Update on House THUD Bill

While the House Appropriations THUD bill is largely the same disappointment it was out of committee, there was one small improvement to the bill when Rep. Rigell had an amendment passed that restored $25 million to the Washington Metro System (that previously had been cut by 50% or $75 million). The additional money for the Metro was offset by $22 million cut to the Federal Aviation Administration and $3 million from the Federal Transit Administration's administrative account.

Within the Federal Highway Administration $130 million was added to the funds to be used for Rail Highway Grade Crossings.

No amendments were passed in committee further reducing Amtrak appropriations.

The Democrats on the committee are threatening to vote against the THUD bill when it comes to the House floor for a vote. This could get interesting.

RIARP Spring Meeting Thursday

Our next meeting will be this Thursday, May 22nd at 3:30 PM at the Rhode Island Foundation located in the main building of the old Providence Union Station Complex. We will be meeting in the Gallery Room on the first floor.

At the top of our agenda will be a presentation on the Providence Street Car followed by a discussion. Should time permit there will be an update on the recent Spring NARP Council Meeting in Silver Spring, and the Amtrak Appropriations that are being considered by the House of Representatives. We have the room to 5:00 P.M.

STEVE MUSEN

Newsletter Editor/Director at Large