With direct support from Governor Snyder, the Michigan Department of Transportation has applied for more than $200 million in high-speed rail funds. The monies became available after Florida returned money it was allocated.
The MIchigan application seeks funding for four projects, including $196.5 million for a program to complete a “corridor enhancement program over the next three years between Kalamazoo and Dearborn” and would allow trains to travel up to 110 mph in that stretch.
The improvement could be completed by the end of 2013 and shave 50 minutes off the Detroit-Chicago train trip – reducing it to about four hours.
The MML supports MDOT's application and congratulates the Governor and MDOT Dircector Stuedle for putting together a plan to take advantage of the returned funds.
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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