Public Meetings Scheduled for Chicago-Detroit/Pontiac Passenger Rail Corridor Program

The Illinois, Indiana and Michigan departments of transportation, in association with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), are announcing a second series of public meetings for the Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Chicago-Detroit/Pontiac Passenger Rail Corridor Program. The meetings are being held to:

• Update the public on the program
• Present the route alternatives being evaluated between Chicago and Porter, Ind., including the area known as South of the Lake (SOTL)
• Obtain feedback to help determine the route alternatives to be evaluated in the Tier 1 EIS

The Tier 1 EIS will evaluate passenger rail improvements along a 300-mile rail corridor between Chicago and Detroit/Pontiac, Mich. The Tier 1 EIS will evaluate the effects of upgrading rail infrastructure and facilities to safely accommodate potential passenger rail service improvements. Effects on the natural environment, jobs, the economy, air quality, traffic, and neighborhoods will be considered. State and federal transportation partners are seeking input from residents, business owners and other stakeholders. Staff will be available to answer questions at four upcoming meetings. Exhibits and other reference materials will be on display and presentations made.

All comments must be received by Oct. 28 to be included in this step of the Tier 1 EIS process. Multiple options for submitting comments are available including:

• Fill out a comment form at a public meeting
• Use the online comment form at www.GreatLakesRail.org
• Call toll-free number 877- 351-0853
• Mail your written comments to Bob Parsons, MDOT, P.O. Box 30050, Lansing, MI 48909.

Public meetings will be held in each of the three states and will be open to the public between 4 and 7 p.m. A presentation will be held at 4:30 p.m. and repeated based on attendance and interest. The same information will be presented at each meeting. Meeting materials will also be posted to the program website on Sept. 13, 2013.

If you go

When: Tuesday, Sept 24, 2013, 4 to 7 p.m. (EDT); Presentation at 4:30 p.m. and repeated based on request.

Where: Double Tree by Hilton Hotel, 5801 Southfield Expressway, Dearborn

Information about the program and how to participate can be found at the project website www.GreatLakesRail.org.