Rail service can stimulate economy, improve environment

Tim Fischer, Deputy Policy Director for the Michigan Environmental Council, recently wrote an editorial outlining some missteps the state has made in maximizing federal funding opportunities for high-speed rail. Detailing what some other states did at the state legislative level, Mr. Fischer pointed out that the lack of a comprehensive plan for rail transportation at the state level put Michigan at a disadvantage when it came to competing for federal dollars. Wisconsin, Florida, and California were all awarded significantly more money than Michigan, due completely to the fact that those states have shown significant planning and investment in developing their rail systems.

This issue in Michigan highlights the need for our state to employ a more holistic and assertive approach to transportation. Aside from the potential for federal funding, an effective state level plan to expand rail transit is necessary if Michigan is serious about finding 21st century solutions to the many problems climate change is creating. Transportation plays a critical role in this type of planning.

Two other recent pieces in the news directly link the issue of transportation to global climate change, and the need for Michigan to explore modes of transportation other than the personal automobile for reasons of economic and community development.

Michigan's High Speed Train Plan- On Track or Derailed.pdf

Woodward Light Rail plan in Detroit to win $25M grant.pdf