Train service to Burlington from the Capital Region could begin within three years, thanks to a federal grant announced Friday.

Amtrak's Ethan Allen Express service, which now terminates in Rutland, Vt., will be extended north to Burlington, thanks to a $10 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery, or TIGER, grant. The funds were announced by U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and Federal Railroad Administrator Sarah E. Feinberg during a press conference at Burlington's Union Station. They were joined by three of Vermont's top elected officials, Gov. Peter Shumlin, U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy and U.S. Rep. Peter Welch at the event.

The money apparently wasn't a surprise. Vermont's congressional delegation had announced last October the funding would be provided, according to VTDigger.org.

Once service is established, the trip between Albany and Burlington would take three hours, making it competitive with driving.

The money will pay for 11 miles of new track, and to place passenger platforms in Middlebury, Vergennes, and Burlington. Trains would operate at up to 60 mph on the extended route.

The Ethan Allen Express service originates in New York City and travels through Rensselaer, Schenectady, Saratoga Springs, and Fort Edward before turning east to Vermont with stops in Castleton and Rutland, where it currently terminates.

There was no immediate word on how soon the new service would begin. Vermont officials already have been making improvements to tracks and signals along the planned route. Neither Vermont transportation officials nor an Amtrak spokesman could be reached for comment.

"This is all good news for New York and Vermont," said Bruce Becker, president of the Empire State Passengers Association.

He said the train would start and end its run outside Burlington's historic downtown Union Station that has been converted to office and event space.

eanderson@timesunion.com • 518-454-5323