The FTA letter authorizes FWTA to proceed with procurement of all materials and construction activities planned for the first six months.

The Federal Transit Administration awarded a letter of no prejudice to the Fort Worth Transportation Authority for TEX Rail, which means construction for the 27-mi. (43.5 km) commuter rail can break ground.

The FTA letter authorizes FWTA to proceed with procurement of all materials and construction activities planned for the first six months.

“We are delighted to receive the letter of no prejudice,” said Paul Ballard, president and CEO. “We can now secure the prime contract and all subcontracts while locking in current pricing. This has been a long journey and we can't wait to get started on construction.”

Bob Baulsir, vice president of railroads and procurement, said the letter means FWTA can start spending the local funding it has in reserves while awaiting a full funding grant agreement.

TEX Rail will extend from downtown Fort Worth, across northeast Tarrant County, through North Richland Hills and Grapevine and into DFW Airport's Terminal B. The commuter rail line, which will begin service in late 2018, is projected to serve more than 8,000 daily riders at nine stations by the end of the first year of operation. By 2035, nearly 14,000 daily riders are projected.

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