It’s no secret that On Board Midwest strongly supports the effort to bring high-speed rail service to Minnesota along the Mississippi River route. The route provides a real opportunity to create jobs and new investments that benefit the entire region. The existing rail corridor already supports Amtrak and freight rail. Upgrading this corridor for high-speed passenger service will build on these existing services, and in the process make the lines that are already there better.
Rail and transit are important to our region. It plays a big role in Minnesota’s economy and has helped define our history. At a time when every job and economic advantage matters, expanding rail transit is even more important. That’s why this week On Board Midwest will be sharing information with you about rail and its connection to our region.
On Saturday, May 8, cities around the country, including Saint Paul, will celebrate the legacy and future of rail during the third annual National Train Day. (May 8 marks the 141st anniversary of the completion of the first transcontinental railroad.)
This is an exciting time for Minnesotans because we are working together to make a better future for ourselves through rail.
Building on Minnesota’s railroad history
Since Minnesota’s first train took to the tracks in 1862 railroads have been a key part of the state’s economy and livelihood. Not only did the railroads built during the late 1800s bring settlers to Minnesota, they also helped spur economic development by transporting lumber, flour, crops and more to other areas of the state and country that needed these supplies.
Passenger trains arrive at the Union Depot in 1967.
Minnesota’s economy is still vitally tied to rail.
• Minnesota has 4,440 miles of railroad tracks (8th in the nation).
• 4,319 people are employed in the state’s railroad industry (13th in the nation).
Understanding the impressive history of rail’s impact on Minnesota is why so many people are working so hard today to repeat the story. The chance to bring new rail transit to our region is an opportunity we can’t miss.
Elected officials and business leaders from around the state understand that high-speed rail is our chance to improve the state’s existing railroads and strengthen our connection between the Twin Cities and other Midwestern cities. Experts estimate that these projects will provide approximately 1,600 permanent jobs and $2.3 billion in economic benefit.
When you realize how many of Minnesota’s existing jobs are already connected to rail transit, the chance to bring hundreds more to our communities becomes even more important.
Click here for more information about the importance of Minnesota’s railroads.
