Federal Rail Administration Deputy Administrator Amit Bose expressed full support for the formation of interstate rail compacts throughout the country, pointing to the Southern Rail Commission as a model organization at the SRC’s quarterly meeting today.
“The Federal Railroad Administration believes that interstate compacts, recognizing Southern Rail Commission as a great example, deliver results and hold tremendous promise in advancing intercity passenger rail development,” Bose said. “We know the important role in states coming together, like the Southern Rail Commission.”
The FRA’s support for commissions like the SRC follows the U.S. House of Representative’s passing of the Interstate Rail Compacts Advancement Act, which will authorize up to 10 multistate passenger rail commissions and provide states with matching operating funds of up to $500,000 annually. The newly formed commissions would be modeled after the SRC’s demonstrated best practices and through the organization’s lessons learned.
Bose added that a strong and ongoing relationship between the FRA and SRC is critical for promoting economic growth in the region stemming from passenger rail expansion. He also spoke to the importance of matching federal dollars for local rail efforts, acknowledging that local resources for funding are not limitless. Matched federal funding would double the SRC’s annual operating budget.
“As an administration, it’s important to show that there is a federal rail program in place that is not just short term, but will be available long term,” Bose said. “We want to make sure there is consistent and dedicated funding available at the federal level that shows partnership and allows for groups at the local level to make their own decisions.”
Additionally, Bose welcomed the SRC’s suggestion for a national convention of all multistate rail compacts as a way to come together, engage and share best practices with one another for continued development and effective operations.
Amtrak representative Todd Stennis shared the FRA’s support for passenger rail development in the southern region by announcing the FRA’s approval for Amtrak’s funding of infrastructure improvements to rail platforms along the Gulf Coast. This is an important investment in these communities, saving cities hundreds of thousands of dollars and preparing the Gulf Coast region for resumed passenger rail service.
Bose, who was able to ride the first inspection train in 2016, concluded his remarks with, “I am so looking forward to riding the train again, for real this time, thanks to all the work done by this commission.”