U.S. changes course on Dulles airport rail plan

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. government reversed course on Wednesday and said it would support a $5 billion plan to extend a regional commuter rail line to Dulles airport, Washington's main international airport.

The Federal Transit Administration said it would provide $158.7 million to complete financial and construction planning for the 23-mile rail link to the Washington Metrorail system. But the Bush administration said that commitment is no guarantee of future support.

"There are still hurdles facing this project and we will not commit any federal funds for construction until a number of outstanding issues are resolved," said James Simpson, FTA administrator.

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority must ensure it has sufficient funds to cover risks and prove the project will be completed on time and within budget, he said. Trains throughout the Washington Metro system must also be in working order, he said.

Federal, state and local officials have been wrangling over the Dulles rail project for years. Supporters argue it would alleviate traffic congestion in northern Virginia, where the airport is located, and provide convenient, affordable transportation to the nation's capital from the international airport.

Detractors have worried about a variety of issues, including whether the total cost is too high, if the line will cut traffic enough and where stations will be located.

In January, the FTA stunned the Virginia congressional delegation and local politicians by deciding the rail project did not meet its criteria for funding, due to spiraling costs and technical concerns.

The federal government was concerned the metrorail and airport authorities had not found a good way to integrate their operations, Simpson told reporters in a call on Wednesday. It was also worried that the toll road revenues were insufficient, he said.

The decision triggered months of negotiations.