First-Hand Take on DOT Appointee

Mary Peters is a very strong rail supporter. I first encountered Ms. Peters at a meeting of the Arizona Department of Transportation [which she headed], where she said that the Department would find a solution to buying the West Line. Shortly afterwards, she was appointed to her first position in the federal government. Unfortunately, her successor did not share the same enthusiasm for railroads.

(Ed Note—The “West Line” is the Phoenix-Welton line formerly used by the Sunset Limited to access downtown Phoenix.  Its early 1990’s downgrade by Union Pacific forced the Sunset onto a parallel route that passes 30 miles south of Phoenix.)

I was not surprised by the appointment. She is a solid Republican, and as far as I know she has no baggage that has ever surfaced. She had considered running for governor, but I think she made a wise choice not to do that now, because the Democratic incumbent (Janet Napolitano) is very popular. Peters would have won the primaries but would have had a tough race to win the Governor’s race.

All in all, I think we may have a Transportation Secretary that may have a positive and unbiased outlook on passenger rail, which may be the best thing that has happened to us. Additionally, the current Administration is in need of positive press, so finding a good way to operate Amtrak in an efficient manner may be one remedy the doctor prescribes.

I would encourage all State ARP’s and individuals to write the President and to Ms. Peters, congratulating both of them.

—Michael Garey (of Peoria, Arizona)
Member of the NARP Board