Resolution No. 10-01

A Resolution requesting support of the midwest regional rail initiative

WHEREAS, the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative ("Initiative") is a 3,000 mile high-speed passenger rail network radiating from Chicago to Indianapolis and other Indiana cities;

WHEREAS, there are nine states represented in the Initiative including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, and Wisconsin;

WHEREAS, the carefully researched Initiative is forecast to carry 9.6 million passengers annually and earn enough revenues to cover operating expenses once fully implemented in 2010;

WHEREAS, the Initiative offers travelers in the Midwestern United States additional mobility through modern high-speed trains, increased trip frequencies, customer-friendly amenities and downtown-to-downtown connections to community centers;

WHEREAS, the Initiative will provide better access to educational institutions, cultural centers, recreational opportunities and government offices;

WHEREAS, the high-speed passenger rail will utilize modern technology by allowing safe travel at speeds up to 110 mph and reducing travel times by as much as 30% over current rail service;

WHEREAS, the high-speed passenger rail corridors in Midwestern United States will enhance the quality of life and attract taxable business investments for job creation and economic growth;

WHEREAS, strong economies in the Midwest are placing tremendous demands on highways and airports, some of which are reaching their capacity to move people and goods;

WHEREAS, high-speed inter-city rail offers travelers a relaxing alternative to driving congested highways; and

WHEREAS, the current funding plan for the Initiative seeks an 80% federal partnership and 20% state share.

 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Common Council of the City of West Lafayette, Indiana, lends its full support to the Midwestern efforts to establish and participate in the Initiative;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Common Council of the City of West Lafayette urges our federal and state representatives, the President of the United States and the Governor of the State of Indiana to establish a dedicated national and state funding mechanism for high-speed passenger rail; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Common Council of the City of West Lafayette calls upon the nine Midwestern states affiliated with the Initiative to provide leadership, professional expertise and financial support to turn the concept of high-speed inter-city passenger rail service into reality.

Office of the Clerk-TreasurerJudy Rhodes