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May 9, 2009 / 2:24 PM

LaHood: States on track for rail funds

Vice President Joe Biden announces funding for Amtrak as part of the implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act at Union Station in Washington on March 13, 2009. (UPI Photo/Roger L. Wollenberg)

1 of 2 | Vice President Joe Biden announces funding for Amtrak as part of the implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act at Union Station in Washington on March 13, 2009. (UPI Photo/Roger L. Wollenberg) | License Photo

WASHINGTON, May 9 (UPI) -- U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says California and Florida are on the fast track for federal funding for high-speed rail systems.

The San Francisco Chronicle reported Saturday that this month he will convene a high-speed rail summit in Washington to review high-speed rail proposals and discuss White House plans to disburse $13 billion in federal aid for rail projects.

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LaHood said California is "way, way, way ahead" in taking steps to build a high-speed rail system that would initially link San Francisco with Los Angeles and Anaheim. Extensions to Sacramento and San Diego would be built later.

In Florida, officials are planning a high-speed line between Tampa and Miami, via Orlando.

The newspaper reported that the Obama administration will award $8 billion in grants under the economic stimulus program approved by Congress this year. In addition, Obama has asked Congress to approve $1 billion annually over the next five years to help bankroll high-speed rail projects.

"We want to jump-start several corridors," LaHood said, noting that no single project would receive all of the $8 billion.

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