The time has really come for the final push on passenger rail. Ever since I first heard about the proposal to connect Chicago, the Quad Cities, Iowa City and Des Moines by rail, I’ve been thinking about how it would all culminate and now that’s what we’re seeing.
There is a bill on the table for discussion this week that could provide state funding for the rail project. The bill is Governor Culver’s I-JOBS program, which is in essence an infrastructure stimulus program. It would supply 750 million dollars for infrastructure improvements, which would in turn create an estimated 2,800 jobs. All of this means potential financing for rail.
The thing is, the bill will be decided on next week so our immediate action is vital. We’re making a big push for individuals to call and write their legislators because they need to hear from Iowans that rail is important to us. We are reaching out especially to students for their help. Young people will be so positively affected by passenger rail that it is essential that their voices are heard.
The issue, now, is not only getting support for passenger rail but getting support for the governor’s bill as well. Those opposed to the bill argue against how it is to be funded. It is a bonding bill so the 750 million dollars will come from a 20 year tax exempt bond that will be paid back annually through gaming revenue and existing tax revenue. Opponents argue that projects should be funded over time with taxes and that we should not be borrowing money. What they seem to be forgetting, however, is the purpose behind I-JOBS. Because of the state of the economy, job creation is needed now, not over time. The program is also perfect for projects like rail because funding provided through I-JOBS has to be used up within three years, and the money will be re-allocated if not used after a year. Those in favor of the bill recognize that it allows the state government to fund a large list of projects at once, and rail should be on that list.
Because I-JOBS is focussed on creating jobs, stimulating the economy and rebuilding infrastructure, the passenger rail project should receive funding because it is completely in line with the goals of I-JOBS. Passenger rail will help to bring Iowa’s infrastructure into the twenty-first century while at the same time creating both temporary construction and permanent jobs. It will stimulate the economy in the long term by attracting young professionals to the state and allowing for easy transport between Iowa’s cities. The added bonus is that it benefits the environment. Once we get I-JOBS passed, rail would be the perfect candidate for funding.
Passenger rail is so close to being a reality. We just need to make it known that we want it. Please help us, and Iowa, by taking a few moments to let your legislators know that rail is important to you.
