(The Statesman Journal posted the following story by Kristy Hessman on its website on July 1.)
SALEM, Ore. — Thousands of Oregonians will have to find a new way to travel to cities along the Interstate 5 corridor if the state Legislature follows through with plans to cut money for trains that roll between Eugene and Portland.
Much like road or parking projects, the state provides a $10 million subsidy to support the Amtrak Cascade Passenger Rail Service.
More than 120,000 commuters, tourists, seniors and others used the service as an alternative to cars or planes last year.
Now, money supporting the program is in danger of being cut this legislative session because of a state revenue shortage.
State and local leaders from across Oregon came together on Monday to urge restoration of that money.
“I’m concerned that because of tough budget conditions … this year we may make a decision that will come back to haunt us in years to come,” Eugene Mayor Jim Torrey said.
The Cascade service provides two round-trip runs from Eugene to Portland — with stops in Albany and Salem — each day.
Gov. Ted Kulongoski included funding for the service in his balanced budget proposal, but members of the Legislature’s budget-writing committee have since removed it.
If funding is not included in the final budget, Amtrak will discontinue the route immediately.
That’s unwelcome news for Salem resident Elfie Stevenin, who takes the train to Portland at least once a week.
“I don’t drive because my eyesight is so bad,” Stevenin said. “So it would really curtail me and my activities.”
The ballet teacher and competitive swimmer takes the train to attend teacher meetings and masters swim meets.
“I have a meet on July 12 and on July 19,” she said. “I hope to goodness the trains are still running.”
Rep. Billy Dalto of Salem said that it is the number of seniors who rely on the train service that convinced him to support the restoration.
“The rail system is an effective way for seniors to move from city to city and to travel,” Dalto said. “I view this as a senior transportation piece.”
Salem Mayor Janet Taylor agreed.
“It is essential that we continue to provide alternate modes of transportation to people living in, or visiting our community,” Taylor said.
Supporters said eliminating the service will not only hurt passengers but Oregon’s economy as well, taking away opportunities for tourism and economic development.
“As the West Coast develops in trading and in commerce over the next 20 years, this corridor will be a vital aspect to the economic recovery of Oregon,” Albany Mayor Chuck McLaran said.
Officials said that passenger rail service generates more than $6 million in economic benefits to Oregon businesses, workers and tourism activities.
“It’s an artery,” said Sen. Ginny Burdick, D-Portland. “If we cut that artery it would take years and years and years to restore the damage.”