Train Explainer

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has issued a call for consultants interested in providing General Engineering support for the Cascadia High-Speed Rail and I-5 Program.

The project envisions the development of a high-speed rail system in the Cascadia megaregion, connecting Washington State with Oregon and British Columbia. Furthermore, it includes comprehensive planning for the Interstate 5 (I-5) corridor, a primary north-south artery spanning the entire state.

WSDOT has allocated approximately $8.5 million for a two-year agreement running from 2023 to 2025, with the potential for extensions depending on future funding availability, notably through federal grant opportunities.

The project, initiated through ESHB 1125, has secured $11.92 million for the 2023-2025 biennium, with an overall plan to direct $40 million through 2029. Collaboration with Oregon and British Columbia has been a pivotal aspect, involving grant applications submitted to the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration in 2023. These grants, if awarded, will provide critical support for the project’s planning phase.

The selected consultant will be tasked with providing an array of management, planning, and engineering services as negotiated with the state, extending their support to all aspects of the Cascadia High-Speed Rail and I-5 Program, including commercial aviation mobility. The submission deadline is November 17, 2023.