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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2015 - 2016
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | February 11, 2015 10:43 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Eddie Day Pashinski |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Resolution to Study Restoring Passenger Rail Service |
| MEMORANDUM TO: All Members of the House of Representatives FROM: Representative Eddie Day Pashinski DATE: February 11, 2015 SUBJECT: Co-sponsorship of Legislation – Resolution to Study Restoring Passenger Rail Service In the near future, I intend to introduce a resolution directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study the feasibility of providing passenger rail service between Wilkes-Barre and Scranton in conjunction with the proposed restoration of passenger rail service between Scranton and New York City. The Lackawanna Cut-Off is a railroad line built just over a century ago and abandoned by Conrail in the early 1980s. At its inception, it was notable for its engineering and it received its name from shortening the distance trains used to have to travel in the region, consequently improving the speed and comfort of travel. Recent efforts by the Federal Government, New York, and especially New Jersey have revived interest in the abandoned line, and New Jersey Transit is actively restoring the old right-of-way to improve access to the region and New York City. This project will bring much-needed jobs, opportunities, and economic activity to the region. Residents of Luzerne County deserve the same opportunities that the current expansion plans will afford residents of the municipalities the passenger line would serve as currently proposed. Additionally, it would help relieve congestion on the I-81 corridor, improving traffic, increasing safety, and reducing wear and tear on public roads and bridges. With the expected completion of the restoration of service to Andover, New Jersey, in 2016, now, more than ever, it is essential that we move forward and seek the best information possible. Please join me in supporting this legislation. |
Introduced as HR169