LANSING – State Representative Lee Gonzales (D-Flint Township) has been appointed by Michigan House Speaker Andy Dillon (D-Redford Twp.) to the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission (MIPRC) as the Michigan House of Representatives Appointee.
"Passenger rail service is a critical component to Michigan's multi-modal transportation system and to the overall success of Michigan's future economic growth," said Rep. Gonzales. "In these days of high fuel prices and cumbersome air travel, passenger rail service in Michigan is convenient and cost-effective. We need to work towards alleviating road congestion in Michigan and increasing tourism by helping to improve the quality of rail service in Michigan. I am very excited for this opportunity."
MIPRC brings together state leaders from across the region to advocate for passenger rail improvements. Formed by compact agreement in 2000, the MIPRC's current members are Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and Ohio.
The main purpose of the compact is to promote current improvements and long-range plans for intercity passenger rail service in the Midwest, coordinate interaction among Midwestern state officials, and between the public and private sector at all government levels, and to support regional improvements to passenger rail service.