Conn. Get $30M For High-Speed Rail Project

Connecticut has been awarded $30 million in federal transportation funding for a planned high-speed rail project between New Haven and Springfield, Mass.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced the award Monday. He says the money is part of $2 billion in federal funds that became available after it was turned down by Florida Gov. Rick Scott.

The rail project, which has been under discussion for decades, would support up to 50 trains a day, including one every 30 minutes during rush hour. Trains would reach speeds of up to 110 mph, and supporters predict the rail line will have 1.26 million riders a year by 2030.

The state hopes to complete the design work on the project in 2013 and launch the service in 2016.