For Immediate Release: September 9, 2008
Contact: Bette Phelan (202) 224-2441
EVENT: Key Members of Congress Join with Northeast Business Leaders to Urge Authorization of Funding for Amtrak
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As time runs out on this year’s Congressional session, business leaders from Boston, Massachusetts to Washington, D.C. will converge in the nation’s capital to meet with key members of Congress on WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2008 at 10:30 A.M. EST to urge the passing of what is arguably the most significant piece of legislation to impact travel in the Northeast rail corridor in over a decade, prior to adjourning.
WHO: Business Alliance for Northeast Mobility and members of Congress
WHEN: WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2008
10:30 A.M. EST – 12:30 P.M. EST
WHERE: Union Station
Starlight Room (Next to Gate D)
WHAT: For the first time in more than 10 years, the House and Senate have passed their respective Amtrak reauthorization bills with overwhelming bipartisan support and veto-proof margins. With a budget agreement still outstanding and the threat of a presidential veto, representing leaders from the Business Alliance for Northeast Mobility will meet with Congressional leadership to emphasize the importance of Amtrak to the northeast regional economy.
COMPLETE AGENDA:
10:30 Introduction and Welcome from Former Governor Mark Schweiker, Chairman, CEO Council for Growth, President & CEO, Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce
Perspectives from the U.S. Senate
The Honorable Thomas R. Carper, United States Senate, Delaware
The Honorable Robert P. Casey, Jr., United States Senate, Pennsylvania
The Honorable Frank R. Lautenberg, United States Senate, New Jersey
11:00 Perspectives from the U.S. House of Representatives
The Honorable Robert E. Andrews, U.S. House of Representatives, New Jersey
The Honorable Michael Arcuri, U.S. House of Representatives, New York
The Honorable Bill Shuster, U.S. House of Representatives, Pennsylvania
11:30 Perspectives from the Business Alliance for Northeast Mobility
Robert D. Yaro, President, Regional Plan Association, New York
Donald C. Fry, President and CEO, Greater Baltimore Committee
Jeff Turcotte, The New England Council
12:00 Perspective from Amtrak
The Business Alliance for Northeast Mobility was formed to advocate for and advance a reliable, safe and efficient transportation system for the Northeast Region. Our future economic
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