RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE CREATION OF A NATIONAL RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM
WHEREAS, as Congress is in the process of reauthorizing our federal surface transportation
programs, our nation's cities are looking forward to building on our successes in the area of
transportation; and
WHEREAS, many cities believe that the reauthorization process should go beyond solely highway
and mass transit issues, and also address the persistent and growing problem of railroad congestion
in our cities; and
WHEREAS, the economic benefit of the railroad industry is substantial and obvious, but less
obvious are numerous adverse impacts in our neighborhoods. Blocked grade crossings, idling
trains, crumbling viaducts, air and noise pollution are all examples of the kinds of problems faced
by many cities as they try to balance the needs of residents who live near rail facilities with the
needs of railroads to continue servicing our communities; and
WHEREAS, improvements to rail facilities and infrastructure can help reduce truck congestion on
local streets; open opportunities for economic development; and reduce noise impacts and
inconveniences to residents; and
WHEREAS, because the financial resources are unavailable for many cities to address the
necessary but costly improvements to rail infrastructure, there needs to be a larger federal financial
commitment to help address this important issue; and
WHEREAS, these needs could best be addressed by the establishment of a federal program, with
funding from resources that benefit from rail activity, that would help communities address the
problems associated with rail infrastructure while preserving the benefits of one of our country's
oldest, but still vital industries,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that The United States Conference of Mayors calls
on Congress to establish a dedicated federal rail infrastructure program to address needed
improvements to our nation's railroad infrastructure.
©2003 U.S. Conference of Mayors 
