From Mike Whims, MARP Chairman:
Friday, September 30, 2005
Governor Granholm signed into law the FY 2006 budget act (P.A. 158)
which authorizes $6.1 million for operation of the Blue Water and
Pere Marquette trains for the budget year. The act requires that both
trains run on a 7-day per week schedule and serve all cities along
their routes. The act also provides for penalties if Amtrak chooses
to eliminate any of the service prior to the end of the budget year
(September 30, 2006).
The act also requires MDOT to work toward finding ways to reduce
expenses of operating the trains. This could mean a number of
things, such as station staffing, food service, and other operational
costs.
There is a provision for increasing the funding level to $7.1 million
if Amtrak signs an agreement to move its Beech Grove, Indiana
equipment repair and maintenance operation to Battle Creek. Amtrak
has already indicated that this is unlikely to occur.
The act is silent regarding fares. Amtrak could conceivably raise its
fares to make up for the shortfall in state support. Amtrak has
already announced a nationwide fare increase to offset rising fuel
expenses.
MARP wishes to thank its members who communicated their support of
Michigan passenger rail service to community leaders and state
officials. MARP will continue to work with MDOT and state officials
toward reinstating the $7.1 million funding level during the budget
year. It is important to let people know that both trains are still
running.
