Rep. Schmidt offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 358.

            A resolution to declare May 10, 2014, as Train Day in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, America is celebrating “National Train Day” on May 10, 2014, a

commemoration of the completion of America’s first transcontinental railroad; and

            Whereas, Federal and state transportation departments have made expansion of high-speed and intercity passenger rail a top priority in building 21st-Century national infrastructure; and

            Whereas, Amtrak continues to work with Michigan and other states on the development of the next generation of high-speed and intercity passenger rail trains which will create good jobs in the United States by resurrecting the domestic manufacturing base; and

            Whereas, The recent acquisition by the State of Michigan of the track between Dearborn and Kalamazoo, combined with extensive upgrades over the next 2 years, will decrease travel times and increase reliability; and

            Whereas, Passenger trains bring people from throughout the Midwest to enjoy Michigan’s scenic attractions, festivals, and sporting events; and

            Whereas, 908,878 passengers boarded or disembarked Amtrak trains in Michigan in 2013, an increase of 4% from the year before; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare May 10, 2014, as Train Day in the state of Michigan.