The Federal rail officials in December 2023 allocated $2 million in grants to initiate planning for the expansion of intercity passenger rail service in Michigan. The plans include the introduction of new rail service from Detroit to Ontario and the creation of additional corridors which would include a connection from Cleveland to Detroit via Toledo. The money, from a larger pot of funds created by the bipartisan infrastructure law signed by President Joe Biden in 2021, is to be used to begin the process of scoping, scheduling and preparing a cost estimate for improving existing service or developing new rail service.
While it is acknowledged that the project is currently in its initial planning phases, it is important to note that the actual implementation is anticipated to be several years away.
Rail transit can significantly contribute to the well-being and development of communities in various ways. Firstly, it offers an efficient and sustainable mode of transportation – reducing traffic congestion and decreasing environmental pollution. Additionally, rail transit provides affordable and accessible transportation options for residents, connecting them to employment centers, educational institutions, and recreational areas.
The convenience of rail transit can stimulate economic growth by attracting businesses and investors to areas with well-connected transportation networks. Moreover, it promotes social cohesion by fostering community interaction during transit, creating a sense of shared space among residents. In essence, rail transit plays a pivotal role in building more resilient, interconnected, and vibrant communities.
Efforts exist around the country as well regarding rail service in their regions. A group known as Ride The Rail is working to reinstate passenger rail service between Dubuque, IA and Chicago, IL as one of the community’s priorities. They describe themselves as “a dedicated group of community-minded volunteers works tirelessly to see this priority to completion.”