New York officials on Monday unveiled the state's new rail plan -- the first in two decades -- which envisions far greater rail use and the first “green” short-line rail fleet in the nation.

The state rail plan also urges the development of a high-speed track between Niagara Falls and Albany.Gov. David Paterson and state DOT Commission Astrid Glynn said the 2009 New York State Rail Plan prioritizes investments to improve intercity passenger service and strengthen freight rail, while reducing energy use, emissions and traffic congestion.

The new plan also outlines priorities for funding consideration from the $9.3 billion dedicated for intercity rail in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the reauthorization of the Federal Surface Transportation Act, which is due October 1, 2009.

Among the many highlights of the plan:

• Adding at least three new intermodal facilities/inland ports across the State to serve the rapidly growing container segment of rail traffic;
• Doubling the number of intercity rail passengers along New York’s three major corridors; and
• Achieving on-time performance of at least 95 percent between Albany and New York City.