Chicago-to-Moline passenger rail project resurrected

MOLINE, Ill. (AP) - Illinois transportation officials say a Chicago-to-Moline passenger rail project has been resurrected.

the Illinois Department of Transportation told the Federal Railroad Administration that it's proceeding with the proposal, The (Moline) Dispatch reported (http://bit.ly/28NNhda ).

Under Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn's administration, the state awarded about $45 million for the project, which was originally expected to be running by 2012. But Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner placed the project under review after taking office.

Illinois was at risk of losing $177 million in federal funding that was set to expire June 30.

The state still must apply for an extension to the deadline for federal funding. Henry Marquard, director of government affairs with the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce, said he's confident the extension will be granted now Illinois has shown its commitment to the project.

The Federal Railroad Administration has already granted one funding extension for the project.

Moline has committed nearly $4.6 million into buying and cleaning up properties for a station in the city's downtown area. Moline Mayor Scott Raes said he sees the rail line as a key development project for the city and the region that should spur increased investment in downtown Moline.

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Information from: The Dispatch, http://www.qconline.com