“The Surface Transportation Board clarified today that it does not have jurisdiction over the Texas high-speed rail project being privately developed by Texas Central connecting North Texas and Houston, and therefore no STB approval of the project is necessary prior to commencing construction.
Texas Central’s decision to seek clarification regarding the STB’s role followed precedent set by other rail projects. Without such clarification, regulatory uncertainty could have impacted Texas Central’s project timelines.
However, Texas Central will study the STB decision before making any determination regarding actions in response to the ruling. The project continues to move forward with development activities.”