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House of Representatives
Session of 2019 - 2020 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	January 24, 2019 10:02 AM
From:	Representative Eddie Day Pashinski
To:	All House members
Subject:	Resolution directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study the feasibility of providing passenger rail service between Wilkes Barre and Scranton in conjunction with the proposed restoration of passenger rail service between Scranton and New York City

I intend to introduce a resolution that will direct the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study the feasibility of providing passenger rail service between Wilkes-Barre and Scranton in conjunction with the proposed restoration of passenger rail service between Scranton and New York City. The Lackawanna Cut-Off is a railroad line built just over a century ago and abandoned by Conrail in the early 1980s. At its inception, it was notable for its engineering and it received its name from shortening the distance trains used to have to travel in the region, consequently improving the speed and comfort of travel. Recent efforts by federal and state authorities – especially New Jersey – have revived interest in the abandoned line. New Jersey Transit is nearing construction of a station in Andover Township and has been actively restoring an existing right-of-way to improve access to the region and New York City. This project will bring much-needed jobs, opportunities and economic activity to the region. Residents of Luzerne County deserve the same opportunities as residents of the municipalities surrounding the expanded passenger line as currently proposed. Additionally, it would help relieve congestion on the I-81 corridor, increasing safety and reducing wear and tear on public roads and bridges. With the expected completion of laying new rail track to Andover, New Jersey, in 2017, and the anticipated start of construction on a station there, now, more than ever, it is essential that we move forward and seek the best information possible. This resolution was introduced as HR310 in the 2017-18 Legislative Session and former co-sponsors included the following members: PASHINSKI, ROEBUCK, DRISCOLL, MURT, MILLARD, SCHLOSSBERG, CALTAGIRONE, V. BROWN, READSHAW, MADDEN, FREEMAN, KORTZ, D. COSTA, HARKINS, BOBACK AND VAZQUEZ. Please join me in supporting this legislation.

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