On a trip to Chicago on the CL, (5/14/19) we had the pleasure of sitting with Jonsie Stone and Jim Mathews of the Rail Passengers Association and enjoying some great conversation. We found them to be extremely nice people and their knowledge of passenger rail and working within the political system is quite amazing. I am convinced that RPA under Jim's leadership is working in the best interest of the rail passenger. What is surprising though is that I read that the association has been given a contract by Amtrak to act as one of their marketing venues. This is probably why Jim was diplomatic in defending Richard Anderson when I brought up the now dead SW Chief bus bridge proposal and our discussion about the terrible box meals.
As our only voice in Washington on the advocacy of passenger rail; RPA is a beneficial association and everyone should be encouraged to join. Their existence apparently depends on representing the passenger and Amtrak itself so while still working for improved passenger rail, their public statements must be guarded. Such is life in the political world.
As our only voice in Washington on the advocacy of passenger rail; RPA is a beneficial association and everyone should be encouraged to join. Their existence apparently depends on representing the passenger and Amtrak itself so while still working for improved passenger rail, their public statements must be guarded. Such is life in the political world.