Working on the Railroad

$100 million in rail funds coming for Springfield to New Haven and Springfield to Vermonth rail projects

2010-01-28T07:33:00.001-05:00

"More than 100 million for projects affecting Western Massachusetts..." YES! Governor Deval Patrick: "This is exceptional news. The Knowledge Corridor is a cornerstone of our vision for regional rail and regional economic growth. This $70 million will support long-awated improvements, create jobs and restore access to cities in the Pioneer Valley." YES!

Bonding OK Seen As Important First Step In State's Rail Plan

2010-01-09T11:01:00.003-05:00

Progress worth cheering. Might seem modest dollarwise given the total needed to make commuter rail from New Haven-Hartford-Springfield a reality, but puts Connecticut in a better position to win substantial federal rail funding.

Springfield Could Benefit from Rail Upgrade--CT Bond Commission Vote 01/08/2010

2010-01-05T17:31:00.003-05:00

U.S. Railroad Head: Hopeful for January $8B Stimulus Spending

2009-11-05T14:37:00.002-05:00

Dow Jones reports: "The agency had planned to divvy up the money in October, but "the fact of the matter is, this is a transformational time for passenger rail. We're taking a few more months to make sure the $8B is clearly invested in the right places."

CT Bond Money for New Haven-Hartford-Springfield Rail

2009-10-24T07:27:00.004-04:00

Gov. Rell expects approval Oct. 30 when the Bond Commission meets for $26 million for work on the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield Rail project. That would be a very welcome development.

Connecticut has also applied for federal stimulus funds for improving service on this lines as part of a very competive grants process that should start revealing winning projects "soon."

Finally, a rail plan for New England

2009-08-25T07:45:00.001-04:00

Amherst rail stop pushed

2009-08-25T07:43:00.002-04:00

Mass. seeking stimulus money for high speed rail

2009-08-25T07:37:00.002-04:00

Massachusetts will be competing in the first round of rail stimulus funding with two applications for rail improvements.

A Full-Court Press For Rail Funds for New Haven-Hartford-Springfield rail improvements

2009-08-25T07:31:00.003-04:00

A Hartford Courant editorial highlighting a letter to the Federal Railroad Administration authored by the Tri-State Transportation Campaign and signed by a wide variety of business, environmental, housing and transportation groups, including Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail.

Bid for US aid envisions wide N.E. rail system

2009-08-04T18:19:00.001-04:00

New England Rail Summit Aug. 3 -- Next Steps?

2009-07-29T23:01:00.003-04:00

The good news is that the New England states are stepping up coordinated efforts to attract federal stimulus funds for rail projects that greatly benefit the region. The bad news is that at least 39 states, with project requests totaling about $100 billion, are competing for the $8 billion dollars currently available for high-speed rail development.

On Aug. 3, high level state and federal transportation planners and leaders will meet in Burlington, VT at the New England Rail Summit to help ramp up collaborative rail planning and project development. New England transportation leaders agree that this kind of planning effort needs to be increased dramatically to help New England gain ground on the much more advanced rail planning efforts of other regions and states, most notably the Midwestern region and California.

PVACR President, Herb Singleton (thanks, Herb!), is planning to attend the summit, as are other members of the New England Rail Coalition. As a NERC coalition member, PVACR recently signed on to a letter sent to the New England governors urging strong interstate cooperation on rail issues.

On Aug. 4 at 7:00 p.m., PVACR will hold its next general meeting by teleconference (call-in details below). The main topics will be the Aug. 3 New England Rail Summit and how PVACR can support applications for federal stimulus funds that benefit Western Mass and the New England region (not to mention the country!) as a whole.

Please join us for an update and to share your ideas!

PVACR August General Meeting Teleconference
Everyone is welcome! Some supporters have mentioned that the need to drive fairly long distances to meet with other supporters has prevented them from participating more fully. So we are trying a conference call this month instead of an in-person meeting to try to make it easier for more supporters to share their ideas and help.

IMPORTANT: Call participants will pay their usual long distance charges for this call. This is not a toll-free call and no local numbers are available.

Call-in number: 1 (218) 339-2699
Conference call access code: 128651 followed by the pound key (#)

For more information, call Jen Cosgrove, 413-636-6707.
If you can’t make it to the meeting, please feel free to chime in by email at info@springfieldrail.org.

Thank you for your help and support!

Jen Cosgrove

PVACR Communications Director
info@springfieldrail.org

Dodd: Connecticut Has Solid Chance Of Receiving Funds For New Haven-Springfield Rail

2009-07-28T08:23:00.003-04:00

Not surprisingly, there is a LOT of pent up demand for rail investment across the country. Sen. Dodd has been very actively promoting the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield rail improvements.

Governors Join Hands for Rail Plan

2009-07-15T18:13:00.002-04:00

More good news about cooperation among New England states to attract funding for a rail network that will boost the whole region. Projects that are being touted include establishing commuter rail service between Springfield and Hartford and New Haven, and improving and increasing passenger rail service from Springfield to Vermont AND establishing commuter rail from Springfield to Worcester (!), which already has commuter rail service to Boston.

Great news all around. Far from a done deal funding wise, but at least New England can make a much stronger pitch for key projects like these when the states act in concert.

Connecticut formally applies for stimulus funds for New Haven to Springfield rail line

2009-07-11T07:45:00.001-04:00

EXCERPT:

"Governor M. Jodi Rell announced the state is proceeding with its efforts to establish high-speed rail service between New Haven and Springfield by applying for a share of the $8 billion in stimulus funds available for high-speed rail projects."

"Governor Rell and Massachusetts Governor Deval L. Patrick have been working together to expand commuter rail between the two major cities in the respective states. They wrote a letter in March to Amtrak President Joseph H. Boardman expressing their shared vision, outlining the benefits a reliable, high-speed service would bring to the region. State transportation officials from the two state and Amtrak officials have been meeting since March to move the project forward."

Springfield Union Station as Commuter Rail Hub by 2012?

2009-06-24T17:40:00.005-04:00

Will we be riding better train service north and south from Springfield in the near future?Another positive report about the Union Station redevelopment agreement that has just been struck.

EXCERPT
"I believe by the time Union Station is built, we should have commuter rail service from Vermont and from Connecticut," Mary MacInnes, head of the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority said.

An optimistic projection, maybe, but at least there is a lot of activity at the state and federal levels to speed up and increase rail development. We're not complacent, though. Keep speaking up for rail!

Union Station Redevelopment Agreement Reached--Finished 2012?

2009-06-24T07:39:00.002-04:00

This is good news. Forward movement on this project helps create positive momentum for rail projects that would use Springfield as a hub, such as the proposed commuter rail link from New Haven-Hartford-Springfield and rail improvements from Springfield to Vermont.

EXCERPT:
Although the project has been at a standstill for years, the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority has just reached an agreement with the Springfield Redevelopment Authority. Together they will design build and operate the union station transportation center as a joint venture.

When the project is finished, the terminal will house PVTA, Amtrak, commuter rail and intercity bus services, as well as having office space, rentals for economic development, a transportation conference center and even a day care.

The project will use a combination of federal transit and state transit grants totaling $65.2 million. The design phase is expected to begin this fall, with an anticipated completion date of 2012.

Sen. Dodd Continues Pushing for New Haven-Springfield Commuter Rail

2009-06-17T06:55:00.003-04:00

EXCERPT:

Starting commuter and high-speed train service along the route "will create new transit villages, get people off the roads, and revitalize our regional economy," Dodd said as he convened a Senate banking committee hearing in Washington.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said "people need access to buses, light rail, walking, biking. That direction is the wave of the future."The federal Department of Transportation will expedite new mass transit projects, which can languish for 10 to 15 years between initial proposals and actual start of service, LaHood said.Transit advocates in Connecticut have been pushing for New Haven-to-Springfield commuter rail service since the mid-1990s, but the project had little momentum until this year. Massachusetts and Connecticut officials are working with Amtrak to apply for a share of the Obama administration's stimulus funding for high-speed rail to make major improvements along the 62-mile line. Amtrak would use the corridor for part of new, 110-mph service linking Hartford to New York and eventually to Boston. The state DOT would use the same tracks for daily commuter trains with nearly 10 stops along the way.

Hearing explores expanding Vermonter Amtrak service

2009-05-20T22:33:00.004-04:00

This story offers a good quick overview of pro and con views offered at the two Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) public meetings on the Knowledge Corridor Passenger Rail study. About a dozen PVACR supporters attended the PVPC meetings (THANK YOU!) to speak up in support of the plan to realign the Amtrak Vermonter and lay the groundwork for increased passenger service and possibly full-blown commuter rail service in the future.

PVACR volunteer, Nancy Considine, asked the grandslam question of the meeting tonight: "How do you plan to use the support you've heard here tonight to help you get money for the project?" Timothy Brennan, Executive Dir. of the PVPC, responded bluntly that we need to keep building public support for the project, because any impression of tepid support will hurt our application for federal stimulus funding in the eyes of the evaluators. We are up against very stiff competition, he says, and it won't matter how stellar our request is if public support for the project is not strong.

So send your two cents! Short and sweet is fine -- and so is long and strong. Just take a quick minute to email your support of improved passenger rail service from Springfield to Vermont to:

Howard/Stein-Hudson Associates, Inc. Attn: Knowledge Corridor Project, 11 Hanover Square, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10005 or mtalbot-minkin@hshassoc.com Deadline for comments: June 1. (The applications for federal stimulus funding for rail projects are due in August).

As always, feel free to post to this blog -- especially if you have impressions or questions from the May 19 & 20 PVPC meetings.

Riding a Good Rail Idea - Editorial

2009-05-18T11:44:00.002-04:00

Editorial: Riding a good rail idea by Daily Hampshire Gazette
Transportation planners think in decades, so when proponents of improved rail service in the Pioneer Valley got wind of a funding source available within months, they went into overdrive.
At stake: a tiny piece of federal stimulus funding that could move a long-held transportation goal off the sidings.

Naturally, there would be winners and losers. That is a given when big sums of money are allocated for public projects.

If chosen for up to $30 million in U.S. funding, an effort led by the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission to improve tracks on a rail line that runs north and south through Northampton would end daily Amtrak service through Amherst.

Amherst's loss of that service, while an inconvenience to people who rely on it, would be the Valley's gain. We believe this is one of those public issues that demands an accounting that reaches beyond personal gains and losses.
Next Wednesday, people who want to see the Valley have greater access to passenger rail service can speak in support of the application for the stimulus funding, at a public meeting in Northampton.

As good luck would have it, the planning commission was already knee deep in a study, also paid with federal money, that is scoping out ways to improve rail service. Wednesday's public meeting is a required element of that study. Comments offered at the session will be made part of the application that will be reviewed in a few months by those deciding whether the rail-improvement project gets the green light. (see meeting details on this blog or http://www.springfieldrail.org)

On the flip side, those who believe that a good deal for Amherst-area travelers must not be scrapped can and should make their case at Wednesday's meeting, which starts at 7 p.m. at the Northampton Clarion Hotel.
But that case, we believe, must give way to the greater good of increased ridership, needed improvements to the area's rail system infrastructure and the simple benefit of significantly reduced travel times through the Valley for riders on Amtrak's Vermonter trains.
It is true that 12,679 riders climbed on or off Amtrak trains in Amherst last year. But that figure cannot be claimed as Amherst's vote for continued service from the Railroad Street depot. With just two daily stops in the Valley, rail travelers from throughout the region have to travel to Amherst to catch their rides. By rerouting the Vermonter onto 50 miles of improved track, the service will be able to add stops in the region's important population centers of Holyoke, Northampton and Greenfield.
Further, with the track improvements, and by ending a detour through Palmer, 50 minutes will be shaved from the trip from Springfield to St. Albans, Vt. That makes train travel more competitive with driving, transportation planners note.
After years of stalled hopes for improved Valley rail travel choices, this is no time to get in a fight over whose ride to the depot will get longer.
We say, all aboard on this one.

Hearings slated on expanded rail service for Western Massachusetts

2009-05-17T21:27:00.002-04:00

We urge all rail supporters to attend one or both of the public meetings that the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) has scheduled for the Knowledge Corridor Passenger Rail Line Study to learn project details and ask questions.

A number of Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail members will be attending the meetings to show support for this project and the many benefits it would bring to whole region. Please join us!

Date: 05-19-2009
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: TD Banknorth, 1441 Main St., Suite 1200, Springfield, MA 01103. Google map/directions. Parking is available in the lot behind the TD Banknorth building.

Date: 05-20-2009
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, 1 Atwood Dr., Northampton, MA 01060. Google map/directions
From the Massachusetts Turnpike: Take exit 4. From I-91 North and South: Take exit 18, take a right at end of ramp. Hotel is 3 tenths of a mile on the right.

Rail Commuter Line Would Be Perfect Fit

2009-05-12T20:14:00.004-04:00

Early good news on the federal transportation funding front for the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield commuter rail project.

The Hartford Courant reports that Minnesota Rep. James Oberstar, Chairman of the House Transportation Committee, "says the long-stalled New Haven-to-Springfield commuter rail project would be a natural fit for the kind of overhauled transit system that he envisions for America." Oberstar is about to lead the effort to draft Oberstar a multiyear, $400 billion to $450 billion federal transportation bill.

Way too early to celebrate, of course. Too much wheeling and dealing ahead to think that fed funding of the NHHS line will be a given. So stay tuned and keep chiming in with your elected and government officials.

Train Departing Amherst Station?

2009-05-06T10:38:00.003-04:00

If the link above doesn't work for you, try http://www.valleyadvocate.com/article.cfm?aid=9665

A thoughtful look at the proposal to reroute the Vermonter north of Springfield to run through Greenfield, Northampton, and Holyoke. Extensive discussion with project planner Dana Roscoe of PVPC.

Be sure to come out to the May 19 & 20 meetings that PVPC is hosting about this project. Meeting details on the this main blog page or http://www.springfieldrail.org/.

Amherst to Push to Keep Amtrak

2009-05-01T09:27:00.003-04:00

With a project like the proposed Knowledge Corridor Passenger Rail Study, that affects so many people in the Pioneer Valley, it's nice to have opportunities for a full discussion of what is being proposed and its potential pluses and minuses.

The study examines rerouting the Amtrak Vermonter to cut about 45 minutes off the trip to Vermont while adding station service to Holyoke, Northampton and Greenfield. It also examines the potential for establishing commuter rail service on the line.

If you have questions about these proposals, or just want to be part of the discussion, please attend one of the meetings the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) is holding May 19 & 20 in the area.

Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail supporters will be attending both meetings.

PVPC Public Meetings on the Knowledge Corridor Passenger Rail Study
Date: 05-19-2009
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: TD Banknorth, 1441 Main St., Suite 1200, Springfield, MA 01103. Google map/directions. Parking is available in the lot behind the TD Banknorth building.

Date: 05-20-2009
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, 1 Atwood Dr., Northampton, MA 01060. From the Massachusetts Turnpike: Take exit 4. From I-91 North and South: Take exit 18, take a right at end of ramp. Hotel is 3 tenths of a mile on the right.

Franklin County, MA Transit Center -- Future Commuter Rail Stop -- Launched

2009-04-18T07:50:00.003-04:00

So many wins from this project

Breaking ground on this transit center is exciting for many reasons. It will stimulate economic activity, it's a green multimodal center that will drastically minimize energy use and can actually generate energy, AND, it's another building block in both the restoration of passenger rail service from Springfield to Vermont and establishing commuter rail service from Vermont through Springfield all the way to New Haven, CT.

More signs from Gov. Patrick and Secy. Aloisi that they get how important investment in public transit -- in WESTERN MASS -- really is.

Turbo Boost for New Haven-Hartford-Springfield Commuter Rail project?

2009-04-17T15:00:00.001-04:00

This could be awesome news for the prospects of commuter rail from Springfield to New Haven and more convenient access to NYC. Dodd and other legislators will need us to help make some noise to help win funding.

Stay tuned!

Business on board with rail expansion. In Minnesota. What about Massachusetts?

2009-04-13T09:23:00.005-04:00

"[Minnesota businesses] see investing in transit infrastructure as a winner."

Rallying business support for passenger and commuter rail improvements in Western Mass is an easy sell. Businesses and organizations need a reliable, efficient transportation system as much or more than individuals do -- to conduct business, ensure that their employees can easily reach them, and to tap into the widest and deepest talent pool to attract new employees.

This is an area where the Pioneer Valley Advocates could use help. We have heard positive things from the business and community leaders we have spoken to. We need a more sustained and systematic approach to enlisting the support of the region's biggest employers -- like Univ. of Massachusetts, Bay State Health, Mass Mutual, Big Y, and others -- and the thousands of small businesses that produce so many jobs.

Your ideas and help are welcome!

Dodd: We need better transit to get our economy moving and address the challenges ahead

2009-04-11T07:57:00.001-04:00

From the Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, which has jurisdiction over the transit portion of the transportation bill, a good indication that public transit will be a higher priority in the next bill.

Carrots and Sticks for Cleaner Transportation -- Petition from Transportation for America

2009-04-09T12:08:00.003-04:00

Check it out and sign on if you agree!

Excerpt:
"Right now, one-third of all greenhouse gas emissions in the United States come from transportation! If we are going to successfully combat climate change, the clean energy bill must offer meaningful incentives for states and local governments to clean up transportation systems. We must support local initiatives to provide transportation alternatives and set state-wide goals and transportation pollution reduction goals that are in line with our national goal to build a cleaner future.

Sign your name to our national petition today, and tell key decision-makers in Congress to strengthen the transportation section of the new climate bill!"

Latest PVACR eNewsletter: Rail Updates & Apr. 16 General Meeting

2009-04-08T20:47:00.005-04:00

Pioneer Valley Rail Progress
This is the most recent e-newsletter from Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail. To get PVACR email updates and action alerts one to three times a month, be sure to subscribe.

Rail Advocates See Hope In Federal Stimulus Money

2009-04-07T13:04:00.003-04:00

WAMC's Pioneer Valley Bureau Chief Paul Tuthill reports on the efforts of New England Regional Rail Coalition members, including PVACR, to lobby for federal stimulus money for regional rail projects, including the Knowledge Corridor Passenger Rail line from Springfield to White River Junction, VT.

"A group of environmentalists, rail transportation advocates, planners and business people are lobbying to get federal stimulus money spent on passenger rail projects in New England. There is hope the federal money could be used to bring commuter rail to Western Massachusetts"

Full WAMC Northeast Public Radio report

NERRC and PVACR Press release announcing lobbying effort:

Working on the Railroad: NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL RAIL COALITION URGES FUNDING FOR RAIL

Gov. Patrick Discusses Commuter Rail in Western Mass at Town Forum

2009-04-07T08:03:00.007-04:00

Q: "When and how soon, will the Pioneer Valley obtain commuter rail service? asked "Michael from East Longmeadow"

Gov. Patrick fielded a question about commuter rail from PVACR member and Treasurer, Michael Galvagni (thanks!) at a live town forum broadcast on WWLP Channel 22 last night. The Governor answered at some length about working with Connecticut and Vermont to provide commuter rail south and north from Springfield, but his bottom line is that we need federal help to get this done.

The question is asked at the 9 min, 20 sec point of this video segment, the third segment on the wwlp.com web site.

Palmer Seeks to Lure Amtrak

2009-04-06T21:10:00.003-04:00

Palmer officials certainly appreciate the economic development and transportation benefits that rail brings. Anyone interested in learning about the projected benefits of the Knowledge Corridor Passenger Rail Line that the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) is studying and raising questions about it will have opportunities at two public meetings that are part of the study.

PVPC Public Meetings on the Knowledge Corridor Passenger Rail Study
Date: 05-19-2009
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: TD Banknorth, 1441 Main St., Suite 1200, Springfield, MA 01103.
Google map/directions. Parking is available in the lot behind the TD Banknorth building.

Date: 05-20-2009
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, 1 Atwood Dr., Northampton, MA 01060.
From the Massachusetts Turnpike: Take exit 4. From I-91 North and South: Take exit 18, take a right at end of ramp. Hotel is 3 tenths of a mile on the right.

Public meeting notices will go out the first week of May. We urge all rail supporters to bring their questions and notepads to learn more about expanding rail services in our region.

New PVACR Web site

2009-04-05T21:36:00.003-04:00

Hi all - We've revamped the PVACR Web site with plenty of content about proposed rail projects in the Pioneer Valley. Please check it out -- and be sure to sign up for PVACR email updates for the latest news and chances to speak up in support of commuter rail.

Thank you

Email Gov Patrick About Commuter Rail for Springfield Town Hall

2009-04-01T10:30:00.002-04:00

Let's make sure Gov. Patrick thinks of commuter rail every time he thinks of Western Mass. Send your question about commuter rail (questions@wwlp.com) for the Gov. to be asked at a town forum to be held in Springfield Apr. 6, hosted and broadcast online and TV by WWLP-22.

Not every question will be asked, but we want to make sure WWLP has LOTS of commuter rail questions to choose from and is reminded of how popular the issue is.

One question we have submitted: "What role will commuter rail play in your plan for economic recovery in Massachusetts, and especially Western Mass?"

NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL RAIL COALITION URGES FUNDING FOR RAIL

2009-03-31T19:02:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Jen Cosgrove, Communications Dir., Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail (PVACR), (413) 636-6707, pvacr@yahoo.com
Tom Irwin, Senior Attorney, Conservation Law Foundation, (603) 225-3060, tirwin@clf.org

$8 billion stimulus fund an important opportunity for New England

Springfield, MA (March 30, 2009) The recently formed New England Regional Rail Coalition (NERRC) is urging the investment of economic stimulus dollars in rail infrastructure in New England, to improve and expand existing rail services for the region. Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail, a Western Mass-based grassroots group of rail advocates that is part of the coalition, has been working through the group to ensure that rail projects benefiting the Pioneer Valley will be considered for stimulus funding.

On March 27, NERRC wrote U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Ray Lahood and other federal officials to inform them of important needs and investment opportunities in New England, as officials begin to decide how best to distribute $8 billion of economic stimulus funding dedicated to intercity and high speed rail service.

“The stronger our connections are to economic centers throughout New England, the stronger we’ll be in Western Mass.,” said Jen Cosgrove, PVACR Communications Dir. “We are working with the NERRC to advocate for rail in New England, and especially the Pioneer Valley region, because acting in concert gives us a better chance of winning funding for building those strong connections.”

“A number of critical opportunities exist in the region to build a rail system that strengthens each of the New England states, and that better integrates the region not only with the rest of the country, but also with Canada,” said Tom Irwin , a senior attorney with the Conservation Law Foundation, a founding member of NERRC. “Our hope is that economic stimulus funds will be allocated to many of these projects, to begin the process of building a world class, sustainable transportation system for New England .”

The economic stimulus law – the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act – established a competitive grant program, with a total of $8 billion to be distributed to high-speed and intercity rail projects. NERRC’s letter identifies several key projects which, individually and collectively, will help integrate and strengthen New England ’s transportation system.

With specific regard to Western Massachusetts , the letter identifies:

1 – Rehabilitation of track infrastructure in Western Massachusetts for Amtrak’s Vermonter service. This project would involve the rehabilitation of rail infrastructure that parallels Interstate 91 through western Massachusetts ’ Pioneer Valley , greatly benefiting Amtrak’s Vermonter service between White River Junction, VT and Springfield , MA . The Vermonter currently travels an extra 40 to 50 minutes to avoid inadequate track infrastructure. At an estimated cost of $25 million, the project will make this detour unnecessary, allowing significant time- and fuel savings, as well as the restoration of rail service for two of the Pioneer Valley ’s largest communities – Greenfield and Northampton . The Pioneer Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization strongly supports this project, which would complement a plan to connect Springfield , MA and New Haven , CT with new commuter service.

2 - Establishment of commuter rail service between New Haven , CT and Springfield , MA . This project would bring much needed commuter rail service connecting New Haven , Hartford and Springfield , and numerous towns and cities in between. It also could provide important connections with Bradley International Airport , multiple links with Amtrak intercity service, and direct links to the existing Metro North and Shore Line East Commuter Rail in New Haven . The project would involve railroad right-of-way owned by Amtrak, and would complement north-south improvements for the Amtrak Vermonter rehabilitation project discussed above.

The New England Regional Rail Coalition is a new and growing collaboration of business interests, planning organizations, and transportation and environmental advocates which recognize the need and value of significantly greater investment in rail in the New England region. NERRC believes an enhanced and expanded rail network is essential to safeguarding New England ’s economic competitiveness and reducing the economic, environmental and social costs associated with our region’s current, predominantly highway-oriented system.

For additional information regarding the Coalition and its work, including a copy of the Coalition’s letter to Secretary Lahood, please contact Jen Cosgrove at (413) 636-6707 or pvacr@yahoo.com or Tom Irwin at (603) 225-3060, ext. 15, or via email at tirwin@clf.org.

###

The Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail (www.springfieldrail.org, pvacr.blogspot.com) is an all-volunteer group of concerned citizens in Western Mass and Connecticut who want to help bring commuter rail and its many transportation, economic, and environmental benefits to the region. Our supporters include commuters, students, job seekers, community leaders, business owners, policymakers, and rail enthusiasts, among others.

The Conservation Law Foundation (www.clf.org) works to solve the most significant environmental challenges facing New England . CLF’s advocates use law, economics and science to create innovative strategies to conserve natural resources, protect public health and promote vital communities in our region. Founded, in 1966, CLF is a nonprofit, member-supported organization with offices in Maine , Massachusetts , New Hampshire , Rhode Island and Vermont .

Meeting Report: NARP Regional Conference

2009-03-30T21:51:00.003-04:00

Thanks to PVACR supporters Michael Galvagni (also group Treasurer) and Susan Winholz for this report:

Susan and I attended the March 21, 2009 meeting of the National Association of Railroad Passengers (NARP) in New London , CT.

I thought the highlight of the event was speaker Jim Cameron. Mr. Cameron formerly worked for NBC news. He is now self-employed and writes a blog called Talking Transportation )

Here is his posting in Talking Transportation about the meeting (Susan is one of the “…dutiful wives along to support their husbands’ hobby, knitting all through the meeting.”). I see no free mittens coming from Susan anytime soon!

While I enjoyed Cameron’s presentation there were two downsides. First, most of his discussion was about Metro North and the arrival of new trains on that line. More importantly was his prediction that Hartford and Springfield would not see commuter rail service for 8 more years. Mr. Terry Hall, who was representing Mr. Bruce Becker, NARP’s Northeastern Division Leader, disagreed with Cameron on when we would see commuter rail. Terry predicted we would see service in a few years but that it would be brought in on a phased manner. The phased in manner would be advertised as a step toward full implementation - which he predicted would never happen. In other words Susan and I basically heard two conflicting reports both of which were pessimistic.

I will largely defer to quoting Mr. Cameron for much of the rest of this report because he covered the meeting as well as I could hope to. Ross Capon, President of NARP spoke on the current situation of Amtrak and the stimulus package. As Cameron says in his posting, “Capon gave a great speech about the many changes in Washington breathing new life into rail: increased funding for Amtrak, new initiatives to force freight rail lines to expedite passenger trains, even discussions about ten new high-speed rail corridors across the country.”

Having lived in Texas for 25 years Mr. Capon put a smile on my face when he took a poke at Lone Star State for wanting to build another highway ring around Houston with little or no consideration for Mass Transit.

Again I quote Mr. Cameron, “Another NARP officer (Mr. Al Papp, NARP’s Vice Chair for Legislative Policy & Strategy) spoke of the crazy plans by NJ Transit to build new tunnels under the Hudson River which would dead-end at a new underground station for Garden State commuters instead of continuing on to Grand Central.”

Mr. Papp’s basic point here was that the Amtrak high speed rail between Washington DC and the Northeast would be unable to (or have limited use of) Hudson River tunnels. He passionately referred to the plan by NJ Transit as “holding 50 million people hostage.”

There was supposed to be someone at the meeting to discuss the status of rail in Massachusetts but he must not have made the meeting.

Springfield Union Station Redevelopment Update -- Agreement Within "Next Few Months"?

2009-03-30T10:44:00.011-04:00

With encouraging news breaking lately about commuter rail services running South and North from Springfield ("Governors of Mass., Conn. lobby Amtrak to expand commuter rail service between Springfield and New Haven," Mar. 25, Springfield Republican, "Expanded rail service considered," Mar. 23, Springfield Republican), we think it's a good time to ask:

What's happening with the redevelopment plan for Springfield's Union Station, which will serve as the connecting hub for those services?

In Oct. 2008, the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority and the Springfield Redevelopment Authority announced the completion of the Union Station Intermodal Transit Center plan. PVTA's press release said that "The next phase of the plan will be to secure approval from the Federal Transit Administration and the Executive Office of Transportation, followed by the establishment of a joint development agreement between the PVTA and the SRA to oversee construction and operations. "

We called Brian Conners, Interim Chief Development Officer, who is managing the project for the Springfield Office of Planning and Economic Development (413-787-6664) for an update. He said that they are "still moving forward, a little slower than they would like," in part due to some personnel changes in the city and in their legal representation. They have been negotiating the agreement with PVTA about who will be responsible for what and also working on gaining approval from their federal and state partners on the project. Even so, Connors anticipates that they will have the approvals they need and an agreement in place in the "next few months." This will enable the partners to put out a solicitation for a designer to produce the final design.

So there you have it. So stay tuned for an announcement about hitting the next milestone in the Union Station redevelopment project in "the next few months." Now -- how soon can we expect to see that final design?????

Governors of Mass., Conn. lobby Amtrak to expand commuter rail service between Springfield and New Haven

2009-03-25T20:53:00.003-04:00

Interstate cooperation between MA and CT -- especially at the governors level -- to work with Amtrak to add commuter rail service from Springfield to New Haven is very encouraging.

Expanded Rail Service from Springfield to VT Considered

2009-03-23T11:43:00.003-04:00

This is very good news that the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission is working so hard to qualify improvements to rail service from Springfield to VT for federal stimulus funds.

As the article mentions, the PVPC has been conducting the Knowledge Corridor Passenger Rail study since May 2008. Last June, a PVACR volunteer participated as a stakeholder in a partnering workshop that is part of the study. Consulting with stakeholders throughout the region is an important part of the study. Hopefully these steps will help residents and their elected leaders come to a consensus about supporting the work that is needed to make rail a force for economic growth and greener transportation in our area.

The article mentions that public hearings will be held in May as part of this project. I'm sure many rail supporters will want to attend!

Springfield to VT Rail to Compete for Stimulus Funds

2009-03-05T09:05:00.001-05:00

This is very good news for our chances of seeing commuter rail service from VT to Springfield. This could also help spur activity with the Union Station Redevelopment project, AND, we hope, the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield commuter rail project.

Springfield is a natural transportation hub. There are a lot of benefits that will flow with that if we'll make some sensible investments.

Speak up for Western MA commuter rail at local transportation hearing Mar. 4, 4:00p

2009-03-01T07:54:00.007-05:00

Although there is heated debate surrounding the Governor's recent gas tax proposal, at least commuter rail in Western MA, both the link from Springfield to New Haven and north to VT, is part of the discussion. That's good news.

Regardless of how policymakers, with input from voters, decide how to pay for transportation reform, we want to make sure commuter rail is considered vital to improving the economy and environment, as well as aiding commuters and the businesses that depend on them.

Please join members of Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail in supporting commuter rail at an important hearing next week. The first of four state hearings on the governor's proposal will be held Wednesday, Mar. 4 at 4 p.m. at Springfield Technical Community College, in the Scibelli Hall Theater (http://www.stcc.edu/aboutcampus/directions.asp).

Chairing that hearing will be Rep. Joseph F. Wagner of Chicopee. For more information about the hearing, you can contact his Chicopee office at 413-592-7857.

Please make sure all parties in this debate about funding our transportation needs know that bringing commuter rail to Western MA is a top priority.

DOT Chief Pushing Light Rail As Connecticut's Best Way To Go

2009-03-01T07:42:00.002-05:00

It's good to hear Joseph Marie keep banging the drum for rail. Still going in the right direction, at least.

MA Transportation Secy Ties New Commuter Rail Line in Springfield Area to Proposed Gas Tax Increase

2009-02-25T07:05:00.003-05:00

We're bound to have a heated debate about whether the proposed 19-cent gas tax is an appropriate trade-off for "a NEW COMMUTER RAIL LINE, expanded transit service, and additional road and bridge work" for Western MA, as the state Secy of Transportation is proposing, but I personally hope the tremendous economic and environmental benefits of commuter rail don't get drowned out.

I'll be reminding policymakers that however it's paid for, we need the estimated $152 million in economic stimulus that the proposed commuter rail project from Springfield to New Haven will bring Western MA as well as less congested highways and a lowering of polluting and greenhouse gas producing emissions. And Secy Aloisi is talking about extending the commuter rail line to VT (yes!) -- which would go a long way toward establishing Springfield as a major transportation hub for north-south travel -- and looking forward, a bigger hub for east-west travel.

Western MA has a LOT to gain if we can lock in new commuter rail and other transit improvements. I want to make sure policymakers are considering all the short and long term benefits as they overhaul our state's transportation system.

OUR VIEW: A better way to ride - The Bristol Press: Bristol, Conn., and surrounding areas (BristolPress.com)

2009-02-09T22:41:00.000-05:00

OUR VIEW: A better way to ride - The Bristol Press: Bristol, Conn., and surrounding areas (BristolPress.com)

Senate compromise preserves transit funding — for now

2009-02-08T09:30:00.001-05:00

THANK YOU everyone who has been contacting their elected officials to increase and protect funding for mass transit in the stimulus bill.

Advocates for NEW highway construction (not just the repairs we sorely need) that would increase our dependence on foreign oil and more polluting modes of travel, may still try to raid mass transit funding as the bill moves to a vote in the Senate and conference.

Thank you for your continued support!

New Haven-Hartford-Springfield commuter rail included in new DOT Master Transportation Plan - Rick Green | CT Confidential

2009-02-05T19:03:00.000-05:00

New Haven-Hartford-Springfield commuter rail included in new DOT Master Transportation Plan - Rick Green | CT Confidential

Please send this email to your U.S. senators by clicking on link

2009-02-05T14:23:00.001-05:00

PROTECT MASS TRANSIT IN STIMULUS from these amendments

Please take a quick minute to send this email provided by PVACR partner, Transportation for America, to your U.S. senators. There are some amendments being considered this week that threaten spending on rail and other mass transit.

http://action.smartgrowthamerica.org/t/3224/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=1018

Please share with your friends -- Thank you!

Back on Tracks

2009-02-01T18:05:00.001-05:00

A PVACR member brought this thoughtful article by Phillip Longman in Washington Monthly to our attention. A quick snippet:

"What the government should do instead is make creative use of public/private partnerships—like the deal Virginia cut with Norfolk Southern—to fund more rail infrastructure and better integration of trucks and trains."

Jan. 27 Calls Needed to Support Amendments to Increase Mass Transit Stimulus funding

2009-01-26T21:12:00.007-05:00

Please contact U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern
Tue. Jan 27 before 3:30 Rules Committee Meeting
If you want to see more funding for public transportation in the House economic recovery bill (H.R. 1 – The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009) that is moving through Congress, there are two amendments (described below) to support before Tue. Jan. 27 at 3:30p. They need approval from the House Rules Committee to get a vote on the floor.

To voice your support, please contact House Rules Committee member, Rep. Jim McGovern (MA 3rd District)

34 Mechanic Street
Worcester , MA 01608
Phone: (508) 831-7356
Fax: (508) 754-0982

Washington Office
438 Cannon Building
Washington , DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-6101
Fax: (202) 225-5759
Given the tight timeframe, a phone call will probably be more effective, but to reach Rep. McGovern by email, you can go to https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml and enter 01608 under zip code to send a message.

The Rules Committee hearing tomorrow will determine whether these amendments will be allowed on the floor.

1) Representative DeFazio (D-OR) will offer an Amendment to including $2 billion in operating assistance for public transportation authorities across the country to meet growing ridership in the face of serious budget cuts.
2) Representative Nadler (D-NY) will also offer an Amendment to increase the capital transit investment from $9 billion to $12 billion.

A quick phone call can help make big difference. Ask a friend to call too!

If you're really on a roll, any influence with the other members of the Rules Committee would be welcome.

DOT Still Headed In The Wrong Direction -- Courant.com

2009-01-25T12:39:00.000-05:00

DOT Still Headed In The Wrong Direction -- Courant.com

Memo To Prez: Build Railroads -- Courant.com

2009-01-24T10:28:00.000-05:00

Memo To Prez: Build Railroads -- Courant.com

All Hail To Rail, DOT Commissioner Says

2009-01-20T08:22:00.002-05:00

Rick Green's column paints a very pro-rail picture of Joseph Marie, CT's transportation commissioner. Sounds to me like the right person for this job.

A point on interim commuter service between Springfield and New Haven caught my attention:

"Although cutting a deal with Amtrak to run a few commuter trains along the existing tracks between Hartford and New Haven might be a good idea, Marie said that a half-baked effort could be worse than nothing."

AMTRAK to Connecticut: Commuter Rail won't come cheap - Rick Green | CT Confidential

2009-01-17T12:41:00.000-05:00

AMTRAK to Connecticut: Commuter Rail won't come cheap - Rick Green | CT Confidential

AMTRAK to Connecticut: Commuter Rail won't come cheap

2009-01-17T08:26:00.000-05:00

2009-01-15T21:46:00.000-05:00

Advocates see opening for rail projects

2009-01-15T21:43:00.001-05:00

Information about The Knowledge Corridor Line may be found here.

Partnering study:
found here

Rift forms over Stimulus Plan

"...[T]he future of commuter rail in our region will be projects like the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield rail line."

2009-01-12T20:24:00.000-05:00

Excerpt from Sen. Chris Dodd's excellent address to the well-attended Regional Transportation Forum presented by the Connecticut Sierra Club and the National Corridors Initiative on Jan. 9:

"...[I]n a matter of days, we will have a president and a Congress that understand the benefits that investments in public transportation can bring not only on the macro level—to reducing congestion, increasing mobility, improving energy security, and addressing climate change—but the community level as well – helping connect workers to the jobs communities need, from the mechanics, nurses, and plumbers, to the young engineers and entrepreneurs, to those in our high tech and bio tech industries and others...."

Advocates See Economic Opening For Rail Projects

2009-01-11T08:10:00.000-05:00

Excerpts from an interesting article on the "Need for Speed" forum sponsored by the Sierra Club and National Corridors Initiative held Jan. 9 (link to full article above).

"Legislators promised a new effort to break a "highways first" culture in state government, and former U.S. Rep. Rob Simmons described the Obama administration's stimulus plan as an extraordinary chance to expand rapid transit throughout Connecticut and New England...."

"....Dodd cited the long-overdue Springfield-to-Hartford-to-New Haven commuter rail project as an example of what New England needs to be economically competitive in the 21st century...."

PVACR Meeting Jan. 14 7:00-8:30p

2009-01-07T22:37:00.000-05:00

PVACR January Meeting – Note earlier start time

When: Wed. Jan. 14, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Where: Lathrop House B&B (http://www.lathrophousebandb.com/), 188 Sumner Ave., Springfield, MA 01108

Agenda items:
1 - Consider partnering with Transportation for America (www.t4america.org).
2 – Collecting petition signatures during the Amherst Railway Society Railroad Hobby Show at the Big E Jan. 24-25, 2009

If you can't make the meeting, please chime in at pvacr@yahoo.com.

PVPC Knowledge Corridor Passenger Rail Study

2009-01-07T22:33:00.001-05:00

The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission has launched its newsletter to update interested people about the Knowledge Corridor Passenger Rail Study.

The study is examining reestablishment of passenger rail service on the Conn River Line between Springfield, MA and White River Junction, VT. For more information and to sign up for the e-newsletter, check out http://www.pvpc.org/corridor/getinvolved.html

River Line Would Be Link To Prosperity -- Courant.com

2009-01-04T19:12:00.000-05:00

River Line Would Be Link To Prosperity -- Courant.com

My Left Nutmeg:: Sunday morning talk show round-up for 12.28.08

2008-12-31T16:20:00.000-05:00

My Left Nutmeg:: Sunday morning talk show round-up for 12.28.08

Don't derail mass transit - The Boston Globe

2008-12-27T17:48:00.000-05:00

Don't derail mass transit - The Boston Globe

Transit Advocates Urge Governor To Fast Track Rail Project — Transit Blogger

2008-12-24T09:25:00.000-05:00

Transit Advocates Urge Governor To Fast Track Rail Project — Transit Blogger

NARP: National Association of Railroad Passengers

2008-12-20T09:54:00.000-05:00

NARP: National Association of Railroad Passengers

Connecticut Must Get Commuter Rail Service On Track -- Courant.com

2008-12-19T08:54:00.000-05:00

Connecticut Must Get Commuter Rail Service On Track -- Courant.com

Use of public transit surges across country - The Boston Globe

2008-12-18T21:15:00.000-05:00

Use of public transit surges across country - The Boston Globe

Solving the transportation crisis - The Boston Globe

2008-12-15T21:29:00.000-05:00

Solving the transportation crisis - The Boston Globe

2008-12-15T21:18:00.000-05:00

Solving the transportation crisis - The Boston Globe

State Projects Not Ready -- Courant.com

2008-12-14T15:22:00.000-05:00

State Projects Not Ready -- Courant.com

Transportation For America

2008-12-13T20:28:00.000-05:00

Transportation For America

Seems interesting.

Design New Haven: Hopes and Hurdles for New Haven-Hartford-Springfield Commuter Rail

2008-12-13T18:46:00.000-05:00

Design New Haven: Hopes and Hurdles for New Haven-Hartford-Springfield Commuter Rail

Groups, Electeds: CT Must Put Rail Project on Fast Track � Mobilizing the Region

2008-12-13T18:45:00.000-05:00

Groups, Electeds: CT Must Put Rail Project on Fast Track � Mobilizing the Region

Urban Compass | Blog Archive | Transportation Policy and Infrastructure Overdose

2008-12-12T14:39:00.000-05:00

Urban Compass | Blog Archive | Transportation Policy and Infrastructure Overdose

Urban Compass is a must read for those interested in our region's important issues. Today is no exception.

CT Progressive Democrat: Rail Forum in New London, Friday, January 9th

2008-12-12T11:54:00.000-05:00

CT Progressive Democrat: Rail Forum in New London, Friday, January 9th

Can anyone attend?

Invest Now For Recovery -- Courant.com

2008-12-12T11:25:00.000-05:00

Invest Now For Recovery -- Courant.com

TheDay.com - State leaders want to fast-track new commuter line

2008-12-12T09:18:00.000-05:00

TheDay.com - State leaders want to fast-track new commuter line

Moving together

2008-12-12T08:57:00.000-05:00

Different organizations are moving together to support commuter rail...

http://www.connpost.com/ci_11199916

The Hartford Courant's view can be found here.

Contact Neal & Olver before Dec. 9 re: Springfield-New Haven Commuter Rail

2008-12-06T17:22:00.000-05:00

At the successful Bringing in the Green Expo sponsored by the East Longmeadow Green Committee today, members of the Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail had a chance to talk with Rep. Richard Neal and Lt. Gov. Timothy Murray, both supporters of commuter rail. We asked Congressman Neal how we could get the Springfield-New Haven Commuter Rail Line funded in the upcoming stimulus bill that Congress is trying to have ready for President-Elect Obama to sign as soon as he takes office in Jan.

Rep. Neal said that House Democrats are meeting Tue. Dec. 9 to discuss which projects should be funded in the stimulus bill and that he would make this commuter rail line his priority. I believe him because he is on record supporting this commuter rail line. At the same time, I can only imagine the kinds of debates and horsetrading that will play out among congressional colleagues -- all with project backlogs and vocal constituencies -- during this time of competing national crises.

That is why I am urging all of you to contact your U.S. representatives -- before Dec. 9 if possible -- to make sure the Springfield-New Haven Commuter Rail Line is prominently on their radar screens as they meet with their colleagues and hammer out the specifics of the stimulus bill that could be passed as early as Jan.

Contact info for U.S. Reps Richard Neal and John Olver, plus suggested subject/text for an email follow. Here's a chance to make yourself heard at a critical time in the decisionmaking process. Thank you!

Jen Cosgrove, PVACR volunteer

Rep. Richard Neal
http://www.house.gov/neal/write_neal.html
WASHINGTON (202) 225-5601
MILFORD (508) 634-8198
SPRINGFIELD (413) 785-0325

Rep. John Olver
http://www.house.gov/olver/contactme.html
Washington, DC TEL: 202-225-5335
Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin Counties
TEL: 413-532-7010
Berkshire County
TEL: 413-442-0946
Worcester and Middlesex Counties
TEL: 978-342-8722

SUGGESTED LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR SPRINGFIELD-NEW HAVEN COMMUTER RAIL LINE PROJECT
Subject: Voter who wants Springfield-New Haven Commuter Rail funded

Dear Congressmen Neal,

When you meet with your congressional colleagues this week to discuss infrastructure projects that should be funded in the next stimulus bill, please push for the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield Commuter Rail Line to be funded.

This project is an excellent example of the kind of “shovel ready” investments that would produce tremendous, long-term benefits for our region.

It's green – Commuter rail would reduce pollution-emitting traffic on I-91, I-84, and I-95, improving the air we all breathe.

It’s good for our economy – The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission estimates that this line would generate at least $152 million in new economic activity in Western MA.

It’s good for riders and employers – Commuter rail gives commuters and travelers more convenient and affordable options. It’s also a key part of a sustainable transportation system of rail, buses, and cars that employers need to attract the best workers and keep businesses running smoothly.

Please do all that you can to get the Springfield-New Haven Commuter Rail Line project funded in the next stimulus bill.

Sincerely,

This week--make your voice heard!

2008-12-06T10:50:00.000-05:00

Another notice (see the blog list for more stories) on the upcoming hearings.

Wilbur Smith

2008-12-04T07:56:00.001-05:00

Wilbur Smith's NHHS study blogged here(link to study as well)

PVACR part of "Bringing in the Green" Expo, Dec. 6

2008-11-24T17:34:00.000-05:00

Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail is joining a variety of green companies and organizations to help show people how they can save money while they help save the environment.

The first ever "Bringing in the Green" Exposition in East Longmeadow will be taking place Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Council on Aging, located at 328 North Main St.

We'll be collecting signatures in support of bringing commuter rail to the region and educating people about the many benefits of commuter rail, to the environment, our economy, and everyone who lives in the area.

Please stop by and send some friends our way!

2008-11-23T21:04:00.000-05:00

Western Mass. must be part of commuter rail service
by Nancy Considine

To the editor:

Praise to Governor Patrick for wanting better planning for expansion projects in the state's transport system, especially for commuter rail service. He outlined his intentions in a statement Nov. 13, but excluded any mention of planning for commuter rail service for western Massachusetts.

Governor Patrick suggests that new agencies make a "realistic plan." If so, then those agencies must make provisions for service to the communities here in the western part of the state. I suggest, specifically, that any new planning include the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield project being supported by the Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail.

Already in Connecticut's transportation plan is commuter rail service from New Haven/Hartford into Springfield. Massachusetts is being asked to contribute 10 percent, or an estimated $30 million dollars, of the project's cost. Connecticut has pledged to pay 90 percent of the project cost for commuter rail service terminating in Springfield. If Massachusetts does not appropriate this money, the commuter trains will come to Springfield, turn around, head back to Connecticut, but will not open their doors so that workers, students, commuters and visitors may ride.

The Advocates for Commuter Rail encourage Massachusetts to pledge the 10 percent of costs now so that this needed service will be in effect by 2011-2012. This volunteer group also encourages a feasibility study for commuter rail service in the "Knowledge Corridor" to provide inexpensive and accessible rail travel between Springfield and White River Junction, Vt.

Pioneer Valley Advocates estimate that immediately the commuter rail project from New Haven/Hartford/Springfield will create new jobs, stimulate new economic activity and importantly improve air quality by taking cars off the highways. Trains help cut the region's carbon emissions.

Readers can find more information about Pioneer Valley Advocates of Commuter Rail on its Web page: www.SpringfieldRail.org.

Nancy Considine

Hatfield

2008-11-23T20:43:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone,

Thank you for your continued support for bringing commuter rail and
all of its benefits to the Pioneer Valley region. The New Haven-
Hartford-Springfield (NHHS) commuter rail project has gained a
tenuous "toe-hold" in the MA budget process. As we all know, though,
projects have a way of getting put on the back burner or cut all
together if clear, strong support doesn't ring out.

Please help ensure that this region gets all the benefits we need to
thrive (not just hang on!) for our economy, the environment, and
ourselves as commuters and travelers.

JOIN IN
Come see us at a meeting or outreach event. And, please, if you have
some time, materials, or money to pitch in to make these efforts
successful, let us know!

Dec. 6, 2008, 10:00a-2:00p "Bringing in the Green" Exposition --
Hosted by East Longmeadow Green Committee, this is a great
opportunity to highlight the environmental benefits of commuter rail
and gather petition signatures. Where: Council on Aging, 328 North
Pleasant Street, East Longmeadow, MA 01028.

Dec. 8, 6:00p ConnDOT Public Scoping Hearing for New Haven-Hartford-
Springfield (NHHS) Commuter Rail service Hearings for the
preparation of an Environmental Assessment (EA) for proposed
improvements for the NHHS service. Where: TD Banknorth Conference
Center, 1441 Main Street, Springfield, MA.

Dec. 17, 7:30-9:00p PVACR Monthly Meeting Enjoy the company of
fellow supporters and help us plan activities for outreach to
businesses and green groups in early 2009. East Longmeadow Library,
60 Center Square, East Longmeadow, MA, 01028

Jan. 24-25, 2009, TBD Amherst Railway Society Railroad Hobby Show
We're making plans to be involved in this amazing annual show that
draws huge crowds of passionate rail fans. Where: The "Big E",
Eastern States Exposition Fairgrounds, Memorial Avenue, West
Springfield MA. 01089

SPEAK UP
Please keep giving us your ideas and feedback and let your
government representatives know why you support commuter rail:
In Oct., PVACR participated in the MA Executive Office Of
Transportation's Workshop. They want to hear from more rail
supporters. Please send your story about why we need commuter rail in
Western MA to planning@eot.state.ma.us and check out
http://www.youmovemassachusetts.org/ to receive their newsletter.
As always, we appreciate being copied on your letters and emails of
support when possible.

Please share this information with friends and family who are ready
for this region to rev up again!

THANK YOU and have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving

Dodd and Region

2008-11-23T20:25:00.000-05:00

Sen. Dodd knows the issue is regional:

"Dodd said that he would try to have the transportation station included in an economic stimulus package planned for late January / early February."

"Dodd commented that there was a growing bipartisan consensus on the need to invest in infrastructure, “Yesterday, I attended a meeting at the American Enterprise Institute, a fairly conservative think tank. The way they talked about infrastructure, I could have sworn that I was at an AFL-CIO meeting.” According to Dodd, Congress plans to utilize a bottom-up approach that concentrates infrastructure funding on local government projects, like the multi-modal transportation center."

"Senator Dodd stressed the importance of having Longmeadow and East Longmeadow officials involve members of the Massachusetts Congressional delegation to buttress the argument that this is a regional issue."

transport makers

2008-11-22T18:12:00.000-05:00

Excellent article by Robert Goodman

Union Station Redevelopment

2008-09-30T13:50:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Herb for pointing me toward the new Union Station redevelopment report.

How much money?

2008-09-05T21:58:00.000-04:00

The American Public Transportation Association has posted a calculator to help commuters determine how much money they could save on gas if they used public transportation instead of driving their car. It does not factor in wear and tear on the automobile, however.

9-6 event

2008-08-22T09:09:00.001-04:00

The PVACR invites you to attend a meeting with Lt. Gov. Tim Murray to discuss commuter rail in our region.

Sept. 6, 2008

12 noon-2pm

Springfield City Library Community Room

RSVP: pvacr@yahoo.com

We are trying to educate the public about the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield Commuter Rail line and need donations to fund our efforts.

The NHHS line could bring an $152 million in new economic development to our region. It could help our environment by reducing car traffic. It could stimulate local bus companies to create shuttle services between the train stop in downtown Springfield and employers.

Estimated cost: $30 million to Massachusetts.

next meetings

2008-08-16T11:14:00.000-04:00

August 21: Next monthly meeting at 7:30 pm, Lathrop House B&B at 188 Sumner Ave., Springfield, MA

Sept. 6: Listen to Lt. Gov. Murray talk about commuter rail in the Springfield Main Library's Community Room at 12 noon. (suggested donation to PVACR of $20.--funds will pay for brochures)

NCI op-ed

2008-07-21T11:39:00.000-04:00

Jim RePass of the National Corridors Initiative offers some sharp words for the delay in the commuter rail line. What I had understood was that the delay was caused by the new parking lots and new stations--not the train tracks themselves. I will look into this further.

Hartford Courant "EPA Will Delay State Commuter Rail Line" By JAMES P. REPASS

July 20, 2008

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, under the Bush administration utterly supine to nearly every extractive, Superfund site-creating and/or polluting industry, has suddenly gotten religion.

They have decided to save us from the environmental dangers of ... commuter rail!

Gov. Jodi Rell and legislative leaders have forged a bipartisan plan to re-introduce commuter rail service on the existing train route between New Haven, Hartford and Springfield, extending up to Brattleboro if our friends in Vermont join in, as they say they will.

But the EPA is having none of this "rail" thing. It has ordered a full-blown environmental impact statement to determine whether it is safe to replace some track and run trains in exactly the same place trains have run for the past 150 years.

If left unchallenged, this action will delay for at least two years the start of work on a desperately needed commuter rail line. As The Courant recently reported, high gas prices are making it increasingly difficult for inner-city residents to get to their jobs. Middle-class commuters are feeling the crunch as well. The rail service will not only save money and reduce petroleum use and attendant pollution, but prod the creation of transit-oriented development that will help revive the economies of every town along the line.
...

Whence the newfound Bush administration "environmentalism?" As readers may note, a few weeks ago the Bureau of Land Management, which has with a vengeance promoted the opening of millions of acres of public lands to mining, timbering and drilling during the Bush years, finally has had second thoughts about the environmental impact of activities on said lands.

...

We call upon the congressional delegations of Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont to draft legislation exempting any such commuter rail project, not just here but anywhere in America, from any environmental impact review whatsoever. When an existing right of way is to be put to the use for which it was designed as much as 100 or 150 years ago, there is no reason on earth the federal government needs to protect anything — unless they are meaning to protect the oil lobby, which elected them and continues to pay them, from the competition, and relief from traffic congestion, that good commuter rail invariably provides.

"Big," a commenter on the article suggests the following course of action:

"Instead of calling on Congress to completely exempt rail from environmental impact studies, as the article suggests, why not simply ask Congress to expedite, or fast-track, this study?"

"Frustrated Commuter" added the following:
"Have I missed the discussion of how the New Haven-Hartford rail effort is already years behind. The final report on the project was delivered to the CT-DOT in June 2005 (http://www.ct.gov/dotinfo/cwp /view.asp?a=2181&q=295670 &dotinfoNav=)
and wasn't some funding allocated shortly thereafter... Please help me understand why they are just now getting on with EIS submissions some 3 years later.(And not just railbeds, but for new stations, parking lots and more...)

Also, what ever happenned to the discussion of securing the railbeds from Amtrak ownership to help streamline the process.

I'm still hoping to see viable commuter rail from New Haven to Hartford before planned retirement in 10 years, but my optimism is being challenged. "

Independence from Oil

2008-07-05T22:56:00.001-04:00

In a terrific op-ed on rail, the Globe's Derrick Z. Jackson quotes Michael Dukakis: "There isn't a part of the country that doesn't want more rail."

We agree....heck, we'd like to have commuter rail.

Return of Rail

2008-06-26T08:18:00.000-04:00

Discussion of the June 25 event has begun on Masslive.com and is producing some interesting reading. For one example, read this article on the return of rail.

April 10, 2008

John R. Stilgoe: ‘Train travel will supplant highway and air travel in the next few decades. Furthermore, electric railroads will increasingly be used to distribute freight items as well as mail and express packages.’
Staff photo Will Nunnally/Harvard News Office

It seems responses fall into 3 major types: whole-hearted supporters (a majority), supportive skeptics, and critics. Among the supportive skpetics, there are lots of questions about details. One poster engaged in a discussion, even seeking out information (like that article above). That is what the discussion needs--more information, not less. Among the critics, there are reminders that we have buses. Buses and cars and planes don't solve all transportation problems. Neither does rail--BUT if we avoid using one mode because we are worried about the impact on another, that does us a disservice. Historically, positive developments have resulted in regions with commuter rail. Our region does not have a good public transportation system. It's getting better, but too slowly.

June 25 Event

2008-06-23T13:47:00.000-04:00

You are welcome to attend the release of the

Report to Highlight Need for Better Transportation Options ...Officials and transit advocates point to New Haven--Hartford--Springfield commuter rail

WHAT: MASSPIRG is coordinating a press conference to make the case for better public transportation options and release a new report that analyzes the average household's federal economic stimulus rebate compared to the average household's spending on gasoline.

MASSPIRG will be releasing the report with local and state officials, commuter rail advocates, and the regional planning commission to highlight the revitalization of Union Station and proposed commuter rail connecting New Haven to Hartford to Springfield, and eventually all the way to Vermont.

WHO: Phineas Baxandall, MASSPIRG Senior Policy Analyst
Timothy Brennan, Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Executive Director
David Panagore, Chief Development Officer for the City of Springfield
Rebecca Townsend with Pioneer Valley Advocates for Commuter Rail
Cheryl Coakley-Rivera, Springfield State Representative
Kevin Kennedy from Congressman Neal's office

WHY: This month, the average price of gasoline in Massachusetts hit $4.00 a gallon. In response, transit ridership has surged, but too many commuters are without transit options.

With many transit expansion projects planned, high gas prices make it clear that these types of investments must move forward. Plus, the current federal transportation funding system expires in 2009, presenting an opportunity to see more federal funding dedicated to public transportation.

WHEN: Wednesday, June 25th, 2008, 11:30 AM.

WHERE: Springfield Union Station

Subsidies

2008-06-16T12:39:00.000-04:00

Reuters has a Q& A with Amtrak President Alex Kummantwith at that link. Among the fascinating things, we find out how much other modes of transportation are subsidized:

Q: Is there a goal for Amtrak to be profitable, and should it be profitable?
A: "I think it is absolute mythology that there's any national system that is profitable. And I think the naysayers just have to get over it. There is no example. If you peel apart the British rail privatization, there were a tremendous numbers of problems with that. People say Oh look at these wonderful new trains running around here. It's all because of the miracle of the private market.' That's complete nonsense. There's a bunch of new trains running around there because they spent five times as much tax money today as they did in 1990. And actually if you look at the subsidy structures, we are awash in subsidies for all modes of transportation. There's a $10 billion a year cash transfer from the general fund to the Highway Trust Fund. FAA gets $2.7 billion. We pay all security at Amtrak and yet there is a $1.5 billion subsidy that goes beyond any user fees for security in air travel.
There's $8 billion that goes into security and life safety for cruise ships. There's four-plus billion dollars that goes to waterways. Let's not even get into airport construction which is a miasma of state, federal and local tax breaks and tax refinancing and God knows what. And then there's private aviation which gets huge subsidies in accelerated depreciation loss for small aircraft. So I always get a good chuckle, if I'm in a good mood, when people talk about subsidized Amtrak. It's always a lot of fun then to reel off every other mode that is subsidized. And one final point. If you actually look at the amount of public capital that flows into the rail network per passenger, it's like $40 a passenger for Amtrak and $500 to $700 per automobile out there through the highways.
One final point is that the network matters. So you can find some juicy little piece of railroad that has just the right density and say Wow we make money here'. But guess what? If you peel that out and privatize it, your costs for running the rest of the network just went up. And it's actually connectivity that matters. So it's an entire network that matters. And if you don't have an entire network, you end up with a ridiculous patchwork of short little lanes of things that make no sense from a national system."

Next meeting 6/19

2008-06-16T12:36:00.000-04:00

Reminder

Our June 19 meeting will be at 7:30, in the Lathrop House Bed & Breakfast at 188 Sumner Ave., Springfield, MA.

Among other items, we will discuss:

-The Future of Transportation Meeting
-A National Corridors Initiative connection
-PVACR's recent meeting with the CT DOT Environmental Assessment team

And, of course, we will discuss how the new Transportation Bond Bill & Amtrak re-authorization affects our work.

Please also keep this on your calendar:

PVACR-MassPIRG event 6/25 11:30am @ Union Station (if you can't come, be sure you watch the news)

Bond Bill 2: The sequel's better than the first

2008-06-10T22:45:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Dan Ring for bringing this to our attention:

The House will vote on Bond Bill 2 tomorrow, Wednesday, June 11.

6001-0804 For the purpose of implementing rail improvements under chapter 161C of the General Laws; provided, that funds may be used for transportation planning, design, permitting and engineering for heavy rail, light rail and bus projects, which shall include the Urban Ring, Blue Line extension to Lynn, the Connecticut River Knowledge Corridor Line and South Coast initiatives; provided, however, that that the extension of the Blue Line to Lynn shall be restricted to existing commuter rail rights of way excluding narrow gauge rail line rights of way; provided further, that funds may be used for the acquisition of interests in land; provided further, that $220,000 shall be expended for Phase II disabled accessibility renovations at the rail depot in the town of Athol; and provided further, that $50,000 shall be expended to study the feasibility of constructing a Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority Commuter Rail station in the town of West Bridgewater.........................$90,000,000

(more to come)

Just Take Public Transportation

2008-06-09T13:30:00.000-04:00

"...Or taking public transportation."

The Globe's reporting of a survey about gas prices changing travel habits includes that deceptively small line. Public transportation, if available, would enable communities to remain stable, reducing the transient population of talent and creativity, of community-minded folks who also want to work in interesting jobs. Or, let's face it, if the only job you can get is in a place you cannot afford to live in, you are stuck. Look at Western New England.....transportation choices.

Increasing # of Train Commuters

2008-06-03T14:03:00.000-04:00

It would be nice to flock to a train to save money and conserve energy.....people in Boston have that option. The Boston Globe has this graphic to accompany their article today about commuters increasing their use of the T:

It seems that Secretary Cohen understands the significance of trains to the region: ""We want to keep these riders," said state Transportation Secretary Bernard Cohen. "It's not good for the region if people try the T and then go back to their cars.""

trains' benefits & cost of gas

2008-05-22T11:11:00.000-04:00

...There is a well known phrase train enthusiasts use to describe the sentimental obsession some have for old trains — "the romance of the rail." But romance, as any pragmatist will tell you, doesn't pay the bills, and advocates know passenger rail will thrive in Maine only if it helps the Maine economy.

"It's a very smart wave of the future," says Patricia Quinn, executive director of the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority, a quasi-governmental organization created by the Maine Legislature in 1995 to operate the Downeaster. "It has nothing to do with romance and history."

Quinn calls the Downeaster a transit option, just as buses or airplanes are, and says it should be subsidized as part of what she believes is wise public transportation policy.

"We need to diversify, other than just having transportation be highways," says Quinn. "Because as time goes on, and with gas prices going up like they are, it's important to invest in other means of transportation."

Indeed, it may be the death of the road that prompts the revival of the rail. In 2007, when fuel prices began to climb, the Downeaster attracted a record 383,833 passengers, and Quinn expects 2008 will be even better thanks to pain at the pump — she is projecting 418,000 people will take the two-and-a-quarter-hour ride to Boston this year. Due to rising demand, the service recently added a fifth daily trip to the schedule.

Quinn says none of Amtrak's passenger services anywhere in the country turn a profit, and as a public transportation service rail should be supported, as highways are, by dedicated revenue from taxes.

To bolster the notion that rail is an economically important part of a public transit system, Quinn commissioned a report on the economic impact of the Downeaster [SEE VIDEO at that link]. The March report found the Downeaster will generate $3.3 billion in new construction investment in the Portland to Boston corridor by 2030, creating 8,000 new jobs and contributing $55 million in state tax revenue. The report, by the Center for Neighborhood Technology in Chicago, points to the two hotels and a $20 million residential and retail complex completed roughly 200 yards from the train station in Old Orchard Beach in 2006, and the $110 million mixed-use redevelopment of Saco mills currently underway that was prompted by plans to reopen the train station nearby. Extending the Downeaster to Brunswick and Rockland, the report claims, will create an additional $981 million in development, 2,582 new jobs and $16.5 million in annual taxes............

With the cost of gas these days....
....it makes sense to turn to trains.

The Amherst Railway Society has had the right idea...as does the Palmer Railroad Advisory Board.