Patrick seeks money for Vermonter rehab

BOSTON, MA (AP) - The Patrick administration is submitting a first round of applications for federal stimulus money for two high speed rail projects.

The first is a $69 million rehabilitation of the existing Connecticut River rail line. When finished the Amtrak Vermonter service will be rerouted to this line providing restored access to Northampton and Greenfield. The money will help pay for final design and construction.

The second grant would help upgrade an existing route linking Springfield and Worcester to Boston. The route now operates at regular speed. The grant money would help pay for the engineering work needed to upgrade it to high speed rail.

The state is also working with Maine on an application to improve the Downeaster passenger rail service between Portland and Boston's North Station.