January 29, 2009: Virginia Business "Light-rail project jumps budget track"
Submitted by VHSR on January 29, 2009 - 3:00am.
Rail News
At a time of severe budget shortfalls for state and local governments, higher costs for Norfolk’s light-rail project is not welcome news. Due to state-mandated improvements, costs have ballooned to $288 million, 24 percent more than the original price tag of $232 million.
Local observers have grumbled that the project has been “mismanaged” by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), even as government officials began figuring out how they will make up the $55.9 million in additional costs.
The rail line will run 7.4 miles through downtown Norfolk and eventually could expand to Virginia Beach. Funding is being provided by federal, state and local sources. Construction began in March.