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http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/car-centric-texas-cities-reap-economic-boon-light-rail/

http://blog.chron.com/thehighwayman/2014/10/despite-complaints-houston-best-texas-city-for-transit-access/

I know this is a Houston forum, but I didn't see any topic about the ongoing saga of Austin getting light rail (although they're calling it urban rail b/c it'll share the road w/ cars while in downtown). http://impactnews.com/austin-metro/central-austin/austins-urban-rail-plan-could-cost-1.4-billion/ Here's some more literature that I've found: http://www.austinchronicle.com/news/2013-12-13/urban-rail-which-way-to-connect/ http://www.austinchronicle.com/news/2014-04-18/project-connect-central-corridor-options/ Ben Wear does a good as the transportation writer for the Statesman and I'm sure he has lots of articles about this. However, ever since the pay-wall went up for that paper's site, I haven't been able to read any of his stuff. Here's another resource: http://projectconnect.com/

Just got this press release. East and Southeast Tracks Tested with Trains This giant diesel-powered tow truck can operate on tracks, or on pavement. It is used when electrical current is not available to power a train. METRORail’s new East End (Green) Line tracks have been undergoing tests performed while dragging a light-rail vehicle up and down the track with a diesel-powered-shuttle. The test covers 2.3 miles of the 3.3 mile tracks. Crews are also performing live wire testing. The Southeast Line is also expecting visits from the train and its crews beginning Wednesday, Feb. 5. The train will be towed by the big, red shuttle wagon from an area near EaDo/Stadium Station (Texas at Bastrop in front of the BBVA Compass Stadium), to the Palm Center Transit Center to inspect curb height and other elements such as sign placement. The light-rail vehicle is transported much like a barge being led by a pilot boat, since electric power remains to be activated on these two evolving lines. Large sections of Styrofoam are often attached to provide a buffer in tight corners and places where obstructions are observed. Measurements are then taken and corrective action initiated. Public safety, particularly at intersections, is a top concern. Trains are being towed with assistance from METRO Police, and drivers and pedestrians are urged to take extra precaution in the area. The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) is wrapping up major light-rail expansion - adding 15.3 miles and 24 stations to its existing Main Street (Red) Line. The North (Red) extension opened in December 2013, and the East End (Green) and Southeast (Purple) lines will start service later this year. About the East End (Green) Line The 3.3-mile East End Line (Green Line) travels along Harrisburg through the historic East End to a variety of downtown entertainment and business destinations. Track that is closest to downtown will be shared with the Southeast (Purple) Line. From EaDo/Stadium station, passengers will be able to transfer to the Southeast Line and travel to the UH Central campus and Texas Southern University as well as Palm Center Transit Center. East End Line riders may board at Central Station Main for travel up or down the Main Street (Red) Line. About the Southeast (Purple) Line The Southeast Line (Purple Line) begins downtown and travels southeast along Capitol and Rusk to the Palm Center near MLK and Griggs. The 6.6- mile line travels through one of Houston's oldest African-American communities and connects to Texas Southern University and the University of Houston. The last portion of the track, shared with the East End Line (Green Line), will enable riders to transfer at the EaDo/Stadium station to travel through the historic East End. Riders can also continue to Central Station Main to transfer to the Red Line for travel up or down Main Street.

METRO is happy to announce the arrival of its newest family member, Light Rail Vehicle #201 – a Siemens S70 that will join 18 others in carrying Houstonians via METRORail. This is the first new rail car for the system in nearly nine years. The vehicle arrived at METRO’s Rail Operations Center where it will be tested before being placed into service. The unit is a welcome addition to a very busy fleet which this year has surpassed 90 million boardings. This train, and the 18 others to follow, will allow METRORail to carry more passengers. Its low floor enables passengers to board at street level, providing easier access for people of all abilities. The delivery is part of an $83 million contract awarded to Siemens Industry, Inc. for 19 new S70 light-rail vehicles along with spare parts, training and manuals. The first order, delivered in 2003, included 18 LRVs. The vehicles are being manufactured at Siemens’ rail vehicle manufacturing plant in Sacramento, Calif.