2009 News
October
Agencies submit cuts; governor rides rails - Oct. 20, 2009
As state agency directors submit their layoff plans to the governor’s office today, Governor Chet Culver is riding a train to promote wind energy.
Governor Culver's Iowa Unlimited Moves Through North-Central Next Week - Oct. 6, 2009
DES MOINES – Governor Chet Culver’s Iowa Unlimited is ready to roll once more, this time with stops throughout north-central Iowa next Tuesday. Governor Culver will highlight the importance of investment in rail and renewable energy during stops in Nevada, Iowa Falls, Mason City and Manly.
Iowa seeks money for rail service - Oct. 6, 2009
DES MOINES, Iowa - Illinois and Iowa have gone to the federal government seeking funds to develop passenger rail service between Iowa City and Chicago. . . .
No point person, yet, for Midwest passenger rail push - Oct. 6, 2009
Iowa’s federal application for expanded Amtrak service could be approved before the end of the year.
Governor Culver Announces First Step Toward Iowa Intercity Passenger Rail - Oct. 5, 2009
Governor Chet Culver announced today that the Iowa and Illinois departments of transportation submitted grant applications for funding from the federal High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail (HSIPR) . . .
$233 million price put on rail service to Iowa City - Oct. 3, 2009
IOWA CITY (MCT) — It should cost something over $230 million to bring passenger trains into Iowa City in five years..
September
Culver touts passenger rail expansion - Sept. 27, 2009
Governor Culver is pushing for extension of passenger rail service between Des Moines and Chicago, and from Dubuque to Chicago . . .
Culver talks trains - Sept. 24, 2009
Gov. Chet Culver was in Creston Wednesday to promote his plans for the future of Iowa's passenger and freight lines.
Creston was the first stop during a day-long Amtrak tour of southern Iowa that included an additional appearance in Osceola before continuing east to the eventual stopping point in Burlington.
Governor toots rail's horn - Sept. 24, 2009
The rail lines that cut across the nation carry everything from coal to grain to cars to people.
Gov. Chet Culver, a Democrat, used those multiple-use rail lines Wednesday to multitask. During his southern Iowa tour from Creston to Burlington -- and a brief trip into Illinois -- Culver promoted the state infrastructure I-Jobs program and a renewed focus on green energy, but mostly maintained focus on the state's passenger rail service.
Input sought on passenger rail plan - Sept. 22, 2009
CHICAGO, Ill. – The Iowa Department of Transportation, in cooperation with the Illinois Department of Transportation, is seeking public input concerning the environmental assessment of proposed routes for intercity passenger rail service between Iowa City and Chicago.
Governor Culver's Iowa Unlimited Moves Through Southern Iowa Tomorrow - Sept. 22, 2009
Des Moines – Governor Chet Culver’s Iowa Unlimited is ready to roll once more, this time with stops throughout Southern Iowa tomorrow. Governor Culver will highlight the importance of investment in passenger and freight rail during stops in Creston, Osceola, Chariton, Albia, Ottumwa, Fairfield, and Mount Pleasant before concluding with an event in Burlington.
September 18, 2009 - Public input meeting for passenger rail service between Chicago and Iowa City to be held Sept. 29 in Illinois
The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), in cooperation with the Illinois Department of Transportation, is seeking public input concerning the environmental assessment (EA) of the proposed routes for intercity passenger rail service between Iowa City and Chicago at a public input meeting Tuesday, Sept. 29, from 4 to 7 p.m.
Govenor Culver's Iowa Unlimited Moves Through Southern Iowa Next Week - 09/15/2009
DES MOINES – Governor Chet Culver’s Iowa Unlimited is ready to roll once more, this time with stops throughout Southern Iowa on Wednesday, Sept. 23. Governor Culver will highlight the importance of investment in passenger and freight rail during stops in Creston, Osceola, Albia, Ottumwa, Fairfield, and Mount Pleasant before concluding with an event in Burlington.
Governor Culver is pushing for extension of passenger rail service between Des Moines and Chicago, and from Dubuque to Chicago . . .
Culver talks trains - Sept. 24, 2009
Gov. Chet Culver was in Creston Wednesday to promote his plans for the future of Iowa's passenger and freight lines.
Creston was the first stop during a day-long Amtrak tour of southern Iowa that included an additional appearance in Osceola before continuing east to the eventual stopping point in Burlington.
Governor toots rail's horn - Sept. 24, 2009
The rail lines that cut across the nation carry everything from coal to grain to cars to people.
Gov. Chet Culver, a Democrat, used those multiple-use rail lines Wednesday to multitask. During his southern Iowa tour from Creston to Burlington -- and a brief trip into Illinois -- Culver promoted the state infrastructure I-Jobs program and a renewed focus on green energy, but mostly maintained focus on the state's passenger rail service.
Input sought on passenger rail plan - Sept. 22, 2009
CHICAGO, Ill. – The Iowa Department of Transportation, in cooperation with the Illinois Department of Transportation, is seeking public input concerning the environmental assessment of proposed routes for intercity passenger rail service between Iowa City and Chicago.
Governor Culver's Iowa Unlimited Moves Through Southern Iowa Tomorrow - Sept. 22, 2009
Des Moines – Governor Chet Culver’s Iowa Unlimited is ready to roll once more, this time with stops throughout Southern Iowa tomorrow. Governor Culver will highlight the importance of investment in passenger and freight rail during stops in Creston, Osceola, Chariton, Albia, Ottumwa, Fairfield, and Mount Pleasant before concluding with an event in Burlington.
September 18, 2009 - Public input meeting for passenger rail service between Chicago and Iowa City to be held Sept. 29 in Illinois
The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), in cooperation with the Illinois Department of Transportation, is seeking public input concerning the environmental assessment (EA) of the proposed routes for intercity passenger rail service between Iowa City and Chicago at a public input meeting Tuesday, Sept. 29, from 4 to 7 p.m.
Govenor Culver's Iowa Unlimited Moves Through Southern Iowa Next Week - 09/15/2009
DES MOINES – Governor Chet Culver’s Iowa Unlimited is ready to roll once more, this time with stops throughout Southern Iowa on Wednesday, Sept. 23. Governor Culver will highlight the importance of investment in passenger and freight rail during stops in Creston, Osceola, Albia, Ottumwa, Fairfield, and Mount Pleasant before concluding with an event in Burlington.
August
$500,000 in I-JOBS money goes to passenger rail effort - 08/12/09
The state is giving $500,000 from the I-JOBS program to the Iowa Department of Transportation to work on expanding passenger rail service in the state. D.O.T. spokesperson, Dena Gray-Fisher says the money will help with the background work needed to apply for federal rail funds.
Mo. approves $200M in rail projects - 08/05/09
... Missouri's proposal includes $50 million to buy two new sets of locomotives and passenger cars as part of a multistate request with Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa and Illinois, Weiler said.
All aboard for rail service - 08/04/09
The Galena Area Chamber of Commerce and the Tri-State Alliance has teamed up with the Blackhawk Express Rail Coalition to bring greater awareness to the establishment of a passenger rail service from Chicago to Dubuque.
The state is giving $500,000 from the I-JOBS program to the Iowa Department of Transportation to work on expanding passenger rail service in the state. D.O.T. spokesperson, Dena Gray-Fisher says the money will help with the background work needed to apply for federal rail funds.
Mo. approves $200M in rail projects - 08/05/09
... Missouri's proposal includes $50 million to buy two new sets of locomotives and passenger cars as part of a multistate request with Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa and Illinois, Weiler said.
All aboard for rail service - 08/04/09
The Galena Area Chamber of Commerce and the Tri-State Alliance has teamed up with the Blackhawk Express Rail Coalition to bring greater awareness to the establishment of a passenger rail service from Chicago to Dubuque.
July
Chicago-to-Dubuque train plans on track - 07/31/09
Galena resident attends summit with governors and has 'no doubts' that passenger rail service is coming.
Culver pushes rail service in whistle stops - 07/26/09
"Reconnecting some of our largest cities to Chicago will add to Iowa's economic success."
Eight governors and Chicago mayor team up to advance Midwest HSR corridor, form steering group with freight-rail stakeholders - 07/28/09
Yesterday, eight Midwestern state governors and Chicago Mayor Richard Daley announced they reached an agreement to jointly solicit American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding for the “Chicago Hub” high-speed rail (HSR) corridor.
Midwest governors OK pact for high-speed rail push - 07/27/09
The prospect of billions of dollars in federal money to spur high-speed rail has united eight U.S. Midwest governors who announced on Monday an agreement to work together to obtain that funding.
Culver: Train service will be here in 2 years - 07/27/09
Standing on the platform of the Iowa Interstate train's caboose car, Gov. Chet Culver vowed at an event Sunday that Iowa City will have rail service to Chicago in the next two years.
Culver, Quinn sign Iowa-Illinois rail agreement - 07/27/09
In an effort to improve infrastructure, transportation and the economy, Governor Chet Culver and Governor Pat Quinn today signed a Memorandum of Understanding to coordinate efforts by Iowa and Illinois to establish passenger rail service from Chicago to Dubuque and from Chicago to the Quad Cities and Iowa City.
Passenger trains could be stopping in QCA - 07/26/09
It's been talked about for years, but more and more, it seems commuter rail could happen soon in the Quad Cities. Iowa Governor Chet Culver rolled into Moline on a passenger train Sunday afternoon to show his support of the plan. Many lawmakers are on the same page when it comes to the opportunities the Quad Cities will see when this is a done deal.
Iowa optimistic that trains are in state's future - 07/26/09
... The Midwest appears to have some advantages because central states for years have worked together promoting lines that would stretch from Chicago to regional centers, such as St. Louis, Milwaukee and Minneapolis-St. Paul. The region also has a strong network of freight rails that could be upgraded and used for passenger trains.
Amtrak delays Des Moines train study for year - 07/24/09
Plans for a study needed to revive Des Moines-to-Chicago passenger train service have been put on a side track at least until next year, state officials say.
House passes increase for housing, high-speed rail - 07/24/09
The Democratic-dominated House Thursday approved generous funding for housing subsidies for the poor and President Barack Obama's initiative to build high-speed railroads as it passed a $123.1 billion transportation and housing bill.
State files rail service pre-applications- 07/24/09
Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) has submitted pre-applications to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) for funding of five intercity passenger rail projects under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Transportation Secretary suggests midwest rail czar - 07/24/09
Governors from multiple midwest states are meeting in Chicago on Monday to discuss how that region could benefit from an expansion of Amtrak service. Among the routes proposed are one from Chicago to the Quad Cities then Iowa City and one from Chicago to Dubuque.
Governor Culver's Iowa Unlimited Rolls East on Sunday - 07/24/09
... To help spur these efforts, Governor Culver’s signature legislative accomplishment – the I-JOBS Initiative – includes $10 million for multi-modal transportation projects in Iowa, including $3 million for expanded passenger rail service in the state. In addition, the Iowa Department of Transportation is competing for federal passenger rail funds under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. All of these steps position Iowa to work with Illinois and Amtrak to bring new passenger rail lines to the state that connect more Iowa communities with Chicago.
Search begins for IC-Chicago train depot - 07/23/09
The Iowa City-to-Chicago train will likely have its depot near the UI campus.
House to Vote on High-Speed Rail Funding, National Infrastructure Bank - 07/23/09
The House is set today to vote on a fiscal 2010 transportation spending bill that would provide $4 billion for high-speed rail and lay the groundwork for the creation of a national infrastructure bank.
Billion dollar facelift for Amtrak - 07/22/09
More than a billion dollars will be used to expand rail service across the United States. Amtrak has released a list of overdue projects that will be funded by the $1.3 billion from the Amtrak American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The investment package is broken into two separate accounts: One for railroad and station projects that will be funded at $850 million, and one for security and life safety projects at $450 million.
Spending Bill Would Help High-speed Rail Projects - 07/21/09
... Obama sought $1 billion for construction of a high-speed system and other intercity rail lines, which would come on top of $8 billion provided in the economic stimulus bill in February.
Gov. Culver: Iowa Unlimited train rolls east this weekend - 07/20/09
... “Restoring passenger rail service is one of the Culver-Judge Administration’s top transportation priorities,” said Governor Culver. “Reconnecting some of our largest cities to Chicago will add to Iowa’s economic success, and as Governor I look forward to working with all Iowans to expand passenger rail throughout the state.”
Panel gives huge boost to high-speed rail projects - 07/18/09
President Barack Obama's high-speed rail initiative would get an enormous boost under a spending bill that a House committee approved Friday.
Get onboard train for regional passenger rail service - 07/15/09
A coalition has been formed, as part of a grassroots campaign that was announced last week, to advocate for the return of rail service to the Tri-State region, which includes Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin.
State outlines high-speed passenger rail plans - 07/14/09
Express passenger trains traveling at top speeds of 220 mph between Chicago and ... Chicago to Moline and Iowa City; and building additional capacity between ...
Galena resident attends summit with governors and has 'no doubts' that passenger rail service is coming.
Culver pushes rail service in whistle stops - 07/26/09
"Reconnecting some of our largest cities to Chicago will add to Iowa's economic success."
Eight governors and Chicago mayor team up to advance Midwest HSR corridor, form steering group with freight-rail stakeholders - 07/28/09
Yesterday, eight Midwestern state governors and Chicago Mayor Richard Daley announced they reached an agreement to jointly solicit American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding for the “Chicago Hub” high-speed rail (HSR) corridor.
Midwest governors OK pact for high-speed rail push - 07/27/09
The prospect of billions of dollars in federal money to spur high-speed rail has united eight U.S. Midwest governors who announced on Monday an agreement to work together to obtain that funding.
Culver: Train service will be here in 2 years - 07/27/09
Standing on the platform of the Iowa Interstate train's caboose car, Gov. Chet Culver vowed at an event Sunday that Iowa City will have rail service to Chicago in the next two years.
Culver, Quinn sign Iowa-Illinois rail agreement - 07/27/09
In an effort to improve infrastructure, transportation and the economy, Governor Chet Culver and Governor Pat Quinn today signed a Memorandum of Understanding to coordinate efforts by Iowa and Illinois to establish passenger rail service from Chicago to Dubuque and from Chicago to the Quad Cities and Iowa City.
Passenger trains could be stopping in QCA - 07/26/09
It's been talked about for years, but more and more, it seems commuter rail could happen soon in the Quad Cities. Iowa Governor Chet Culver rolled into Moline on a passenger train Sunday afternoon to show his support of the plan. Many lawmakers are on the same page when it comes to the opportunities the Quad Cities will see when this is a done deal.
Iowa optimistic that trains are in state's future - 07/26/09
... The Midwest appears to have some advantages because central states for years have worked together promoting lines that would stretch from Chicago to regional centers, such as St. Louis, Milwaukee and Minneapolis-St. Paul. The region also has a strong network of freight rails that could be upgraded and used for passenger trains.
Amtrak delays Des Moines train study for year - 07/24/09
Plans for a study needed to revive Des Moines-to-Chicago passenger train service have been put on a side track at least until next year, state officials say.
House passes increase for housing, high-speed rail - 07/24/09
The Democratic-dominated House Thursday approved generous funding for housing subsidies for the poor and President Barack Obama's initiative to build high-speed railroads as it passed a $123.1 billion transportation and housing bill.
State files rail service pre-applications- 07/24/09
Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) has submitted pre-applications to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) for funding of five intercity passenger rail projects under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Transportation Secretary suggests midwest rail czar - 07/24/09
Governors from multiple midwest states are meeting in Chicago on Monday to discuss how that region could benefit from an expansion of Amtrak service. Among the routes proposed are one from Chicago to the Quad Cities then Iowa City and one from Chicago to Dubuque.
Governor Culver's Iowa Unlimited Rolls East on Sunday - 07/24/09
... To help spur these efforts, Governor Culver’s signature legislative accomplishment – the I-JOBS Initiative – includes $10 million for multi-modal transportation projects in Iowa, including $3 million for expanded passenger rail service in the state. In addition, the Iowa Department of Transportation is competing for federal passenger rail funds under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. All of these steps position Iowa to work with Illinois and Amtrak to bring new passenger rail lines to the state that connect more Iowa communities with Chicago.
Search begins for IC-Chicago train depot - 07/23/09
The Iowa City-to-Chicago train will likely have its depot near the UI campus.
House to Vote on High-Speed Rail Funding, National Infrastructure Bank - 07/23/09
The House is set today to vote on a fiscal 2010 transportation spending bill that would provide $4 billion for high-speed rail and lay the groundwork for the creation of a national infrastructure bank.
Billion dollar facelift for Amtrak - 07/22/09
More than a billion dollars will be used to expand rail service across the United States. Amtrak has released a list of overdue projects that will be funded by the $1.3 billion from the Amtrak American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The investment package is broken into two separate accounts: One for railroad and station projects that will be funded at $850 million, and one for security and life safety projects at $450 million.
Spending Bill Would Help High-speed Rail Projects - 07/21/09
... Obama sought $1 billion for construction of a high-speed system and other intercity rail lines, which would come on top of $8 billion provided in the economic stimulus bill in February.
Gov. Culver: Iowa Unlimited train rolls east this weekend - 07/20/09
... “Restoring passenger rail service is one of the Culver-Judge Administration’s top transportation priorities,” said Governor Culver. “Reconnecting some of our largest cities to Chicago will add to Iowa’s economic success, and as Governor I look forward to working with all Iowans to expand passenger rail throughout the state.”
Panel gives huge boost to high-speed rail projects - 07/18/09
President Barack Obama's high-speed rail initiative would get an enormous boost under a spending bill that a House committee approved Friday.
Get onboard train for regional passenger rail service - 07/15/09
A coalition has been formed, as part of a grassroots campaign that was announced last week, to advocate for the return of rail service to the Tri-State region, which includes Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin.
State outlines high-speed passenger rail plans - 07/14/09
Express passenger trains traveling at top speeds of 220 mph between Chicago and ... Chicago to Moline and Iowa City; and building additional capacity between ...
June
Obama's high-speed rail needs additional financial support - 06/30/09
... Federal funding will not be enough.
Nixon, Quinn Pledge High-speed Rail Cooperation - 06/22/09
... In April, Nixon and Quinn — along with the governors of Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin, and Chicago Mayor Richard Daley — wrote to U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, pointing out work dating back to the mid-1990s to bring high-speed rail to the Midwest. They said they have been seeking upgrades including 110-mph service, greater frequency and more reliable trains.
Personal perspective: To be heard in Des Moines soon, I hope: 'All aboard!' - 06/20/09
... The eventual hope is that Des Moines could be a hub for passenger service connecting Minneapolis and Kansas City and St. Louis and Chicago.
Culver to ride the rails next week - 06/19/09
"To succeed in the new economy, we must ensure that Iowa has many transportation options - including roads, airports, water transport, and, of course, rail," Culver said while announcing next week's itinerary.
Iowa City to Chicago Amtrak route could run in 2-3 years - 06/18/09
Supporters of an Iowa City to Chicago Amtrak route say it could become a reality in two to three years. Rebecca Neades is spearheading the effort for the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce.
Iowa City-Chicago rail has decent chance, Chamber official says - 06/17/09
An Iowa City-to-Chicago passenger rail line has a better than even shot at getting federal funding, an Iowa City Chamber of Commerce official said Wednesday.
Iowa eyes deadline for rail fund application - Iowa City Press-Citizen - 06/17/09
Proponents of rail service between Chicago and Iowa City are again urging supporters to lobby state and federal leaders to support the project.
Iowa City to Chicago Rail Service Closer to Reality - KCRG-TV 9 - 06/16/09
The federal government will unveil plans on Wednesday to shell out eight billion dollars to create passenger rail trains all over the country.
Business leaders meet with legislators in Washington, D.C. - Radio Iowa News - 06/11/09
... Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says the group would like an Amtrak study of adding passenger rail service between Chicago and Iowa City to also include Des Moines.
Senator supports Iowa City-Chicago passenger rail - chicagotribune.com - 06/07/09
U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin has expressed his support for efforts to develop an Iowa City to Chicago passenger rail connection.
Harkin lends support to Iowa City-Chicago passenger rail - Gazette Online - 06/06/09
It appeared to be a pipe dream at first, but now rail service could become a reality for Dubuque.
Passenger rail on track, leaders say - Telegraph Herald - 06/06/09
Sen. Tom Harkin on Saturday threw his weight behind efforts to develop an Iowa City to Chicago passenger rail connection.
... Federal funding will not be enough.
Nixon, Quinn Pledge High-speed Rail Cooperation - 06/22/09
... In April, Nixon and Quinn — along with the governors of Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin, and Chicago Mayor Richard Daley — wrote to U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, pointing out work dating back to the mid-1990s to bring high-speed rail to the Midwest. They said they have been seeking upgrades including 110-mph service, greater frequency and more reliable trains.
Personal perspective: To be heard in Des Moines soon, I hope: 'All aboard!' - 06/20/09
... The eventual hope is that Des Moines could be a hub for passenger service connecting Minneapolis and Kansas City and St. Louis and Chicago.
Culver to ride the rails next week - 06/19/09
"To succeed in the new economy, we must ensure that Iowa has many transportation options - including roads, airports, water transport, and, of course, rail," Culver said while announcing next week's itinerary.
Iowa City to Chicago Amtrak route could run in 2-3 years - 06/18/09
Supporters of an Iowa City to Chicago Amtrak route say it could become a reality in two to three years. Rebecca Neades is spearheading the effort for the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce.
Iowa City-Chicago rail has decent chance, Chamber official says - 06/17/09
An Iowa City-to-Chicago passenger rail line has a better than even shot at getting federal funding, an Iowa City Chamber of Commerce official said Wednesday.
Iowa eyes deadline for rail fund application - Iowa City Press-Citizen - 06/17/09
Proponents of rail service between Chicago and Iowa City are again urging supporters to lobby state and federal leaders to support the project.
Iowa City to Chicago Rail Service Closer to Reality - KCRG-TV 9 - 06/16/09
The federal government will unveil plans on Wednesday to shell out eight billion dollars to create passenger rail trains all over the country.
Business leaders meet with legislators in Washington, D.C. - Radio Iowa News - 06/11/09
... Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says the group would like an Amtrak study of adding passenger rail service between Chicago and Iowa City to also include Des Moines.
Senator supports Iowa City-Chicago passenger rail - chicagotribune.com - 06/07/09
U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin has expressed his support for efforts to develop an Iowa City to Chicago passenger rail connection.
Harkin lends support to Iowa City-Chicago passenger rail - Gazette Online - 06/06/09
It appeared to be a pipe dream at first, but now rail service could become a reality for Dubuque.
Passenger rail on track, leaders say - Telegraph Herald - 06/06/09
Sen. Tom Harkin on Saturday threw his weight behind efforts to develop an Iowa City to Chicago passenger rail connection.
May
Iowa DOT, BNSF eye partnerships - The Hawkeye - 05/21/09
Replacing the entire span of the railroad bridge and improving on-time performance of passenger rail service are just two projects Iowa Department of Transportation officials discussed with BNSF Railway Wednesday during a tour of Burlington's rails.
Elbert: Commuter rail fits traffic load better than widening of I-35 - Des Moines Register - 05/17/09
... Plus, a commuter line provides benefits not obtained from widening the highway, such as more efficient use of energy, less congestion on downtown streets and more opportunities for future development downtown and in the suburbs.
This trip through the past is a vision of future travel - Des Moines Register - 05/13/09
... Saturday's excursion was a small morsel of railroading's glory days. The pull of nostalgia is strong, but would today's society trade the instant gratification of airplanes for the civilized pace of a passenger train? It would be nice, at least, to have the option.
Oberstar Cheers Plan for Rail Spending - The Journal of Commerce - 05/08/09
... The president’s request, which was detailed May 7 for the government’s budget year that begins in October, seeks $1.5 billion for Amtrak and another $1 billion for high-speed rail. That is the most ever sought by a president, Oberstar said, and "is in direct contrast to the starvation diet" Amtrak had been on under former President Bush.
Representative Bell takes train ride to support new legislation - Newton Daily News - 05/08/09
... "The money allocated with help Iowa become an important partner with Illinois in drawing down federal funds for anticipated rail service to Iowa City and Des Moines," Bell said. "The federal money allocated for passenger rail is $8 billion to be implemented in the middle of June."
Promo train to stop near market - Des Moines Register - 05/08/09
... “Restoring passenger rail service to some of Iowa’s largest cities has been one of my key priorities,” the Governor said in a news release containing details about Iowa’s National Train Day event.
Passenger rail project for the Q-C gets a boost - Quad City Times - 05/04/09
... "This is a big day for Iowa,” the governor said. “We’re moving forward on our rail infrastructure."
Governor signs bills for historic tax credits, expanded rail service - Des Moines Register - 05/04/09
... Culver signed the bill at a former railroad station in Davenport, which is a city that is trying to attract passenger rail service that would connect with Chicago.
Moline meeting focuses on passenger rail services in Iowa - Quad City Times - 05/04/09
Iowa governmental leaders, railroad officials and community coalition representatives will meet Tuesday to discuss establishment of intercity passenger rail services in Iowa, with an initial focus on routes from Iowa City to the Quad-Cities to Chicago, and Dubuque to Chicago.
Replacing the entire span of the railroad bridge and improving on-time performance of passenger rail service are just two projects Iowa Department of Transportation officials discussed with BNSF Railway Wednesday during a tour of Burlington's rails.
Elbert: Commuter rail fits traffic load better than widening of I-35 - Des Moines Register - 05/17/09
... Plus, a commuter line provides benefits not obtained from widening the highway, such as more efficient use of energy, less congestion on downtown streets and more opportunities for future development downtown and in the suburbs.
This trip through the past is a vision of future travel - Des Moines Register - 05/13/09
... Saturday's excursion was a small morsel of railroading's glory days. The pull of nostalgia is strong, but would today's society trade the instant gratification of airplanes for the civilized pace of a passenger train? It would be nice, at least, to have the option.
Oberstar Cheers Plan for Rail Spending - The Journal of Commerce - 05/08/09
... The president’s request, which was detailed May 7 for the government’s budget year that begins in October, seeks $1.5 billion for Amtrak and another $1 billion for high-speed rail. That is the most ever sought by a president, Oberstar said, and "is in direct contrast to the starvation diet" Amtrak had been on under former President Bush.
Representative Bell takes train ride to support new legislation - Newton Daily News - 05/08/09
... "The money allocated with help Iowa become an important partner with Illinois in drawing down federal funds for anticipated rail service to Iowa City and Des Moines," Bell said. "The federal money allocated for passenger rail is $8 billion to be implemented in the middle of June."
Promo train to stop near market - Des Moines Register - 05/08/09
... “Restoring passenger rail service to some of Iowa’s largest cities has been one of my key priorities,” the Governor said in a news release containing details about Iowa’s National Train Day event.
Passenger rail project for the Q-C gets a boost - Quad City Times - 05/04/09
... "This is a big day for Iowa,” the governor said. “We’re moving forward on our rail infrastructure."
Governor signs bills for historic tax credits, expanded rail service - Des Moines Register - 05/04/09
... Culver signed the bill at a former railroad station in Davenport, which is a city that is trying to attract passenger rail service that would connect with Chicago.
Moline meeting focuses on passenger rail services in Iowa - Quad City Times - 05/04/09
Iowa governmental leaders, railroad officials and community coalition representatives will meet Tuesday to discuss establishment of intercity passenger rail services in Iowa, with an initial focus on routes from Iowa City to the Quad-Cities to Chicago, and Dubuque to Chicago.
April
Rail lines to reduce pollution, traffic - The Daily Vidette -04/29/09
... The president believes that the creation of the rail lines is necessary to reduce traffic congestion, cut dependence on foreign oil and improve the environment.
Chicago Could Benefit from Amtrak Service to Iowa - KCRG-TV9 - 04/23/09
During his visit to Iowa yesterday, President Obama talked about his support for more Amtrak rail service in Iowa.
High-Speed Passenger Rail Linking St. Louis and Chicago Takes A Step Closer to Realitywww.scanews.com - 04/23/09
... President noting, "My high-speed rail proposal will lead to innovations that change the way we travel in America. We must start developing clean, energy-efficient transportation ...
Set aside money to revive passenger rail in Iowa - Des Moines Register - 04/24/09
Iowa has the opportunity to join a potential revival of the passenger railroad service.
Guest column: Let's get on board with passenger rail - DesMoinesRegister.com - 04/23/09
A proposal to develop passenger-rail service between Chicago, the Quad Cities, Iowa City and eventually Des Moines and Omaha would ultimately improve our . . .
READ: Sen. Harkin Statement on Obama Visit - KCRG-TV9 - 04/22/09
"I applaud President Obama's call for this high-speed passenger rail service from Des Moines to Chicago today – service I have long supported to complement ..."
High-Speed Rail - TigerWeekly.com - 04/22/09
My grandpa likes to tell a story about rail travel a century ago. When his father, a farmer in rural Iowa, had a recurring minor health problem. . .
High-Speed Rail - Time.com - 04/20/09
Like soccer and fresh bread, Americans have long viewed train travel as something that other countries simply do better. But thanks to President Barack Obama's stimulus package, efforts ...
High-Speed Rail: Costs likely to leave Nebraska sidetracked Omaha World-Herald - Omaha,NE,USA - 04/20/09
Later stages of its plan call for some form of passenger rail project running from Chicago, through Des Moines and other Iowa cities, and ending in Omaha. ...
Pro-Con: Is high-speed rail a good investment - 04/19/09 - KansasCity.com
Imagine boarding a train in the center of a city. Imagine whisking through towns at speeds over 100 miles an hour, walking only a few steps to public transportation, and ending up just blocks from your destination. Now, all of you know this is not some fanciful, pie-in-the-sky vision of the future. It is happening right now ...
Governors unit for high-speed rail
The Business Journal of Milwaukee - 04/13/09
... “We recognize that a high-speed rail network has the potential to reduce highway and airway congestion, greenhouse gas emissions and the nation’s dependence on foreign oil.”...
Midwestern governors unite to support high-speed intercity passenger rail
BizTimes.com - 04/13/09
... "President Obama's vision of making high-speed rail a part of our nation’s future transportation network holds great promise," Doyle and the co-signors of the letter wrote. ...
... The president believes that the creation of the rail lines is necessary to reduce traffic congestion, cut dependence on foreign oil and improve the environment.
Chicago Could Benefit from Amtrak Service to Iowa - KCRG-TV9 - 04/23/09
During his visit to Iowa yesterday, President Obama talked about his support for more Amtrak rail service in Iowa.
High-Speed Passenger Rail Linking St. Louis and Chicago Takes A Step Closer to Realitywww.scanews.com - 04/23/09
... President noting, "My high-speed rail proposal will lead to innovations that change the way we travel in America. We must start developing clean, energy-efficient transportation ...
Set aside money to revive passenger rail in Iowa - Des Moines Register - 04/24/09
Iowa has the opportunity to join a potential revival of the passenger railroad service.
Guest column: Let's get on board with passenger rail - DesMoinesRegister.com - 04/23/09
A proposal to develop passenger-rail service between Chicago, the Quad Cities, Iowa City and eventually Des Moines and Omaha would ultimately improve our . . .
READ: Sen. Harkin Statement on Obama Visit - KCRG-TV9 - 04/22/09
"I applaud President Obama's call for this high-speed passenger rail service from Des Moines to Chicago today – service I have long supported to complement ..."
High-Speed Rail - TigerWeekly.com - 04/22/09
My grandpa likes to tell a story about rail travel a century ago. When his father, a farmer in rural Iowa, had a recurring minor health problem. . .
High-Speed Rail - Time.com - 04/20/09
Like soccer and fresh bread, Americans have long viewed train travel as something that other countries simply do better. But thanks to President Barack Obama's stimulus package, efforts ...
High-Speed Rail: Costs likely to leave Nebraska sidetracked Omaha World-Herald - Omaha,NE,USA - 04/20/09
Later stages of its plan call for some form of passenger rail project running from Chicago, through Des Moines and other Iowa cities, and ending in Omaha. ...
Pro-Con: Is high-speed rail a good investment - 04/19/09 - KansasCity.com
Imagine boarding a train in the center of a city. Imagine whisking through towns at speeds over 100 miles an hour, walking only a few steps to public transportation, and ending up just blocks from your destination. Now, all of you know this is not some fanciful, pie-in-the-sky vision of the future. It is happening right now ...
Governors unit for high-speed rail
The Business Journal of Milwaukee - 04/13/09
... “We recognize that a high-speed rail network has the potential to reduce highway and airway congestion, greenhouse gas emissions and the nation’s dependence on foreign oil.”...
Midwestern governors unite to support high-speed intercity passenger rail
BizTimes.com - 04/13/09
... "President Obama's vision of making high-speed rail a part of our nation’s future transportation network holds great promise," Doyle and the co-signors of the letter wrote. ...
March
Iowa gets $400K to improve Amtrak stations
chicagotribune.com - 03/27/09
Iowa will receive about $400000 in federal funding to improve access for disabled people at the state's Amtrak stations. Gov. ...
Stimulus money could help revive Rockford's Amtrak service
rrstar.com - 03/26/09
... Amtrak is getting $91 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to rehabilitate out-of-service cars, according to a statement Wednesday by U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill. ...
chicagotribune.com - 03/27/09
Iowa will receive about $400000 in federal funding to improve access for disabled people at the state's Amtrak stations. Gov. ...
Stimulus money could help revive Rockford's Amtrak service
rrstar.com - 03/26/09
... Amtrak is getting $91 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to rehabilitate out-of-service cars, according to a statement Wednesday by U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill. ...
February
Some lawmakers have hopes for Iowa City to Chicago train route
The Daily Iowan - 2/6/09
... It would help not just students, but faculty members as well who need to travel to and from conferences or research events...
Local delegation impressess lawmakers in Washington
THOnline.com - 2/08/09
...a large delegation of Dubuque-area leaders went to the nation's capital last week and were told...
The Daily Iowan - 2/6/09
... It would help not just students, but faculty members as well who need to travel to and from conferences or research events...
Local delegation impressess lawmakers in Washington
THOnline.com - 2/08/09
...a large delegation of Dubuque-area leaders went to the nation's capital last week and were told...
January
$1B wish list could fast-track railroad service
Rockford Register Star - Rockford, Ill - 01/07/09
As readers of this column know, there’s been a running controversy about potential passenger rail routes through the area. The route chosen by area planners ...
Hagan, midwest reps ask Congress to fund rail projects
Youngstown, OH - 01/29/09
Passenger rail service is an environmentally friendly transportation option and a ... Member states are Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, ...
Q.C. Passenger Rail Coalition Calls on Congress and President Obama in funding
Quad-Cities Online - 01/29/09
The Quad Cities Passenger Rail Coalition joins with other advocacy groups ... Quad Cities Amtrak service and $32.5 million for extended service to Iowa City. ...
House Approves Stimulus Bill
Traffic World Online- 01/29/09
...It included $30 billion in highway funding, $12 billion for mass transit, $3 billion for airports, and $1.1 billion for Amtrak and intercity passenger rail. ...
Can Barack Obama Save the Economy?
Talking Points - 01/29/09
...$1 billion for Amtrak? Hey, Mr. President, sell Amtrak. It's been a loser for 40 years. Let the private industry run it. And then there are billions for ...
Sens. Beall, Kibbie: Call on Congress and President Obama to increase funding for rail in stimulus plan
IowaPolitics.com - 01/30/09
Three members of the Iowa General Assembly joined colleagues throughout the Midwest today to urge federal lawmakers to invest significantly in ...
Rockford Register Star - Rockford, Ill - 01/07/09
As readers of this column know, there’s been a running controversy about potential passenger rail routes through the area. The route chosen by area planners ...
Hagan, midwest reps ask Congress to fund rail projects
Youngstown, OH - 01/29/09
Passenger rail service is an environmentally friendly transportation option and a ... Member states are Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, ...
Q.C. Passenger Rail Coalition Calls on Congress and President Obama in funding
Quad-Cities Online - 01/29/09
The Quad Cities Passenger Rail Coalition joins with other advocacy groups ... Quad Cities Amtrak service and $32.5 million for extended service to Iowa City. ...
House Approves Stimulus Bill
Traffic World Online- 01/29/09
...It included $30 billion in highway funding, $12 billion for mass transit, $3 billion for airports, and $1.1 billion for Amtrak and intercity passenger rail. ...
Can Barack Obama Save the Economy?
Talking Points - 01/29/09
...$1 billion for Amtrak? Hey, Mr. President, sell Amtrak. It's been a loser for 40 years. Let the private industry run it. And then there are billions for ...
Sens. Beall, Kibbie: Call on Congress and President Obama to increase funding for rail in stimulus plan
IowaPolitics.com - 01/30/09
Three members of the Iowa General Assembly joined colleagues throughout the Midwest today to urge federal lawmakers to invest significantly in ...
