This Month

Transportation progress continues around the region

SANDAG is making headlines

NCTD SPRINTER on schedule
for 2007
New maps provide unique look at region

SchoolPool wristbands here for a limited time!

Youth perceptions vary on harmful effects of drug use

MTS partners with Coca-Cola to present local scholarships

NCTD SPRINTER on schedule for 2007

In June, the NCTD Board of Directors approved a proposed budget amendment of $55 million to complete the SPRINTER, bringing the total project budget to $440 million. The San Diego Association of Governments Transportation Committee agreed the cost increases were necessary and is currently looking into funding options.

The contractor has done a wonderful job to keep all the phases of the project managed and on time. To date, about 14 miles of new track has been upgraded on the line. The construction phase is more than half-way to completion and moving toward on-time operations in a little over one and a half years, by December 2007.

Recently, the SPRINTER construction team has been busy finishing bridges in San Marcos for the SPRINTER loop to Cal State San Marcos. Foundations are being laid for many of the platforms at future stations. There are a total of 36 public at-grade railroad crossings and 31 of them have been upgraded with new concrete panels and rail.

In late August, the first of 12 SPRINTER Diesel Multiple Units will be delivered to the Vehicle Maintenance Facility in Escondido. At the facility, the vehicles will undergo final assembly and testing will begin on a three mile stretch of track in Escondido this fall.