Congressman Denny Rehberg Wins National Railroad Award

Release #07-07—May 2, 2007

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Washington, D.C.—The National Association of Railroad Passengers (NARP) announced today that U.S. Representative Denny Rehberg (R-MT) is a recipient of the George Falcon Golden Spike Award, which honors individuals for their contributions to the advancement of passenger rail.

Rep. Rehberg was honored for his sustained leadership in funding intercity passenger rail. He chairs the Congressional Rail Caucus and was instrumental in securing funding for Amtrak in the last appropriations bill, fighting off amendments that would have crippled the railroad, or eliminated long distance trains.

“Even in his earliest days as a freshman member of Congress, Representative Rehberg spoke out clearly and forcefully against efforts to bankrupt and shut down Amtrak, steadfastly supporting both Montana’s Empire Builder and the entire national network,” said NARP Executive Director Ross Capon. “Every railroad passenger in Montana – and in America – each day reaps the benefits of Congressman Rehberg’s hard work.”

“Rail service is vital to Montana, where rural communities need affordable transportation and where many people have no access to airports or bus service,” said Rehberg. “However, this service is often overlooked. It’s important our western voice is heard on rail-related issues. As Montana’s lone Congressman, I’m proud to lead the charge in ensuring the needs of Montana’s, and our nation’s, rail lines are met. I look forward to continuing to work with NARP to ensure financial stability for America’s rail system.”

Rehberg also noted Amtrak accounts for over $3.2 million in wages for the Montana economy, while direct spending by Amtrak travelers in Montana is estimated at more than $5.3 million annually.

The George Falcon Golden Spike Award honors public officials for their support for a fully developed rail network and leadership in promoting rail development. The award is named for George Falcon, a Los Angeles area publisher and early member of NARP, who created the award. Prior winners include U.S. Senators, Members of Congress, the people of Los Angeles and Baltimore, and individuals who have shown a dedication to and commitment to passenger rail in a way that has advanced a stronger rail network. A complete list of past winners can be found here on our website.

About NARP

NARP is the only national organization speaking for the users of passenger trains and rail transit. We have worked since 1967 to expand the quality and quantity of passenger rail in the U.S. Our mission is to work towards a modern, customer-focused national passenger train network that provides a travel choice Americans want. Our work is supported by over 22,000 individual members. http://www.narprail.org.