Michigan high-speed rail plans discussed in Holland

From The Grand Rapids Press

The Michigan By Rail traveling public forum made a whistle stop in Holland on Thursday to find out what kinds of statewide rail service people want.

High-speed rail transportation is a hot button issue with state and local officials these days because of a federal push being driven by stimulus money funneling out of Washington, D.C.

“The Michigan Department of Transportation has put in an application for a grant for around $400 million from the high speed stimulus money that could be used to purchase track for a dedicated high speed line,” said Tim Fischer, deputy policy director of the Michigan Environmental Council.

The forum, held at Holland East K-8 School, drew about three dozen people, mostly government officials, trying to find out where and when rail improvements might be coming.