New rules adopted by the Federal Railroad Administration will make it easier for commuter rail and inter-city rail systems to operate cheaper and more efficient trains.

"Federal rules no longer bar U.S. passenger rail systems from using modern, lightweight train cars," reports Angie Schmitt.
New safety rules finalized by the Federal Railroad Administration "bring American standards more in line with those used in Europe," according to Schmitt. "Under the new rules, old, heavy trains can now be replaced with lighter, sleeker, more-modern models."
The article has more on how and why the new rules will make such a significant difference for regional commuter rail and inter-city rail systems.
FULL STORY: U.S. Finally Legalizes Modern, European-Style Train Cars

Boston Transit Riders Report Safety Concerns
Almost three-quarters of current and former riders report feeling unsafe while using MBTA services.

The Unceremonious Death of a Freeway Expansion Project
The end of an Oregon freeway project didn't get much fanfare, but the victory is worth celebrating.

Houston Lot Size Reforms Yield Positive Results
New research shows that reducing lot size requirements helped create thousands of new homes.

Omaha Streetcar Breaks Ground
The city aims to bring back its once-extensive streetcar network.

From Zero to Two: Houston’s Bike Share Saga Continues
The city is now proposing supporting BCycle as well as launching a new, complementary system.

‘Affordability Unlocked’ Boosts Austin’s Affordable Housing Production
A 2019 program has created new housing at a faster rate than other city programs.
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