It appears B.C. has taken a significant step forward in a high-speed rail partnership with its southern neighbours, and a Tri-City politician believes it can have a positive impact for local communities.
On Tuesday (Sept. 13), the province said it's investing $300,000 into a feasibility study to determine the possibility of a $42-billion train that would connect major cities across the Pacific Northwest.
This includes Vancouver; Seattle, Wash.; and Portland, Ore.
And here's a fun fact: the train itself could reach speeds of 400 km/h for riders to get from one city to another in little time.
Port Moody–Coquitlam MLA Rick Glumac claims B.C.'s support of the joint Ultra High Speed Ground Transportation Project can provide a big boost to all economies involved as it could create up to 200,000 jobs.
"Increased economic activity, job creation and greenhouse gas reductions are some of the many benefits of a high-speed rail connection along the Pacific Northwest," he said in a news release.
"Following the success of initial reports, I am pleased by our government's commitment to support the next phase of this project. I look forward to working closely with my contacts south of the border on this exciting opportunity."
Glumac serves as Premier John Horgan's liaison for Washington State.
The high-speed rail project was one of the important cross-border issues Glumac took on when he was appointed to the role in 2020 following his re-election to the Victoria legislature.
If approved and completed, revenue is projected to cover costs to build the train by 2055.
3 x $300K
This is the third time B.C. has chipped in $300,000 for a study of the high-speed rail since 2019.
One of the findings from a previous study suggests the train has the potential to reduce six million tonnes of greenhouse gas within the first 40 years of operation.
As well, it could drive up economic activity by $355 billion across the Pacific Northwest.
The next phase of the project, according to the province, includes determining the roles and requirements of each party involved, developing a public engagement program and plan environmental reviewing processes.
"This proposal has the potential to significantly cut transportation time between Seattle and Vancouver — presenting new opportunities for clean economic growth, job creation and tourism throughout the region," said Horgan in the same statement.
"That's why our government is proud to invest in the next phase of the high-speed rail study."
The high-speed rail is led by the Washington State Department of Transportation.
You can click here to find more information on the upcoming feasibility study.
