Recognizing Metra Commuter Railroad's 40th Anniversary

Floor Speech

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Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and applaud the 40th anniversary of the Northeast Illinois Regional Commuter Rail Corporation, better known as Metra.

In 1984--during the first Board meeting of the newly formed Commuter Rail Division--Metra was adopted as a unifying name for all the disparate parts that make up the regional commuter rail system. Forty years later, Metra is the fourth-busiest commuter rail system in the country and the largest outside of the New York City area. By unifying the historic rail lines that make up today's system, Metra has established itself as a lifeline to residents of Chicagoland who depend on it to get to work, school, health and other critical appointments, gather with friends and family, and access the wide range of activities our great city has to offer.

Earlier this year, I was pleased to assist Metra in securing federal funding for its Edgebrook Station Renovation project. Renovations include updating digital signage and upgrading to a larger shelter for its riders. I was also proud to secure funding for the Metra O'Hare Pedestrian Pathway Design Project, to investigate and outline significant steps toward making the O'Hare Transfer Station more comfortable and accessible. This will help to position Metra's North Central Service line as an alternative for getting to and from the airport.

As the Ranking Member of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, I would be remiss if I did not mention today's challenges facing the railroad. Capital funding has always fallen short of meeting the various needs tied to managing a legacy system. We must ensure funding levels meet the growing needs of our transit systems and fund improvements that will boost ridership and enhance efficiency.

I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the accomplishments and service Metra has provided over the past 40 years. I would also like to thank Metra's CEO and Executive Director, Jim Derwinski, for his work and leadership during his tenure at Metra. I look forward to continuing to work with Metra to ensure a lifetime of safe and reliable commuter rail service in Chicagoland.

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