NUMB:
991775
VERS:
SUBSTITUTE 1
REF:
XXBY:
ALD. RICHARDS, KALWITZ, MURPHY, FRANK, D'AMATO, PRATT,
PAWLINSKI AND NARDELLI
TITL:
Substitute resolution supporting the State of Wisconsin's efforts to establish and participate in the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative.
ANLS:
- Analysis -
This resolution expresses the City of Milwaukee's support for the State of Wisconsin's efforts to establish and participate in the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative. The resolution also urges the U.S. President and Congress to establish a dedicated national funding mechanism for high-speed passenger rail including the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative. In addition, it directs that copies of this resolution be sent to President Clinton, Governor Thompson and Wisconsin's U.S. Congressional delegation.
BODY:
Whereas, Wisconsin is one of 9 states that comprise the Midwest Rail Initiative - a 3,000-mile high-speed passenger rail network radiating from Chicago and relying primarily on existing rail corridors; and
Whereas, The carefully researched Midwest Regional Rail Initiative is forecast to carry 9.6 million passengers annually and earn enough revenues to cover operating expenses once fully implemented in 2010; and
Whereas, One of the first phases of the proposed rail network would link the cities of Milwaukee and Madison with high-speed passenger rail service by December, 2003; and
Whereas, Midwest Rail offers Milwaukee-area citizens additional mobility through modern high-speed trains, increased trip frequencies, customer-friendly amenities and downtown-to-downtown connections to major urban centers; and
Whereas, Midwest Rail will offer citizens from throughout Wisconsin direct access to Milwaukee's downtown commercial centers, cultural activities and government offices, promoting the continued vitality of downtown areas; and
Whereas, High-speed passenger rail will utilize modern technology allowing safe travel at speeds up to 110 mph and reducing travel times by as much as 30% over current rail service; and
Whereas, The strong Midwest economy is placing tremendous demands on highways and airports, some of which are reaching their capacity to move people and goods; and
Whereas, High-speed inter-city rail offers travelers a relaxing alternative to driving congested highways and wandering about in packed parking lots; and
Whereas, The current funding plan for Midwest Rail seeks an 80% federal partnership and 20% state and local share; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, By the Common Council of the City of Milwaukee, that the City lends its full support to Wisconsin's efforts to establish and participate in the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Common Council urges the U.S. President and Congress to establish a dedicated national funding mechanism for high-speed passenger rail including the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Common Council calls upon the state of Wisconsin to provide leadership, financial support and professional expertise to turn the concept of high-speed inter-city passenger rail service into reality; and, be it
Further Resolved, That copies of this resolution be forwarded to President Clinton, Governor Tommy Thompson and Wisconsin's U.S. Congressional delegation.
ZDPT:
DFTR:
00102-1
TWM/rk
3/2/2000