A recommendation to move trains under the New River instead of over an existing drawbridge comes with a hefty price tag.

A new study recommends a tunnel under the New River for trains running through downtown Fort Lauderdale, reports Susannah Bryan. "The Florida Legislature ordered the study after hearing from a local marine industry fed up with seeing boat traffic delayed by Brightline [express] trains and freight trains that speed down the Florida East Coast Railway tracks."
But the cost for a tunnel would be high — $3.3 billion to build and an additional $8.2 million annually for maintenance. An alternative to the current drawbridge would be much less expensive, a new bridge over the river, with the priciest option coming in at under $500 million to build and $2.4 million a year to maintain.
While the high cost of a tunnel remains an obstacle, proponents of the idea argue that it would mean fewer delays for boats and less congestion on the waterway. "Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis likes the idea of a tunnel over that of a supersized bridge that would split downtown Fort Lauderdale down the middle, severing the urban landscape," notes Bryan.
FULL STORY: Train tunnel under New River would cost $3.3 billion, but some say it’s worth it

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.

From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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