Rep. Ann Marie Buerkle and Rep. Tom Reed of New York are leading an effort to stop New York from receiving any federal funding for high-speed rail projects.
Buerkle and Reed wrote a letter to Secretary Ray LaHood saying that "Constructing a high speed rail line across Western and Upstate New York is not practical."
The two Representatives specifically challenge the effectiveness of the plan to run high-speed rail on the same tracks as freight in the state. However, when it comes to building a new, true high-speed rail track, Buerkle and Reed say "our tax dollars would be better spent elsewhere."
LaHood and the DOT are considering awarding much of the $2.4 billion recently rejected by Florida to New York, as U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand supports.
For continuing high-speed rail coverage, visit The Railist, a Planetizen news site.
FULL STORY: Buerkle and Reed voice opposition against high speed rail funds
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