[Southsider2k12]

http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?Sectio...amp;TM=50770.42

Forum Supports NICTD Proposal
PORTAGE - The Northwest Indiana Forum on Monday issued a statement of support on the proposed expansion of the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District's South Shore Line, east to Valparaiso and south to Lowell.

The Forum said its support echoes U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Merrillville, state Rep. Chet Dobis, D-Merrillville, state Rep. Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso, state Sen. Ed Charbonneau, R-Valparaiso and Sen. Karen Tallian, D-Portage, at Monday's State Tax and Financing Policy meeting in Indianapolis.

"The bipartisan effort put forth today shows that the South Shore expansion is significant to the entire region. Members of the State Tax and Financing Policy Committee need to know that public transportation, specifically commuter rail, is fundamental to the economic growth and development of northwest Indiana," said Vince Galbiati, Forum president and chief executive officer. "With jobs, the environment and our quality of life at stake, senators and representatives from both sides of the aisle in cooperation with Congressman Visclosky are willing to work together, leading NW Indiana to a better future."

In a separate statement, Tallian said, "Having a reliable and effective alternative to auto travel will improve air quality and reduce our dependence on foreign oil. The 4.2 million passengers that rode the South Shore last year drove 91 million fewer miles and saved over 3.9 million gallons of gasoline. Expanding the service provides the potential for even greater savings."

Galbiati said transit initiatives have been successful across the nation.

He said Denver's FasTracks program revitalized the city's downtown Union Station and surrounding areas. And, he said, Portland, Ore., created environmentally friendly transit oriented developments with multi-use buildings bringing retail and residences within a short drive or walk of the stations. "Citizens could obtain jobs in the Chicago Metro Area and within the region allowing for personal economic growth," Galbiati said. "Commuters would have an environmentally sound alternative to driving, reducing emissions and dependence on foreign oil. The overall quality of life in northwest Indiana would improve with access to Chicago's cultural and entertainment options and give freedom and independence to those who do not or cannot drive."

[Roger Kaputnik]

sounds like a great idea