Re: “Why high-speed rail will fail without better local train service” (Feb. 28, Opinion):
The quote that passenger rail operates “within the slipstream of freight,” attributed to our Pacific NorthWest Financial Area crew, got here to me from former Congressman Al Swift on the inaugural 1995 Mount Baker passenger service on BNSF observe between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C.: “In your zeal for passenger trains, educate your self about how BNSF serves prospects, communities and shareholders, first.” A clever man.
The “we’re higher collectively” technique has resulted in a 30-year, nationally acknowledged Amtrak Cascades partnership between BNSF, Union Pacific, Washington and Oregon departments of transportation, Amtrak, the Federal Railroad Administration, Sound Transit, communities and ports to accommodate freight volumes and elevated intercity passenger demand.
Pending state laws affirms public/non-public incremental investments in tracks and trains whereas giving a high-five to the WSDOT to speed up the timetable. It wants a follow-up dedication of state matching funds for federal rail packages such because the current BNSF/WSDOT partnership to switch the ageing Salmon Bay Bridge.
Josh Farley’s column echoes revered All Aboard Washington rail chief Lloyd Flem’s urging to “reward and push if you would like extra trains.” One other clever man.
Bruce Agnew, director, PNWER Accelerator, Seattle
