June 03, 2009
June 3, 2009
Governor says high-speed rail will create jobs, reduce dependence on foreign oil
LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and several of her fellow governors will discuss high-speed rail with Vice President Joe Biden and Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood in a Washington, D.C. meeting today.
Vice President Biden and Secretary LaHood will provide additional details on the Obama administration's Vision for High-Speed Rail in America blueprint released in April and seek input from the governors on a national policy for high-speed rail. The April blueprint identified 10 high-speed rail corridors, including a Detroit-Pontiac-Chicago corridor.
"A high-speed rail corridor linking Michigan to other states in the Midwest will create jobs and reduce our country's dependence on foreign oil, and that's why we will be making a case for funding under the Recovery Act," Granholm said.
The federal Recovery Act includes $8 billion for high-speed rail, including intercity rail. Michigan has been planning and incrementally developing its high-speed intercity rail corridors for several years.
"High-speed rail will give Michigan a transportation option that will increase energy independence, create jobs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions," Granholm said. "Michigan is pleased the Obama administration and Federal Railroad Administration are seeking input on a national policy for high-speed rail that will benefit our state, the Midwest and the entire nation."
Granholm and other governors are expected to meet with Washington reporters at approximately 1:15 p.m. following the meeting.
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