Today in Madrid, Texas Central and Renfe signed an agreement that formalizes the relationship of the Spanish train operator as the Texas high-speed train project’s strategic operating partner. Renfe is one of the most prominent railway operators in Europe and across the globe, operating trains that cover 7,500 miles of track for both passenger and freight routes.
The agreement helps solidify Texas Central’s team, made up of the industry’s leading subject matter experts. With its decades of expertise, Renfe was a natural fit to join Texas Central’s other partners. Having the operator, the design build and technology teams all on board and able to collaborate will ensure all aspects of the railroad are integrated and efficient. The combination of these best-in-class global experts sets the foundation for the new jobs-creating industry Texas Central is bringing to the United States.
Other partners include Salini Impregilo, along with their U.S.-based subsidiary The Lane Construction Corporation, which will oversee the civil construction consortium that will build the passenger line. San Francisco-based construction giant Bechtel, which has an office in Houston, will serve as the project manager, supporting Texas Central as the project moves from development to implementation.
By partnering with the best, most experienced firms in the world, Texas Central is ensuring that the new American high-speed train industry being created in Texas is leveraging the best experience and technology available worldwide. It will meet the demands of the fast-growing state, providing a safe, reliable and productive traveler experience.
The 200-mph high-speed train connecting North Texas, the Brazos Valley and Houston will use proven, world-class technology – the Japanese Shinkansen system. This technology has resulted in the world’s safest system. In 54 years, the Shinkansen has had no crashes or fatalities from operations. Trains will make the trip in 90 minutes, linking two of the most dynamic economic centers in the United States. Texas Central’s market-led approach is backed by investors, not government grants, making it an innovative new business model for infrastructure projects.