MINUTES
MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
Monthly Membership Meeting
Darryl’s Restaurant, Jackson
February 13, 2010

 

Those Signing In:  Hugh Gurney, Barney Whittier, Jack Kesler, Rich Vavra-Musser, Don Monteith, Dan Platz, Burton TenBrink, Keith Martin, Phil Chamberlain, Bob Tischbein, Dick Pekarek, Kay Chase, Jim Hinkins, Steve T. Sobel, John DeLora, John Guidinger, Dan Fingas, Dale Gartner, Julien R. Wolfe, Clark Charnetski, John Langdon, Robert Patterson, Diane Patterson, Andrew Kent, Archie Lhamon, Kathleen W. Newell

Also Present:  Lisa Wozniak, League of Conservation Voters

Call to Order:  Chairman DeLora called the meeting to order at 10:02 a.m.

Guest Speaker:  DeLora then introduced Lisa Wozniak, Executive Director of the League of Conservation Voters.   Her organization, Wozniak explained, was founded sixteen years ago to hold officials accountable for their actions.  After a rough start, Wozniak assumed the reins as Executive Director in 2005.  The organization now has six full time staff.  Its goal is public education about conservation issues and building the effectiveness of allied organizations.   The League works to break partisan gridlock on conservation and ecological issues.  With their help, a young man concerned about the environment was elected from the Michigan district with the longest stretch of lakeshore.

As a non-native, Wozniak was amazed at the extent of the Great Lakes when she moved to Michigan.  Preserving these resources is a deep responsibility. 

The reality as we face 2010 is that Michigan is locked in partisan gridlock.  We have a lame duck governor and the House and Senate are controlled by opposing parties with the leaders of each vying to be the next governor.  We can expect very little action in this election year.  The 2010 election will be chaotic with open races in all three statewide offices, and 28 of the 38 senate seats open.  All senate and house seats are up for election.

Whoever wins will control redistricting of both the house and senate. 

In this environment, we can make a difference if we get involved and work to get people elected who support our issues and concerns.  The Alliance for Justice has published a booklet, Rules of the Game, which discusses what non profits can and cannot do.  As long as we are not talking about a specific piece of legislation, it is not lobbying.  Individuals can get as involved in elections as they care to.

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In this election cycle, we need to examine the campaign promises of each candidate.  MARP members need to speak with their own individual legislators and attend legislative breakfasts.  MARP needs to a) Focus on key legislators and b) Those who are looking to be re-elected and who will hold senior positions.

In response to a question from Fischer, Wozniak indicated that her organization does a questionnaire which will go to every legislator.  She would be happy to include rail issues in this questionnaire.  As a 501(c)(4), her organization can do this.  However, they still have to be sure that the questionnaire avoids editorializing. 

Fischer reminded Wozniak that rail transportation is a conservation and environmental issue as transportation uses about one third of the energy in this country.   Wozniak then discussed the Michigan Environmental Briefing Book put out by the Michigan League of Conservation Voters and the Michigan Environmental Council, which does support a greater emphasis on public transit. She asked for MARP’s input on a regular basis as she updates her legislative briefings throughout the legislative year.

Acknowledging Charnetski’s comment that members should attend coffees, Wozniak added that small donations to candidates are also important. 

Langdon urged that MARP assign members to define key issues and work with Wozniak on these issues. 

In concluding, Wozniak reminded the group that MARP as an organization can spend up to 20% of its time in “Issue briefing” and members as individuals can be very direct in their support of issues.

Treasurer’s Report:  Randall reported that, as of January 31, 2010, there was $2,655.07 in the checking account and the value of the Pratt Fund was $12,907.88.  Newell moved acceptance of the Treasurer’s Report.  This was seconded by Sobel and approved by the members present.

Minutes:  After review, Langdon moved acceptance of the minutes of the January 9, 2010 meeting in Lansing with corrections.  The motion was seconded by Charnetski and approved by the members present.

Introductions:  All members present introduced themselves told where they were from.

Coordinator Reports:

            Public/Governmental Affairs:  Langdon reported that a supplemental appropriation of $2.5-$3 million will be needed to fully fund Amtrak operations for fiscal year 2010.  For fiscal year 2011, $8.667 million is included in the governor’s proposed budget. 

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This year, the Senate will introduce all appropriation bills, which may be a hurdle.  However, the fact that the transportation budget is being cut may prod action.  Langdon has been talking with Pure Michigan and the Michigan Lodging and Tourism people about their interest in full funding for Amtrak in fiscal year 2010.

The Stimulus Funding of the Englewood Flyover in South Chicago is very important to Michigan as it will eliminate a major bottleneck for Michigan Amtrak trains. 

DeLora added that stimulus funding will also reduce congestion between Porter, Indiana, and Chicago. 

According to DeLora, the legislature will probably raid the Comprehensive Transportation Fund again this year to support the General Fund.  A bill to raise the tax on diesel fuel and move both the diesel and gasoline tax up in several increments is likely. 

            Membership:  Vavra-Musser reported that the membership renewals for 2010 were in the mail thanks to Kay Chase.  He noted that our membership in the Midwest High Speed Rail Association was up for renewal and moved that we renew our membership in MWHSR at the $200 level.  The motion was seconded by Sobel.  After discussion, the motion passed with one abstention.

            Communications:  Chase reported that she had attended at half day workshop put on by Transit Riders United.  Another session is scheduled for February 26.  TRU has created a Business Outreach Team and will host a breakfast with community leaders in Troy on February 28.

TRU is planning a rally this summer in support of the Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter rail project.  MARP needs to keep in touch with TRU on this issue as well as working with TRU on the National Train Day celebration.

MARP also needs to support upcoming legislation that would create a Detroit Regional Transportation Authority.

A report on Interstate Traveler was issued in January.  The news release was very glowing, but the actual recommendations questioned funding and how the system would be operated.

                        Newsletter: Valderas pointed out the ad in The Michigan Passenger promoting reduced fares on Amtrak during the winter.  This information is also included in the Amtrak link on the MARP website. 

Valderas has checked and the printer is not set up to mail newsletters to the membership.  A total of 4,000 copies of the winter issue of The Michigan Passenger were printed.

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                        Outreach:  Langdon passed around the spreadsheet with upcoming events and asked for volunteers.  He indicated that he and Chase would be attending a renewable energy fair at the Pierce-Cedar Creek Institute near Hastings and that he and Gurney would be attending the National Train Day event in Toledo.  Newell indicated that she would also like to help staff the table in Toledo.

Regional Chair Reports:  East/Central:  Fischer noted that on his last trip to Chicago, the Blue Water was one hour late.  At the High Speed Rail seminar he attended there, he learned that Florida received major funding for its High Speed Rail project because it got its act together and state officials were really behind it.  This is a good example to point out to Michigan legislators who were very equivocal, resulting in minimal funding for Michigan projects.  He tried to keep his comments to the Detroit Free Press positive, but Michigan really needs to be more proactive.  DeLora commented that he got twelve seconds when  Channel 7 reported on the issue. 

Patterson suggested we use Illinois as our example of a successful state who has put more money into rail in recent years and got rewarded well in the High Speed Railroad grants.

Fischer agreed and noted that Wisconsin would be another nearby example.

Fischer introduced Dan Fingus who will be working out of theMichigan Environmental Council office as the state coordinator for  Transportation for America which is working to build support for legislation in Washington sympathetic to public transportation.

Pekarek reported on the upcoming grand reopening of Durand Union Station next weekend, highlighting all that has been done to restore the damage done to the archives and museum in the fire last winter.  DUSI is asking for MARP input into its upcoming exhibits on Michigan railroads.

Pekarek also reminded the group that Indian Trails will be celebrating its 100^th anniversary in 2010.

            Northern: Kent noted that he had left newsletters for Mount Pleasant Railroad Days.  Monteith recently attended a meeting in Wisconsin on how they plan to get more passenger rail.  The head of WisDOT is 120% for rail.  Minnesota is planning a passenger rail line from the Twin Cities to Elk Lake and eventually to Fargo.  Monteith will try to resend information on this.

            Western:  Langdon handed out copies of the new route guides for the Pere Marquette and Blue Water.  These are the only route guides for non overnight trains. 

On February 24, Langdon met with Hoeffner of MDOT on the routing of the Pere Marquette.  We need to correct the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative maps showing the train running from Grand Rapids to Chicago via Kalamazoo.  Since opening of the new station, New Buffalo has seen a 59% increase in ridership.

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Valderas noted that the Pere Marquette was one hour late leaving Grand Rapids earlier in the week because nobody was around to shovel it out after a significant snowfall.

Vavra-Musser reported that plans are now in place for red, blue and green buses to meet each train at St. Joseph and take passengers to hotels and resorts.

            Metro: Hinkins reported that the next MARP meeting will be on Saturday, March 20 at the Grand Trunk Pub in Detroit.  Carmine Palombo of  SEMCOG will review plans for the Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter rail project.  Hinkins noted a change in the location of the proposed storage tracks in Detroit.  About a mile of relocated track is planned at West Detroit.  As presently envisioned, the Ann Arbor-Detroit service will consist of two round trips between end points in the morning and two round trips in the evening, utilizing two train sets of three cars each.  Current Amtrak service will supplement the new service which is expected to start in October, 2010.  We need to hold SEMCOG to this schedule.

DeLora is working to have Amtrak accept commuter passes on its Ann Arbor-Detroit service, which is very lightly used.  Charnetski noted that the present Ann Arbor station will be the western terminus of the new service.  The City of Ann Arbor is negotiating with the gas company for additional parking.

Jackson Rail Plans:

Guidinger noted that Amtrak has received $963,000 in ARRA funds for restoration of the Jackson Depot, the oldest operating railroad station in the United States.  Quinn Evans of Ann Arbor is doing the architectural plans.

 Another $60,000 has been awarded to the City of Jackson by MDOT to further planning on turning the depot complex into a transportation center similar to that in Kalamazoo where rail, local transit and intercity buses would all converge.  Guidinger is on the planning committee.  Unfortunately, the recent departure of the City Manager has slowed this process.

Jackson’s mayor is very interested in having the proposed Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter rail project extended to Jackson, which has the rail service facilities.  The Jackson Organization for Economic Growth sees High Speed Rail as an important component of its vision. 

Guidinger noted that he is no longer on the Amtrak Advisory Committee.  Jim Wallington has assumed that role.  However, Guidinger does have excellent data on baggage service that he will share.

Guidinger urged MARP to appoint a representative to the Toledo Area Council of Governments’ rail committee, which is very active.

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New Business:  

Amtrak Running in Winter:  Sobel stated that the ticket agents at the Ann Arbor station report on time performance except on rare occasions.  Amtrak has reduced weekend fares to regain the patronage of University of Michigan students.  The weekend fare between Ann Arbor and Chicago is now $40 as opposed to $70.

            National Train Day:  To be discussed following the meeting today.  Robert Patterson and Kay Chase serve on the subcommittee chaired by Valderas.

            Nominations:  Whittier noted that he was receiving a good orientation from DeLora, Vavra-Musser and Langdon.  He asked members to contact their state representatives and senators urging approval of a supplemental appropriation to keep the Pere Marquette and Blue Water  running throughout fiscal year 2010.  He will be asking for volunteers to serve with him on the nominations committee.

            Widgets: Vavra-Musser discussed what he called a “station widget”, a program which would add current passenger rail information to the web sites of Convention and Visitor Bureaus across Michigan and their links to restaurants, motels and resorts.  The “widget” would provide information about train schedules, current specials, buying tickets online and maps to the stations.  Vavra-Musser asked that MARP invest $500 in the “widget” project being undertaken by the Harbor Country Convention and Tourist Bureau.  The motion was seconded by Sobel and approved by the members present.

 

Other Business:

            Wozniak urged members to go to www.michiganlcvedfung.org/GubernatorialForum  and submit questions for the Gubernatorial Forum, May 12, at Central Michigan University sponsored by a partnership of the Detroit Free Press, Michigan Radio, ConservAmerica  And the Michigan League of Conservation Voters (CV) Education Fund.

            Charnetski asked members to check the WisDOT website for information about Wisconsin rail plans.

            Vavra-Musser noted that Fred Upton’s congressional district has the most Michigan Amtrak riders.

            Sobel reminded the group of the March 6 Town Hall meeting in Chicago hosted by Trains magazine and Amtrak.

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Adjournment:  Guidinger moved adjournment.  The motion was seconded by Sobel and approved by the members present.

Respectfully submitted:                                              Accepted:

Hugh D. Gurney, Secretary                                        John DeLora, Chair

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MINUTES

 MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS

Monthly Membership Meeting

Capital Area District Library, Lansing

 January 9, 2010

 Those Signing In:  Hugh Gurney, James Wallington, Richard Pekarek, Steve Sobel, Clark Charnetski, Andrew Kent, Kaz Fujita, Dave Randall, Rich Vavra-Musser, Barney Whittier, Dale Gachner, Kay Chase, Larry Krieg, Michael Frezell, Diane Patterson, Robert Patterson, Jerry Becker, Jim Roach, John DeLora, Tim Fischer, J. R. Valderas, John Langdon, Dave Landis, Larry Sobczak, Dietrich Bergmann, Bob Tischbein

 Call to Order:  Chairman DeLora called the meeting to order at 10:04 a.m.  All present were asked to introduce themselves.

 Guest Speakers:  DeLora then introduced Jim Roach and Jerry Becker, both retired from the Michigan Department of Transportation and now working as contractors on MDOT and State of Michigan projects.  They reported on a project titled Michigan Passenger Rail Station Community Benefits Study which they prepared as subcontractors to Grand Valley State University in 2008.  The study was published in July, 2009.  It looked at each of the 22 Amtrak stations in Michigan in terms of ridership, adjacent land use, amenities such as the availability of coffee nearby, and identified 350 city pairs to and from which passengers were travelling.  They reviewed a 2000 University of Michigan study which indicated that 99% of travelers intended to return at some point to their residence and utilized interviews done in 2007 by UM students with over 2300 Amtrak passengers.  The costs of travel by private automobile, train, bus and air were analyzed.  Looking at savings to travelers by using Amtrak, local business revenues as a result of the Amtrak station in that community, and actual Amtrak expenditures in each community, the study found that total community benefits for all Michigan communities served by Amtrak came to $62, 012, 441.  The complete study is available on both the MDOT and MARP websites.

 Treasurer’s Report:  Treasurer Randall reported that the balance in the checking account on December 31, 2009 was $2,694.39 and the value of the Pratt Fund on that date was $13,436.00.  A Budget Performance Report and a Proposed 2010 Budget were presented and discussed.  Langdon moved acceptance of all three reports.  The motion was seconded by Vavra-Musser and approved by those present.

 Minutes of the November 14 meeting in Bangor were reviewed.  Langdon moved acceptance with corrections.  The motion was seconded by Charnetski and approved by the members present.

 Coordinator Reports:

 Meetings:  It was announced that the next meeting would take place in Jackson on Saturday, February 13.  Plans for future meetings were discussed including a summer or fall meeting in St. Ignace.

Public/Government Affairs: Langdon reported that Amtrak is now asking for $8.1 million to operate the Pere Marquette and Blue Water routes during Fiscal Year 2010, far more than the $5.3 million appropriated by the state legislature.  A supplemental appropriation will be needed if service is to continue.

An Intercity Passenger Rail Caucus is being established in the legislature under the leadership of Senator Jason Allen of Traverse City.  Tim Fischer is helping with the process.  The idea is that one Democrat and one Republican in each house will send out invitations asking other legislators to join the caucus.  Fischer will advise members as to when they should contact their legislators urging them to join the caucus. 

Fischer reported that former legislator Hopgood is now working with MDOT on a committee analyzing transit options.  MARP needs to be part of the study group and maintain positive relations with it.

 Langdon recalled that we planned to present an award to Congressman Fred Upton at the Annual Meeting for his work on behalf of passenger rail. DeLora offered to make the presentation in Washington in conjunction with an upcoming NARP meeting.  If that doesn’t happen, Vavra-Musser and Whittier will see that Upton receives the award when he is in the district.

 Langdon has distributed copies of the RFP for the Michigan Rail Plan via e-mail.  The Rail Plan, which is required by the stimulus,  calls for rider input.

 Langdon also suggested that MARP be involved in the effort to fund the Pure Michigan effort.  We have some good talking points to bring to the attention of our legislators.

 Chase mentioned a free Webinar coming up with suggestions on how communities can push funding for transit.  She suggested that members participate.

 DeLora expressed confidence that the legislature would fund the difference between the current Amtrak appropriation and Amtrak’s requested subsidy.   

 Membership: Vavra-Musser reported that our 2009 membership was 4% below the 2008 figure.  He urged that the renewal notice go out as soon as possible.  Chase will review and utilize portions of DeLora’s last appeal.

 Communications:  Chase has sent out thank you letters to those who spoke at the Annual Meeting.  A donation has been sent to TRU in honor of its tenth anniversary.

Newsletter: Valderas will check with the printer to see if they could mail The Michigan Passenger to members rather than have the Treasurer do it.

Website:  Sobczak is in the final stages of redesigning the MARP website.  The new look can be previewed at marp/blog.  A discussion ensued on the feasibility of  soliciting and renewing memberships through the website.  Bergmann will explore the possibility of renewing memberships through the MARP website.

 Outreach:  Frezell reported that we are on the waiting list for the Troy Train Show on Sunday, January 17.  Tischbein has agreed to staff the MARP table.  Charnetski and Sobel are on tap to staff the table at the Ann Arbor Train Show on Sunday, February 21.

 Regional Chair Reports       

            Northern:  Kent foresees rail excursions in Northern Michigan in August and again during the first weekend in October.

             Western:  Langdon noted the passing of longtime rail advocate Ray Hammaker on November 18 at the age of 87.  Amtrak, Westrain and MARP are collaborating on a plaque in his honor.

 Vavra-Musser reported on plans to have bus shuttles connect Pere Marquette stations with resorts on Lake Michigan.

 Both Vavra-Musser and Leatz reported problems with snow removal at St. Joseph and at Dowagiac.  The city has assumed responsibility at St. Joseph.

             Metro:  DeLora reported that Regional Chair Hinkins is progressing well after a mild heart attack.  SEMCOG is still holding to October 2010 for start up of Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter rail service. 

Hinkins has suggested a commuter rail subcommittee consisting of himself, DeLora, Charnetski and Gurney. 

Charnetski continues his work with the WALLY station and operations committees.  The burning issue at the moment is quick and efficient unloading of wheelchair passengers at the Ann Arbor station.  The earliest possible start up date is mid 2011.

Bergmann reported that the West Detroit junction improvements are still in the design stage.

Bergmann discussed the Detroit River International Crossing and why it is unnecessary at this time.  As much as 44% of present truck traffic could be diverted to rail and double tracking  rail lines would be much less expensive than the proposed $4-$5 billion cost of a new bridge.  Much of the cross Ontario traffic from New York State is now going via Ohio because of stricter border crossing regulations.  Bergmann will work on a response to the latest  MDOT report.

DeLora explained that intermodal rail service must be maintained and enhanced if we are to see rail passenger service restored.  Charnetski pointed out that the current rail tunnels cannot handle all double stack loads. 

Executive Committee Meeting:

DeLora reported that Barney Whittier has offered to fill the vacant position of Vice Chair.  Whittier then gave a brief overview of his qualifications including being a professional sales person, running his own business, and years of experience in motivating volunteers.  Whittier responded to the notice in the Fall Michigan Passenger.

Vavra-Musser moved that Whittier be appointed as Vice Chair.  The motion was seconded by Sobel and approved by the members of the Executive Committee present.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 12:55 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted:                                                         Accepted:

Hugh D. Gurney, Secretary                                                    John DeLora, Chair

MINUTES

MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
Monthly Membership Meeting
Bangor Depot, Bangor, Michigan
November 14, 2009

Those Signing In: Hugh Gurney, Dianne Patterson, Robert Patterson, Burt Ten Brink, Jim Hinkins, Rosemary Insidioso, Dick Pekarek, Kay Chase, John Langdon, Ken Ratzlaff, Jim Wallington, Martha Benedict, Archie Llamor, Barney Whittier, Ron Leatz, J. R. Valderas, Dave Randall, Jeanne Cohen, Ed Cohen

Also Present: Joseph Weiser, Duane L. Riley, Ed Hekman

Call to Order: Secretary Gurney called the meeting to order at 10:43 a.m. and immediately turned the gavel over to Treasurer Dave Randall. All present introduced themselves.

Guest Speakers: In the absence of scheduled speaker Bob Emmett, meeting host Ken Ratzlaff briefly reviewed some of Bangor’s railroad history. In the early years, Bangor was in the midst of a fruit growing area and a lot of fruit was shipped out by rail. Bangor was also famous for its pickles and was called the pickle capital of Michigan. The present depot was completed in 1925. After abandonment of passenger train service, the City of Bangor purchased the structure from CSX. Subsequently, Ratzlaff and his family purchased the property and have adaptively restored it. Today, the facility includes an Amtrak waiting area (still owned by the city), a restaurant, several businesses and a conference room. MARP worked with the city on the platform.

Valderas then introduced Joseph Weiser, a young man who oversaw the research, wording and installation of a large Michigan Historical Marker at the Niles station as his Eagle Scout project. Noting that the landmark station had only a small, obscure plaque recognizing its historic value, Weiser worked with the Michigan Historical Commission to research the history of the structure and fill out the lengthy and detailed application. All data had to be reviewed by community leaders and Amtrak. Most of his information came from the Niles Public Library. Once the wording for the marker was approved, Weiser then oversaw fundraising amounting to $3,425 to pay for preparation and installation of the marker. An interview with the local paper brought in a number of donations as well as fundraisers at the station and at the local historical museum.

Responding to a query from Robert Patterson, Weiser indicated that he was aware and appreciated the ability to use the train, but that most of his contemporaries were not and generally drove whenever they traveled to another community. It was agreed that MARP needed to do a better job in educating young people about travel by train.
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Weiser was given a hearty round of applause for his efforts to mark the Niles station more prominently.

Breaking News: Wallington reported that Indian Trails will begin service to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, on December 1. The existing bus from East Lansing will now continue north from St. Ignace to Sault Ste. Marie, arriving at the Eastern U. P. Transportation Authority station there at 12:40 a.m. If traffic warrants, it will also stop at Lake Superior State University. Passengers wishing to continue to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, can either take the bridge bus that connects the two cities or a taxi for a flat fee of $30.00. The Indian Trails bus will then continue to the western Upper Peninsula. The southbound bus will depart Sault Ste. Marie daily at 7:30 a.m.

The effort to restore regularly scheduled motor coach service to Sault Ste. Marie came out of a meeting between MARP and Transport 2000’s Harry Gow. Sault Ste. Marie is the third largest city in the Upper Peninsula. Indian Trails and MDOT are currently working on a press release announcing the service.

Treasurer’s Report: Randall reported that the reminder membership mailing brought in an additional $125 in October and $40 in November. As of October 31, 2009, the balance in the checking account was $3,467.02. The value of the Pratt Fund was $12,457.87, considerably more than earlier in the year. MARP has reached 100% of budgeted income and remains below target on expenditures. The balance in the checking account is lower than at the same point last year because of non renewals. Another issue of Michigan Passenger will come out of the 2009 budget. Each issue costs about $1,000. Langdon moved acceptance of the Treasurer’s Report. Ratzlaff seconded. Those present concurred.

Secretary’s Report: Randall distributed drafts of the minutes of the October 10 meeting and Gurney passed out copies of the approved August and September minutes. The latter prompted questions from Robert Patterson about exactly what MARP’s financial commitments would be for the October, 2010, NARP meeting in Grand Rapids. He urged that we find out what is expected and plan for any additional expense. Gurney moved acceptance of the October minutes. Valderas seconded the motion. Those present approved the October minutes.

Key Issues
Funding Status: Langdon passed around copies of the Michigan Transportation Act approved recently in Lansing. It provides $5.7 million in funding for the Pere Marquette and Blue Water, enough to cover projected expenses until June 30, 2010. A supplemental appropriation will be needed for the remainder of the fiscal year.

With support from Senator Jason Allen of Traverse City, an Amtrak Caucus is taking shape. The Michigan Environmental Council has been doing a lot of the legwork. The idea is that the caucus will be headed by one Republican and one Democratic member in

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each house of the legislature. The Michigan Railroad Association is interested in
participating. The first meeting is scheduled for December with Tim Hoeffner speaking. Tim Fischer of MEC is working on maps of professional quality to present.

Coordinator Reports:
Meetings: Wallington reported on possible meeting venues for 2010. He will e-mail the draft list to members and ask for their input. The first meeting of 2010 will be in Lansing on Saturday, January 9. It was suggested that the Annual Meeting be shifted from the usual September date to October and held in conjunction with National Association of Railroad Passenger’s fall meeting in Grand Rapids. Langdon moved that the draft of proposed locations be accepted as a work in progress. The motion was seconded by Robert Patterson and approved.

Public Affairs: Langdon felt that the 35th Anniversary of the Blue Water went very well with lots of media exposure. MARP members served as unofficial car hosts. Pekarek added that a good crowd gathered in Flint. Lt. Governor Cherry boarded the train there and was interviewed by many reporters. There was also a good turnout in Durand. Durand Union Station put out a pin commemorating the event. Valderas reported that, according to MDOT’s Therese Cody, Dowagiac had the best participation with 75-100 attending. A harp concert was part of the entertainment. Ron Leatz was given a round of applause for his part in the Dowagiac festivities.

Membership: Speaking for Vavra-Musser, Langdon reported that membership is down by about 8%. He urged analysis of both new members and non renewing members.
Pekarek urged that we work to make riding the train seem “cool”. Randall noted that Livonia State Senator Anderson’s son rides the train all the time, so some young people are getting the message. Chase agreed that a significant number of young people are regular train riders. Randall countered that efforts to lure young people to the train are being undercut by Megabus. The Ann Arbor Amtrak ticket agent recently told him that Megabus is loading three Chicago bound busses every Friday night at the University of Michigan. Their fare is $30 as opposed to Amtrak’s Friday night fare of $70. Discussion of such issues is one reason we need regular meetings with Amtrak.

Communications: Chase informed the group that she had recently sent a thank you to Sue Higgins of the Macatawa Area Coordinating Council for helping set up the August meeting. Higgins has been extremely supportive of Westrain. Chase tries to send thank you’s to all MARP speakers.

Chase noted that the 10th anniversary of TRU was coming up and asked if anyone from MARP was planning to attend. Randall asked if MARP should make a donation to TRU in lieu of attending the event. Langdon so moved. The motion was seconded by Robert Patterson and approved by those present.

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Newsletter: Valderas plans to complete work on the fall issue of Michigan Passenger now that a date for the January meeting has been set. The opening of the New Buffalo station will be the lead article. Copy will be sent to the printer on Monday and the paper should be on the street in about two weeks. Valderas plans to get the winter edition out in January.

Website: Chase is putting the final touches on a slightly reworded Vision Statement. As soon as completed, it will be posted on the MARP website. In response to a question from Robert Patterson about social networking, Chase suggested that a committee be appointed to explore various concepts.

Outreach: Langdon passed the schedule of upcoming outreach opportunities around and asked for volunteers. He noted that souvenir programs from the Owosso Train Festival are now available.

Regional Reports:
Western: The big event was the October 26 opening of the new station in New Buffalo. All kinds of Amtrak representatives were there. Therese Cody represented MDOT. MARP members Langdon, Leatz, Valderas and Vavra-Musser were in attendance as was a representative of Fred Upton. The high school band played. A shuttle bus from the new casino will meet all four trains that stop. This is the second largest casino in the U.S. with slot machines. Amtrak removed the Amtrak signage from the old station and donated it to the local New Buffalo Railroad Museum. Vavra-Musser has offered to work on larger signs with schedules at both the New Buffalo and St. Joseph stations.

As of October 26, Amtrak has restored the connection between the eastbound California Zephyr and the eastbound Pere Marquette. Albion is now a flag stop.

Northern: Indian Trails service to Sault Ste. Marie reported earlier.

East/Central: 35th Blue Water anniversary reported earlier in the meeting.

Metro: The Woodward Avenue light rail project is on the back burner at the moment, as DDOT and Haertel work out details.

The Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter rail project is still scheduled to get underway in October, 2010, with two eastbound morning trains and two westbound evening trains. It is a demonstration project, which means it could be a failure and cease operation. If successful, it will probably lead to additional commuter rail projects. Hinkins hopes that one such project would be a spur into downtown Detroit which would pass the abandoned Michigan Central Depot. That would be an incentive for restoration and reuse of that historic structure. Over a mile of track is needed at West Detroit to accommodate the Ann Arbor-Detroit line. Hopefully, construction will begin in January.
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WALLY is slated to be operational sometime in 2011. If successful, it could lead to a rail link from Detroit through Ann Arbor to Lansing.

Chase passed around a circular describing the efforts of the Friends of the Buffalo Michigan Central station.

Old Business:
Interstate Traveler: Chase, who is on Mike Rogers’ e-mail list, reports that the committee is still at work. She agrees that we need to keep abreast of what is happening and keep in communication.

Amtrak in Winter: Amtrak’s Daryl James has confirmed that the Pere Marquette will operate with Superliner equipment year round, including a coach/café car, Wallington reported. The Blue Water is scheduled for Superliner equipment in the winter.

Vice-Chair Position: Valderas has put the vacancy announcement in the fall issue of Michigan Passenger.

New Business;
Liaison with Amtrak and MDOT: It was agreed that we strongly urge our Chair to try to set up regular meetings with Amtrak.

Other Business:
Colorado Rail is now US Rail and based in Ohio.

Ron Leatz continues as the Dowagiac host, at the station daily during train times. The station is opened weekdays by city employees and closed in the evening by the police. Many students board Sunday evenings on their way back to Western, MSU and UM. To date, Leatz has been unsuccessful in getting official directional signage to the station. Apparently, the municipality must order and install signage. To promote more travel, Leatz would like to use the Blue Water promotional brochure when corrected as well as the popular Amtrak Chicago brochure. Leatz hopes to encourage civic organizations to sponsor trips by train.

Chase noted that the new Michigan Environmental Council brochure features an Amtrak train on the cover. MEC realizes that our current transportation system consumes 75% of the nation’s energy.

Wallington is now serving on Amtrak’s Passenger Advisory Committee. Amtrak has a team that focuses on a specific train with attention to cleanliness, on time performance and promotion. A Michigan train may be featured in the coming year. The Texas Eagle is slated to become a daily Chicago-San Antonio-Los Angeles service.

-5-

In response to a query from Robert Patterson, Valderas stated he will have a report on National Train Day at the January meeting.

Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 1:37 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted: Approved:

Hugh D. Gurney John DeLora
Secretary Chair

MINUTES

 MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS

MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING

ANN ARBOR AMTRAK STATION, ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN

October 10, 2009

Those Signing In: Hugh Gurney, Steve T. Sobel, Dave Randall, Jim Hinkins, Clark Charnetski, Robert  Patterson, Dianne Patterson, Radley Smith, Jim Roach, Jerry Becker, J. Michael Lynch, Michael Benham, the speaker.

Call to Order: Secretary Hugh Gurney called the meeting to order at 10:03 a.m.

Guest Speaker:  Michael Benham presented the Wally Update. He used a map of the route to describe the route from Howell to North Ann Arbor. He said there will be four rush hour trains each way. Twenty four cars, eight cab cars and sixteen trailers will be rehabbed by GLC under contract by December 2011. These cars will also be used on the Ann Arbor to Detroit East West route. The connection between the Ann Arbor RR and the NS will be rehabbed to allow the sharing of the fleet. The East West line will get the cars first in October/November 2010 to start up. The Wally will come later in November 2011 using three car trains. A five track yard north of Howell will be constructed. The location of the Ann Arbor Station site has some problems that will need to be corrected to allow for 500 foot platforms, lighting, and shelters. Self service ticketing on the honor system will be adopted. Mr. Benham stressed that the route can support 60 mph speeds with its 32 grade crossings. The presentation was followed by Q & A from the members present.

The meeting recessed to Casey’s Tavern for lunch at 11:12 a.m.  The meeting reconvened at 12:42 p.m. at the Amtrak Station with 9 members present. 

To fill the Vice Chair vacancy, it was moved by Sobel with a second by Patterson to draft a letter to be considered at the November meeting. This action was tabled for the next meeting.

The Treasurer, Dave Randall gave the September 30^th report. MSC to accept the Treasurer’s report as presented.

The question was raised as to what are MARP’s responsibilities regarding the NARP Convention in Grand Rapids next fall.

MSC to Approve the Minutes of August 22, 2009 and September 12, 2009.

Metro Regional Chair Report  Jim Hinkins reported that he has not been able to contact the “Interstate Traveler” people. Clark Charnetski spoke about the Mega Lev system report from Representative Rodgers’ office. The MI Central station was discussed as to possible uses, Train Station and Hotel. Shuttle service from that location to Cobo Hall.

Public Affairs It was reported by the Chair that the State Budget included only 5.6 million dollars for 10 months of Amtrak service through June 2010. Then the State will have to find money for the rest of the fiscal year.

Outreach  The Chair  discussed upcoming events and passed around a sign up schedule.  The Blue Water 35^th Anniversary train will operate October 21, 2009.  The event was discussed.

Other New Business  Clark Charnetski reported that Ann Arbor has selected a new location for its Amtrak Station. It will be about 500 feet east of the present location near the U of M Medical Center, to increase ridership. Also a proposed light rail line running from US 23 and Plymouth Road to the Main Campus could pass through this location as well as a parking structure could be built straddling the tracks near where the existing parking lot is. 

It was suggested that future meetings in 2010 be held where things are going on and also other places where MARP has not met in some time.

Future Meetings   January 9, 2010 will be in Lansing.

Station staff reported that at Ann Arbor on Friday nights Mega Bus at $30 for Chicago was loading 3 Coaches. Amtrak tickets on 355 were on offer at $70.

A member also suggested that MARP renew its regular contacts with Amtrak management for communication on items brought to our attention.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 2:35 p.m.

Respectfully submitted:                                              Accepted:

Dave Randall                                                              Hugh D. Gurney

Recording Secretary                                                   Acting Chair 

MINUTES

 

                 MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS

                                              36^TH ANNUAL MEETING

 KALAMAZOO PUBLIC LIBRARY, KALAMAZOO, MICHIGAN

                                        September 12, 2009

 

Those Signing In:  Hugh Gurney, John DeLora, Jim Hinkins, Dave Randall, John Langdon, Jesse Auerbach, Christopher A. Quail, Lawrence Krieg, Tim Fischer, Bob Tischbein, Don Monteith, David L. Redmond, Timothy J. Hook, Joe Moran, Jim Hastings, Thomas Post, Barney Whittier, Clark Charnetski, Steve T. Sobel, Rich Vavra-Musser, Burt Ten Brink, Cheryl Ten Brink, Dick Pekarek, Ron Leatz, Philip Chamberlain, Michael Frezell, Andrew Kent, Robert Patterson, Jan C. Gromoda, David Common, J. P. DesCamp

 

Also Present:  Tim Hoeffner, Phillip Mange, Victor F. Borz, Jon Start, Lisa Dedden Cooper, Mark Tomlonson

 

Call to Order: Vice Chair Don Monteith called the meeting to order at 11:10 a.m.

 

Guest Speaker:  Mark Tomlonson, a professor at Western Michigan University, spoke on “The Roots of Railroading in Michigan”.  It all began in March, 1837, when the state legislature passed a massive internal improvements program designed to end the isolation of many Michigan communities.  Three cross state railroads were to be built, a southern route from Monroe to New Buffalo, a central route from Detroit to St. Joseph and a northern route from Port Huron to Muskegon.  These were water to water routes, with no thought of a railroad network.  By the summer of 1837, recession had hit the country and money for these projects dried up.  The southern route got as far west as Hillsdale, the central route reached Marshall and the northern route was never started.  By 1843, the central route was in the hands of New York financiers, had been renamed the Michigan Central and had reached Kalamazoo.  Instead of continuing west to St. Joseph, the owners decided it would be more lucrative to head for Chicago, so construction turned south to Niles, west to New Buffalo and on to Chicago, where it could capture traffic to and from the Mississippi basin.  The southern route, renamed the Michigan Southern, was forced to dip into Indiana, but eventually reached Chicago.  The northern route, named the Detroit and Milwaukee, fell under the control of the Grand Trunk Western of Canada.  Federal land grants in the 1850’s stimulated further growth, including a line from Negaunee to Marquette.

 

The Civil War demonstrated the value of railroads for carrying large amounts of material and rail networks began to emerge.  After the Civil War, railroad construction boomed.  Around the turn of the 20^th Century, the Michigan Central was straightened and double tracked, with updated stations in many communities.

                                                                 -1-

Welcome:  Chairman John DeLora assumed the gavel at 11:55 a.m., thanked Professor Tomlonson for his presentation, and welcomed the group to Kalamazoo.

 

A New Vision for Passenger Trains:  Lisa Dedden Cooper, from Representative Mark Schauer’s office, spoke on behalf of the Congressman.   Schauer believes that passenger rail can be an effective tool for economic development, creating a much more mobile work force.  In support of the I-94 high speed rail corridor, Schauer has urged support from Obama, Biden and Emanuel and has prompted the governor to be more aggressive.  Fortunately, the Midwest governors have developed a coordinated plan and got their requests for support in to the Federal Rail Administration by the deadline.  On the down side, Minnesota Representative Oberstar, chair of the committee handling rail development, has warned that Michigan must maintain its commitment to Amtrak if the state expects federal funding.  Cooper urged MARP members to push for full funding of Amtrak for the 2010 fiscal year.  A very little money appropriated by the legislature could result in much, much more in the way of federal support.

 

Cooper noted that Oberstar’s committee is well along on a transportation reauthorization bill which would put support of rail in a stronger position.  This bill may be approved by the House of Representatives this year, but probably not the Senate. 

 

Schauer hopes to set up a rail advisory commission for the Chicago-Detroit high speed rail vision, with representatives from all the I-94 communities, the railroad companies, MARP and other interests.  He wants to feed information to the members of this commission and get their reaction to each proposal.

 

Schauer is doing what he can to persuade the Michigan legislature to support Amtrak.  However, Republican members of the state Senate need to hear from citizens.  Schauer  and Cooper are working with a bipartisan support group in Jackson to extend commuter service to that city.  Schauer has a good working relationship with Congressman Fred Upton, who represents the western sector of the I-94 corridor. 

 

Another of Schauer’s concerns is freight rail and he is working with counterparts in Indiana on freight interests.

 

High Speed Rail Coming to a Station Near You?  After a break for lunch, MDOT Director of High Speed Rail Tim Hoeffner was introduced.  This is a new position for Hoeffner, who now oversees a group charged with working with Amtrak and implementing the high speed rail plan.  Like Cooper, Hoeffner emphasized the need to get the message to state legislators that the $3.7 million Amtrak subsidy proposed by the state Senate will negatively impact federal support for high speed rail in Michigan.  The governor now understands this and is working with members of the legislature.  But MARP support is needed.

 

                                                                   -2-

 

It is a real coup for ARRA funding that the Midwest governors signed a memorandum of understanding and are collaborating closely.  Hoeffner is Michigan’s

representative on the leadership group including all Midwest DOT’s.  Next week, the group is scheduled to meet with Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood. Congressman Schauer has been extremely helpful in getting direction from Chairman Oberstar.

 

Hoeffner’s office worked long and hard to assure that applications totaling $830 million were submitted by the August 24 deadline.  On that date, the governor participated in several press conferences.  The station in Jackson was packed when the governor’s train arrived from Dearborn.  Hoeffner was very pleased that later in the day, the governor came to the MDOT office and personally thanked the staff that had worked on the applications.

 

The applications ask for improving of the long discussed junction at West Detroit, numerous sidings for passenger trains to pass freights, and extensive track stabilization work to bring speeds up to 79 m.p.h. throughout.  Frequencies would be doubled on all routes.  A number of stations would be upgraded.

 

What projects will need full blown Environmental Impact Statements remains a question.  The Porter-Chicago segment will definitely need an EIS.  For most Michigan projects, MDOT is saying that they are not needed, though FRA has some questions.  FRA has very little experience with multi- billion projects and when EIS’s are needed.  MDOT will continue to discuss this issue with federal legislators and the Secretary’s office.

 

The recommendations of last year’s Transportation Task Force are still in play.  If enacted, additional moneys from those recommendations would fund additional frequencies. 

 

Implementation of South of the Lake proposals would utilize a phased approach.  A variety of rights of way would be used and several new bridges would be required.  The concept is to handle additional frequencies. 

 

In response to a question from Robert Patterson, Hoeffner explained the freight issue with Indiana is in the Hillsdale area, where a Michigan owned rail line connects with an Indiana owned line that needs upgrading.  As to the Kalamazoo-Ypsilanti line, Norfolk Southern, Amtrak and MDOT continue to discuss future ownership that doesn’t burden Norfolk Southern but meets passenger rail needs. 

 

Hoeffner does not favor a reroute of the Pere Marquette via Kalamazoo at this time.  This was the route originally favored by Westrain which is why it was put in the Midwest Regional Rail Plan.

 

The original South of the Lake proposal done by Amtrak some fifteen years ago is problematic.  After the flak over CN’s acquisition of the EJ&E, use of abandoned rights of way as that concept proposed is highly unlikely.

                                                               -3-

In response to a question from Chase, Hoeffner explained why MDOT now calls the Chicago-Detroit high speed line the I-94 corridor.  MDOT has now designated eleven twenty mile wide transportation corridors throughout the state.  All transportation projects, not just highways, within that corridor, are considered as a whole.  If additional capacity is needed in a corridor, highway, freight rail or passenger rail will be considered.  Referring to the Detroit-Chicago route as the I-94 corridor is more descriptive to more people than trying to explain Amtrak’s Wolverine route.

 

Judging from the fact that MDOT projects are still coming in under estimate indicates that the stimulus has not taken hold yet.  Contractors are still very hungry. 

 

In response to a question from Langdon about the status of the Transportation Task Force, Hoeffner admitted that neither the proposed registration fee increase or taxing fuel as a percentage of the wholesale price rather than per gallon have been introduced in the state legislature at this time.  The tax on aviation fuel is still three cents a gallon.

 

As to the Interstate Traveler proposal, Hoeffner stated that we do need dreamers to push the envelope.  However, he works in the real world.

 

Operation Lifesaver is a very significant player in the high speed rail scenario and we need to work with them as much as possible.

 

As to manufacturing rail equipment in Michigan, Hoeffner indicated that Michigan is focusing on obtaining major overhaul facilities with the idea that overhaul of equipment is ongoing forever.  He is working with the Michigan Economic Growth Commission on this idea.

 

In the late 1990’s, MDOT explored a variety of rolling stock options and determined that the Talgo platform would be best.  Michigan railroads have a lot of curves and require tilt equipment.

 

Also in the 1990’s, Amtrak explored the concept of a Midwest-Florida auto train.  This is a very complicated procedure.  Niles could be the northern terminus.

 

In response to a question from Randall, Hoeffner indicated that Amtrak would probably be the operator of the high speed rail trains.  Considering all the options, they would be best equipped.

 

In response to a question from Robert Patterson, Hoeffner confirmed that MDOT pays to the full cost for state funded trains all the way into Chicago.  There is no assistance from Indiana or Illinois. As to increasing train speeds in the near future, Hoeffner affirmed that the system is now in place from Kalamazoo to Niles.  However, it must be 99.9% safe, which is what they are working on now.  Amtrak will extend the upgraded system, Niles-Porter under ARRA funds it has received.

 

                                                                -4-

Hoeffner explained that dispatchers employed by a freight railroad must follow the dictates of their supervisor, which is why they often give preference to a freight train.

 

The October, 2010 timeline for the Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter rail line looks good.  It is being funded under the New Starts program, though some work will be funded by ARRA.  MDOT is reviewing and amending equipment contracts at this time.

 

A Strategy for Implementing a Comprehensive Intercity Passenger Rail Vision  Tim Fischer, Deputy Policy Director for the Michigan Environmental Council discussed why MARP and the environmental community must work together.  Thirty percent of greenhouse gases are generated by transportation, mostly by private automobiles.  MEC has launched an educational campaign to help environmentalists understand how critical transportation issues are.  We need to come up with a way that bringing about a desirable drop in VMT does not negatively impact transportation revenue.

 

The type of transportation selected drives land use.  Auto transportation leads to strip malls, McDonald’s and that type of development.  Public transportation leads to a more concentrated type of development.

 

We need options for getting around other than the private automobile so we can better deal with spikes in gasoline prices.

 

Fischer indicated that he believed that the MARP Vision developed two years ago can serve as a vision to take to the environmental community.  It is a vision that calls for development along existing rail lines. 

 

A very positive step in expanding this vision was taken in April in New Buffalo, when MARP was able to persuade the Indiana groups to support MARP’s efforts to better connect Michigan with Chicago and Chicago with Michigan.  State Senator Jason Allen,

A Republican from Traverse City, wrote a very persuasive memo to the Republican governor of Indiana asking him to apply for ARRA funding for improvements in northwest Indiana.  Indiana has made the necessary applications.

 

MARP, MEC and other groups must now support Michigan’s applications for high speed rail.  We must drum up support among business groups to also advocate high speed rail.

Press releases should highlight benefits, indicate who is involved and draw more people into the fold.  We must also reach out to the anti-Amtrak people, demonstrating the benefits of intercity rail and explaining that all forms of transportation including the airlines and highways are subsidized by the public. 

 

A discussion followed concerning the level of service at New Buffalo.  Under the current proposal, only two trains each way will stop there.  It would be ideal if the Pere Marquette could switch to the Amtrak line north of New Buffalo and also serve that community.

                                                                    -5-

 

Chase reminded those present that we must continue to contact legislators for support.  She stressed that we should be talking about funding intercity rail.  Amtrak is just the contractor.

 

In response to a question concerning rural rail crossings, DeLora explained that MDOT is working on new types of barriers.

 

Robert Patterson urged that we focus on Michigan as a tourist destination and push to strengthen passenger rail links from the south and west into West Michigan and between Southeast Michigan and West Michigan.

 

Fischer agreed and stated that we need to use the MARP Vision more vigorously.  It does advocate passenger rail as far north as Traverse City and Petoskey.  The state Senate’s action on intercity rail is a result of senators not really understanding the issue and simply following party leadership.  Senator Jason Allen of Traverse City has proposed an intercity rail caucus similar to that in Illinois to help legislators understand intercity passenger rail.  MEC is willing to help.  If legislators are better informed, it would lessen the angst about annual appropriations so that all can focus on the bigger picture. 

 

Jesse Auerbach passed out a list of high speed projects applied for to date.  He stressed how helpful the April New Buffalo meeting had been.  At a subsequent meeting in Fort Wayne, the Indiana Environmental Council was involved.

 

Chairman’s Annual Report:  DeLora stressed how important a FRA workshop in Chicago had been in letting all know what the FRA was looking for in the way of rail projects.  They definitely want to see a strong state commitment.  That is why it is so important to get Republicans in the state legislature on board.  If Michigan reduces its support for passenger rail, it could cost the state 10,000 jobs and as much as $830 million in rail projects.

 

All Michigan trains kept running throughout FY 2009 despite an earlier cut in funding.  A supplemental made up the difference. 

 

MARP now has an excellent working relation with Indian Trails and this is helping in countless ways.

 

During the past year, DeLora has had five one on one meetings with the governor to discuss passenger rail.

 

In 2009, National Train Day events were held in many Michigan communities.  For 2010, we would like to have celebrations at every Amtrak station. 

 

In 2010, the National Association of Railroad Passengers fall meeting will be held at the Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids. MARP is planning a large reception with business leaders, students and other constituencies invited.

                                                                   -6-

Yesterday, DeLora attended the unveiling a life size bronze sculpture of three cheetas east of the train station in Dowagiac adjacent to the tracks where they can be seen by passengers as the train passes.   There is strong support for Amtrak in that community.

 

Dietrich Bergmann has been tracking the Detroit River International Crossing proposal.  His findings indicate that crossings have been declining and that, even in a 35 year projection, the current structures are adequate.  Congestion is caused by inadequate staffing at Customs and Immigration.  Bergmann has asked that Environmental Impact Statements be required and completed for the project.

 

Once again, DeLora emphasized the need to engage the GOP in support of passenger rail.  We must work with chambers of commerce and similar groups to help them realize that rail is good for business. 

 

MARP Business Meeting:  Convening the business meeting, DeLora proposed more cooperation between MARP and NARP in soliciting members.  Charnetski moved that MARP share its membership list with NARP on an ongoing basis in exchange for NARP sharing its Michigan membership list with MARP.  Robert Patterson seconded the motion and it was approved by the members present.

 

Charnetski reported that the next meeting will take place in Ann Arbor, convening at 10:00 a.m. at the Amtrak station and moving across the street to Casey’s Tavern at 11:00 a.m.  The speaker will be Michael Benham    , Commuter Rail Coordinator for the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority. 

 

For National Train Day 2010, Charnetski is working on a display of WALLY and Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter rail equipment at the former Art Train siding near the depot in Ann Arbor.

 

Frezell mentioned a recent Lansing Economic Council survey which reported that a MSU student from the Northeast reported she would like to be in a community where she could get around without a car.  He suggested we work more closely with economic development groups and begin targeting younger constituencies.

 

DeLora presented J. R. Valderas with a Distinguished Achievement Award for his outstanding achievement in writing and photography.  Valderas thanked the group for this show of support.  He urged that we try to make our meetings more interesting to a wider group of people.  We seem to get too bogged down in politics.  Valderas also urged that MARP members refrain from advising Amtrak employees on how they should do their jobs.  We need to show more respect to the railroad employees and not interfere with their work.  This is particularly galling to minority employees.

 

                                                               -7-

 

 

 

Adjournment:  The meeting adjourned at 3:00 p.m.

 

Respectfully submitted:                                      Accepted:

 

 

 

 

Hugh D. Gurney                                                           John DeLora

Secretary                                                                      Chair