DRAFT
MINUTES
MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
DURAND UNION STATION, DURAND
FEBRUARY 10, 2011

Present: Gurney, Tischbein, Hinkins, Langdon, Chase

Call to Order: Chairman Tischbein called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.  After some discussion, it was determined that a quorum did not exist and that no official business could be transacted.  However, several items were discussed in the hope that they would facilitate business at future meetings.

Executive Committee Meetings: It was the consensus of those present that Executive Committee Meetings held one hour prior to the scheduled monthly meetings could resolve a number of business items, thus shortening the monthly meetings.  Because several members indicated difficulty in getting to meetings all across the state by 9:00 a.m., it was the consensus of those present that Executive Committee meetings should generally be held at 10:00 a.m., with the membership meeting commencing at 11:00 a.m.

2011 Priorities: A list of priorities submitted by Gurney was discussed, along with others submitted by Tischbein and Newell.  Since all members of the Executive Committee had not submitted their list of priorities and since a majority were not present, it was agreed to defer the matter to a future meeting.

Vision Statements: Chase shared a list she had compiled showing the MARP Purpose as described in the By-Laws, MARP Goals as listed in the Membership Brochure and draft Sponsorship Brochure, and MARP’s Vision Statement as developed by the Route Enhancement Committee.  She suggested we review these documents and be more consistent in future publications.

MARP Regions: Gurney discussed changes Monteith had requested in the boundaries of  the Northern Region to facilitate his wish to work more closely with the various freight railways serving Northern Michigan.  Those present suggested moving Mason and Lake counties from the Northern Region to the Western Region as recommended by Monteith, but keep Genesee, Shiawassee and Clinton counties in the East/Central region as agreed to at the October retreat.  Tischbein noted that he could designate Monteith as liaison to Michigan short line and regional railroads as a separate and distinct position from Regional Chair of the Northern Region.  Gurney will prepare maps for all concerned.

Meeting adjourned at 10:00 a.m.

Respectfully submitted:                                  Accepted:

Hugh D. Gurney                                             Robert Tischbein

Secretary                                                         Chair

MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING
WILLIAMSTON DEPOT MUSEUM, WILLIAMSTON
JANUARY 15, 2011

Those Signing In: Hugh Gurney, Norma Ward, Don Monteith, Clark Charnetski, Dave Randall, Jim Wallington, Steve T. Sobel, Phillip Chamberlain, Vale Gartner, John Wentzel, Tim Hoeffner, Kaz Fujita, Dick Pekarek, Bennie Solowery, Bob Jones Cadiller, Dan Platz, Kathleen Newell, Kay Chase, Roger Webster, Tom Carroll, Barney Whittier, Jim Hinkins, Diane Patterson, Robert Patterson, John Langdon, Tim Fischer, Bob Tischbein

Also Present: Cloyce Odell, Andy Anderson, Williamston Depot Museum

Call to Order: Secretary Gurney called the meeting to order at 10:10 a.m. and introduced Cloyce Odell of the Williamston Depot Museum, who gave a brief history of  railroading in Williamston and the Depot Museum.  With the prospect of the Howell and Lansing Railroad passing through the community, the electors of Williamston Township on May 6, 1869, voted to issue $15,000 in bonds in support of the railroad, payable over a period of five years.  Before the bonds could be delivered to the railroad company, the State Supreme Count declared the action unconstitutional and they were destroyed.   By 1871, though, the Lansing, Detroit and New Haven Railroad had built a line through the area.  In 1873, a windmill was installed to fill the water tank at the station, replacing a pony which had done the task before.  Succession passed to first to the Erie Railroad Company, then the Pere Marquette, then the Chesapeake and Ohio and finally, to CSX.   High stack locomotives were used until the last six years of Pere Marquette ownership, when more modern steam locomotives were introduced.  During the C & O period, diesel locomotives took over.

As in other communities, the railroad brought new business, such as the Williamston Stave Company in 1873.  Grain elevators, a stockyard and a cold storage building followed.  A carriage would bring passengers from the station at the south end of town to the hotel.  Odell’s mother gleaned coal from parked coal trains for heat and fuel.

The current building was built around 1890.  Odell is in possession of the original blueprints.  It was moved to its present location in the 1970’s, after passenger service was terminated.  The building now houses the Williamston Depot Museum and the Williamston Chamber of Commerce and is open to the public on a regular basis.

Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Randall reported that, as of December 31, 2010, MARP had $8,086.89 in its checking account and the Pratt Fund was valued at $14,894.81.  The checking account was swelled by an unexpected donation of $5,000 from Cindy Barbour of West Lebanon, NH.  The Annual Meeting also produced more revenue than expense.

-1-.

Wallington moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report.  The motion was seconded by Langdon and agreed to by those present.

Randall then presented the proposed 2011 budget, showing $10,800 in revenue and $9,261 in expenses.  Tischbein moved to accept the proposed 2011 budget.  The motion was seconded by Langdon.  Randall agreed to make revisions once an anticipated grant from the Michigan Environmental Council is in hand.  The proposed 2011 budget was approved by the members present.

As to the $5,000 donation from Cindy Barbour, DeLora moved to transfer $500 to the Pratt Fund and leave the remainder in the checking account.  The motion was seconded by Wallington and approved by the members present.

Introductions: Chairman Tischbein took the gavel at this point and asked all present to introduce themselves.

Guest Speaker: Tischbein then introduced Tim Hoeffner, MDOT’s Intermodal Policy Administrator.  Hoeffner expressed confidence that passenger rail was off to a good start in the new governor’s administration. The reappointment of Kirk Steudle as MDOT Director is a good omen and promises continuity.  Steudle has been a supporter of passenger rail.

Amtrak has agreed to carry bicycles on Michigan trains, beginning in the spring of 2011.  It is Hoeffner’s understanding that this policy includes the Superliners used on the Pere Marquette line, though he will check to make sure.

As to the route of the high speed line through Indiana, Hoeffner responded that it is too early to speculate.  The contract with FRA has yet to be signed.  FRA wanted to get all the TIGER grants in place first so they couldn’t be rescinded.  Nevertheless, those involved have been identified and an RFP is being drafted.  It should be out for bids in the first quarter of 2011, as soon as the contract with FRA is signed.  It will call for repackaging all the work done through the Midwest Rail Initiative.  An Environmental Review will follow during which a preferred routing through Illinois and Indiana will be selected.  Following that, grants can be made to fund increased frequencies on the line.  Increased frequencies may require additional sidings.

Responding to Vavra-Musser, Hoeffner explained that work on the current Amtrak route in Indiana awaits approval of the railroads involved.  It is needed to improve freight flow, even if it is not selected as the preferred route for passenger trains.

The Englewood Flyover and Grand Crossing improvements will speed movement of Michigan passenger trains in and out of Chicago.

-2-

There is also no contract yet affecting the Kalamazoo-Dearborn segment of the Norfolk Southern line.  Michigan requested $284,000 and received $150,000, so adjustments must be made.  A match is also required before the money can be released.  MDOT is trying to determine how much should be allocated to acquisition and how much to maintenance.

Hoeffner feels the feds will add additional funds if and when available.

Responding to Monteith, Hoeffner confirmed that a site in Waterford has been identified as a possibility for maintenance of all Midwest passenger rail equipment.  Talgo will probably stay in Wisconsin.  It is building two train sets for the Chicago-Milwaukee line.  Oregon is purchasing two additional train sets with its TIGER grant.

Chase urged members to write letters to Governor Snyder and MDOT Director Steudle asking that they come up with the matching funds for the Kalamazoo-Dearborn high speed line.  Let them know that it should be a priority.

Hoeffner is pushing to see speeds increased on the Kalamazoo-Porter segment during the spring of 2011.  It would be a feather in Snyder’s cap.

Turning to the proposed commuter lines, Hoeffner noted that six cars have now been refurbished, but issues still exist as to how to meet the AFTA standards concerning seats.  With unlimited funds, MDOT could purchase acceptable seats.  But Hoeffner prefers to see if the existing seats can be reutilized.  At the moment, the seat manufacturer and Great Lakes Central are working on a plan.  Great Lakes Central has been authorized to refurbish sixteen of the total of twenty four cars needed.  All cars will be handicap accessible.

A new station is under construction in Pontiac.  Funded through a Federal Interstate Bus grant, it will serve both Amtrak and Greyhound.  It will not be as large as the proposed station in Dearborn.

In Birmingham, litigation with the property owner is holding up construction.  The $8.2 million available is adequate for the project.

As to how Section 209 of PRIAA will affect Michigan, the outcome is still unclear.  No significant changes are anticipated on the Pere Marquette and Blue Water service, but what happens with the Wolverine is still unclear, particularly capital costs.  Amtrak realizes it owns part of the route and that is being taken into the equation.

Responding to Robert Patterson on when any of the pending projects will be finalized, Hoeffner responded that MDOT is required by law to provide a report on rail service between Ann Arbor and Northwest Michigan by March 31, 2011.  The West Detroit Junction project is moving forward.

-3-

Addressing capacity problems, Hoeffner stated that there are no capacity problems on either the Wolverine or Blue Water lines during the week.  Michigan has handled a 25% ridership increase on the Wolverine and a 33% increase on the Blue Water. There have been problems on the Pere Marquette because of the smaller consist of trains on that route.  Charnetski noted that additional cars refurbished by TIGER had been added to the Wolverine. Langdon has observed more Pere Marquette trains running with four cars rather than the usual three.  There are no plans for additional frequencies at this time.

DeLora urged MDOT to start looking for additional cars to add when gasoline prices spike.

Hoeffner responded that MDOT is monitoring fuel costs because the do affect funding.  The bottom line is that the trains are doing very well at this point.

As to additional funding, Hoeffner reminded the group that the Transportation Task Force made a number of recommendations back in 2009 and that their study was still valid.  It is up to the legislature and the governor to act.

Confidentiality issues make it hard to assess how intercity bus is doing in Michigan.  The general feeling is that Greyhound, Michigan Flyer and Megabus are all doing well.  A new transportation center is planned for Detroit.

Minutes: The minutes of the November 13 meeting in Durand were reviewed and several corrections noted.  Wallington moved approval with these corrections.  The motion was seconded by DeLora and approved by the members present.

Coordinator Reports:

Public/Governmental Affairs: Langdon distributed information about the new legislative leaders in Lansing, new committees and subcommittees.

Fischer reported that sixteen Michigan By Rail forums had been staged between June and December.  Results are being tabulated and will be given to MDOT  to assist in the development of a State Rail Plan.  Most people attending the forums asked for more frequencies on current routes, rail service between both Grand Rapids and Detroit to Northern Michigan, rail service Detroit-Grand Rapids and rail service to Toledo from Detroit and Ann Arbor.

Hoeffner noted that MDOT had conducted one meeting so far on the State Rail Plan and findings were similar.    According to Fischer, most attending the forums he conducted were sympathetic to rail.  There were a few naysayers, but their comments were not inappropriate.  Some people were mainly looking for information.  DeLora noted the presence of many from planning agencies and chambers of commerce.  He praised Fischer and DeLora for the effectiveness of the forums.

-4-

Fischer then described the newly formed Trans4M or Transportation For Michigan coalition, of which MARP is a member along with many other statewide organizations.  Three large Michigan Foundations, the Ford Foundation, the Kresge Foundation and the

C. S. Mott Foundation are funding this effort.  MARP will be receiving a sub-grant of $5,000 to further the efforts of the larger group.  Responding to Gurney,  Fischer explained that our task will be to provide our information and expertise on intercity rail and motor coach.  Better passenger rail and motor coach service are among objectives of the coalition, and MARP is able to explain what intermodal transportation is all about.  Monteith suggested that Michigan Technological University be added to the list of universities involved.  Robert Patterson suggested we use the term “statewide” in lieu of “intercity” so that smaller communities understand that they are included.

Fischer urged MARP members to attend the Michigan Environmental Council Legislative Breakfast on February 9.

Communications: The Michigan Environmental Council Breakfast is scheduled for February 9 at 124 N. Capitol Avenue in Lansing.  It will be an excellent opportunity to meet legislators.  MARP plans to have a display for all the view.  Chase would like to see a good turnout from MARP members.

Chase is working on stationary and business cards that will convey as clear MARP brand.

Chase will be meeting with Valderas to find out how others can be most helpful in getting the newsletter out on a timely basis.

Wallington noted that Sobczak could also use some backup on maintaining the MARP website.

Tischbein distributed copies of the outreach schedule and asked for review.  The Ann Arbor Model Train show on February 20 was added to the schedule.

Meetings: Wallington reviewed the meeting schedule as it currently stands:

February 12                 Durand

March 19                     Bangor

April 15                       Millett

May                             No Meeting – National Train Day Activities

June 11                        South Lyon

July 30                         Dowagiac

August                                    No Meeting

September                   Durand

October                       Northwest Michigan

November                   To Be Determined

December                    No Meeting

-5-

Indian Trails: Wallington hopes to set up a meeting with Indian Trails sometime between February 17 and 24.  Tischbein appointed Wallington as the liaison between MARP and Indian Trails.

Membership: Newell reported that she has received eight new memberships and eight renewals in the last two months.  The pros and cons of issuing membership cards was discussed.  MARP’s thank you letter needs revision.  Renewal notices should be sent out soon.  Monteith asked for a list of members in the Northern Michigan region.  At DeLora’s suggestion, it was agreed that we would send invitations to the NARP membership list annually.

Regional Chapter Reports:

Metro Detroit/Southeast Michigan: Hinkins recently spoke to Palombo of SEMCOG about the status of the Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter line.  The required equipment, station platforms and track improvements at West Detroit remain to be done.  Having been burned in the past, Palombo declined to discuss a date when service would be inaugurated.

Planning for the Troy-Birmingham Transportation Center is about 75% complete.  Funding has yet to be released.

Hinkins and Tischbein attended a briefing on the Environmental Review for the M-1 Woodward Avenue light rail project.  The review should be completed within a year.

Hoeffner added that the notice of the draft Environmental Impact Statement is scheduled to be published in the Federal Register on January 19.  A public meeting is will take place in February.  Langdon has discussed the possibility of meetings similar to the Michigan By Rail Forums for the M-1 project with several Detroit Department of Transportation officials.

SMART has purchased two one hundred seat articulated buses.  One is now running regularly on Gratiot Avenue in the Detroit area and the other is rotating between various lines.  Hinkins has ridden on the Gratiot Avenue bus and reports that it provides “one sweet ride”, as smooth as a train without the rails.  Three bio-diesel buses are to be delivered in the spring and SMART would like to convert their whole fleet to bio-diesel.  Monteith suggested that natural gas would be a better alternative.

Gurney and Charnetski reported on the December WALLY briefing.  Substantial work has been done on the right of way between Howell and Ann Arbor including new ballast, reconstruction of all but two public crossings and extensive clearing of brush.  The line is ready for passenger trains running at 59 m.p.h.  A storage siding is under construction at Osmer, where commuter trains would dwell during the day.  Service into downtown Ann Arbor and Michigan Stadium would require lease or purchase of several miles of Ann Arbor Railroad owned tracks.

-6-

DeLora attended a session on train design recently and was amazed that 800 people showed up for the presentation.

Charnetski reported that the University of Michigan Art School was staging a show entitled “Trains of Thought” at the Wirtz Galleries in Ann Arbor and Detroit.

East/Central Region: Fujita announced that MSU has agreed that rail and bus passengers can now use all parking in the vicinity of the East Lansing station as long as they don’t block any doors or gates.  This doubles the amount of parking available.  New people with the franchise for selling bus tickets are keeping the station much cleaner.  Because the Blue Water consist has grown and dwell times are longer, the train now needs to move forward to let all people on and off.  More taxis are meeting the evening train and security does not seem to be an issue.

Because dwell times seem to be growing, Pekarek speculated that the schedule for westbound train #365 could be tightened.  Fujita countered that the train is often ten minutes late out of Battle Creek and twenty minutes late into Chicago, so a tightening of the schedule may be premature.  The tendency of Amtrak to hold #365 at Kalamazoo until the late arriving Wolverine had passed is a real problem.  Fujita did agree that eastbound #364 often stands in East Lansing for twenty minutes.  He suggested that the stops in Durand and further east be marked on the timetable with an “L”, indicating that the train may leave before the time indicated on the schedule.

Langdon recently met with Doug Wilson concerning his offer to help with promotion of the Blue Water. One project would be to have Amtrak publicize the fact that it has a Quik Trak machine at the Blue Water Convention and Visitors Bureau office under the Blue Water bridge.  Many people use the Quik Trak in Holland at non train times.  Marci Fogel at the Blue Water CVB is very supportive of the Blue Water service and the Blue Water Shore to Shore Connection.  Perhaps T. J. Gaffney of Port Huron could be helpful.

Western Michigan: Langdon passed out a sheet with recent ridership statistics.  The Pere Marquette is rebounding after the loss of the New Buffalo stop.  Much of the credit goes to Amtrak’s Moe Savoy in Chicago who is adding more cars to all Michigan trains.  Westrain is in the process of regrouping.

Langdon has done a spreadsheet listing all federal and state elected officials connected with each station stop including Thruway bus stops.  Vavra-Musser announced that St. Joseph is pushing for a real passenger station and not ust a cubbyhole. New Buffalo has asked Amtrak for an enclosed structure on the platform to shield waiting passengers from the brisk Lake Michigan wind.

-7-

Northern Michigan: Monteith urged a single, coordinated vision for public transportation in Northern Michigan that would help the Northern Michigan passenger  move easily to points out of the state, particularly to the East.  He suggested that a team work on the problem.  Hoeffner offered to bring the issue up with the new Rural Economic Development Director.  Langdon felt that MARP should be concerned and involved.  Wallington supported the idea of allowing Indian Trails’ passengers from Northern Michigan to connect with the East Lansing-Toledo Amtrak Thruway bus for better connections to eastern destinations.  He suggested a meeting involving Amtrak, Indian Trails and MDOT.

New Business:

Maglev: Tischbein suggested inviting proponents to make a ten minute presentation at a future meeting.

Railmark: Randall has received a $100 check for membership.  He suggested inviting a representative to a future meeting.

Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 1:20 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted:                                 Accepted:

Hugh D. Gurney                                             Robert Tischbein

Secretary                                                         Chair

MINUTES
MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
ANNUAL MEETING
Durand Union Station, Durand
November 13, 2010

Those Signing In:  Hugh Gurney, Clark Charnetski, John Langdon, Don Monteith, Tim Fischer, Dietrich Bergmann, George Schlaepfer, Harry Gow, Steve T. Sobel, John DeLora, Mary Myers, Daniel Myers, Julien Wolfe, Pat Post, Richard F. Pekarek, Ren Farley, Dan Platz, Larry Swartz, Jim Wallington, Larry Sobczak, Steve Vagnozzi, Doug Wilson, Jim Hinkins, Dave Randall, John Guidinger, Marilyn Guidinger, Kay Chase, Robert Tischbein, Rich Vavra-Musser, Robert Patterson, Diane Patterson, Andrew Kent, Tim Hoeffner, Norma Ward, Kathleen Newell, Kaz Fujita

 Also Present:  Douglas DeLora, Martha K. Wolfe, Scott Hercik, Jane Hinkins, Phyllis Bergmann, Joe Moran, Pat Norris

 Call to Order: The meeting to order at 10:18 a.m.  All present introduced themselves.

Treasurer’s Report:  Treasurer Randall reported that as of October 31, 2010, MARP had $3,375.00 in its checking account and the Pratt Fund was valued at $14,205.95.  Langdon moved approval.  The motion was seconded by Monteith and approved by the members present.

Secretary’s Report:  After review, Tischbein moved approval of the minutes of the October 23, 2010 meeting.  The motion was seconded by Langdon and approved by the members present.

Bonding Bill:  Langdon called attention to the fact that a bill is now before the Michigan Senate that would authorize use of state building authority bonding as the state match in rail projects.  He urged all present to write a letter to their own state senator urging his or her support.  Langdon has a sample letter he will share.

Chairman’s Annual Report:  Tischbein reviewed the Chairman’s Annual Report, which had been handed to all present in printed form.  In response, DeLora noted that MARP’s website had seen an increase in hits from 30,000 annually to 100,000 annually.  NARP is looking at this as a model.

 Gow expressed thanks for MARP’s response to the Detroit River International Crossing project and for its successful efforts to extend Amtrak Thruway Service to Sault Ste. Marie.

                                                                 -1-

One member pointed out a problem he noted recently when his bus arrived late at the Kalamazoo depot.  Not a human being was in sight.  The member was being picked up, but wondered what a stranger on that bus would have done.  Wallington noted that this issue would be on the agenda for meetings with Amtrak and Indian Trails.

Outreach:  Tischbein thanked all who had helped with Outreach over the past year, including Gurney, Newell, Langdon, Sobel, Charnetski, Hinkins, Fischer, Chase, Valderas, Frezell, Wallington, DeLora, Pekarek and Swenson. 

Guest Speaker: Tim Hoeffner, MDOT Intermodal Policy Administrator, reported progress on a number of fronts.  MDOT has received a $3.2 million grant to study the High Speed Rail Project.  This is a joint project with Indiana and Illinois and will include an Environmental Review.  The process will take 18-21 months.  FRA is anxious to see this study move quickly. 

A total of $151 million was awarded for the Dearborn-Kalamazoo sector.  MDOT had requested $241 million.  Hoeffner plans to meet face to face with Norfolk Southern officials next week to discuss the project.  Many in the passenger rail community are truly excited about the possibility of passenger trains running on their own rails.

Plans for the West Detroit connector are moving along and should see fruition in the near future.

Thanksgiving trains on the proposed Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter line were never scheduled.  Money was a problem as well as issues with the seating in the refurbished coaches.  Bids for leasing locomotives have been awarded and the successful bidder has painted one of their locomotives in the MITRAIN color scheme.

WALLY communities must now decide on the location of stations in their respective communities.

At this point in time, MDOT has no clear direction as to where the new governor stands on the various rail projects, though he appears to support both WALLY and the Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter service.  MDOT will continue to take an incremental approach to these projects. 

Michigan residents are voting by taking the train.  Ridership in October was up 20% on the Wolverine line and 39% on the Blue Water line.

In response to Vavra-Musser’s query about reaction to Ohio and Wisconsin opting out of high speed rail, Hoeffner noted that MDOT had been talking to Talgo, who recently located a facility in Wisconsin.  MDOT is particularly interested in bringing maintenance of all Midwest trains to a facility in Waterford.

                                                                     -2-

Hoeffner conceded that Michigan may have to pick up the costs of the Wolverine under PRIIA.  He is not comfortable with the capital costs that are being quoted.

Wallington noted that more cars on the Blue Water were bringing more riders.  Hoeffner added that MDOT’s efforts to rebuild relations with CN after a wreck in Charlotte several years ago were also paying off.

In response to a question from Robert Patterson as to how the $150 million grant will be broken down, Hoeffner stated that FRA is quite flexible.  Norfolk Southern has expressed a willingness to take less than the appraised value for the Dearborn-Kalamazoo line, and that can be applied as part of the 20% state match.  Some of the money will have to go to maintenance and not acquisition. 

Hoeffner feels that only minor upgrades are needed to permit 110 mph speeds, though Norfolk Southern wants to hold at 90 mph.  Norfolk Southern will continue operating freights on the line after acquisition.

In response to a question from Langdon, Hoeffner indicated he didn’t know whether the new Amtrak station in Grand Rapids would be staffed.  It could be that Indian Trails or Greyhound would handle ticket sales.

Robert Patterson expressed concern that increased speeds and more frequencies would adversely affect communities along the Chicago-Detroit line. If the Pere Marquette switches to the Amtrak line north of New Buffalo, that would mean even more rail traffic through that city.  Has New Buffalo expressed concerns about more trains passing through their community?    Hoeffner responded that signal technology can forestall the need for grade separations.  MDOT can also work with local communities to improve local traffic flow.  Amtrak trains will pass a grade crossing in 30-40 seconds, a wait that most motorists can tolerate.

In response to a concern that the East Lansing station closes before the Amtrak train is scheduled in the evening, Hoeffner noted that he needed to talk to Michigan State about that.

According to Hoeffner, the hope for a station track at Battle Creek is still on the books.  Funding was shifted to West Detroit, a higher priority.  The ultimate solution at Battle Creek is a flyover.

Responding to a question from Kent, Hoeffner stated that federal grants and the Comprehensive Transportation Fund will cover capital expenses.  Revenue from ridership should cover routine maintenance.   We must work to grow the business to cover fixed costs.

                                                                     -3-

As to the Michigan Owl, the decision to run the train over the Labor Day weekend was made too late to really promote it.  MDOT is not in a position to fund that train at this time. 

MDOT pays for service under Amtrak’s second option, where Michigan pays an agreed upon fixed cost for service during the year.  If ridership is up, Amtrak keeps any additional amount that it takes in.  MDOT feels that this is the better option because it gives Amtrak an incentive to do a better job.  Because ridership is up, Hoeffner anticipates that the basic contract will be slightly lower in 2011.  Amtrak may receive additional amounts for special trains in the Ann Arbor-Detroit line.

MDOT is working with Amtrak on increased Business Class seating.  At this point, a whole car is not needed.  MDOT does not see Quiet Cars on Michigan lines at the present time.  Hoeffner has asked his operations staff to look into the feasibility of connecting additional cars en route on some trains. 

Responding to a question from Tischbein, Hoeffner stated that MDOT has taken no position on the proposed abandonment of a rail line serving Ontonagon. The community is looking for a buyer for the plant that is closing there.

In conclusion, Hoeffner stated that he can’t predict what the new governor will do as far a rail passenger service.  He seems to have an urban agenda, supporting high speed and commuter rail.

Lunch:  At this point, a break was taken for a delicious catered luncheon.

Thanks to Retiring Executive Committee Members:  Gurney paid tribute to those going off the Executive Committee at this time, including Tim Fischer, Steve Sobel and Andrew Kent.  He also recognized the contributions of those who had left the committee earlier, including Mike Whims and Michael Frezell.  A Certificate of Appreciation was given to Clark Charnetski for his thirty-five years of service to the Michigan rail passenger.

Tribute to John DeLora:  Bergmann then offered tribute MARP’s founder, John DeLora, who has served the cause of the Michigan rail passenger for thirty-seven years.

DeLora called a small number together for the first meeting in November, 1973.  Two months later, in January, 1974, the first newsletter came out.  It has been published continuously ever since, under several names, The Michigan Mainliner; The Wolverine Passenger: and now The Michigan Passenger.  The organization was incorporated in January, 1975, with John DeLora, John Guidinger and Craig Harris as Incorporators.

From 1977-1982, there was a subsidiary organization, The Michigan Passenger Foundation, whose aim was to assist passengers in those early Amtrak days.  Bergmann illustrated highlights in DeLora’s leadership right up to October, 2010, when he was present in Jackson for the announcement of the $150 million high speed rail grant.

                                                                -4-

An engraved plaque was presented in recognition of DeLora’s “40 years at the throttle”.

Scott Hercik then added to the list of DeLora’s accomplishments, followed by Harry Gow, who thanked DeLora for his work on the legislation and his support for VIA. Unfortunately, VIA is currently building a new Windsor station in Walkerville, which will make connections to Detroit very difficult.  Gow presented DeLora with a VIA thermos to take on his trips.

 Larry Swartz of America By Rail praised DeLora for his achievements.  Michigan’s rail network feeds passengers to America By Rail and helps make the business a success.  As a token of thanks, Swartz presented DeLora with a $1,000 gift certificate.

Others speaking in praise of DeLora included Phyllis Bergmann, Clark Charnetski, Norma Ward, and George Schlaepfer, one of the signers of the original charter.

DeLora acknowledged all who had spoken and made presentations and pledged to continue his work in support of passenger rail service on the national level.

Adjournment:  The meeting adjourned to enjoy a festive cake in honor of the occasion.

Respectfully submitted,                                              Accepted:

Hugh D. Gurney                                                         Robert Tischbein

Secretary                                                                     Chair

MINUTES
MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
Monthly Membership Meeting
Grand Rapids Amtrak Station, Grand Rapids
October 23, 2010 

Those Signing In:  Hugh Gurney, Dave Randall, Carl J. Suchi, Rich Vavra-Musser, Clark Charnetski, Don Monteith, Jim Wallington, Kay Chase, Kathleen Newell, Dan Myers, Mary Myers, Jeff Ruitel, Arman Balk, Diane Patterson, Robert Patterson, Jim Hinkins, J. R. Valderas, John Langdon, Ed Hekman

 Call to Order:  Chairman Tischbein called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m.

Guest Speaker:  Langdon introduced Ed Hekman, one of the West Michigan individuals who took part in the successful campaign to bring passenger rail service, discontinued in 1971, back to Grand Rapids .   Hekman recalled meeting in a private rail car to discuss strategy.  Eventually the group gathered 12,000 signatures urging restoration of rail service, enough to impress then Governor Milliken and get the blessing of the state. The Pere Marquette station in Grand Rapids had been torn down in 1958, so it took some time to come up with a location for the Amtrak service.  Eventually the site at 431 Wealthy Street was agreed upon and the city provided what is essentially a pole barn facility.  Amtrak service to Chicago began in 1984. 

Charnetski noted that the formula for state support of Amtrak trains has changed since 1984.  At that time, it was 50% of avoidable costs.  Today it is 100%.

Langdon then pointed out the plaque to Ray Hamacher, another of the group instrumental in getting Amtrak service underway.  Hamacher served as station host for many years and was very active in Westrain, the promotion group for the Pere Marquette.  MARP, Amtrak and Westrain contributed to the cost of the plaque. 

Hamacher was one of those pushing for a central Transportation Center for Grand Rapids.  Recently, the Transportation Center was built and currently serves RAPID, the Grand Rapids transit system, Greyhound and Indian Trails.  In 2010, U. S. Representative Vern Ehlers was able to get an earmark providing funds to lay tracks into the Center.  The proposed Amtrak station would be just to the south of the remainder of the transportation complex.  Money is still needed to cover the costs of building the Amtrak station and adjacent parking. 

Langdon handed out maps of the proposed development which he had picked up during the recent NARP presentation at the Transportation Center.  Vern Ehlers did attend the NARP meeting as well as two state representatives, one a staunch conservative from Grandville.

                                                                -1-

Michigan By Rail:  Langdon noted that MDOT’s Tim Hoeffner attended both the recent Michigan By Rail Forum in Detroit as well as the NARP meeting in Grand Rapids.  Hoeffner likes the maps Michigan By Rail has developed.  It appears that MDOT and Michigan By Rail agree on a number a key points for the Michigan State Rail Plan including the importance of rail along the I-94 and I-96 corridors, north to Traverse City, and connections to points beyond Michigan.  MDOT also likes the concept of connecting colleges and universities throughout the state. 

Upcoming meetings are scheduled for Monroe and Detroit.  Chase has sent thank you notes to community leaders and elected officials who have attended past meetings.

Minutes of the September 25 meeting in St. Ignace were reviewed.  In response to a query by Valderas, Wallington explained that he and two others were granted life membership because of the invaluable service they had provided to MARP.  Randall noted a correction. Wallington moved acceptance with corrections, seconded by Langdon.  The motion was approved by those present.

Treasurer’s Report:  Randall distributed the Treasurer’s Report for review.  As of September 30, 2010, MARP had $3,813.91 in its checking account and the Pratt Fund was valued at $13,701.23.  The reminder postcard was effective and brought in an additional $650.00 in dues during the month.  Expenses are up because of the Michigan By Rail Forums.  We are now saving about $200-$300 on each issue of the newsletter, mainly due to changes in the mailing procedures.  Wallington moved acceptance, seconded by Langdon.  The motion was approved by those present.

Coordinator Reports:

            Public/Governmental Affairs:  Langdon noted that we have been trying to invite both elected officials and candidates to the Michigan By Rail Forums.  Conyers is hoping to host the upcoming forum in Detroit and Dingell will try to attend the one in Ann Arbor.

The State of Michigan 2011 F.Y. appropriation for Amtrak is $8.67 million.

Legislation has been introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives to designate $100 million of transportation bonding for rail improvements.  This could be used for the state match for potential federal grants.  If passed, it will demonstrate the state’s commitment to rail.  Fischer will try to push it through the lame duck session of the legislature in November. 

            Communications: Chase suggested that members check out the URL for the National Rail Plan.  It includes maps and a link to the Michigan State Rail Plan. 

She needs a short biography from all members of the Executive Committee to use in news releases she is preparing.  Monteith suggested that these bios be printed in The Michigan Passenger.

                                                                    -2- 

MARP has been invited to attend meetings of Operation Lifesaver.  Their quarterly meeting is November 5 at the Durand Union Station.  RSVP’s are appreciated. 

                                    Outreach:  Tischbein passed out copies of the latest outreach schedule.  Events in Ann Arbor and Detroit were added.  Valderas reminded all that National Train Day events must be set up on the morning of the event.

                                    Website:  Charnetski suggested that two University of Michigan railroad technology lectures be posted on the MARP website, one on December 2, 2010 and the second on May 10, 2011. 

 Valderas made a motion that contact information for all members of the Executive Committee be posted on the website.  The motion was seconded by Langdon and approved by the members present. 

                                     Michigan Passenger:  Valderas reported that The Michigan Passenger would go to press sometime after the Annual Meeting on November 13.  He has been asked to work more hours by Holland Public Schools and that will slow production.  He asked all members of the Executive Committee to provide him with e-mail addresses and phone numbers for inclusion in the paper.  He will take photos of all new members of the Executive Committee immediately after the meeting. 

 Charnetski asked that members with extra copies of The Michigan Passenger bring them to the November meeting in Durand so that they could be used at upcoming outreach events.  Langdon noted that with new officers, a new distribution system will go into effect.

            Membership:  Newell reported that Vavra-Musser had transferred virtually all membership information to her.  She is in the process of digesting it.  The September minutes reflect an increase in membership numbers over 2009.

             Meetings:  Wallington reminded all that the Annual Meeting will be held on Saturday, November 13, at the Durand Union Station.  It will focus on a salute to outgoing chair John DeLora.  Wallington asked for volunteers to help with set up that morning. There will be no meeting in December.

The 2011 schedule begins on Saturday, January 15, with a membership meeting at the depot in Williamston.  February will see us back in Durand, March in Bangor, and April in Millett. Because of National Train Day, there will be no meeting in May.  South Lyon will be the venue for June. 

Chase asked all to watch for post cards announcing the November 13 Annual Meeting and asking for an RSVP.  The meeting will cost $20.00 per person to cover lunch for all.  Many of DeLora’s friends and associates have been invited.  Chase will also send out an e-mail reminder.

                                                                 -3-

Regional Chapter Reports:

            Detroit Metro:  SMART has purchased its first flexible or accordion buses which are scheduled to go into service on the Gratiot Avenue route during the second week of November, Hinkins reported.  The Federal Highway Administration has received a Notice of Intent to proceed with the Environmental Impact Statement for the Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter rail line.  The first public meetings are scheduled for late 2010 or early 2011.  Hinkins has had no further word on a special Ann Arbor-Detroit train on Thanksgiving.  A Detroit-Ann Arbor special in early December is still possible.

Hinkins was among those who visited the Great Lakes Central workshops in Owosso in September to view work on the ex-METRA cars being refurbished for the Ann Arbor-Detroit and WALLY commuter lines.  Work includes painting the interiors and exteriors and rebuilding the trucks.  The MDOT logo and the wording “MITRAIN” will be part of the exterior design of both cars and locomotives.  FRA is scheduled to begin inspecting the cars next month.

To make the cars ADA accessible, customized platform lifts will be installed on station platforms.  According to a serviceman  working October 23 on the lifts at the Grand Rapids station, the lifts on the WALLY and Ann Arbor-Detroit lines will have a longer tongue to reach further into the cars than the lifts that service Amtrak’s Horizon equipment.

Charnetski recently attended a meeting to review plans for the proposed Birmingham/Troy station.  Construction can proceed as soon as property ownership issues are cleared up.

            East/Central: Wallington reported that the Blue Water Coalition is updating the information on each community that the Blue Water serves for the mitrain website.

            Western: Langdon passed out the Amtrak ridership reports for September.   Also included is a revised Pere Marquette report, adjusted to reflect the loss of New Buffalo on that line.  For the past few weeks, the Pere Marquette has had a consist of four cars rather than three. For the new New Buffalo station on the Blue Water/Wolverine line, ridership for the last eleven months is up 169% and for September, a 302% increase. 

Vavra-Musser reported that the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission has drafted a letter asking MDOT to include the current Pere Marquette route in the Michigan State Rail Plan, adding a junction just north of New Buffalo so that Pere Marquette trains can access the Amtrak line at that point.  The Southwest Michigan Planning Commission is asking MARP to co-sign the letter.  After considerable discussion, it was agreed that the MARP chair should review the letter and ask for possible rewording to fit MARP’s vision.  The Regional Chair and Communications Coordinator will take part in this review as well as other members of the Executive Committee.  If agreement with SWMPC can’t be achieved, MARP may write its own letter.

                                                                -4-

            Northern:  Monteith noted that over four hundred took part in the Steam Railroad Institute excursion to Northern Michigan last week.  During the excursion, he was made aware of the attractive depot in Cadillac, currently owned by the city.  Plans are afoot to adoptively reuse the structure as a restaurant. 

Monteith plans to attend the meeting of the New Rails chapter of the Wisconsin Association of Railroad Passengers in La Crosse next week.  He asked for a letter of introduction.  Chase suggested that he confer with Gurney who heads the Route Enhancement Committee and who might suggest topics to bring up at that meeting.

Old Business:

            NARP Fall Meeting: Langdon handed out a written report on the four day conference held last weekend in Grand Rapids, which included a meeting of representatives from eleven state passenger associations, a day long tour of Southwest Michigan Passenger Rail Facilities, the core meeting featuring presentations by Gordon MacKay of Indian Trails, Mike Franke from Amtrak, Ross Capon and other NARP officials.  The fourth day focused on promotional opportunities.  Langdon added details on the state passenger associations meeting, including a discussion of swapping membership lists, a sheet New Jersey has developed to track the votes of its Congressional delegation on rail issues, and discussion of the importance of communicating with officials at the local, state and federal level. 

Many of the states are already paying for most Amtrak service or have decided they will pay for the service, so Section 209 of the 2008 Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act is not a concern to them.  If implemented, Michigan could well pay an additional $15 million annually for the Wolverine service which is currently Amtrak funded.  Unofficially, Amtrak would like to see Section 209 repealed.

NARP would like each state ARP to have a mission statement that parallels the NARP Mission Statement.  Randall pointed out that, since MARP is not legally connected to NARP in any way, we are not obliged to comply.

            Friends of Jackson Michigan Central Station:  Tischbein noted he had yet to receive any official communication from this group as to affiliating in some way with MARP.  After discussion, it was agreed that it would be better to encourage the Friends group to incorporate separately.  Once they have received their charter from the state, they can come to MARP and request support for the cost of applying to the IRS for their 501(c)(3) status.  Tischbein plans to attend their next meeting and will convey MARP’s sentiments. 

New Business: 

            TRU Fundraiser:  Chase noted the Annual Transit Riders United Fundraiser scheduled for November 10 in Detroit.  As a way of supporting TRU’s work, she moved that MARP pay for a sponsorship at the $250.00 level.  For this contribution, MARP would receive recognition in the program and two tickets to the event.  The motion was

                                                                      -5-

seconded by Wallington and passed by the members present.  Langdon suggested that TRU ask Derrick James at Amtrak if he could provide Amtrak tickets for the auction.

            Other:  Hinkins expressed concern as to who would oversee the operation of the WALLY and Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter trains,  since no regional authority currently exists.  Langdon noted that the SEMCOG website indicates that they are negotiating with Amtrak to run their trains.  It was agreed that a state run system would be best at this time.  This should be a topic for our next meeting with MDOT’s Tim Hoeffner.

Adjournment:  Langdon moved adjournment.  This was seconded by Randall.  The meeting adjourned at 12:55 p.m.

Respectfully submitted:                                  Accepted:

Hugh D. Gurney                                             Robert Tischbein

Secretary                                                         Chair

DRAFT
MINUTES
MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
Monthly Membership Meeting
 St. Ignace Transportation Center, St. Ignace
September 25, 2010

Those Signing In: Hugh Gurney, Norma Ward, Harry Gow, Don Monteith, Jim Hinkins, John Horton, John Langdon, Barney Whittier, Chad Cushman, John Guidinger, Marilyn Guidinger, John DeLora, Lawrence Sobczak, Robert Tischbein, Kay Chase

Also Present:  Eric Dobson, St. Ignace City Manager; Paul Grondin, St. Ignace Mayor; Jesse Auerbach, Environmental Defense; Frank Ingram, Wisconsin New Rails; Judy Gross, Speaker

Call to Order:  Chairman DeLora called the meeting to order at 9:35 a.m.  A quorum was ascertained.  The agenda was reviewed and approved.

Introductions:  All present introduced themselves and their home base.  Paul Grondin, Mayor of St. Ignace, welcomed the group to the city.

Minutes were distributed and reviewed.  Whittier moved acceptance.  The motion was seconded by Monteith and approved by the members present.

Treasurer’s Report was distributed and reviewed.  As of July 31, 2010, we had $3,901.80 in the checking account and the Pratt Fund was valued at $12,549.00.  To date, MARP has received about 94% of budgeted income for the calendar year, and expended about 70% of projected expenses for the year.  Langdon moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report.  This was seconded by Whittier and approved by the members present.

Coordinator Reports: 

            Government Affairs:  Langdon shared a letter of support for Michigan’s request for high speed rail projects directed to U. S. Secretary of Transportation LaHood and signed by approximately sixty Michigan state legislators.  A bill introduced by State Representative Wayne Schmidt of Traverse City would authorize bonding of up to $100 million as the state match for federal funding.  It has bipartisan support. 

MARP will not oppose sale by the state of a railroad in Hillsdale County not used for over twenty years. The Michigan Association of Railroads is also not opposing this sale.

As of September 24, the state transportation bill is still in conference committee.

            Communications: No report.

                                                      -1-

                        Outreach:  Tischbein passed out an updated schedule of outreach opportunities.  He asked those willing to help to get back to him.  DeLora reminded all that Amtrak’s 40^th anniversary was coming up in May of 2011.  It should be coordinated with National Train Day.

                        Website: Sobczak noted that the MARP website had received more than 12,000 hits during the last year.  DeLora speculated that many were checking the train status feature.  Langdon felt that the quality of the site had much to do with its increasing use.  It now has over 600 pages of content.  DeLora plans to recommend that Sobczak upgrade the NARP website.  Wallington reminded the group that Sobczak could use some back-up.

            Membership:  Reporting for Vavra-Musser, Langdon reported a 10% increase in membership over 2009.  A second renewal letter went out recently to those 2009 members who have not yet renewed in 2010.  We will also be sending out a second letter to NARP members in Michigan who have not yet joined MARP.

            Meetings:  Wallington thanked everyone responsible for making this meeting in St. Ignace such a success.  We are indeed happy to be in the U.P.

NARP will be holding its Council of Representatives meeting at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids, October 13-16.  Registration is $150 plus $40 for the Thursday tour.  The business meeting on Friday will feature speakers from Indian Trails and the Federal Railway Administration. 

MARP will meet on Saturday, October 23 at the Amtrak station in Grand Rapids.  We will be viewing a plaque there which honors Ray Hammacher, a long time rail advocate who lined up 12,000 signatures to initiate Amtrak service between Grand Rapids and Chicago.  RAPID, the Grand Rapids transit system, recently obtained a $4 million earmark for a consolidated transportation center which will serve city buses, Indian Trails, Greyhound and Amtrak.

Durand Union Station will be the site for the November 13 meeting, which will feature a festive thank you to John DeLora and others leaving the Executive Committee.  Wallington would like a subcommittee to work with him on details.  He would like to see Durand tagged as the permanent site of the MARP Annual Meeting.

Wallington is attempting to schedule all 2011 meetings in train stations.  A tentative schedule includes Williamston in January, Durand in February, Bangor in March, Millett in April, South Lyon in June, St. Joseph in July, Lapeer in August, Durand in September and Charlevoix/Petoskey/Traverse City in October.  Because of National Train Day, no monthly meeting is scheduled in May.

                                                                   -2-

  Regional Reports:

            Detroit Metropolitan:  Hinkins reported on a recent field trip to Owosso to view progress on the equipment scheduled for use on the WALLY and Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter lines.  The seating on 15 former METRA cars has been stripped out and the interiors have been painted an eggshell color.  The new seats are black, matching the black rubber floorings.  The seats are not reversible.  The Great Lakes Central Railroad has a two year contract with MDOT to refurbish these cars, a contract that may be extended to three years.  A total of 19 people are working on the project.

No date has been scheduled for institution of commuter service on either the WALLY or Ann Arbor-Detroit lines or of special runs for Thanksgiving to Detroit or excursions to Chicago.  Hinkins asked what MARP’s responsibility was in pushing MDOT and SEMCOG on these commuter rail projects.  DeLora responded that he thought the upcoming retirement of several individuals at SEMCOG would change the environment there.

            East/Central:  Blue Water trains often have 7-8 coaches and two café cars with business seating, Wallington reported.  This is an outgrowth of Boardman’s attitude that people really want trains.  Four MARP members including Wallington attended the Indian Trails 100^th Anniversary Celebration in Owosso.  MARP’s relationship with Indian Trails would have been unimaginable several years ago. 

The East Lansing station has been painted recently and more comfortable seating installed.

            Western:  U. S. Representative Fred Upton attended the recent Rail Forum in St. Joseph, Langdon noted.  Many present expressed interest in connecting CSX and Amtrak at New Buffalo.  Langdon urged those present to talk with their elected officials as the way to get action.    

The September 23 Forum in Holland was featured in the Grand Rapids Press.  Most present supported passenger rail.

August ridership for the Blue Water was up 37% and the Pere Marquette 4%.  New Buffalo ridership was up 200% for the month and 156% for the year.  Langdon reminded the group that additional cars could impact the amount Amtrak will charge the state in future years.

At the St. Joseph meeting, John Krull handed out a report on the Michigan Owl.  Amtrak was very pleased with the response to the Labor Day weekend train.  The short notice of its inaugural was due to Norfolk Southern’s delay in approving it.  Chase had an opportunity to ride the new train and talked to many riders.  Most saw it on the Amtrak website and didn’t realize it was an experimental venture.  Langdon urged Chase to send a letter to Amtrak thanking them for running the train and asking that it be made

                                                                     -3-

permanent.  DeLora added that the elected officials who requested the new service should also be thanked.    The additional service would really benefit weekday travelers who want to get to Chicago early.  It runs primarily on Amtrak owned rails.    

The New Buffalo station is a good example of what happens when frequencies are added.  Private entrepreneurs paid for construction of the new station because they foresaw what could happen.  Station activity is up 200-300% over the old station, served by only one train each way daily.

 Leadership of Westrain has moved to St. Joseph, which is good news for retaining the present route of the Pere Marquette.  The Southwest Michigan Planning Commission recently issued a position paper supporting that route. 

 Westrain receives $100,000 annually from MDOT to promote the Pere Marquette.   Langdon speculated that a similar organization in Northern Michigan could help promote the Indian Trails service.

             Northern Michigan:  Monteith reported that he has attended a number of meetings recently dealing with rail matters, including the Michigan By Rail Forum in Traverse City. 

 In a recent meeting dealing with the Grand Vision for the Traverse City Region, it was agreed to add Charlevoix and Petoskey for transportation planning.

 Monteith is now a member of a Chamber of Commerce rail freight committee, hoping to interest cherry growers and wine producers to ship by rail.

 The Michigan Rail Plan meeting hosted by MDOT in Traverse City was attended by 110 people, an excellent turnout.

 A similar MDOT Rail Plan meeting in Negaunee was attended by 45 people, including one of the candidates for the first district seat in the U. S. House of Representatives.  All present wanted to see a resumption of passenger rail service to the area.

 Monteith asked if any NARP meetings were open to NARP members without charge?

 Frank Ingram of Wisconsin New Rails expressed interest in what was going on with passenger rail in the U.P., noting that the meeting in Negaunee was not very well publicized.  Current plans have passenger rail restored from Milwaukee to Green Bay by 2019 with many thinking it could be a reality by 2015.  Thruway bus service from Green Bay or Diesel Multiple Units would be ideal, although the tracks in Michigan are not signalized.  Ingram is concerned that the Republican candidate for governor in Wisconsin is very hostile to rail and has promised to scrap all new passenger rail ventures if elected.  The fact that the proposed Twin Cities-Duluth passenger service actually runs through Wisconsin has eluded him to date.

                                                                -4-

Langdon noted that Diesel Multiple Units would work very well on the Great Lakes Central and other Michigan lines.  The company that manufactures DMU’s has recently moved to Ohio.  The U. S. requires much more strongly built cars than Europe does.

 Old Business:

            Michigan By Rail:  The Michigan By Rail Forums are an outcome of a meeting between Tim Fischer of the Michigan Environmental Council and the contractor charged by MDOT with doing the Michigan State Rail plan.  A state rail plan is now required before the state is eligible for any federal funding for rail improvements.  When Fischer learned that MDOT planned just four public meetings, he organized a number of additional meetings to gather input into what Michiganians really want in the way of passenger and freight rail service.  The Michigan By Rail forums are co-sponsored by the Michigan Environmental Council and MARP.  Meetings have already been held in a number of communities with additional meetings scheduled for Flint on September 30 and Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, Detroit, Ann Arbor and Muskegon during the next three months, for a total of 16 Michigan By Rail forums.  Findings will be presented to MDOT and the new administration when it takes office in January.  Chase urged members to attend and bring others.  It is particularly good when elected officials are there to hear directly from the people.

            Election Results:  Whittier presented the slate of officers for 2010-2012.  Since no seats are contested, a formal election is not necessary.  The new officers are: 

            Chair                                                                                       Robert Tischbein

            Vice Chair                                                                               Barney Whittier

            Secretary                                                                                 Hugh Gurney

Executive Committee (Communications)                               Kay Chase

            Executive Committee (Public/Governmental Affairs)            John Langdon

            Executive Committee (Membership)                                      Kathleen Newell

            Executive Committee (Meetings)                                           Jim Wallington

            Regional Chair – Metro Detroit                                              Jim Hinkins

            Regional Chair – East/Central                                                No Candidate

            Regional Chair – West Michigan                                            Barney Whittier

                                                (temporary pending decision by the chair)

            Regional Chair – Northern Michigan                                      Don Monteith

 Other positions such as Treasurer, Outreach Chair, Editor and Webmaster are appointed.

 Langdon moved acceptance of the Nominating Committee Report.  The motion was seconded by Monteith and approved by the members present.

 New Business:

            New Thruway Routes:  Wallington urged that all Indian Trails routes to and in Northern Michigan be designated Amtrak Thruway Routes, as they all connect with each

                                                                    -5-

other.  Cushman responded that Indian Trails was quite agreeable, but Amtrak had logistical problems with routes where transfers were required from one bus to another.

He felt that Wallington’s proposal made sense, since rail will never reach the entire population.                                                                   

 Asked by Langdon where MARP should place its emphasis, Cushman responded that all routes north of Lansing, Bay City and Grand Rapids need more usage.  These routes could disappear if the state withdrew its support.  Langdon noted that Amtrak was extending its Thruway bus from Toledo to Grand Rapids during the NARP meeting in October.  Perhaps that could be made permanent.  Service to communities in the Thumb is another possibility.  Wallington suggested a bus up the Lake Michigan shoreline in addition to the current service along U.S. 131. 

 All agreed that more marketing is needed.  Unfortunately, the governor vetoed Indian Trails’ marketing budget last year.  Langdon suggested getting Tim Fischer at the Michigan Environmental Council involved.

            Life Memberships:  Langdon noted the extraordinary contributions to MARP by Larry Sobczak, J. R. Valderas and Tim Fischer and moved that these three individuals be made life members.  The cost of mailing each a quarterly newsletter would be the major expense.  The motion was seconded by Monteith and passed by the members present.

             Change in Leadership: DeLora spoke of his years promoting rail service in Michigan, starting with membership in NARP and then his role in founding MARP back in 1953.  He has observed that passenger rail makes its greatest strides when a real believer in rail is governor.  His reading in the current electoral campaign is that both candidates for governor are favorable to passenger rail. 

 DeLora stated that he feels that all Michigan routes should have at least two round trips daily and that Chicago-Detroit-Buffalo-New York service should be restored, in order to bring people into Michigan from both East and West.  He leaves office feeling that the leadership of MARP is strong.  He is especially grateful for the contributions of John Guidinger, J.R. Valderas, John Langdon and Larry Sobczak.  He can now focus more on national passenger rail issues.   At this point, DeLora officially turned the gavel over to incoming chair Robert Tischbein.

 Noting that she had been a member since 1974, Ward expressed her appreciation for what Delora and others had contributed over the years.

 Adjournment:  The business meeting was officially concluded at this point.

 Awards and Guest Speakers:

            Indian Trails:  DeLora then called Chad Cushman of Indian Trails forward and presented a plaque honoring Indian Trails on its 100^th year in business and its

                                                                     -6-

 commitment to intermodal transportation.  Indian Trails not only connects all of Northern

 Michigan to Amtrak at Kalamazoo, Battle Creek or Milwaukee, it also operates scheduled service from Lansing, Jackson and Ann Arbor to Detroit Metro Airport.

 Noting that intercity motor coach service is quite different from local transit, Cushman stated that intercity motor coach had no statewide organization to work with.  A meeting with MARP about two years ago initiated a very productive relationship between the two organizations, both committed to mass transportation.  In today’s environment, line or scheduled motor coach service is very challenging.  All modes of mass transportation need to sit at the same table and work together.

 The St. Ignace Transportation Center has been about ten years in the making.  When the concept resurfaced about three years ago, all the initial players had retired and new people began looking at the project.  The facility was funded by MDOT and the City of St. Ignace.  St. Ignace owns the building.  Indian Trails has a twenty year lease on the facility.  The people at the Voyagers Inn next door maintain the facility and serve as Indian Trails’ agent in St. Ignace.   The Transportation Center represents what every community should have.  Many motor coach terminals are outdated, making it difficult to attract new riders.

Cushman thanked MARP for its efforts to preserve the rural motor coach routes in Northern Michigan when it was threatened earlier this year by a cut in state funding.

             Harry Gow:  DeLora next presented MARP’s International Friendship Award to Harry Gow of Chelsea, Quebec, the leading figure in saving passenger rail service in Canada.  For many years, Gow has been at the forefront of improving public transportation in Canada and advocating for better cross border connections.  Wallington added that it was communication between Gow and Gordon MacKay of Indian Trails that brought the extension of scheduled motor coach service to Sault Ste. Marie less than a year ago.  From Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, passengers can take public transit to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. 

 Gow thanked the group, stating that the award was a great achievement for him.  He reminded all that Quebec and Michigan were once part of one country and the cultural connections continue in shared values and mannerisms of speech.

 Gow’s organization, now called Transport Action, did work with Indian Trails on the extension of service to Sault Ste. Marie.  He sees that he must now work to promote the service on the Ontario side.  Transport Canada must also focus on preserving Greyhound service in Ontario, which has been deteriorating very quickly.  Years ago, the province dropped the gas tax for motor coaches, but more must be done.  Manitoba has picked up the ball, but Ontario hasn’t.  Saskatchewan has a crown corporation that functions much like Indian Trails.  Unfortunately, the rail group in Northern Ontario is so focused on preserving the Algoma Central and Huron Central service that they don’t see how motor coach fits in.

                                                                    -7-

The Windsor-Toronto VIA service has the most impact on Michigan.  Transport Action has been pushing VIA to switch to the CP tracks west of Chatham and head into downtown Windsor and the Detroit-Windsor tunnel.  Unfortunately, VIA persists in wanting to stay on the CN and dead end in Walkerville, with no possibility of a link with the United States.  VIA now owns most of the Chatham-Walkerville line. 

The other VIA line directly impacting Michigan, the Toronto-London-Sarnia route uses the North Main Line through Stratford.  Here a portion of the route is owned by a short line railroad that is resisting efforts by VIA to upgrade the tracks.  VIA currently has a contract with a firm in Moncton, New Brunswick, to completely refurbish many of the old Budd RDC cars, equipping them with new Cummins engines, for the Toronto-Sarnia service. 

The Canadian government seems much more interested in a new auto and truck bridge at Detroit than in improving rail connections.  Overall, though, the conservative government has been quite supportive of rail.

On the U.S. side, the Transportation Security people have been pushing to have all rail passengers get off the train with their luggage at the border for inspection.  They currently do this with bus passengers.  NARP is working to fend this off.  At the moment, we have only three trains that cross the international border.  Transport Action is fighting for more passenger friendly service.

            Speaker:  After a short break to enjoy an Indian Trails Centennial Cake, DeLora introduced Judy Gross, a volunteer at the St. Ignace Chamber of Commerce.  Though not a native, Gross has spent a lot of time researching rail service in St. Ignace and environs.  Using a handout map and historic photographs, Gross showed the route of the railroad into St. Ignace and the location of the various railroad docks along the waterfront.  Some vestiges remain, including the dock where freight cars were loaded and unloaded from the ferries that connected St. Ignace with the railroads on the Lower Peninsula.  Rail service to St. Ignace started in 1879 and ended in 1984.  During its heyday, the Mackinac Transportation Company, a consortium of three railroads, operated year round ferry service across the Straits of Mackinac.  The larger ferries could carry fourteen railroad cars at a time.  The end began when the State of Michigan initiated auto ferry service in 1923.  The construction of the Mackinac Bridge in 1957 brought about the demise. 

The meeting adjourned at 12:48 p.m.

Respectfully submitted:                                              Accepted:

Secretary                                                                     Chair