The Michigan Department of Transportation is in the process of completing the state's first major rail plan in decades. Along with lead consultant, HTNB Michigan Inc., the department has been conducting stakeholder meetings and collecting public comments.
You may recall that the League helped to sponsor a initial set of public meetings across the state last fall where a great majority of comments submitted expressed strong interest in expanding passenger service in Michigan. Not unlike what the League has discovered in other areas across the country, common themes included the need for great transportation choices, more energy efficient travel, improved quality of life and economic development.
The MI Rail plan is intended to address the serious problems facing Michigan's rail system, including the need to identify funding sources to fill any current and future funding gaps. It will also explore concepts and opportuntiies for strategic investment.
To learn more and provide comment visit http://www.michigan.gov/mdot/0,1607,7-151-11056-242455--,00.html
Arnold Weinfeld is Director 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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