WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator John D (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV), Chairman of the U.S. Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, issued the following statement regarding the Obama administration’s  announcement of its strategic plan for high-speed passenger rail development:

“As Chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, I applaud President Obama and his administration for addressing our country’s transportation challenges head-on by laying the foundation for an improved, efficient, high speed rail system, that will jump-start our economy and reduce America’s dependence on automobiles.  This strategic plan provides strong encouragement to states and cities all across the country to develop high-speed rail in their communities, offering travelers more choices while helping our environment and stimulating our economy.”

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