The proposed Superconducting Magnetic Levitation (SCMAGLEV) Project includes the construction and operation of a SCMAGLEV system between Baltimore, MD, and Washington, DC. The SCMAGLEV Project features high-speed rail technology that runs on a grade-separated, fixed guideway powered by magnetic forces at speeds up to 311 miles per hour. This system does not operate on standard steel wheel railroad tracks and therefore requires a dedicated grade-separated guideway. The SCMAGLEV system guideway is either underground in deep tunnels or elevated on viaducts. 

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), in partnership with Baltimore-Washington Rapid Rail (BWRR), is leading development of the SCMAGLEV Project. FRA is the Federal lead agency for the environmental review process. 

In August 2021, FRA and MDOT paused the environmental review process for the SCMAGLEV Project following the public comment period on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). The purpose of the pause was to allow FRA and MDOT to review project elements and determine next steps. In addition, MDOT, in consultation with FRA, reviewed project funding to continue the environmental review.  

As part of the effort to review project elements, FRA and MDOT are currently meeting with potentially impacted federal agencies that commented on the DEIS, consistent with FRA’s commitment in the DEIS to coordinate with the relevant regulatory agencies to further understand the potential impacts of the SCMAGLEV Project on federal property. FRA may coordinate with other participating agencies, as necessary.  

At this time, the environmental review process remains paused. If FRA and MDOT determine it is appropriate to resume the environmental review process, FRA and MDOT will coordinate with cooperating and participating agencies before updating the Permitting Dashboard and inform the public. 

For more specific information regarding Project status, please visit the Permitting Dashboard link below or contact the Project grant applicant, MDOT.  
 

Project Website

The SCMAGLEV Project website is the main source of Project information for the public and is updated regularly. The website includes an overview of the Project and access to information on superconducting magnetic levitation technology, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process, Project documents, past and upcoming public meeting dates and locations, and public meeting displays and materials. Interested parties may become involved in the NEPA process by joining the mailing list on the Project website.

Permitting Dashboard

The U.S. Permitting Dashboard is an online tool for Federal agencies, project sponsors, and interested members of the public to track the Federal government’s environmental review and authorization processes for large or complex infrastructure projects. The Dashboard is part of a government-wide effort to improve coordination, transparency, and accountability. A link to this Project’s page on the Dashboard is below.

• Permitting Dashboard Link