From the Editor: Beware of the train cult in Ohio (and elsewhere) - RailwayAge Magazine

Here is a great opinion piece from Railway Age. Sadly, I perfectly captures the situation of sensible transportation proponents. Put simply, if you favor anything but more highways and airports, you’re a buffoon.

Kasich, who for whatever reason is not fond of passenger trains, and who is always quick with a quip, said proponents of passenger rail service in Ohio are part of a “train cult.” This proclamation came during a press conference announcing Jolene’s replacement at ODOT: Jerry Wray, who is actually returning to his former post.

According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Wray retired as ODOT Director in 1999. What has he been doing for the past 11 years? He’s been vice president of Flexible Pavements of Ohio, an asphalt industry lobbying association. No wonder Kasich—who wants to take the federal government’s $400 million grant for the 3C corridor and build more roads with it—appointed him.

Beam me up, Scotty. There’s no intelligent life down here. And while you’re at it, get me a case of antacid. I think I’m going to be sick.

 

From the Editor: Beware of the train cult in Ohio (and elsewhere) - RailwayAge Magazine.

Filed under: Passenger Rail Politics, Passenger Rail Transportatio Policy

Mica’s influence already showing – News

DAYTONA BEACH — The same day an area congressman and Amtrak critic was picked to head the U.S. House Transportation Committee, Amtrak dropped its opposition to the state buying a track for a Central Florida commuter rail system.

U.S. Rep. John Mica, R-Winter Park, who takes over the committee in January, doesn’t think that was a coincidence.

 

Mica’s influence already showing – News.

Filed under: Amtrak, Passenger Rail Politics

TFA included in 50 Best Blogs for Train Enthusiasts

We take recognition wherever it can be found.

As one of the earliest forms of mass transit in the world, it comes as little shock that millions of individuals and organizations find trains absolutely fascinating. Model builders and other hobbyists enjoy reading about the rich history of railways, their ever-shifting technologies, political implications and much more. Listed in no particular order, these blogs help railroad enthusiasts indulge their passion for all facets of the hobby – even share their observations and experiences with others! Give them a read for more information about these magnificent machines.

Online Engineering Degrees » 50 Best Blogs for Train Enthusiasts.

Filed under: Passenger Rail Politics, Passenger Rail Transportatio Policy, United States High Speed Rail

Dr. Gridlock – Amtrak sets Thanksgiving record

Amtrak carried a record number of passengers during the Thanksgiving holiday, according to the latest figures from the rail agency.

Amtrak said it carried 704,446 passengers during the Thanksgiving travel week, an increase of 2.7 percent over 2009. The day before Thanksgiving was the busiest day in the railroad’s history, officials said in a statement, with 134,230 passengers.

 

Dr. Gridlock – Amtrak sets Thanksgiving record.

Filed under: Amtrak

Belvidere stop not included in Amtrak route through Rockford – WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

,,,

“The southern route offers the best deal for travelers and taxpayers,” Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig said. “After much deliberation, we are excited to start service to an underserved part of the state.”

The train will run at least one daily round-trip starting in early 2014.

The Rockford area has not had passenger rail service since 1981. The new service is expected to create 650 construction jobs…

 

Belvidere stop not included in Amtrak route through Rockford – WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader.

Filed under: Amtrak, Regional USA Passenger Rail

Amtrak extension gets $3M boost | Mainebiz

The extension of the Amtrak Downeaster train from Portland to Brunswick currently under way is getting another boost from the feds.

Amtrak extension gets $3M boost | Mainebiz.

Filed under: Amtrak, Regional USA Passenger Rail