The first trains to use the new, elevated railroad tracks through the heart of Wichita are anticipated to roll through downtown Wichita this afternoon between 4 and 5 p.m.
The first train will proceed at 10 mph, followed by at least 10 trains at 25 mph. Then the speed will be increased to 30 mph.
As many as 30 Burlington Northern Santa Fe trains daily will begin using the tracks.
However, 10 or more Union Pacific trains daily will continue to use the ground-level tracks until Spring 2008. A connection between the elevated tracks and the existing UP tracks north of 17th Street must be constructed before UP trains can use the elevated tracks.
The process of elevating tracks to eliminate traffic conflicts was conceived in the early 1990’s when railroad traffic through Wichita increased due to the merger of the Union Pacific and Southern Pacific railroads. Construction began in April 2005. The $105 million project is funded from federal, state and local funds, along with railroad contributions.
The tracks are elevated approximately 25 feet above ground level from Douglas to 13th Street, and from there gradually descend to ground level at 17th Street.
After the Union Pacific trains begin using the elevated tracks, remaining work will include removal of the ground level temporary tracks, completion of the elevated bridges, and reconstruction of the roadways under the bridges to eliminate ‘humps’ and create more clearance for tall vehicles.
The anticipated completion date for the entire project is Spring 2009.
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