HIGH-SPEED TRAIN DEVELOPER WITHDRAWS LAWSUITS

  

The private developer of the planned bullet train between Dallas and Houston has withdrawn a number of lawsuits against Texas landowners.

The suits called for Texas Central Partners to be able to access private property to survey land for the project. In court filings, the company argued that state law allows them to enter private property because they are a railroad. A group called Texans Against High-Speed Rail says the company shouldn't be considered a railroad because it doesn't currently operate any rail lines.

Texas Central Partners said the decision to withdraw the suits was largely based on the fact that it's already reached access and land-purchase options with more than 3,000 landowners.

The company announced today (Tuesday) that it has secured land-purchase options on about 30 percent of the parcels needed to complete the project.

“This is a significant step in the progress of the high-speed train and it reflects the positive dialogue we have had with landowners along the route,” said Texas Central CEO Carlos Aguilar. “Texans see the many benefits of a system that will provide a safe, reliable and productive alternative to the state’s transportation demands.”

The company also said it has executed land-purchase options on about 50 percent of the land needed in Grimes and Waller counties.

Landowners in Grimes and Waller counties have been some of the most vocally opposed to the proposed line.