Strings Attached To Money May Derail Streetcar System

The strings attached to millions in federal money may derail any plans for a streetcar system in downtown Fort Worth.   They asked for it and got it.  Fort Worth gets the nod for nearly 25 million dollars from the Federal Transit Administration.   But it requires the city match that amount. Problem is, Fort Worth faces a 77 million dollar budget gap.  Michael Morris, transportation director of the Council of Governments says turning it down could jeopardize future grants to improve  the rail intersection called Tower 55. It's the most congested freight rail intersection in the country.    Mayor Mike Moncrief says the backup in trains is cutting off some Fort Worth neighborhoods forcing some kids to crawl under parked trains.  The council is leaning toward sending the feds a thank you note, but not turning down the money yet.