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

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

Urban Compass | Blog Archive | Transportation Policy and Infrastructure Overdose

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

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

Can anyone attend?

Invest Now For Recovery -- Courant.com

Invest Now For Recovery -- Courant.com

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

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

Moving together

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

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!

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

Wilbur Smith

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

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

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!

 

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

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

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

Excellent article by Robert Goodman

Union Station Redevelopment

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

How much money?

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

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

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

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

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.