Delegate Ward Armstrong from Collinsville, VA visited the White House on April 16, 2009. He attended where he attended a presentation on the President’s new strategic plan for high speed rail in America.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 16, 2008
CONTACT:
Claire Wilker, 804-644-1966
Armstrong Invited to White House
President Obama Calls for “New Era in Rail�
Delegate Ward Armstrong’s life-long love of trains brought him to the White House this afternoon, where he attended a presentation on the President’s new strategic plan for high speed rail in America. President Obama was joined by Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and fellow rail enthusiast Vice President Joe Biden.
The president’s plan would transform the nation’s transportation system by rebuilding existing rail infrastructure while developing a comprehensive high-speed intercity passenger rail network through a long-term commitment at both the federal and state levels. This plan draws from the successful highway and aviation development models with a 21st century solution that focuses on clean, energy-efficient rail transportation.
The President, Vice President and Secretary of Transportation are urging states and local communities to put together plans for a network of 100 mile to 600 mile corridors, which will compete for the federal dollars. The merit-driven process will result in federal grants as soon as late summer 2009.
“President Obama’s plan is a great deal for America, and a great deal for rural Virginia,� Armstrong said this afternoon. “During the campaign, he vowed to put this country back on the right track – and I’m glad to see he meant it literally.�
