Amtrak has awarded a contract to a joint venture between Kiewit and J.F. Shea for the construction of the new Frederick Douglass Tunnel in Baltimore. Set to begin in 2026, this project is part of a broader initiative to modernize a 10-mile section of the Northeast Corridor.
The tunnel, commemorating civil rights leader Frederick Douglass, aims to enhance travel speeds and efficiency for Amtrak and MARC trains, with completion targeted for 2035.
This modernization of the Northern Corridor is backed by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which has provided an unprecedented level of federal investment aimed at revitalizing Amtrak's infrastructure. The act allocates $66 billion for rail improvements, including $22 billion specifically for Amtrak. This funding addresses critical needs such as replacing ageing train fleets, making stations compliant for people with disabilities, and carrying out various capital projects. Of this, $6 billion is earmarked for the Northeast Corridor, underscoring the importance of this region to Amtrak's overall modernization plans.
Amtrak's modernization efforts for the Northern Corridor include a range of projects designed to enhance the travel experience for passengers. The initiative encompasses upgrading tracks, bridges, tunnels, and stations, alongside introducing new trains that prioritize safety, comfort, reliability, and sustainability. Specific projects, as part of this plan, include the replacement of key bridges like the Connecticut River Bridge and the Bush River Bridge, among others. These projects aim to improve the infrastructure and speed of travel across the corridor, ultimately benefiting over 12 million annual passengers who rely on Amtrak and MARC services.
