Senator Meekhof offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No.

            A resolution in support and recognition of National Train Day.         

            Whereas, America is celebrating National Train Day on May 9, 2015, a commemoration of the completion of America's First Transcontinental Railroad; and

            Whereas, In 2014, Amtrak provided statewide passenger rail travel to over three-quarters of a million Michigan travelers; and

            Whereas, The expansion of high-speed and intercity passenger rail has become a priority in building the 21st century national infrastructure; and

            Whereas, Michigan's 22 railroad stations are a source of civic pride, a gateway to our communities, and a tool for economic growth that creates transportation-oriented development and livable communities; and

            Whereas, A healthy freight and passenger rail network is essential to keeping the American economy moving efficiently; and

            Whereas, Amtrak continues to work with Michigan on the development of the next generation of high-speed and intercity passenger rail trains which will create good jobs and grow the American manufacturing base; and

            Whereas, Amtrak ridership has grown 46 percent since 2004, and the railroad carried 30.9 million passengers in 2014; and

            Whereas, On May 10, 1869, the "Golden Spike" was driven into the final tie at Promontory Summit, Utah Territory, to join the Central Pacific and the Union Pacific Railroads, ceremonially completing the First Transcontinental Railroad; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we hereby recognize May 9, 2015, as National Train Day in the state of Michigan and congratulate Amtrak on 44 years as America's railroad; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Michigan Association of Railroad Passengers and Amtrak as a token of our esteem.