U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary, Ray LaHood, has announced that Michigan will be the recipient of $200 million in high-speed rail funding. The money comes from the return of $2.4 billion in funding the state of Florida returned to the federal government earlier this year.
The grant, which requires no state matching funds, will go toward the purchase of tracks, upgrading rail infrastructure and improving congestion points by separating passenger and freight trains. The result will be to reduce a Detroit to Chicago trip by one hour from existing travel times. The monies will also allow for a multi-modal station to built in Ann Arbor that will allow for trains to connect with buses.
The funding comes as a result of a application submitted by Michigan, supported by Governor Snyder. In a statement, League CEO and Executive Director Dan Gilmartin noted "the strong bi-partisan support for high-speed rail", and the fact that "political leaders on both sides of the aisle fully understand how important this money is to create jobs, increasing affordable transportation options and jumpstarting our economy."
The League has identified transit and transportation as a key asset of vibrant 21st century communities through its "Center for 21st Century Communities."
HSR Lahood release FINAL.docx (32.56 kb)
Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
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