DeLauro Praises ARRA Funding for New Haven-Springfield Railway

Washington, DC— Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released the following statement praising the announcement of $40 million in funding for the New Haven, Connecticut to Springfield, Massachusetts through the High Speed Intercity Passenger Rail (HSIPR) Program. Part of $8 billion worth of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds being awarded to 31 states across the country, the funds will be used to improve the service of the line, increase the population base that can be served, and reduce travel time.

The Congresswoman's statement was read aloud today at a press conference held by Senator Chris Dodd:

"I am sorry I could not be here today. I would like to thank my colleagues for their hard work and leadership on this issue. I could not be more pleased with the President's announcement of these funds. As the citizens of Connecticut and especially New Haven know, they have been a long time coming.

"When the state leaders began to focus on our transportation infrastructure ten years ago, we quickly came to the conclusion that we need to establish a viable commuter rail service from New Haven to Springfield. These funds will begin to realize those efforts at last. Important, much-needed projects like this rail line are why we passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act: it will improve our infrastructure, create jobs, increase our connectivity and productivity, and literally strengthen our nation's foundations while ensuring long-term growth.

"It's been clearly shown that every dollar we invest in transportation infrastructure generates enormous dividends in terms of job creation and economic growth. As the GDP figures that came out today illustrate, our economy is showing signs of recovery, and now is the time to invest in its future. We owe it to our nation's workers, their families, and the generations to come."