Senator Markey introduces $25 billion BRAIN TRAIN Act to expand “high-performance” rail

Senator Edward J. Markey, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee and the Environment and Public Works Committee, announced introduction of the Building Rail Across Intercity Networks To Ride Around Interior of the Nation (BRAIN TRAIN) Act. This legislation authorizes $5 billion annually, for a total of $25 billion over five years, to invest in “high-performance” intercity passenger rail service that will connect communities within a state, across states, and around the country. Chairman Richard E. Neal (MA-01) will introduce companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“Despite clear economic, environmental, and safety benefits, Congress has insufficiently invested in expanding passenger rail,” said Senator Markey. “Developing and restoring passenger rail service, especially in communities that have been underconnected, is exactly the kind of recovery program that can help repair the economic damage caused by the coronavirus while correcting long-standing inequities.

According to a spokesperson, the legislation will build the East-West Rail connection, as well as help finish the South Coast Rail project.

“I am introducing the BRAIN TRAIN Act so we can create new jobs, combat climate change, and mitigate traffic congestion while building an East-West Rail connection, finishing the South Coast Rail project, and exploring routes like a Berkshires Housatonic Line,” continued Senator Markey. “When the coronavirus pandemic is over, and whether you are traveling to Boston, Springfield, Hartford, New York City, Albany, or anywhere in between, the BRAIN TRAIN will help you get there.”