our area. We cannot build enough roads. It has to be part of our future plans. 

Purpose and 

Multimodal P

2 Jerri 

Anderson 

Affordable, long-term parking at key stations. Multimodal P

Station 

Planning/Locat

Use 

3 Doug 

Cannon 

Texas needs more rail. Congestion is becoming overwhelming and we are experiencing exponential population growth. In order for Texas to remain a viable option for both business and residents we need more efficient methods of transportation. 

NEPA (Environ

Human Enviro

Multimodal Plan

HSR 

4, 61 Hon. 

Kathryn Wilemon 

Dear Manager: My name is Kathryn Wilemon and I serve on the Arlington City Council and have for the past 11 years. I also serve as Mayor Pro Tempore. At this time I am also chair of the North Central Texas Council of Governments Executive Committee and member of the Regional Transportation Council (RTC). Transportation is a top priority for the City of Arlington. Our City supports the Dallas to Fort Worth High Speed Rail corridor along Interstate 30. I want to extend thanks to the Federal Railroad Administration for initiating this process to move this project forward. We are very excited about High Speed Rail - it will transform our metro area and the North Texas region. We have experienced tremendous growth in our population and economy, and improving mobility is very important to us. There are a variety of reasons high-speed rail will enhance our region. Some of the reasons include reducing highway congestion, making travel more reliable, improving air quality, providing more transportation choices, increasing the safety of travelers, and promoting our economic growth. We support a three station concept in downtown Dallas, Arlington and Forth Worth, which is also part of the RTC's Mobility Plan. There is fantastic economic development potential with a station located in Arlington. We are the home to various entertainment venues including AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Park, Six Flags Over Texas, and Hurricane Harbor amusement parks. The City of Arlington also is home to the University of Texas at Arlington. Riders will get unparalleled access to these and other destinations in Arlington that 

NEPA (Environ

Human; Alig

Alternatives; M

Planning; S

Planning/Locat

Use 
DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 

Record 

Number Name Public Stakeholder Comments/Issues Identified Them

they would not otherwise have. For these reasons, a station located along the I-30 corridor makes the most sense. (Verbal Testimony)  Well, thank you so much. And I, first of all, want to thank the FRA and TxDOT for holding this public hearing and what it means to us. I'm here to speak on behalf of the citizens of Arlington and, as you know, we are regional, we are part of the region, and that's the reason we're here. But we would like to also emphasize why it's important to our city that, you know, transportation is a priority for Arlington. And our city supports the Dallas-to-Fort Worth highspeed rail corridor along the Interstate 30 corridor. We have experienced tremendous growth in Arlington, and as you know, the reasons that we really need this high-speed rail, too, is we're reducing highway congestion, we're making travel more reliable, improving air quality, providing more transportation choices, increasing the safety of travelers, and promoting our economic growth. We support this three-station concept in Dallas, Arlington and Fort Worth. It has also been endorsed by the RTC, the mobility plan of the RTC. In Arlington there's been fantastic economic development and with a lot of potential. As you know, we're home to the University of Texas at Arlington, the AT&T Stadium, Cowboys, Globe Life Park, home of the Texas Rangers, Six Flags Over Texas, Hurricane Harbor, the Bowling Museum and the Arlington Convention Center. Those are right along the corridor that we're discussing right now. And yes, we would like that stop to be on that corridor to emphasize our entertainment district. It's one of the top entertainment districts in the whole State of Texas. Our riders will get unparalleled access to destinations in Arlington that they would not otherwise have. And for these reasons, a station located along this corridor will make the most sense. In addition, their plans for a transportation connection link the high-speed rail to central Arlington and to D/FW. Again, this region needs these three stations.  The City of Arlington is prepared to assist the FRA and TxDOT in this study, and we thank you for the opportunity tonight to speak, and we encourage -- 
DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 

Record 

Number Name Public Stakeholder Comments/Issues Identified Theme 

well, we encourage you to build this rail. And let's get those three stops in. And for the great State of Texas, North Texas region and for Arlington, and thank you for having us tonight. In addition, there are plans for a transportation connection to link the High Speed Rail to central Arlington and DFW Airport. Again, the region needs a station in Arlington. The City of Arlington is prepared to assist the FRA with its study. We look forward to working with you help enhance regional mobility in North Texas. 

5, 63, 70 

Kevin Feldt [ See Record # 77] NEPA (Environ

Human; Alig

Alternativ

Construction/Op

sign; Multimoda

Station 

Planning/Locat

Use 

6, 10 Nanci 

JohnsonPlump 

Attempt to keep along current roadways/railways if possible. It will be imperative to keep signage directional & other consistent with "in place" standards around the world!!! For all visitors to our region. This applies to directional to multi-modal connections! Cities can promote themselves at their stations & not impact critical signage. Access to major economic drivers impact the entire region! 

NEPA (Environ

Human

Construction/Op

sign; Multimoda

Station 

Planning/Locat

Use 

7 Roy Miliner For Arlington, connections to Dallas and Fort Worth is vital for our 

environment and overall economy. I really think the Interstate 30 route is the better route period. With at stop close to the entertainment district would be a benefit for the [entire] region.Air quality is the main reason for supporting this rail system. 

Purpose and 

NEPA/Environ

Human and P

Environment; A

Alternatives; M

Planning; S

Planning/Locat

Use 

8 Susan Au Station placement & impacts in these areas 

DFW area is in non-attainment area. We need to know type of rail going to be used & parking areas for commuters to use with currently existing 

NEPA (Environ

Human, Physi

Natural; Alig

Alternativ
DFW CORE EXPRESS

June 2015 

Record 

Number Name Public Stakeholder Comments/Issues Identified Theme 

infrastructure. Keep in mind future 2018 Hard Rock hotel & Indoor Ski Resort in Grand Prairie (I-30 & Beltline) Depending on placement, who (housing) will be displaced & will there be a budget to move residents? Wetlands exist in West Dallas along I-30, for pockets of potential environmental issues. What will be done? How will design be to avoid these areas/issues? Please keep me informed. Transportation placement directly affects my planning for housing placement & community services. 

Construction/Op

sign; 

Cost/Funding/G

Multimodal P

Process/Stak

Involvement/Leg

Planning/Locat

Use 

9 Kevin Janni Think it is important to have an Arlington stop between Dallas & Fort Worth. 

Not in favor of any construction that would alter any important natural resources, like wetlands, flood plains. 

NEPA (Environ

Natural; St

Planning/Locat

Use 

11 Unknown Social equity & Economic development. What riders will the proposed rail 

capture who are not currently riding the TRE? Accessibility vs. Mobility: Limited stops between CBD's of Dallas & FW will improve travel time appeal of rail; however limits development & travel in between the two central cities. Station locations/alignment is difficult to separate from political issues of which municipal development competition & who subsidies the transit service. Are we going to provide additional mobility for folks who would most benefit? What about public transit in Arlington? It seems likely that this particular transit line would only serve large event traffic. Is the traffic congestion saved worth the cost? Need more public transit in Arlington to increase social benefit of HSR between Dallas & FW. Also, a rail stop generates pedestrians; in Arlington they would face a sea of parking. Is that the best land use? Can we use this rail development to force a land use change? I-30 corridor alignment would likely be better to serve Arlington event venues: 

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e.g. AT&T Stadium, Ranger Ballpark. Station design is critical because highway ROWs usually are very bad/dangerous pedestrian environments. Need to reconcile the cost of ROW in relation to pedestrian access upon alighting/boarding. 

12 William 

Limer 

Parks could be added or improved allow lines which would include parking for Park & Ride, Ride Share, [illegible]. High speed over such a short distance 30 -40 miles does that make sense & this would limit the number of stations which are needed to make this useful. Look @ Sky Frame. I work with the Arlington Master Composters, and would like to have some of us [involved] in planning of this task. There needs to be a station in Arlington on I30 Route and there is a great spot at I30 & Collins where 18 acres are being cleared for some use to be determined. 

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13 William 

Vidaud 

Two high population areas along the existing TRE Line, being Irving and HEB. Stations at these two locations only (except for terminus stations) should be adequate to maintain high-speed service. Keep maintenance facilities local, for future job opportunities. Maintain some continuity or integration among the various rail systems by using common Rights of Way, Stations and maint. facility locations. Specifically - Electric Light Rail, Diesel Push-Pull, High Speed Electric/[Diesel], etc. If I-30 line is used, it is critical that an Arlington stop be provided. 

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14 Regaynal 

B. Poplion 

This study should address the rail connection(s) to the southern Dallas County area. A connection near the 67/20 corridors. Also, some input & thought should be considered for connections from Love Field Airport to the DFW Airport. 

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15 Mark 

Greene 

Electrified system only - air quality NEPA (Environ

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16 Joel Ballew I am the Vice President of Government and Community Affairs for Purpose and 
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Texas Health Resources, one of the nation's largest faith-based, nonprofit health care systems, and the past chairman of the Arlington Chamber's Public Policy Advisory Council. As you all know, transportation is an extremely important priority for north Texas, and I support High Speed Rail along the 1-30 corridor with three stations in downtown Dallas, Arlington and Fort Worth for our fast-growing region. The High Speed Rail initiative will help address several critical needs, including reducing highway congestion, improving air quality and providing additional transportation options and economic development opportunities. An Arlington station is critical to serve the region's Entertainment District, which is home to the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers and Six Flags, as well as one of the state's largest and fastest growing public universities-the University of Texas at Arlington. I urge your support for this important initiative and appreciate the opportunity to speak. Thank you. 

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17, 68 Robert 

Cluck (Mayor) 

Dear Manager: Transportation is a top priority for the City of Arlington; and as such, we support the Dallas to Fort Worth High Speed Rail corridor along Interstate 30. I want to extend thanks to the Federal Railroad Administration for initiating this process to move this project forward. We are very excited about High Speed Rail - it will transform our metro area and the North Texas region. We have experienced tremendous growth in our population and economy, and improving mobility is very important to us. There are a variety of reasons high-speed rail will enhance our region. Some of the reasons include reducing highway congestion, making travel more reliable, improving air quality, providing more transportation choices, increasing the safety of travelers, and promoting our economic growth. We support a three station concept in downtown Dallas, Arlington and Fort Worth, which is also part of the RTC's Mobility Plan. There is fantastic economic 

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development potential with a station located in Arlington. We are the home to various entertainment venues including AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Park, Six Flags Over Texas, and Hurricane Harbor amusement parks. The City of Arlington also is home to the University of Texas at Arlington. Riders will get unparalleled access to these and other destinations in Arlington that they would not otherwise have. For these reasons, a station located along the I-30 corridor makes the most sense. In addition, there are plans for a transportation connection to link the High Speed Rail to central Arlington and DFW Airport. Again, the region needs a station in Arlington. The City of Arlington is prepared to assist the FRA with its study. We look forward to working with you help enhance regional mobility in North Texas. Sincerely, Robert N. Cluck, M.D. (Verbal Testimony) First of all, thank you all for coming to Arlington today. It's really important to us that we see you and hear you. I'm very impressed with the public process you just described. Public process is so important to everybody. Of course, being mayor of Arlington, which is approaching -- I don't know exactly what the population is. Approaching 400,000 people. And this whole area, Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington is exploding with people, and that's a good thing for most of us. Of course, I support high-speed rail between Dallas/Fort Worth and Arlington with a stop here in Arlington. I think that all three mayors that you're going to hear will indeed support that. Because we understand that there are activities in all three of those cities that need support, transportation support. For us, of course, it's the Dallas Cowboys. Some people call them America's team. Not me, but some. But of course, they have so many big events here in Arlington and not just football. There are concerts. We're estimating that with the Cowboys and with the Texas Rangers and with Six Flags there are probably 8 million plus people who visit this area, this concentrated area every year, and we're proud of that. Clearly they need to have a way to get here more painlessly than what they can do today. 
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We do need high-speed rail. We support it. We want to help you any way we can because it's kind of vital to the entire region. On big days when we have large numbers of people coming, 100,000 people for a ballgame, people have trouble getting here because of the I-30 congestion. And to me having a stop in Arlington is a perfect scenario for success here. So I urge you to consider Dallas, stop in Fort Worth, stop in Arlington. And I want to tell you that again we will support you any way we can during this process. It's a lengthy process but one that's necessary for everybody to have a say in. So that's all I have. Thank you very much. 

18 Unknown 1) Can the IH30 HOV lanes be used for the high-speed rails? 2) Are there 

viable alternate technologies? 

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19 Unknown To be successful the rail must be truly rapid transit & connect to transit in 

Dallas/Fort Worth & Arlington. 1) If ROW needed, I-20 corridor is best. 2) Noise or stopping for crossings makes it very unattractive g) South of DFW & Dallas/Arlington/FW very underserved By DART & transit. Unfair to southern residents. 

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20, 81 Patrick L. 

Boyd-Lloyd 

Ease of use, with more than one mid-city stop; Multi-modal connectivity; Connectivity As little impacts on wildlife habitat as possible. As both Arlington and Grand Prairie have "Entertainment Districts" it’s imperative to have stops in both locations. TxDOT/DART are building a Park 'n' Ride @ Beltline & I-30 so a station there makes sense. (Verbal Testimony)  I'm a lifelong resident. I definitely agree with Mr. Taylor on traveling the world and seeing places with rail, it's definitely -- it's time has come for us, across the state. He brings some valid points and the gentleman just now about the cost of it and is it the right type of rail system. 

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I've gone to school at UT Arlington and everyone asks why do they not have rail to there and public transportation. My comments to this are -- I keep hearing I was at the Fort Worth meeting for a little bit yesterday. I keep hearing Dallas/ Arlington/Fort Worth I think -- I live in Dallas. I think they are missing opportunity in Grand Prairie. I think with TRE in Hurst/Euless/Bedford -- I think we need more alignments in time and if we can only get one now, that's great. I think we have to think about the future. I think I-20 is definitely -- I don't use it that much, but I'm sure there's a lot of people that could use it. And I'm just curious since TxDOT is involved, everyone is asking right now -- you hear out in the public they are rebuilding LBJ, for instance, and I-30. I watched it be built, torn apart and rebuilt with HOV. Why are we not putting rail lines in the middle of these freeways like they did in Chicago? When you go from O'Hare to downtown, it's right in the middle of the Kennedy Expressway. It only makes sense. I don't understand why that's not being done. I think, as a taxpayer, it will save some money also. 

21 Unknown How will DMWBE's be included in the Construction/Outreach and Public 

Information processes. What DMWBE Organizations will the DFW Core Express Service Project partner with? 

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22, 46 Jason 

Smith 

I believe the Arlington stop should utilize the Lamar Blvd Park and Ride, located on the north side of IH-30, on Lamar Blvd just west of Cooper Street. This P & R is very large and highly underutilized. Much easier to utilize an existing facility. Dallas Station should be at old Reunion Arena site. (Verbal Testimony) I wanted to thank Mr. Steavens for coming to Dallas and presenting the Dallas-Fort Worth Core Express project. I am a BIG supporter of the project and although the ones who chose to comment may have been negative, I wanted to assure him there are plenty in FAVOR of this project, especially along IH-30. Please pass this along to him. 

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23 Unknown The (High-Speed Rail) should be (Downtown Dallas) in the stop from Houston 

to Dallas it [stopped] in with light rail stop from Houston to (Downtown 

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(Dallas). Then from Downtown Dallas the light rail - high-speed train can go the (way) of Interstate 30. Then stop at [Pinnacle] Park in Oak Cliff then the high-speed rail [illegible] stop at (Six Flag) or really AT&T Cowboy Stadium then University of Texas Downtown Ft. Worth to the Intermodal Center Trinity Rail Station in Downtown Ft. Worth 

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24 R. Scott The economies & efficiencies that can be [illegible] by the most direct 

corridor. Using existing Class I lines have costs associated with at grade crossing for high-speed rail. Economic costs (capital & operational) should be kept at a minimum. The DFW link should not be allowed to slow the Dallas - Houston segment from being implemented. 

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25 Duane 

Hengst 

I support the project. It obviously has to be done right & have sufficient cost/benefit ratio, (although < 1.0 not necessarily required), & sufficiently address public concerns. 

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26 Unknown Access to stations by other means of transportation (LRT, Car, Parking) 

Accessibility to stations, platforms, security & safety Fastest most direct route = I-30 Plan for future expansion East & West (Lubbock, Tyler, Longview) 

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27 Unknown Connectivity Feasibility Economic Development PotentialNoise Economic 

Development Approval AccessConsider widening scope to IH20 at IH45 to include station locations being studied in Dallas - Houston HSR EIS at IH20 and also at Loop 12. Both of which could provide more area available for adjacent economic development that would help provide catalysts for southern Dallas County. Downtown Union Station Area is built out therefore less opportunity for adjacent new development. 

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28 E. 

Alexander 

Cost to the public - taxes & fares; Ease & cost of access to stations; Locations of the stations (e.g. Ft Worth Arts Dist.); Need org to run the service after completion & structured to be responsive to public (as opposed to NCTCOG) 

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& safeguards to avoid corruption (e.g. NTTA) Exhaust pollution; noise pollution; visual pollution; protect adjacent home owners from above impacts Would like public meetings at each step of the process for public review. Station locations: Would like a station in Ft Worth Arts Dist. This project seems to be to remedy what DART/TRE should have been designed to do already. 

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29 Unknown All options clearly presented. Presenters did a good job on showing the 

process, but didn't answer why this study came about. Where is the demand? I am a supporter of the rail line but there should be more background on why - The planning process. How will ridership on the TRE be addressed? Will the two rail lines compete with each other? The TRE should be improved rather than HSR. 

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30 Hon. 

Vonciel Jones Hill 

Dear Mr. Johnsen: I appreciate the opportunity to provide comments on the proposed Dallas-Fort Worth Core Express service and the scope of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) as published in the 5 September 2014, Federal Register. As a member of the Commission for High-Speed Rail in Dallas-Fort Worth and chair of the Dallas City Council's Transportation and Trinity River Project Committee, I would like to offer my support for the proposed Dallas-Fort Worth Core Express Service project. The Dallas-Fort Worth Core Express high-speed rail project is key to establishing connectivity with other transportation services in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Arlington. The project will help to alleviate congestion on roadways and provide a faster alternative to driving. Given the region's continued population growth, this project presents an innovative opportunity to address the increasing traffic delays through an interconnected and multimodal transportation system vision. Successful regional transportation planning and 

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investment are critical to managing the region's growth. The City of Dallas requires a variety of safe and efficient, multimodal transportation options to meet a diverse range of needs for a community of approximately 1.2 million. The City not only promotes an efficient transportation network, but also encourages a variety of transit options such as commuter rail, light rail, street car, and local bus. The expansion of the region's transit network with high-speed rail could link all forms of transit to major destinations within Dallas and create key regional connections. Finally, the proposed project has the potential to connect to other future highspeed rail corridors, such as the proposed Dallas to Houston high-speed rail project. The goal would be to allow a rider to depart Houston and ride all the way to Fort Worth without having to change trains in Dallas, allowing for a "one-seat ride." This is consistent with the region's adopted mobility plan and its three station policy. Again, I fully support high-speed rail service between Dallas and Fort Worth and support the scope of the EIS. If you have any questions, please contact me at (214) 670-0777 or vonciel.hill@dallascityhall.com. Sincerely, Judge Vonciel Jones Hill Councilmember, City of Dallas Member, TTC Commission on High Speed Rail 

31 Jere 

Thompson 

Dear Mr. Johnsen: In January 2014, the Texas Transportation Commission (TTC) established the Commission for High-Speed Rail in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) region to advise the TTC on the implementation of a proposed high-speed rail project. In the September 5,2014, Federal Register, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) published a Notice of Intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to identify the impacts of constructing and operating intercity passenger rail service between Dallas and Fort Worth. As a member of the Commission for High-Speed Rail and a member of the business community, I appreciate the opportunity to provide comments on 

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the Dallas-Fort Worth Core Express Service and would like to express my support for the project. The DFW region has seen tremendous population and economic growth in recent years. As the region grows, the Dallas-Fort Worth Core Express Service high-speed rail project would provide a fast, safe, and reliable form of travel, helping to alleviate congestion and provide a faster alternative to driving. Not only would congestion be reduced, but the project would make good business sense for Texas and the region. High-speed rail between Dallas, Arlington and Fort Worth is needed as a transportation system connection, as well as an economic development generator. The project would enhance business opportunities by creating jobs and improving economic development through the revitalization of areas around rail stations. Maximizing transit oriented developments would serve the needs of the transit rider, the immediate neighborhoods as well as the surrounding community and the region as a whole. This would encourage business development, while accommodating mobility needs. Once constructed, the project would serve a vital link connecting two long-distance high-speed rail projects in Texas. The combination of long-distance with highspeed rail and the DFW connection will greatly improve mobility options in Texas and regional economic development opportunities. Again, thank you for the opportunity to provide my support of the EIS scope for the high-speed rail project between Dallas and Fort Worth. 

32 Bill 

Thornton 

To Whom It May Concern: On behalf of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, and our 1,900 member businesses, I am writing in support of the proposed Fort Worth to Dallas highspeed rail line. Transportation infrastructure is one of our top policy issues and as one of the fastest growing cities in the United States, it is imperative that we keep up with that population growth with smart infrastructure investments. In order to reduce traffic congestion and provide greater travel options for our businesses, employees and residents, the City of Fort Worth and the region must have a multi-modal transportation system that is inter-connected. Along 

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with our existing roadway improvements, bus system, commuter rail service, and planned TEXRail, the Chamber believes this high-speed rail line project will create jobs, stimulate the economy and enhance regional and state mobility. The Chamber would also request that any proposed high-speed rail station be located in downtown Fort Worth at a location that provides access to our multi-modal passenger rail and bus services. The station location should also be positioned in a way to provide for connectivity to a north/south high-speed rail system providing future service to locations such as Austin, San Antonio and Oklahoma City. The City of Fort Worth is one of the country's historic "rail" cities and the freight rail industry continues to thrive here today and is the headquarters for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway. With the recent completion of Tower 55 enhancements, one of the most congested rail hubs in the country, we are poised to continue those successes in high-speed passenger rail. As a city of over 800,000 residents and growing, the Chamber believes this project will thrive and add connectivity to not only the region but the State of Texas. 

33 Michael 

Hogan 

Downtown Fort Worth to downtown Dallas One stop in the Arlington entertainment area Involve Jerry Jones Must have long-term parking available at stations Create a Facebook page dedicated to this one project. I'll help promote it. 

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34 Travis 

Malone 

I attended the High Speed and Express Rail Public Meeting On November 18th at the Fort Worth ITC Station. I am excited to see these projects in their very beginning stages. Specifically on the DFW High Speed Rail I support the 3 stations stopping in Fort Worth, Then Arlington, and then to Dallas. It is important to me that Arlington has a stop on this line. And on the rail line itself I would like it to be put [through] areas with building already in the process of being demolished. 

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This might make it easier for the local cities to agree to have the rail go [through] their area. And maybe the local cities will pay for the buildings to be demolished. This would save money for the developer or the tax payer.  It is also important to me that the DFW Metroplex be connected to all other High speed rail lines coming to Texas. I am legally Blind and of course not able to drive due to my [condition]. If DFW was connected to all other future High Speed Rail lines it would give me and many disabled citizens a way to move all around the state and into other states. Finally I want to say that high-speed rail must be an option for our local transportation needs. Our population is growing by huge numbers. We will only have so much room for roads. High speed rail must be part of future use for transportation planning in our area. Thank you for taking the time to read my comments. 

35 Elena 

Andro 

I believe a high-speed [corridor] would be a great public service to all the citizens of North Texas and serve to equalize and enhance the economic health of the area. 

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36 Karen 

Garrett 

I'm for it - DFW Core Express Service, the proposed 32-mile, highspeed/express rail line between Dallas and Fort Worth. Comment Note

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37 Philip 

Hansen 

This will be another waste of taxpayer money. There are very few commuter rail lines that break even. Only know of one. The money could be better spent on a different type of system or not spent at all. 

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38 Daniel 

Melendez 

Please follow through on this idea. Comment Note

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39 Tejas Soni Can we use Evacuated Tube Transport Technology (ET3)? ET3 is silent, low 

cost (1/10th cost of High Speed Rail), safe, faster than jets & is electric. It has been used in countries Spain, Japan, Italy & China in past years. 

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40 Mark 

Schatzman 

I've lived in Arlington since 1976 and we've needed mass transit the entire time. However now with the influx of people for special events (as Arlington is now known for) we need it EVEN more. Please put at the very least one rail stop in Arlington - high-speed, slow speed, medium - I don't care. Give us transit! Thanks. 

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41 Richard 

Weber 

Instead of wasting all that money and federal money on a grossly overpriced, useless rail project, spend it on the many miles of road you are supposedly 

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42 William 

Nelson 

We already have TRE in Arlington but if high-speed rail is to come, current TRE station is nowhere close to where events are i.e. Cowboys, Rangers, Six Flags. TRE already runs between Dallas / Ft. Worth, let’s connect to other cities in Texas with high-speed rail. I would ride it to Houston, even Corpus Christi if built. 

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43, 92 Chris 

Suderman 

I attended the public meeting on Wednesday. I understand why the each route was picked. However, I am concerned about the lack of supporting facilities in the Arlington (Cowboys stadium) area. There is very little public transportation and such a station in the area would require lots of vehicle support and parking spaces to support it. (Verbal Testimony) I heard on the radio that there were public meetings this week. Under get involved" there list no meetings for this week. However, if you open the newsletter for October, there are three meetings listed this week (along with dates / times / locations). Why isn't these meetings listed under get involved.... 

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44 Tom 

Schlueter 

I am strongly in favor of this project. Provide a stop in Arlington. Station 

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45 Gloria 

Marino 

Dear Project Manager: It will be nice if you consider North East side like Rockwall, Roisey, Forney Cities we take too long to get to Denton, Grapevine or Irving for example, all jobs are there and it's very difficult the travel with accidents, traffic etc. 

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47, 50, 51 

Cameron Atkins 

The high-speed rail may be too costly to build on the best route. I would highly suggest maybe using express lanes on I-30 to fund a like Trinity Rail Express along the Union Pacific rail through Arlington from downtown Fort Worth to Dallas. This would serve the same traffic and could have the potential to have more stops. High speed rail from Dallas and fort worth would be nice but the ridership would that support the cost? This would only be successful with a Stop in 

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Arlington as that's the southern gateway to the Airport. Three stops are a must. DALLAS, FORT WORTH and ARLINGTON. Now with Amtrak relocating to the TRE rail line. I believe a cheaper and more serviceable travel [option] opposed to high-speed rail would be another commuter rail down the Union Pacific line through Arlington. This would be great on game days and open the door for future stops in other cities. Start with Downtown Dallas, FTW, and Arlington. 

48 Lesley 

Slaughter 

I would be very interested in an express/high-speed rail between downtown Dallas and downtown FW. I live in west fort worth and work in downtown Dallas. I know many people that do the same and would take the express or high-speed rail daily. I used to take the TRE every day and DART but since having a baby I choose to drive because it is shorter. 

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52 David Lyes I believe our public transportation infrastructure is in need of revitalizing. 

North Texas is long overdue for such a program. I would like to see the I-30 corridor project pursued. Thank you. 

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53 Ken Duble I was unable to make the hearing due to a scheduling conflict, but I disagree 

with opinions expressed that the Metroplex should satisfy its rail aspirations with upgrades to the TRE. I happen to think the TRE would benefit from upgrades, particularly double-tracking its entire length and 7-day-aweek service. But, I envision the TRE's role as more to collect passengers from the mid-cities and feed them into high-speed rail terminals in Dallas and Fort Worth rather than to take the place of high-speed rail. In particular, the idea of the TRE providing express service and skipping stops makes little sense to me. If the train isn't going to go any faster than 79 mph, then skipping a few stops wouldn't save enough time to justify the inconvenience of the more complicated schedule, unless this involved doubling the number of trains and running express trains in between the trains being run at present. Even then, I doubt express trains would be worth the bother absent a commitment to run faster than 79 mph. If we couldn't build tracking along I-30 to accommodate 205-mph trains, that isn't to say a track wouldn't be worth building. Trains from Houston ought to be extended to Fort Worth at some level of speed in between 79 mph and ༜ mph, as there will always be the potential for expansion toward Albuquerque some day. We ought to expand HSR with this in mind. 

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49,54 Jeffrey & 

Laurel Stvan 

I would like to convey my VERY STRONG support for the Dallas-Fort Worth Core Express Service. More specifically, I endorse the suggested Interstate 30 alignment, the adoption of the same advanced motive technology and dedicated right-of-way being proposed for the Dallas to Houston line, and a commitment to construct the two lines concurrently. ***** Echoing the comments made by Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price at the public scoping meeting which took place at the Fort Worth ITC on 11.18.14, we would like to convey to both TxDOT and FRA our VERY STRONG support for the Dallas-Fort Worth Core Express Service, the proposed high-speed passenger rail connection between downtown Dallas and downtown Fort Worth that is currently under study. More specifically, we endorse the suggested Interstate 30 alignment, the adoption of the same advanced motive technology and dedicated right-of-way being proposed for the Dallas to Houston High-Speed Rail Project, and a commitment to construct the DallasFort Worth Core Express Service concurrently with the proposed Dallas to Houston line. We would also note that, having utilized both JR Centrals Tokaido Shinkansen (Japan) and Renfes Ave (Spain) - as well as various high-speed lines in the UK and Germany - we have witnessed firsthand the dramatic and overwhelmingly positive economic impact that these lines have had on their respective regions. We sincerely thank you for the opportunity to weigh in on this matter - especially at this early point in the process. 

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55 Ricardo 

Garcia 

Please consider adding a station of some type in the college area of TCU. It is with firm belief that the rail system could be utilized by students attending the college, visitors attending football games and every day citizens like myself. I understand there is always some sort of opposition when it comes to a project like this however, the 8thAvenue train yard (in Fort Worth) is an excellent choice. It is already being used as a train yard with daily activity and traffic, and it could accommodate the addition of parking and the infrastructure needed for a depot. Please consider the area with the possibility of it tying into the medical district and downtown. I have seen this advantage in Dallas where it works to benefit their residents and visitors alike. Please help us secure our future with the transportation that we need to serve our community and visitors. Thank you for your time. 

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56 Jason 

Crawford 

The purpose of the Core Express Service must be clearly defined as serving the cores of Dallas and Fort Worth. I am opposed to a regular and frequent stop in Arlington along the high-speed rail route. I believe that having a stop in Arlington negates the benefits a high-speed rail would offer. I don’t see how the train would reach a beneficial speed only to begin decelerating for the Arlington stop. If a stop in Arlington is planned, I would hope that it would be served less frequently by the high-speed rail, or served by a wholly other rail connection. 

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57 Tormaine 

Thompson 

Fort Worth-Dallas: Use TRE corridor & multi-connect station at Centreport to promote more public transit development to/from Arlington attractions. Fort Worth & Dallas stations: Must be at FTW ITC and Dallas Union Station for the most access to local rail service. Dallas-Houston: Need fenced, grass-lined animal migration paths for animal safety. 

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58 Lupe 

Minter 

A thought came to me in my mind, it's just like American Airlines right now, it's putting a hold on everything on account of that Ebola stuff. So I'm thinking, well, American Airlines somehow or another checks people before they board the plane. So how is this, where people that's going to be bringing the fast-moving train get to where they and so many people, how will they make it to where they can train people to check them and to investigate them or what? That's my question. How will they -- what check system will they have in place to check all those people because that's not a playing game. And it travels so fast. That disease travels about as fast as that train, you know. I would hate it to be known that there was a person on that train that was not investigated before they boarded it. That's what I wanted to ask. 

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59, 86 Hon. Betsy 

Price 

Well, good evening. Thank you for having me, it's great to be here and we appreciate the Texas Department of Transportation, the Commission and FRA and everyone else, and we appreciate all of our citizens who are here who are interested. There are many people in this audience who have helped shape this entire North Texas region and indeed Fort Worth and made a major impact on our community. You know, there's a lot of discussion about highspeed rail, as there should be, as we go through this NEPA period. 

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Texas is committed to the high-speed rail projects and we must continue to push that forward. We're delighted to have Bill Meadows and his Commission, I saw Dee Kelly here. They're working hard on this important issue. From the business community standpoint it is an issue. High-speed rail is a monumental long-term and visionary decision. Just like 40 years ago, the founders of D/FW Airport, the leaders of Dallas and Fort Worth and the region came together to found the airport, this is 40th anniversary of our airport. Look at what it has done for our region and for Texas in general. ***** Dear Administrator Szabo, On behalf of the citizens of Fort Worth, I thank you for visiting Fort Worth and taking a moment to speak with us about collaborative statewide efforts to bring high-speed rail to Texas. As you know, a process is already underway to evaluate the plan to link Dallas and Houston with high-speed rail service. Additionally, high-speed rail studies are underway for the Oklahoma City-San Antonio corridor, which would include a stop in Fort Worth. With the various projects and studies, it is clear that the State of Texas is committed to developing a statewide system of high-speed rail service. I believe Texas is an ideal location to successfully implement high-speed rail service in the United States. Furthermore, I believe that the proposed high-speed rail link between Dallas and Fort Worth would be a linchpin for the broader statewide system. 

60 Hon. Sal 

Espino 

Well, Mayor Price said everything pretty much. I would just add to think about the vision. Imagine a city in a region in Texas in our country where you have not only bus transit options, streetcars, trails, bikes, commuter rail, airlines a great airport, but also high-speed rail connecting Fort Worth to Dallas to Houston, connecting high-speed rail to Austin, San Antonio and yes to the border. I was recently in Mexico with our sister city of Toluca and also in Mexico city. High-speed rail is the future. The future of transportation is to provide 

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options to our citizens and residents not only here in Fort Worth-Dallas but throughout our great State of Texas and our country. And a high-speed rail corridor between Fort Worth and Dallas to Houston, the rest of the state makes sense. Our visionary leaders here in Fort Worth, here in North Texas, in the state and our country realize the next option in transportation is rail. And I strongly support high-speed rail for this region, for our state and our country and strongly support the comments made by our great Mayor Betsy Price. Thank you very much. 

62 Hon. Gary 

Fickes 

Yes, thank you. Appreciate the opportunity, and I want to thank y'all for you being here tonight and bringing this concept to the public. This is something that a number of people in our region have been working on for many, many years. And as a member of the RTC, as Ms. Wilemon is also, we as a region have looked at this as one seat, one ticket process to go from Fort Worth to Houston through Dallas. For that to happen we have to have a station in Downtown Dallas. I noticed that the hearings that were held a few weeks ago there were other stations that were discussed that were not downtown. Of course, this gives the provider, Texas Central, the opportunity to own large tracts of land and benefit from the development of those large tracts of land that they might not be able to do in downtown. My question and my concern is, if that's what they do, the two routes that are identified for the Dallas to Fort Worth both go to downtown. So I see some concerns there to provide that connectivity. I want us to keep that in mind that this is a region, it's not one city, it's a region. And let's bring this together and it will happen. And this will be a model, not just for the United States but for the world. Thank you. 

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64 Randle 

Howard 

My name is Randall Howard. I'm President of R.D. Howard Construction. We do construction management and contracting, 68-year-old Fort Worth business. I'm a lifelong resident of Fort Worth and I'm here to speak in favor of the three-station concept including Downtown Fort Worth, Arlington and Dallas.  I've traveled all over the United States and I see mass transportation systems 

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in cities half the size of Fort Worth that are very efficient. And the idea of high-speed rail from Houston to Dallas only is a bit difficult to understand. There's a reason that that rail system is coming from Houston to Dallas as opposed to from Houston, the largest city to San Antonio, which is now the second largest city in our State. And the reason is Fort Worth and Arlington, that's the difference, because of all the mass of people. So we don't want to be cut short by having the rail system stop short of coming all the way through to the Downtown Fort Worth. We are excited about the prospects of this happening. There are certainly a number of economic development benefits. There are a number of contracting opportunities, but we are really, really thrilled our Mayor Betsy Price is spearheading the movement towards mass transportation on the west side of the Metroplex, and we commend her on doing that. And we thank you-all for this hearing, and we just want you to know, we don't want Fort Worth and Arlington to be left out. Thank you. 

65 Stanford 

Lynch 

Thank you. I'm Stanford Lynch. I'm the Chairman of the Transportation Committee for the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce. I'm here to represent the Chamber and tell you that we support what you're doing with respect to the study for high-speed rail between Fort Worth and Dallas through Arlington. We very much support what you're doing, and we think that it's the right thing to do at this point in time in Texas. We've made a lot of improvements within our region recently, but there's still more that we can do and we think that high-speed rail is part of that. In looking at the high-speed rail system, we want to make sure that the station locations within the City of Fort Worth are such that we provide adequate connection to multi-modal transportation, including transit and commuter passenger rail within the region. So we think that's important. We also think that the location of the station within the City of Fort Worth needs to be in such a location that continued access to the south and to the north for highspeed rail in the future to, say, Austin, San Antonio, Oklahoma City at some point in the future. So we think that's all important. We also want to stress that from a Chamber's standpoint, this is truly important to our business community. We feel like for the continued growth of our business community the economics 

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of the State of Texas and the City of Fort Worth, Tarrant County and the region, we think it's important that high-speed rail be part of that overall growth and that plan. The Board of Directors will be sending a letter and a Resolution in support of this effort, and that will be forthcoming. Thank you. 

66, 87 William 

Wright 

The cost & who will bear it? Will the annual deficits be acceptable (it will never operate at breakeven)? For workers in FW who commute to Dallas the RT fare will have to be at least $12 daily / $240/mo, plus parking at each end, say $10/day / $200/mo = $440/mo. How many are willing to pay this amount? Will the people have a vote on this project, or will it be shoved down our throats, a la the trinity river vision project? As for a public/private partnership, usually the public pays through the nose and the private partner laughs all the way to the bank. And tell us the initial capital cost plus the annual operating costs. You-all have no idea what this is going to cost, right? And do we get to vote on it? Do we get to vote on it or is it gonna be crammed down our throats like the Trinity River Vision Project? And where did this idea come from? Did it just spring up out of the brain of some guy down in Austin who says; well, you know, I think we ought to spend about $4 billion between Dallas and Fort Worth and maybe, let's see, maybe a hundred-billion dollars between Dallas and Houston. That sounds like a very good idea, we don't know how we're gonna pay for it, but we're gonna do it anyway. Also, I'm going to get in touch with this analyst at the CATO Institute. He has done a half a dozen studies on light rail and high-speed rail and why it is only feasible in two or three cities in the United States, two or three areas in the United States. And I'm gonna to see if he won't take this up as a project to help you-all see that it's just a millstone around our necks. That's all it is. And it's just a way for this contractor who spoke and consultants and lawyers to cut a big fat melon; that's what it's all about. And the taxpayers will be paying for this. What will happen is, they'll get it started, and then after they spend about -- well, they're gonna spend 15 million on the study, all right, and then when they see that it's not going to pay for itself within the first 15 years, they're going to say, oh, well, that's all right, because this is going to be for the 

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next 40 or 50 years, and certainly by that time it'll be self-sustaining and all that sort of thing. And by that time we'll be out of office and dead and gone. And so we're going to have fun while we can. You know in your heart that it is a boondoggle. Look, if we had the density, I don't know how many people live in Fort Worth and work in Dallas, or how many people live in Arlington and work in Dallas. And so somebody in Fort Worth is going to get in their car, they're going to drive down to wherever they can park, where you gonna park the cars that want to ride this thing? And high-speed rail is an oxymoron if you're going to stop in Arlington. I mean, c'mon. So then they park their car here, they get on the train, they stop in Arlington, they finally get into downtown Dallas, but they don't work in downtown Dallas. They work in North Dallas or South Dallas or anywhere but downtown Dallas. How are they gonna get from there without their car? Look, if they worked in downtown Dallas they would they would take the TRE; come on. And well, I don't know how you can get into this with no idea about what it's going to cost, who's going to use it; it just doesn't work. I mean, what they should do is build a high-speed rail between here and the airport. That's what we really need. I mean, everybody would use that. Do they have a DART from Dallas to the airport? I can see the rationale for a line between this area and Houston, but all this is is just; oh, my God, we can't let the people in Fort Worth sit there in the dark, we've got to spend $4 billion to get them over to Dallas so they can get to Houston. And I'm just wondering, eventually, you know, they've split 35 into East and West, so there should be a way to tie in and do something like that, have a Y coming and then that gets them down to Houston, but that doesn't solve the problem of Fort Worth to Dallas. On their thing there, there are four major highways already between Fort Worth and Dallas, four -- no, there are five; two north, two south and then 30 in the middle. They have just spent I don't know how many billions of dollars on highways out in North Richland Hills. I really do recommend that everyone concerned with this go to the CATO Institute and download all their studies about light rail and high-speed rail and why it is just not a very good idea in this area. 
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And I'm going to personally contact the analyst up there and ask him to get involved with this thing, do some studies and give them some good advice about why not to do it. Thank you. ***** The crying need for Fort Worth is high-speed rail from Ft. Worth to DFW. DART connects Dallas to DFW. A simple solution – High-speed rail from Ft. Worth to DFW. Those wishing to continue to Dallas can transfer to DART. Voila - two birds killed with one stone. 

67 J. Luke These are my comments on the Dallas/Fort Worth Core Express Service. I'm 

very much in favor of an express train service that will continue the bullet train project that's coming from Houston to Dallas to continue on from Dallas through Arlington to Fort Worth, Texas. I believe that a station in Arlington -- well, I should back up and say I'm in favor of a corridor coming along Interstate 30 with a station stop in Arlington near Ballpark Way, which is also called Stadium Drive. I believe with the number of events and people coming to Arlington and the AT&T stadium, Rangers stadium, Six Flags Over Texas that a station in that location near I-30 and Ballpark Way would be very helpful in transporting people around the Metroplex that need to get here. And ultimately that would be able to serve people of the Metroplex in a more efficient way. My suggested location for the station, I believe, is centrally located and would help people that would come to the events in Arlington, not only from Dallas but also from Fort Worth as well as perhaps coming on the high-speed rail from Houston. So both directions, I believe, the public needs for transportation in the form of rail would be very much enhanced by the I-30 station in Arlington. 

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69 Jeff 

Williams 

Thank you, Mayor. We appreciate that support. And it is exciting to be here in North Texas right now, isn't it? People are wanting to live here and businesses are wanting to move here. And yet we are at a time when we need to be planning for these people to come here. And transportation, of course, is an integral part of success for any region. Well, I've had the opportunity to experience high-speed rail. And it was a very pleasant experience in which I was able to ride on the high-speed rail, enjoy reading, enjoy the scenery and to not be tired when I got there at the end and not be stressed out over traffic. Well, quality of life is one thing that is very important, but also relieving congestion is another one. 

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We cannot build enough roads to take care of the growth that is being documented here. 3 million people are moving here in the next couple of decades, and that is an incredible amount of people. And every day we see that congestion there because it really is getting worse because as we said, several hundred people are moving in every day even to North Texas, so we need to provide for that. But other benefits of high-speed rail beyond relieving congestion, beyond quality of life is the opportunity to bring jobs and also the opportunity for people to be able to get to their jobs. There is a cumulative effect of being able to help in the transportation sector here in bringing in high-speed rail. And, of course, bringing jobs and getting people to their jobs is very critical for what we're trying to do here in North Texas. Also when we start boiling it down to the route, being able to come right through the heart of the Metroplex and the heart of North Texas is very critical. Connecting our region and improving that connectivity is very important. And, of course, going from Dallas to Arlington to Fort Worth, you are going to actually connect world class attractions and places that people want to come, not only the people that live here but also our visitors from outside. And you're going to hear from our Arlington Convention and Visitor's Bureau about a lot of these attractions and things we need to do here. Well, moving along, you may be saying when can we experience this? And that's something here on the high-speed rail commission that we're very interested in. Right now it's been documented, the efforts are being put forth to try to get it in by fall of 2021. It's a very ambitious, very aggressive schedule, but yet the people are coming. And we've got to accommodate the traffic and also to help with the success of North Texas. Well, our high-speed rail commission has been created to try to help with that implementation plan and to help move this along. And that's very important there as we do. And Commissioner Meadows that is leading our commission has done an incredible job. He is out of town today, and he sends his regard. But we are going to continue that aggressive mode that TxDOT has already set in trying to help, because as I stated, traffic is coming, the people are coming. And of course a big part of our success here in North Texas is going to make sure that we are looking at and providing every mode of transportation that we can to try to help move our people because we all 
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know that the success of any region is dependent upon the transportation. So thank you for coming. Just to express that one more time, coming down Interstate 30 through the heart of the Metroplex and having a station in Dallas, Arlington and Fort Worth, I think, is very key and very needed here as we move forward here in the region. Thank you. 

71 Jim 

Brothers 

Good afternoon. I am Jim Brothers with Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor. I wanted to let you know that we are very supportive of this initiative. We believe that high-speed rail moving down I-30 from Dallas to Fort Worth with a stop in Arlington is paramount. We think that this is a terrific opportunity to people into the entertainment district in Arlington. We think that -- we think the demand is already there. We believe it will be a benefit to people from all over the Dallas/Fort Worth area plus other parts of Texas who are visiting the Dallas/Fort Worth area. And, you know, quite honestly we look forward to working with all of the organizations involved in this. And we think it's a futuristic opportunity, and we're glad to be a part of it. Thank you. 

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72 Rob 

Matwick 

Good afternoon. I'm Rob Matwick. I'm executive vice president of business opportunities for the Texas Rangers. I'm here just to represent the organization and say that we are also very supportive of the development of high-speed rail along the I-30 corridor from Dallas to Arlington and over to Fort Worth. There really is no off season any longer in the entertainment district here in Arlington when you consider six months of baseball season, all the activities at AT&T stadium, certainly with Six Flags Over Texas and then the Arlington Convention Center. As Mayor pointed out and Jeff talked about, we probably have more than 8 million visitors that come in the district every year. Anything we can do to relieve congestion and make that move easier, we can certainly support. And we appreciate the opportunity to make these comments today. Thank you very much. 

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73 David 

Cozad 

My name is David Cozad. I'm the president of the nonprofit corporation Keep America Moving. Our purpose is to develop energy and transportation alternatives to the current systems. Your high-speed rail system is an exceptionally good idea. What I'm wondering is whether you're including all your options. I notice that you didn't have personal rapid transit systems as part of your list of options. There are companies here in the United States who are using this century's transportation technology as opposed to the last century's. And I would like you to include that in your discussions. The primary company I'd like you to 

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take a look at is SkyTrain who is building a system over in Tel-Aviv right now. The second question is the history of Arlington of not paying for public transportation systems. So that brings into the question of funding of the construction and essentially the funding of the continued operations. If public money is being done and taxpayer money is being used, you're going to have a real problem here in Arlington. No matter what the officials publicly say, I've listened to the personal comments, and that is going to be one of your biggest blocking moments. And you need to address that even in this part of your study. Back to personal rapid transit -- I've got maybe a few more seconds -- those systems are cheaper than all the alternatives you have there to construct and operate. And I believe it can be built in half the time in which your plan and can probably start in 2017 if you work now. Thank you. 

74 Ronnie 

Price 

Good afternoon, everyone. Ronnie Price, I'm the president of the Arlington Convention and Visitor Bureau. And just a few comments and just to echo what Mayor and Jeff have said. In looking at this, obviously I'm looking at it to improve tourism. And we know what a major impact that this is going to have to Arlington. As you know, we are the epicenter for a lot of the entertainment here. And the opportunity to have three stops along I-30 is going to be critical, one in Dallas, one in Arlington and one in Fort Worth. I like the comment that was said by Rob with the Rangers earlier. There is no off season. And if you look at what we've done over the past last several years, we'll continue to bring more and more major events to our region. So this opportunity to have this type of transportation in our region is not only going to be incremental for just Arlington alone but for our entire Metroplex. That's what we're looking for. That would put us on the world stage more often. So I appreciate your time. Again, we do support this opportunity and look forward to three stops along I-30, one in Dallas, one in Arlington and one in Fort Worth. Thank you. 

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75 Laura 

McCormick 

Thank you. I'm just a resident. I'm not with anybody. I really support the idea of a high-speed rail system. I've experienced it. I've lived on the East Coast and San Francisco, Europe and taken high-speed rail, different forms of public transit. And that's something when I moved here that I immediately noticed, you know, the lack of. You really have to have a car here to get anywhere. So I'm excited that there's talk about doing this. 

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I do have a couple comments. I have some concerns about eminent domain and about properties being, you know, taken for this project. So I want you all to really consider that and try to limit that as much as possible. I also encourage you to put stations at major employers as well as UTA. For example, Lockheed which is in White Settlement, Fort Worth, they have, I think, it's six to 10,000 employees. And I think having a connecting bus or even a station there would be really beneficial. I also -- it's a little off topic, but Arlington really needs to get a bus system and put in bike lanes. And that would enable people to get to the rail station, and it would also limit the number of cars that are on the roads, which is a huge problem and only increasing. Also I think that the system should be a nonprofit system. I think being nonprofit would keep the rates reasonable so people would be able to afford to take the train. And I think it should be run by the State or by -- yeah, by the State of Texas. I don't think it should be run by a private corporation because it's for the benefit of the citizens of Texas. And when you're considering environmental impact, I think you need to look at when you divide environments, you need to have connecting bridges so that you know the wildlife can get from one habitat to another habitat so we're not just severing those. And that can be done and has been done in other systems. So, again, I'm excited about this. And I really support all well thought-out forms of public transit. And helping us to get over our car addiction, I think, would be a wonderful thing. So thank you. 

76 Tony 

Rutigliano 

Thank you. Tony Rutigliano, president and CEO of the Downtown Arlington Management Corporation. I think we all know that effective transportation system is multimodal. I believe high-speed rail from Dallas to Fort Worth with a stop in Arlington is going to be an important part of that transportation system. We all know that we have a growing university in Arlington called the University of Texas in Arlington. Today they have over 35,000 students, 4,000 of which are international and are used to high-speed rail systems from countries where they live. So having a high-speed rail system with stops in Arlington with a connection to the university is going to be pretty important for us and benefit for the region as a whole. Thank you. 

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77 Jahnae 

Stout 

Good evening. Thank you very much for allowing me to speak on behalf of the North Central Texas Council of Governments. The Council of Governments supports investigating multiple stations and alignment options between Dallas and Fort Worth. Of particular interest is the approach to both central business districts and potential connectivity to other high-speed rail 

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corridors. We believe high-speed rail connection between Fort Worth, Arlington and Dallas is not only a needed transportation system but also an economic development generator. Furthermore, the proposed project is consistent with the region's mobility plan and the Regional Transportation Council's three station policy. Finally, we support leveraging existing freight and passenger rail corridors to help address community issues. As always, the last mile connection to final destinations will be very important. Connectivity to existing and planned systems throughout the corridor, particularly in Fort Worth, Arlington and Dallas will help address community concerns.  Again, thank you for the opportunity to speak tonight. 

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78 Al Taylor Thank you. My name is Al Taylor. I moved to Dallas in 1971. I'm a Dallas 

citizen by choice, not chance. I have had the blessed opportunity to ride on high-speed rail in Japan and Europe and I'm a big supporter and strong advocate for high-speed rail, especially the system that's being proposed for Dallas to Houston. In fact, I think that is something that's way overdue. And I'd like to add one other thing to that, the station should be in downtown Dallas at Union Station. We have billions of dollars of infrastructure that's bringing traffic to the Union Station area. That's where that station should be. As far as this project is concerned between Dallas and Fort Worth, to be quite honest, I don't think this is a good idea. I'm not against high-speed rail. I think a better alternative -- because I've heard estimates of 4 to 5, $6 billion in cost to do this. I think a better alternative would be to upgrade the TRE. Spend about one-third of that money to upgrade the TRE. You can even put a spur from say Center Port Station down to Arlington and you'd save a lot of money. I believe for the benefit of the taxpayers we have to look at this with a very critical eye. There's been -- since I've been in Dallas, a lot of great ideas, but it takes a lot of money and a lot of these ideas never saw the light of day because there's not the money there. Especially now when funds are tight, we've got to take all these ideas with a critical eye. So I'm for some kind of 

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transportation between Dallas and Fort Worth, but I think this idea is a little too expensive. Thank you. 

79 Kylar Boyd Hello, my name is Kylar Boyd and I've been dreaming and visioning about 

something like this for a long time. It's great something like this is becoming a reality. It would be interesting to see how this will help communities in the future, including helping bridge some communities that without the system would be disenfranchised or would be isolated. Thanks. 

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80 Brian 

Tindle 

Hi, my name is Brian Tindle. I work in the railroad industry selling rail cars. I agree wholeheartedly with Mr. Taylor. High-speed rail between Dallas and Fort Worth isn't really going to be that high-speed by the time it needs to start braking to get into Fort Worth. There's a large curvature getting into the Fort Worth, as you can see. It's Dalworth Junction. So you are going to have to slam a train into dynamic braking at an earlier time frame. The speed is just not going to be there. Is the juice worth the squeeze? Are we really going to see a difference between a hundred miles an hour and 80 miles an hour? Right now the TRE does not run an express train Dallas to Fort Worth. They stop at every station stop. Why not have an express train? Every other city that has passenger rail, heavy rail, runs an express train during rush hour. You know, 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. maybe around lunchtime and the same during later afternoon. We don't run an express train. And the TRE can do 80 miles an hour as it is now. I agree with improving the TRE. Bring it up to a hundred miles an hour. Passenger trains 50 years ago had no problems doing a hundred miles an hour. Why we can't do that now, I have no idea, other than stupidity of drivers that decide I'm going to stop when red lights start flashing. For a lower cost, we can upgrade the TRE even more and run express trains between Dallas and Fort Worth and save the taxpayer a lot of coin. That's just my opinion. I'm okay with the HSR. That's great. But HSR between Fort Worth and Dallas is 35 miles. 

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82 Bryan 

Slaton 

Thank you. I was raised in Dallas County. I work in Dallas now. What I was going to say is if there was a need for the road -- for the rail, I think you would see it in numbers. And if you go to DART's Web site -- get on your phone, you type in DART, facts about -- or just type in "facts about DART," their Web site will come up. If you look at Dallas Light Rail, you'll see for fiscal year '13 ridership, they had 29.5 million passengers. And then it was subsidized to the tune of $3.82 per passenger. So if you just do some math, $3.82 per passenger times $29.5 million. It's being subsidized a $112 million -- $112,690,000. People aren't riding to make it sustainable. If you do the math from the same Web site for TRE, it's being subsidized with tax dollars at $12 million. So where is the need? Where are all the people that are riding DART that would make you think people are going to ride the high-speed. They are already not riding the TRE to Fort Worth, and you are talking about putting rail all over the state of Texas. Texans don't want it. They didn't want the TransTexas corridor. And when I say, Texans don't want it, the numbers show it. People don't ride rail in Texas. We are too spread out. The numbers aren't there to show there's a need. I'm sorry. This is about pet projects. Thank you. 

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83 Mike 

Slaton 

Thank you. From East Dallas County for those of you who don't know Sunnyvale. I'm a native Dallasite. I'm an accountant for 31 years here in Dallas with my own accounting firm. I'm concerned from the taxpayer standpoint. This -- we just keep spending money on these things. I could talk much longer than three minutes about our national debt. It all just keeps adding up. We've got great roads. It's been improved. We have the TRE. We have DART. All those are good. But as the gentleman here, to go from Dallas to Fort Worth, a high-speed train, you can't get started, if you are going to stop in Arlington. Just think about that, okay. Now, if it went from -- and I'm not so sure I'm -- you know, from Oklahoma City to Houston, I'm not so sure I'm even for that, but that makes some sense. I 

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also have to kind of say that's not going to help Fairfield, Madisonville. They are going to blow through there. So it's not going to bring economic development. We've got to start doing some things that doesn't -- all this money comes from you taxpayers that work. Our national debt is what it is today, a terrible amount of money. And to do something like this, some of the people here have made excellent remarks about how it's a waste of our money on our taxpayers. People can get around. Texans primarily drive cars, vehicles. I'm kind of proud of that myself. I don't know about you. And we can get around. We have excellent roads. We probably should spend some more money on some roads, keeping them up and that sort of thing. But that's the thing to do, and you can do it a whole lot cheaper than you can do something like this that most of us in this room wouldn't even ride on. Thank you very much. 

84 Jeff Hoel Yeah, I thought about this back in 2010 or 2011 when Biden was pushing for 

high-speed rail around the country. I think a big issue is that in order to make -- in order to create the corridors, a bunch of expensive buildings will have to be bulldozed down, which requires lots and lots of money. And our current transportation system works fine right now. I think that we should go and decide where a future high-speed rail system will be built and then in maybe -- in the year 2035 or year 2050, we go -- we go and build it then. We give those expensive buildings time to depreciate and keep people from investing further money into -- into the places that are going to get bulldozed to make them for high-speed rail. We don't need it right now, but it would be nice to eventually have it.  So -- and as some other people here have indicated, Texans are cheap. So if we can save money by waiting some time to build it and allocate the corridor right now, I think we should do that. 

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85 Tiffany 

Long 

I want to come here tonight and I guess my first question is: What is the purpose of this meeting? I hear we are here to discuss NEPA. I hear we are here to discuss the environmental process. But we are not given any facts to discuss. I don't know why you bring us here and spend millions of dollars to have this meeting if true facts are not going to be presented. This meeting is about saying we are in favor of a project we don't even have full information and disclosure. I heard a gentleman -- the gentleman that spoke at the very 

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beginning at the opening of the meeting, he discussed we are here to choose the flavors of the milkshake. What I did not hear was that maybe we don't want a milkshake. Maybe that's not the option that people here want. It seems like, when these meetings are conducted, that is the purpose. So I have three different perspectives that I want to bring about each issue that I want to talk about tonight. My first one is about environmental, my second is going to be the economic impact and the third is going to be the financing and the cost involved in this. When we talk about the environmental process, we have to consider the fact that we are in a drought. In fact, Texas is in the worst drought we've had since the '50s. And I don't know how it would be possible to do a true effective environmental impact statement if we are in this drought. So I guess -- I hope someone will address that when I'm finished here, how you guys intend to fully vet these areas where sometimes there's a marsh land when we have our normal weather conditions and now it is drought. The animals have left those areas, and they are no longer there. You can't study what's not there. The second issue I want to talk about is the economic impact. A lot of people think this is great. This is going to be business and development. I've got news for you, if this is going from Dallas to Fort Worth and really be an effective rail system, it's not going to stop off in any of these communities. They are not going to benefit from it. The only people that are going to benefit are the people at point A and point B and anybody else that you add to the segments in the map later on. I don't see any economic development, not that I favor spending taxpayer money for economic development. I don't think that's right. But that's an argument that I hear from a lot of people about these types of projects. Lastly, I want to talk about our spending on this. Who is going to pay for this? Can anybody tell me over there on the panel? You guys that are handling the environmental impact studies, how much was allocated and approved to be spent for that study? No, the $15 million grant, is not free money. Where is that money coming from, the federal government? Okay. So the taxpayers are already spending $15 million on a project when we have existing roads that need to be developed. These projects repetitiously fail. We just heard from a gentleman that said we have $3.82 subsidy for DART, $3.82, and 
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that's just to maintain the existing system. That is not to advance, build, correct, provide any additional services. We have a $5.94 subsidy. So this project is not just going to cost the $15 million that we are spending and all the money we spend on these meetings. The taxpayers are going to have to pay a lot more than $15 million. And I want to hear tonight who is going to pay for this. You brought us here to this meeting. I want to hear who is funding this project. You say that a private company may fund this project. Who are you talking to? Who are your companies that may fund this? I want some answers. Thank you. But if we ask the questions out there, nobody else gets to hear them. We are paying for this meeting. $15 million is being allocated for this study, can we not finish asking our questions and get answers while we are here? 

89 Dale 

Petroskey 

Resolution of Support for High-Speed Passenger Rail WHEREAS, On June 25, 2014, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) published a Notice of Intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in cooperation with Texas Department of Transportation (TxD0T) for the Central Texas High-Speed Rail Corridor, connecting Dallas and Houston (DAL-HOU) with a dedicated High Speed Rail (HSR) system proposed by a private company, Texas Central Railway (TCR); and WHEREAS, On September 5, 2014, the FRA published a Notice of Intent to prepare an EIS for the Dallas - Fort Worth Core Express passenger rail service under a grant issued to TxDOT and FRA by the United States Department of Transportation, potentially connecting the DAL-HOU HSR system west to Fort Worth; and WHEREAS, TCR is a Texas-based company formed in 2009 to bring HSR to Texas as a private-sector venture, and is focused on delivery of the DAL-HOU HSR system using only private funding; and WHEREAS, 

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In January 2014, TxDOT formed the Commission for High-Speed Rail in Dallas/Fort Worth to advise on the development of intercity rail corridors, new transportation policies and funding and procurement strategies as they relate to the implementation of a proposed HSR system, and to lead the effort to advance the DAL-FTW Core Express service; and WHEREAS, TCR is working closely with Central Japan Railway Company (JRC), and proposes deployment of the Tokaido Shinkansen System technology on the DAL-HOU route, a technology which has operated safely for over 50 years in Japan and carries 400,000 passengers daily; and WHEREAS, The DAL-HOU project, as proposed by TCR, will not require operational or maintenance subsidies, and is estimated to create 10,000 full-time construction jobs each year during the anticipated four-year construction period, and nearly 2,000 full-time jobs after the HSR system goes into revenue service, anticipated in 2022; and WHEREAS, A strong transportation system is fundamental to Texas' quality of life and economic vitality, attracting new businesses and generating new jobs; and WHEREAS, A connected HSR service between Houston and Dallas extending west to Fort Worth is a shared goal for the North Texas Region. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Dallas Regional Chamber strongly supports the thorough environmental studies, development, construction and operation of a high-speed passenger rail system between Dallas and Houston, and extending west to Fort Worth as appropriate funding and procurement strategies can be identified. Stephen Mansfield, Chairman of the Board Dallas Regional Chamber 
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Dale Petroskey President & CEO Dallas Regional Chamber 

90 AC 

Gonzalez 

Dear Mr. Johnsen: The City of Dallas appreciates the opportunity to submit comments on the scope of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Dallas Fort Worth Core Express Service. Dallas is the nation's 9th largest city with a population of approximately 1.2 million. The City is the largest central city in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metropolitan Area, the nation's fourth largest metropolitan area, with a population of more than 6.4 million. The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metropolitan Area boasts the 12th largest metropolitan economy in the world and is home to 25 Fortune 500 corporate headquarters. The City of Dallas and the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metropolitan Area have seen tremendous population and economic growth in recent years. Local and regional planners anticipate that population and economic growth will remain robust in the coming years and decades. Successful regional and statewide transportation planning and investment will be critical to managing this growth. The City of Dallas commends the Federal Railroad Administration for initiating this EIS. The development of high-speed passenger rail service provides an opportunity to transform intercity travel in Texas in a manner that absorbs population growth and increased travel, meets the needs of changing demographics, addresses airport and highway congestion and spurs downtown revitalization with minimal impacts to the natural and built environment. Careful planning is needed to ensure the success of high-speed passenger rail between Texas cities. The location of stations and local connections at either end of the corridors being studied for high-speed intercity passenger rail service will be paramount to the success of any proposal. In particular, the City of Dallas strongly believes that a downtown station will be critical to the success of high-speed intercity passenger rail in Texas. Downtown Dallas provides numerous trip generators for intercity passenger 

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rail and has the potential to accommodate many more. The past 20 years have seen remarkable residential and commercial growth in Downtown Dallas and adjacent neighborhoods. Downtown Dallas and adjacent central city neighborhoods are home to over 40,000 residents and 135,000 jobs, including the corporate headquarters of AT&T, Comerica Bank, Dean Foods, HollyFrontier Corporation, and Tenet Healthcare. Downtown Dallas is also a government and education hub, with thousands of federal, state and local government workers, including the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, US Department of Health and Human Services, US Patent and Trademark Office, US District Court- Northern Texas District and the University of North Texas System Headquarters. The Downtown Dallas Arts District draws visitors from throughout the world to its world class cultural institutions, including the Nasher Sculpture Center, the Dallas Museum of Art, the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, the Winspear Opera House and The Trammell and Margaret Crow Collection of Asian Art. Fair Park, the largest collection of Art Deco buildings in the nation, located immediately east of Downtown Dallas, is home to the Texas State Fair which draws over 3 million visitors each fall, the Cotton Bowl and several museums. Located in the southeast corner of Downtown Dallas, City-owned Union Station historically served as the gateway to Dallas. Although the decline of intercity passenger rail in the latter half of the 20th century diminished this role, the development of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) light rail system and the Trinity Railway Express (TRE) commuter rail service have since brought it back to life as a hub for intra-city and regional travel.  2,061 rail passengers pass through Union Station each weekday with DART light rail Blue Line and Red Line trains stopping at Union Station 12 times per hour during most of the day. In addition, TRE provides commuter rail service between Union Station and Downtown Fort Worth and serves over 2.3 million riders per year. Since its launch in 1996, TRE has grown from a service centered on morning and evening commuters to a daylong service with more than 20 departures per weekday in each direction. Union Station also hosts Amtrak's Texas Eagle, Dallas' lone surviving intercity passenger train. 
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The City's long-term plans envisions Union Station as an intermodal hub providing travelers with a seamless connection between intercity passenger rail (including high-speed rail), commuter rail, light rail and local surface transit (streetcar and bus). In addition to Union Station's current transit service, DART and the City are working with the Federal Transit Administration on construction of a second Downtown light rail alignment that will include a second light rail connection to Union Station. Next year, the City will inaugurate streetcar service between Union Station and North Oak Cliff, a historic neighborhood south of the Trinity River. In conjunction with the construction of the second Downtown light rail alignment, DART and the City are planning for extension of the Dallas Streetcar from Union Station into the heart of Downtown Dallas and onward into Uptown Dallas. All of the plausible rights-of-way for Dallas Fort Worth Core Express Service are easily accessible from Union Station: • The Trinity Railway Express alignment, which runs on the former Rock Island Railroad mainline between Dallas and Fort Worth, directly serves Union Station; • The Union Pacific mainline between Dallas and Fort Worth runs on tracks immediately behind Union Station, and • The 1-30 corridor runs immediately behind Union Station. In addition, the area around Union Station offers considerable potential for station-oriented development. Despite the impressive growth of central Dallas, much of that growth has been focused on the northern portion of Downtown and on Uptown. Much of the land near Union Station and the southern portions of Downtown continue to be occupied by surface parking, vacant lots and other suboptimal uses of urban land. In addition, City plans call for the revitalization of the land along Riverfront Boulevard between Union Station and the Trinity River, much of which is similarly occupied by surface parking and vacant lots. We would also like to stress the importance of coordinating the DFW Core Express EIS with the Dallas to Houston High Speed Rail EIS. We are aiming for the existence of a "one-seat ride" that will allow the rider to depart on a train in Houston and ride all the way to Fort Worth without having to change trains 
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in Dallas. We believe that the success of both projects will rely heavily on this "one-seat ride" experience. The City of Dallas is prepared to provide FRA with additional background and information and to answer any questions. If FRA needs to make site visits as part of the EIS, City staff are available to assist with those visits. In addition, should FRA require space for public meetings or hearings, the City would be pleased to help arrange for space and to help with logistics. Thank you for the opportunity to file these comments. We look forward to working with FRA on this exciting project. 

91 Hon. Brad 

LaMorgese 

CITY OF IRVING TRANSPORTATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE RESOLUTION NO. 1 WHEREAS, In January 2014 TxDOT formed the Commission for High Speed Rail in Dallas/Fort Worth to advise on the development of intercity rail corridors, new transportation policies, funding and procurement strategies as they related to the implementation of a proposed High Speed Rail system, and to lead the effort to advance the Dallas-Fort Worth Core Express Service; and WHEREAS, On September 5, 2014 the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) published a Notice of Intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Dallas-Fort Worth Core Express passenger rail service under a grant issued to TXDOT and FRA by the United States Department of Transportation ; and WHEREAS, The Dallas- Fort Worth region is one of the fastest growing regions in the country with an estimated population of 10.5 million people and employment for more than 6.6 minion people by 2040 ; and WHEREAS, A strong transportation system is fundamental to the City of Irving and the North Texas region's quality of life, economic vitality, economic development and job growth. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TRANSPORTATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF IRVING, TEXAS: SECTION I. THAT the Transportation and Natural Resources 

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Committee strongly supports the thorough environmental studies, development, construction and operation of a high-speed passenger rail system between Dallas and Fort Worth as appropriate funding and procurement strategies can be identified. SECTION II. THAT this resolution shall take effect from and after its final date of passage, and it is accordingly so ordered. PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE TRANSPORTATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE or THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF IRVING, TEXAS, on December 10, 2014.