MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
MICHIGAN CENTRAL DEPOT, CHELSEA
APRIL 21, 2012

 Members Present: Robert Tischbein, Hugh Gurney, Dave Randall, John Langdon, Don Monteith, Kay Chase, Jim Hinkins

 Also Present:  Doug Wilson, Steve T. Sobel, Larry Bean, Gerri Anderson, Clark Charnetski, Dick Pekarek, Larry Krieg, Robert T. Shannon, Charles Merckel, Martha Wolfe, Julien Wolfe, Donna Tipton, Ron Tipton, Roger Webster, Steve Vagnozzi, Charley Bonnell, John Guidinger, Janet Howes, Joann Stoddart

 Call to Order:  Chairman Tischbein called the meeting to order at 10:10 a.m. All in attendance were asked to introduce themselves and their particular interest in passenger rail.

 Secretary’s Report:  Minutes of the March Executive Committee Meeting and the March General Membership Meeting were reviewed.  Langdon moved acceptance of the minutes of the March Membership Meeting.  Monteith seconded the motion and these minutes were approved by the members present.

 Langdon then moved acceptance of the March Executive Committee minutes.  Chase seconded the motion and it was approved by the members present.

 Treasurer’s Report:  Randall passed out the Treasurer’s Report.  As of March 31, 2012, the MARP checking account totaled $10,762.58 and the Pratt Fund had a value of $16,766.37.  Randall noted that $2,500 of the grant from TRANS4M had been received.  TRANS4M expenses are recorded as they are paid.

 Langdon moved acceptance of the Treasurer’s Report, seconded by Gurney.  Acceptance of the Treasurer’s Report was approved by the members present.

 In response to a question from Chase, Randall stated that he was reviewing the possibility of moving the Pratt Fund to a Vanguard account.  Fees would be much lower.  He will make a formal recommendation in the near future.

 Coordinator Reports:

            Government Affairs:  Langdon distributed the current Amtrak Passenger Service Announcement detailing schedule changes during track work on the Wolverine line.  The track work should be completed in the next two weeks.

 Michigan can expect to receive twenty of the 130 bi-level coaches to be ordered in October, 2012.  GE is pushing to hold speed of the new locomotives to 110 mph. The first of the new coaches and the new locomotives are expected to go into service in 2015.

 With luck, the Regional Transportation Authority bill could come to the floor of the Michigan Senate next week.  The primary bill has been reported out of committee.  Questions about zoning authority and the provision for unanimous consent on rail projects are holding up other sections of the proposal.  Washtenaw County is balking because state and federal money it now receives directly would go through the RTA.  Because the equipment used for the Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter trains may be stored in Jackson, there is some thought that Jackson County should be added to the RTA.

 Krieg reported that Washtenaw County might withdraw from the current RTA proposal.  It is working to become an independent Metropolitan Transportation Organization or MPO.

The Surface Transportation Board has received a petition from MDOT requesting permission to acquire the Dearborn-Kalamazoo sections of Norfolk Southern sometime between April 30 and May 31.  The Wayne Yard and the Willow Run Yard are excluded from the acquisition.  Apparently, yards in Jackson and Battle Creek would go to MDOT.

            Communications:  Chase noted the need to get word out about existing train service in our communities.  She will be reviewing with Larry Sobczak the agreement for editing the newsletter.

            Membership: Reporting for Newell, Chase stated that membership renewals were trailing off and a second renewal notice should go out soon.  An invitation to NARP members not currently MARP members is in the works.

            Meetings:  Reporting for Wallington, Gurney announced that the next meeting would take place at 10:00 a.m. on June 16 at the Muskegon Union Station in Muskegon.

Regional Chapter Reports:

Northern: Monteith expressed concern that the historic railroad ferry, S.S. Badger, could be shut down at the end of December, 2012, because it continues to dump toxic ash into Lake Michigan.  The vessel was constructed by the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad as a railroad car ferry between Ludington and several points on the western shores of Lake Michigan.  It currently ferries autos, trucks, buses, and heavy equipment between Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, during the spring, summer and fall months.  Plans are in the works for conversion of the ship to natural gas, but that is expensive and will take time. A committee including Monteith, Chase, Gurney and Larry Bean of the Chelsea Depot Association will review the most suitable response for MARP. A major question is whether the ash can be unloaded and sold to someone or trucked to a suitable land fill until the natural gas conversion is complete. 

The Executive Committee Meeting adjourned at 11:00 a.m.

Respectfully Submitted:                                             Accepted:

Hugh D. Gurney                                                         Robert Tischbein

Secretary                                                                     Chair

MINUTES
MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING
PONTIAC TRANSPORTATION CENTER, PONTIAC
MARCH 17, 2012

 Those Signing In: Don Monteith, Hugh Gurney, Kay Chase, Leonard D. Barry, Dick Pekarek, David Roberts, Sam A. Crowl, Roger Webster, Mike Washenko, Julien R. Wolfe, Doug Wilson, Jeff Godshall, Bob Tischbein, Peter Hollingshead, Dan Platz, Thomas Breeding, Eric Newberg, Kathleen W. Newell, Dave Randall, Jim Hinkins, John Langdon, Mike Whims, John DeLora, Karen Kendrick-Hands, Richard King

Also Present: Joe M. Koger II, Jim Fetzer, SMART

Call to Order:  Chairman Tischbein called the meeting to order at 10:50 a.m.

Speaker:  Hinkins introduced the speaker, Jim Fetzer, Deputy Manager of Operations for SMART, which provides the local transit service for Oakland, Wayne and Macomb counties.  Fetzer welcomed the group to the Detroit Metro area and invited all to inspect one of SMART’s new energy efficient expanded buses sitting just outside.  Fetzer spoke of his part in bringing Amtrak into the Grand Rapides Transportation Center while working for RAPID.  He is looking for ways to better connect SMART with Amtrak in Pontiac, Birmingham-Troy, Royal Oak and Dearborn.  The planned Rapid Bus will also connect with Amtrak at several stations.

Fetzer expressed pleasure that the Troy Transportation Center will go forward, but noted that many in the Detroit Metropolitan area were not enthusiastic about public transportation and that millages are generally small.  In both Wayne and Oakland counties, local communities can opt out of supporting SMART, meaning buses must pass through these communities with their doors closed, hurting both the fare box and potential passengers, many who are low income.

Fetzer pointed to the new Pontiac Transportation Center as a success story and is looking forward to the new Dearborn Transportation Center.  Despite a 23% cut in service in December, ridership on SMART is up in January and February of this year.  SMART looks to acquire better, more fuel efficient buses as one way to improve service.

Fetzer complimented MARP for its support of public transportation, noting that thriving communities have good public transportation.  He expressed hope that the proposed Regional Transportation Authority, now under consideration in Lansing, would help public transportation providers in Wayne, Washtenaw, Oakland and Macomb counties coordinate their services better. The legislation faces an uphill battle.

Secretary’s Report:  Minutes of the February 11 Executive Committee and Monthly Membership meetings were reviewed.  Langdon moved acceptance of the Executive Committee minutes.  Newell seconded and these were approved by the members present.

Chase moved acceptance of the Monthly Membership meeting minutes.  These were seconded by Hinkins and approved by the members present.

Treasurer’s Report:  The Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  As of February 29, 2012, MARP had $11,141.43 in its checking account.  The Pratt Fund was valued at $16,414.91.  Langdon moved acceptance of the Treasurer’s Report.  This was seconded by King and approved by the members present.

Coordinator Reports: 

            Government Affairs:  Langdon has been closely tracking the Regional Transportation Authority legislation.  A recent Senate hearing in Lansing was adjourned before critical decisions were made.  Chase noted that TRANS4M would be staging a Transportation Odyssey beginning March 21 to build support for the Regional Transportation Authority.  Participants will use local public transportation, Amtrak and Indian Trails to move from Detroit Metro Airport to downtown Detroit, then to Birmingham, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and Traverse City.  The Odyssey will showcase the challenges of getting around Michigan using public transportation.  Events are scheduled in Birmingham, Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids.

Current Regional Transportation Authority legislation requires a unanimous vote of those representing the four counties and the city of Detroit for any rail project to move forward.  TRANS4M is trying to get that changed to a majority vote or 2/3 vote.

Both MDOT and Amtrak are supporting New Buffalo’s application for a TIGER grant to build a ten mile passing track on the Amtrak line between Dowagiac and Niles and to fund an engineering study on linking CSX tracks with Amtrak just north of New Buffalo, permitting the Pere Marquette to serve that station and gain access to the 110 mph Amtrak route to Porter, Indiana.   The Michigan Senate with bipartisan support has approved a resolution supporting the grant application.

Communications:  Other than information provided above, Chase had nothing further to share with the group.

Membership:  Membership renewals have been coming in steadily in February and March, Newell reported.  Many renewing members are upping their membership level to individual, family or advocate and making additional contributions.  Gurney suggested a follow up in April.  Chase added that an appeal to NARP members who do not belong to MARP is in the works.

Future Meetings Update:  Gurney announced that the next meeting will be at the 1880’s Chelsea Depot on Saturday, April 21.  The Executive Committee will meet at 10:00 a.m. and the Monthly Membership meeting will be at 11:00 a.m.  DeLora noted that refurbishing of the Chelsea Depot was MARP’s very first project.

Regional Chapter Reports:

            Northern: Monteith continues to push for newly opening mines along the Michigan/Wisconsin border to use rail rather than put more pressure on the road system.  Michigan Technical University in Houghton is now considered the best school in the nation for Rail Communication.  Employees from CN, NS, CSX, BNSF and other railroads are taking classes there.

Metro Detroit:  Hinkins thanked all who were supporting the RTA and urged continued diligence and support.  The M-1 light rail line on Woodward Avenue is still under consideration as is the Rapid Bus system which would serve Detroit and key locations in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.  Renovations to the Detroit Michigan Central stations continue.  MDOT has been ordered by the court to complete the Gateway project linking the Ambassador Bridge to I-75 after Matty Maroun’s failure to keep his end of the bargain.  Hinkins has seen no work at the West Detroit junction.  That work must be completed before the Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter line can be initiated.  Under the current legislation being considered, all rail projects require unanimous support by the proposed RTA Board.

Gurney confirmed that the University of Michigan has withdrawn from the Ann Arbor Transportation Center project.  Plans will have to be altered substantially.

Beginning on April 1, Michigan Flyer service will be rerouted via I-96 and U.S. 23 between East Lansing and Ann Arbor, permitting Ann Arbor passengers to board at the downtown Blake Transportation Center as well as the existing stop near I-94.  Between Ann Arbor and Detroit Metro Airport, frequency of service will be increased from eight to twelve daily runs.    The additional four runs will originate at the University of Michigan Central Campus Transportation Center, before proceeding to the Blake Transportation Center and the stop on I-94.  An agreement between Michigan Flyer and the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority permits these changes.  Jackson will lose Michigan Flyer service.

Amtrak Petition Against CN:  Whims continues to track the status of Amtrak’s petition to the Surface Transportation Board protesting Canadian National’s delays of  passenger trains.  This is Amtrak’s first suit before the STB.  CN has now responded stating that:

1. The American Association of Railroads has a suit in federal court contending that PRIAA is unconstitutional because it permits Amtrak, a private company, to establish and enforce legal regulations.  CN asks that the STB delay making a decision until that suit is resolved.
2. Amtrak metrics are incomplete.
3. Congress never intended to give Amtrak preference as if it owned the railroad.  This may be the key issue.

DeLora noted that there is no opportunity for public comment on Amtrak’s suit.  If CN wins, they may be sorry, as Congress could enact more restrictive legislation.  The AAR suit is expected to be settled shortly.  DeLora observed that delays be CN dropped precipitously the day after Amtrak petitioned the STB for relief.  Kendrick-Hands suggested that MARP consider support for Amtrak’s petition as a Friend of the Court.

Western:  MDOT has approved a station stop in Fennville on the Pere Marquette line.  Amtrak must now review the proposal, then CSX.   Langdon speculated that MDOT’s support of both the Fennville stop and the CSX/Amtrak connection in New Buffalo indicate a change of position on the future of the Pere Marquette.  Langdon plans to meet in the coming week with Westrain to gage their support of a second Pere Marquette frequency.  Langdon does not see support for the Pere Marquette as being opposed to the Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo route.

Revenue on the Wolverine route continues to drop, which may mean MDOT will have to pay more for service on that line when PRIIA kicks in.

East/Central:  Ridership on the Blue Water continues to grow, with over 200 boarding at Port Huron on a recent morning.  Since 2004, ridership has increased by 200%.  According to Wilson, approximately 50% of cars in the Port Huron parking lot are Canadian.  DeLora thinks Canadian ridership is even higher, with many Canadians parking at shopping centers throughout the community.  Pekarek suggested that the running time be shortened between Port Huron and Battle Creek, as the westbound train is often into Battle Creek half an hour early.  Citing recent schedule changes on the Sunset Limited, Langdon speculated that such a change could be considered by Amtrak.

Slow orders are now in effect on the Wolverine line between Chelsea and Kalamazoo until tracks are repaired.  Whether the westbound Blue Water is held outside Battle Creek when Wolverine #351 is late depend on whether or not the Blue Water has enough capacity to handle those boarding at Kalamazoo.

Committee Reports:

            Toledo Train Day Report:  Langdon confirmed that the National Train Day celebration in Toledo will be on Saturday, October 5.  This is the biggest Train Day event in the Midwest.  It is always one week earlier than most places observe National Train Day, which will be May 12.  MARP will have a table in Toledo.

Outreach: Tischbein reported that the current schedule is available on the MARP website.

New Business: 

            Progressive National Train Day:  Hinkins discussed Robert Patterson’s suggestion that, in addition to having as many members as possible participating in station activities on National Train Day  that other members actually ride the trains and talk with passengers.

Operation Lifesaver:  Crowl announced that the next Operation Lifesaver  meeting will be at Durand Union Station on May 11.  All are urged to attend.  In response to a question from Kendrick-Hands, Crowl explained that every crossing sign has a number a person can call if the signal is malfunctioning.  Kendrick-Hands suggested that those numbers be on the MARP website.  Langdon suggested these numbers also be on the Operation Lifesaver website.

Lake Michigan Car Ferry: Tischbein asked members to review the status of the Lake Michigan Car Ferry, which operates in the summer between Ludington and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.  This last operating railroad car ferry, powered by coal, may be put out of business by the Environmental Protection Agency.  What should MARP’s position be?

Adjournment:  The meeting adjourned at 12:40 p.m.

Respectfully submitted:                                              Accepted:

Hugh D. Gurney                                                         Robert Tischbein

Secretary                                                                     Chair    

MINUTES
MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
PONTIAC PUBLIC LIBRARY, PONTIAC
MARCH 17, 2012

Members Present: Robert Tischbein, Hugh Gurney, Kathleen Newell, Dave Randall, Jim Hinkins, Kay Chase, John Langdon

Also Present: Dan Platz

 Call to Order:  Chairman Tischbein called the meeting to order at 2:40 p.m.

 Nominations:  Gurney reminded the group that all members of the Executive Committee, except for the Treasurer, are up for election at the Annual Meeting in September.  After some discussion, Langdon moved that the chair appoint a Nominating Committee consisting of members who are not likely to be candidates for office. The motion was seconded by Newell and approved by the members present.

Regional Chairs:  Randall pointed out that the By-Laws state that Regional Chairs should be elected by members of that particular region.  Langdon urged that we charge Regional Chairs with activating members in their region.  Both Chase and Tischbein felt that Regional Chairs should hold regional meetings once or twice a year, maybe in months that no MARP Membership meeting is scheduled.   Regional Chairs should be expected to attend monthly Executive Committee and Membership meetings and work as  team member.

Resignation of Vice-Chair:  Langdon moved that we accept the resignation of Barney Whittier as Vice Chair.  This was seconded by Randall and approved by the members present with the understanding that we attempt to persuade Whittier to rescind his resignation.

MARP Membership List:  Langdon moved that the full MARP Membership List be provided only to the Membership Coordinator, the Communications Coordinator and the Chair.  Lists of members in a particular region should be provided to that Regional Chair only.  Newell seconded this motion and it was approved by the members present.

ON TRACK:  The cost of mailing ON TRACK to the 70 members without e-mail comes to around $460 annually.  Randall suggested enclosing a survey with the next issue to determine if these members really want to receive it since they already get the newsletter.  Gurney felt that as an electronic newsletter, it should be distributed widely to all possible collaborators, including state and local officials, chambers of commerce, convention and visitor bureaus, etc.  It should not be used for Outreach events.

MICHIGAN PASSENGER:  While the cost of a single copy of The Michigan Passenger is as low as 1.1 cent per copy, it was felt by the group that we should be printing and distributing fewer copies.  At present, Langdon sends copies to all state legislators.  Langdon asked the Publications Committee to review both the number of copies printed and the cost of distribution and make recommendations to the Executive Committee.  The cost of printing and distributing the newsletter including the editor’s stipend was pegged at $4,500 per year.

TRANS4M:  Langdon and Chase are very active in this group.  If more MARP members were involved, we might qualify for a larger grant.  Chase suggested something on the lines of the Michigan By Rail forums that would get more than just public officials involved in issues.  Possibilities might be better funding for transportation, an infrastructure bank, and Complete Streets.  Langdon suggested having Bill Hamilton, a Lansing budget analyst, attend one of our meetings.

Grants:  After much discussion, it was agreed to allot a grant of $500 to the Durand Union Station.  The grant category for the 2012 budget will be $500.

Resignation of Treasurer:  Treasurer Dave Randall submitted a letter of resignation effective June 30, 2012.  He is moving to Texas to care for elderly relatives.  Tischbein moved acceptance of Randall’s letter of resignation.  This was seconded by Chase and approved by the members present.  Randall will probably be in the area until early fall and will assist with the transition.

Outreach:  While agreeing that having a table at various train shows was a proven strategy, it was agreed that we need to seek other ways of reaching out.  Liaison with like minded groups and talks to Rotary and other community organizations are possibilities.

Membership:  Newell asked for guidance on how to handle newsletters and correspondence returned as “No longer at this address”.  All agreed that we need to initiate a corporate membership program.  Langdon suggested we bring in an intern to develop a data base of likely organizations and corporations.  Tischbein will investigate this possibility.

Budget:  Based on the discussions about membership, grants, the newsletter, On Track and other items, the committee came up with a final budget for 2012.  That budget will be unveiled at the March 17 Membership meeting.

Adjournment:  The meeting adjourned at 5:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted:                                              Accepted:

Hugh D. Gurney                                                         Robert Tischbein

Secretary                                                                     Chair

MINUTES

MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING
THE OLD DOG TAVERN, KALAMAZOO
FEBRUARY 11. 2012

Those Signing In:  Hugh Gurney, Dave Randall, Robert Tischbein, Larry Krieg, Dan Platz, Tom Post, Steve T. Sobel, Mike Whims, Clark Charnetski, John Langdon, Archie Lhamon, Jim Hastings, Thomas Stegink, Diane Patterson, Robert Patterson, Cheryl Ten Brink, Burton Ten Brink, Kay Chase, John DeLora, Jim Hinkins, Don Monteith, Tim Hoeffner, Richard Pekarek

Also Present:  John Conor, Mike Madil, Chris Nozicka, J. J. Meddaugh

Call to Order:  Chairman Tischbein called the meeting to order at 12:05 p.m.

Speaker:  Chase introduced Mike Madill and John Conor, who discussed the history of theChicago,Kalamazoo and Saginaw Railroad, portions of which are used today by the Grand Elk.  As early as the mid 1870’s, businessmen inKalamazoo conceived of a second railroad through town to break the stranglehold of the Michigan Central.  A narrow gage railroad was surveyed fromKalamazoo toHastings, but a downturn in the economy halted further progress.  Construction of the CK&S began in 1883.  It connected with the Grand Trunk south of town, proceeded north throughKalamazoo, then northeasterly throughBarryCounty toHastings.  It was a boon to the development ofBarryCounty and brought vacationers to the many lakes in the region.  It never reachedLansing, its planned destination.  Little by little, the northeasterly section was abandoned, the last section betweenKalamazoo and Ridgeland being torn up in 1974.  The Grand Elk continues to use the section between the connection with the Grand Trunk at Pavilion andKalamazoo.

Madill and Conor are working to assure that the CK&S is not forgotten, putting up markers along the old right of way and at several bridges and depots.  A Festival is planned for July inKalamazoo. Members were invited to view the various display boards mounted around the room after the meeting.

Regional Chapter Reports:

            Northern:  Monteith reported that approximately 10,500 people attended theTraverse   City “Festival of Trains”, December 15-January 1, the largest attendance ever.  People in that area keep asking, “When do we get our passenger trains back?’ and “When are we going to get a decent bus connection to the trains going East and South?”

Monteith handed out statistics showing that Amtrak is the most energy efficient method of transportation, beating out even motorcycles.  He urged members to point out the success of the North Star commuter line inMinnesota, which now connectsSt. CloudwithMinneapolis, as an example of what we can do inMichigan.

MichiganTechnologicalUniversityis putting together a group to support the rail industry.

Metro Detroit:  Hinkins noted that the M-1 light rail project appears to be back  for reconsideration.  Work continues on the Michigan Central Station inDetroit and windows are being replaced.  This is mainly a public relations venture for Matty Maroun, who is under the gun for his lack of progress on the Gateway Project, designed to connect theAmbassadorBridge directly to I-75.  Responding to criticism from the business community, the Troy City Council reversed itself in January and voted to proceed with a scaled down regional transportation center.

Hinkins urged all to push for passage of the Southeast Michigan Regional Transportation Authority.  Charnetski noted that the proposed legislation requires a unanimous vote by the counties affected for rail projects to proceed.

Gurney reported on a visit that he, Fischer, Langdon, Wallington, Monteith and Krieg had made to Great Lakes Central inOwossoon January 18.  Work is underway on refurbishing twenty three of the twenty four ex-Metra cars under contract with MDOT. Twelve of the cars appear to be ready.  The group was able to inspect both a coach and a cab car.  Each car has room for four wheelchairs.  Bicycles can use this space if not needed for wheelchairs.  Krieg reported that Ann Arbor Transportation Authority has put out a Request for Proposals for station design along the proposed WALLY, but does not plan to go any further until it sees more support fromLivingstonCounty.

Charnetski very recently learned that theUniversityofMichiganwas pulling out of the proposedAnn   ArborTransportationCenterand would build its parking structure elsewhere.  FRA has determined that the parking structure could not be used as a match for the transportation center.

As for when we might see commuter rail in theAnn Arborarea, Hoeffner noted that passage of the Regional Transportation Authority must come first.  This is the governor’s highest priority.  We have a good shot at the RTA now as the key players are committed.

Several from West Michigan lamented that none of the current proposals include a direct rail link betweenKalamazooandDetroitMetroAirport.  Hoeffner responded that a bus connection from theDearbornstation to the airport was planned.  Charnetski noted that

AATA has negotiated with Michigan Flyer for direct service between the downtownAnn Arbortransportation center and Detroit Metro.  This service is scheduled to begin in April.   Because of AATA’s involvement, Detroit Metro will not charge Michigan Flyer an entry fee, Krieg added.

East/Central:  Robert Patterson commented on proposals he had seen of a new station inPort Huron near theBlueWaterBridge.  Hoeffner replied that Amtrak is not enamored with this concept as it involves bringing trains along a route with many grade crossings and a swing bridge.  A new station is needed as ridership is growing.  Approximately 50%-60% is fromCanada, judging from the cars in the parking lot.

Pekarek reported that the Board of Directors room at Durand Union Station was still under repair.  Winter weather has stalled completion of the new parking lot.

In response to Pekarek’s query aboutEast Lansing, Hoeffner noted that there had been some talk about a new station, but nothing definite.  If built, it would be at the diamond where CN and CSX cross.  Hoeffner hopes that spending a little money now may reap larger rewards in the future.  Ridership is definitely up atEast Lansing.

Western: Langdon recently attended a Fennville DDA meeting, where a proposed Amtrak station was discussed.  Amtrak has asked for a presentation.

Committee Reports:

Amtrak Thruway Committee:  On January 18, Gurney, Langdon, Monteith, Fischer and Krieg spent several hours with Gordon MacKay, Chad Cushman, Ken Henry and Brenda Cheney of Indian Trails at their office in Owosso.  Ridership is growing on the Michigan Flyer route which boasts a 99% on time performance.  Four new buses have been purchased for this service replacing four aging vehicles.  Ridership is also growing in Northern Michigan, where Indian Trails has achieved a 52% fare box recovery in a sparsely populated region.  Sixty five new way finding signs have been installed on state highways. All agreed to work toward having more Indian Trails routes in Michigan designated as Amtrak Thruway routes listed in the Amtrak timetable.  Linking Amtrak’s Thruway bus service between Toledo and East Lansing to Indian Trails’ Straits service up U. S. 127 to St. Ignace was discussed.  A full report on this meeting will be in the winter issue of The Michigan Passenger.

Route Enhancement Committee:  Gurney has assigned members to track various parts of the 2012 Route Enhancement goals and report back on a regular basis.  Major tasks include finding funding for studies of additional frequencies and developing the proposed Getting Around Michigan by Train and Bus.

National Train Day in Toledo:   Langdon reported that MARP will have a table at the National Train Day celebration inToledo on May 5.  We will need volunteers to help staff this table.

MDOT Update:  Hoeffner, newly appointed Director of MDOT’s Office of Rail, noted that he has worked for years for the consolidation of all rail functions in one MDOT office.  He acknowledged that the budget for rail has a different look this year, with many rail functions rolled in to one package.  There is no separate line for support of passenger rail, often a lightning rod for opposition in the past.  The governor has clearly demonstrated his support for transportation by adding funds from the general fund.  Support for the Wolverines will not be needed until the FY 2014 budget.

Amtrak is appreciative of MDOT’s support over the years.  MDOT has been able to close a multitude of private crossings east ofKalamazoo.  MDOT will be lengthening the lead time for crossing lights and gates as one way of promoting safety.   Education is definitely needed. Safety remains the top priority.

The public announcement that speeds will be increased to 110 mph on the Kalamazoo-Porter stretch came up very suddenly.  Trains have actually been running at that speed for about a week.  The special inaugural train will departChicagoon February 15, stop for ceremonies in New Buffalo, then proceed toKalamazoofor more ceremonies.  It will then return toChicago.

Outreach:  Tischbein announced that he had copies of the current outreach schedule available.

New Business:

            NARP Website:  Delora noted that Larry Sobczak had been working on www.newsconsultant.net/narp,  a very impressive website with lots of ridership statistics.  NARP received a grant of $15,000 to develop this project.

Recognition:  A retirement card signed by all was presented to Archie Lhamon, who will be retiring fromNorfolk Southern.  During his long career, Lhamon has worked the entire Detroit-Chicago line under Michigan Central and its successors.

Adjournment:  The meeting adjourned at 1:20 p.m.  The next meeting will be at the newPontiacTransportationCenter on Saturday, March 17, at 10:30 a.m.

Respectfully submitted:                                              Accepted:

Hugh D. Gurney                                                         Robert Tischbein

Secretary                                                                     Chair

MINUTES

MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
OLD DOG TAVERN, KALAMAZOO
FEBRUARY 11, 2012

Present: Dave Randall, Robert Tischbein, John Langdon, Kay Chase, Jim Hinkins, Hugh Gurney, Don Monteith

Also Present: Larry Krieg, Dan Platz, Tom Post, Mike Madill, John Conor, Chris Nozicka, Steve T. Sobel, Mike Whims, Clark Charnetski, Archie Lhamon, Jim Hastings, Thomas Stegink, Dianne Patterson, Robert Patterson, Cheryl Ten Brink, Burton Ten Brink, John DeLora, Tim Hoeffner, J.J. Meddaugh, Richard Pekarek, State Rep. Sean McCann

Call to Order:  Chairman Tischbein called the meeting to order at 10:50 a.m.  Lacking a quorum, he moved directly to Coordinator Reports.

Coordinator Reports:

            Government Affairs:  Langdon reported that MARP will receive a $5,000 grant from Trans4M in CY 2012 to cover expenses of participation in Trans4M activities.  He distributed the Amtrak release announcing that Amtrak and MDOT have federal approval to increase maximum speeds of Amtrak trains to 110 mph betweenKalamazoo and Porter,Indiana.  A special train out ofChicago on February 15 will be a “Ceremonial” launch of the new service, with Amtrak, MDOT and NARP officials on board.

The website StandUpForTrains.org created by the Midwest High Speed Rail Association as a way to rally support among lawmakers, community leaders and advocacy groups includes the MARP logo with a link to our website.

A packet of transportation bills have been introduced in the Michiganlegislature with a high priority on enabling legislation to establish a Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) in Southeast Michigan.  Langdon distributed excerpts from the FY 2012 and FY 2013 Executive Budget Request presented to a joint House-Senate committee on Thursday, February 9.  Due to the differences in the way the budget items are presented, he is uncertain of the actual funding proposed for the Blue Water and the Pere Marquette or whether there is money to fund the Wolverine under the requirement of PRIAA Section 209.  (Note: later in the meeting MDOT’s Tim Hoeffner said that PRIAA does not kick in until October, 2014.)  Notable in the budget request is a one time transfer of $119 m from the General Fund to the Transportation Fund.

Langdon announced that February 23 will be Transit Day at the Capitol.  Trans4M will have a conference call to brief participants on February 21 at 6:00 p.m.

The League of Michigan Bicyclists has an online petition urging Amtrak to allow bicyclists roll-on access toMichigantrains.  Charnetski suggested that we monitor the new equipment for baggage and bicycle handling capability.

With the arrival of additional Executive Committee members, a quorum was declared at 11:10 a.m. and Tischbein officially convened the Executive Committee meeting.

Secretary’s Report:  Gurney called for review of the minutes of the Executive Committee and the Monthly meetings held in Williamston on January 14.  Hinkins moved acceptance of the Executive Committee minutes.  The motion was seconded by Monteith and approved by the members present.  Chase moved acceptance of the Monthly Meeting minutes.  This was seconded by Langdon and approved by the members present.

Treasurer’s Report:  Randall reported on the operating results for the month of January, 2012.  As of January 31, 2012, the checking account stood at $6, 607.08 and the Pratt Fund was valued at $15,745.27.  Tischbein moved acceptance of this report.  DeLora seconded the motion and it was approved by the members present.

Randall then presented a revised annual budget for CY 2012 projecting $13,400 in income and $13,195 in expenses and a surplus of $205.  Noting that the editor was now paid $400 per issue, Langdon suggested raising dues income by $1,200 and the newsletter printing line by $1,200.  An appeal to NARP members inMichigannot currently members of MARP was suggested as one strategy for bringing in more membership dues.

Langdon moved to table the proposed budget.  The motion was seconded by Monteith and agreed to by the members present.

Langdon then moved to accept the Treasurer’s report.  This was seconded by Gurney and approved by the members present.

Special Guest:  State Representative Sean McCann of the 60^th District welcomed the group.  He expressed pleasure at the prospect of 110 mph trains running through his district.  He is particularly anxious to see Amtrak allow bicycles on the trains and is sponsoring a bill to further that objective.  Finding a source to fund the $1.4 billion required for transportation remains elusive.  The legislature plans to deal first with the creation of a Southeast Michigan Regional Transportation Authority before addressing funding of commuter railroads.

Conor suggested auditing MDOT books to locate unspent money.  Meddaugh urged early boarding for the disabled at all stops.

Coordinator Reports:

            Communications:  Chase noted that Transportation forAmerica, a national group, was urging defeat of HR 7 in the U.S. House of Representatives.  She thanked those who had already signed their petition and urged others to get on board to defeat this proposed legislation, which would strip transit and public transportation from receiving a portion of the federal gasoline tax revenues.  Letters to the local office of one’sU. S. Representative would be most effective.  When e-mailing, always include your name and mailing address.  As always, communications with legislators should be as an individual, not as a representative of MARP.

TheU. S.Senate is working on a reasonably good transportation bill.  The hope is that the Senate version can be the basis of final legislation.

DeLora noted that Representative Upton was opposing HR 7 because it cut out all funding of transit from gasoline revenues.  We may need to approach Representative Miller, who voted to move the bill out of committee to the full House.

Chase noted that The Michigan Passenger will be out very soon.

MDOT Report:  MDOT’s Director of Rail Tim Hoeffner reported on the February 1 accident just east ofJackson.  Warning lights and gates were working when an Amtrak train hit a truck with a lowboy trailer hung up on the tracks.  The locomotive, café car and one coach were derailed.  The locomotive does not appear to be in bad shape, but the frame of the café car may have been sprung.

While lamenting the accident, Hoeffner emphasized that the equipment did exactly what it was designed to do.  There were no serious injuries and emergency responders performed extremely well.  Recovery began immediately and passengers praised the response of Amtrak employees and how they were treated.  The law says that it is the responsibility of the driver of a vehicle to be aware of the route regardless whether there are warning signs or not.

MDOT andNorfolkSouthern have agreed on the transfer of the Kalamazoo-Dearborn portion of the route to MDOT.  However, many details must be finalized.  No closing date has been set.

Adjournment:  Chairman Tischbein adjourned the Executive Committee meeting at 12:05 p.m.

Respectfully submitted:                                              Approved:

Hugh D. Gurney                                                         Robert Tischbein

Secretary                                                                     Chair