Federal Railroad Administration Partners with Boring Company for Amtrak Tunnel Project
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is in discussions with Elon Musk’s Boring Company regarding the multibillion-dollar Frederick Douglass Tunnel project, a vital Amtrak initiative linking Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Originally projected to cost $6 billion, estimates for the tunnel have now surged to as high as $8.5 billion.
FRA officials recently met with Boring Company team members to explore potential strategies for reducing costs and enhancing efficiency in the tunnel’s construction. A spokesperson for the Department of Transportation (DOT) confirmed that the Boring Company is among several firms being considered for a new engineering contract but stressed that no decisions have yet been made.
Concerns have arisen about potential conflicts of interest given Musk’s extensive portfolio of businesses, which includes Tesla and SpaceX. Questions surrounding his role as a top advisor to former President Trump further complicate his involvement in public projects. Critics, including Republican politicians, have previously accused the project of favoring northeastern states over others.
The Frederick Douglass Tunnel, designed to replace the outdated 152-year-old Baltimore and Potomac Tunnel, represents Amtrak’s most significant infrastructure initiative. The project has faced scrutiny for escalating costs and missed deadlines, with an expected completion date set for 2035.
In a broader context, Musk has voiced skepticism about Amtrak, suggesting privatization of the federally owned railroad. His advocacy for innovative transportation solutions, including his previous hyperloop proposals, reflects his ambition to revolutionize transportation.
While Amtrak has yet to comment, the collaboration between the FRA and the Boring Company marks a significant step in addressing the challenges facing this essential infrastructure development.
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