South Shore funding talk pulls out of station

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BY KEITH BENMAN
kbenman@nwitimes.com
219.933.3326 | Thursday, May 22, 2008 | (116 comment(s))

How to fund a South Shore extension to Lowell and Valparaiso and even its route are back on the table as the railroad and its supporters prepare for key legislative hearings this summer.

"We want to make sure we have all the ducks in a row and pursue this effort in the most positive, constructive way possible," said Leigh Morris, chairman of the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority.

At an April 28 meeting at South Shore headquarters in Chesterton, Morris and RDA member Harley Snyder discussed possible changes in approach for the project with South Shore officials.

At Tuesday's RDA meeting, Snyder said critics' objections are being examined and the RDA continues to build a coalition in support of the project.

A proposal last year to secure local funding by diverting $350 million in state sales tax revenue to the $1 billion project did not fly in the Indiana Senate during its last session.

An interim legislative committee will give the South Shore funding plan another look this summer.

Morris said it is obvious the South Shore and its supporters will have to go to those hearings armed with alternative plans for raising the $350 million, but did not specify what ideas are on the table.

In the past, both a "wheel tax" on automobile registrations and a gasoline tax have been raised as possible funding sources.

State Sen. Earline Rogers, D-Gary, said Senate leaders made it clear the state will not put up the entire $350 million.

The local legislative delegation supports the project, but coming up with local funding continues to be the sticking point, Rogers said.

The South Shore also will take another look at the feasibility of using the Chicago/Fort Wayne & Eastern right of way from Gary to Valparaiso as an extension route, Morris said. That route once carried Amtrak service to Valparaiso.

An ongoing feasibility study is examining use of Canadian National right of way from Munster to Valparaiso. Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District Marketing and Planning Director John Parsons emphasized that still is the preferred alternative.

The Lowell extension would be along CSX right of way from Munster to Lowell.

The South Shore and RDA also will take a closer look at integrating train and bus service, Morris said.

"That is the way to get the most benefit for the most people," Morris said.

The city of Valparaiso and the Northwest Indiana Regional Bus Authority plan on running express buses from the region to Chicago's loop. Both have said the buses will not replace South Shore service, but merely augment it until the extension is built.

Parsons said there are no plans to use a combined funding source for the South Shore extension and the Regional Bus Authority. The Regional Bus Authority plans to start its own local bus routes as early as this summer.

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Shame on you wrote on May 29, 2008 5:52 PM:

" Shame on anyone who's fighting this out of fear for their selfish, silly wallets. Don't ya know... there's no carry on luggage. Do this for our children, do this for our furture, but do it. Would you have opposed the industry which brought the jobs that created NW Indiana? How do you think we made it this far? Don't be fools! "

Brains wrote on May 29, 2008 5:44 PM:

" I say this single issue has drawn out the 2 most significant, but underestimated problems in NW Indiana... racial divide and ignorance. "

Wake UP wrote on May 29, 2008 3:08 PM:

" Congressman Visclosky has the power to benefit NW Indiana in a way which is unprecedented in Indiana history. This opportunity is prfound and will NEVER come along again again...ever. I cannot fathom how we'd squander this opportunity. Whatever the risk, it's worth the long term benefits to NW Indiana. "

Outta here wrote on May 29, 2008 2:55 PM:

" I can't stomach any more of this myopia... the minute the real estate market turns, I'm outta here. "

Penny-wise Pound-foolish wrote on May 29, 2008 2:52 PM:

" One thing we have learned - how selfish and short-sighted regionites can really be. They're willing to forsake NW Indiana's future to save a buck. Pennywise and pound foolish! "

Oliver Stone Mike Moore Al Gore wrote on May 29, 2008 2:41 PM:

" I guess until Oliver Stone, Michael Moore and Al Gore affirm support for this project, some people will refuse under any circumstances to get on board. "

Thinking out loud wrote on May 29, 2008 2:31 PM:

" I guess some people just won't get it until we face double digit gas prices, double digit unemployment, interstate gridlock, and air that ain't worth breathing. "

Public Transportation wrote on May 29, 2008 2:27 PM:

" How high do gas prices need to get, how much gridlock do you need to experience, how filthy must our breathable become before you understand that public transportation is an important first step to promoting economic developement, preserving air quality, and mitigating traffic congestion? This makes so much sense that I am confounded by those who are either too ignorant to get it or in complete denial. "

EJWG wrote on May 29, 2008 1:23 PM:

" I currently live in Lowell, and have lived in NWI for my entire life. I can't speak to the Valpo line, but a SS Extension to Lowell is necessary.

Lowell, no longer is a farm town - it is a dying farm town. It is nice to be nostalgic for the old days, but Lowell is in serious trouble. 50% of the "old downtown" is empty, and as a resident, I spend almost every dollar I make in other parts of the county because of the limited selection and outrageous prices in Lowell stores.

The only real outlet I see for Lowell is to court the "outsiders" and become a bedroom community with a old-town shopping district. As it looks right now, Lowell will shorty become just another busted-out farm town, with low property values and scary neighbors. "

to nb wrote on May 29, 2008 11:40 AM:

" It's like Obama said" We are bitter". We can only rely on our guns and religion. Don't worry when Obama gets in office I am sure the SS extension will be first on his list. NOT! "

Is Bobby Cantrell Involved in this too wrote on May 29, 2008 10:01 AM:

" As sleazy as that family is I would believe it if I were told they are involved in this push for expansion. Did they get together with the McDermott clan, like they did with the Cabelas deal, and buy up all the land surrounding the proposed route of the train? These are the type people that are pushing for this, they stand to make a fortune from the tax money we will be forced to pay for this thing to happen. "

Whoa Part TWO wrote on May 29, 2008 9:11 AM:

" A few more questions. Who will end up with tracks in their backyard and if CN’s tracks are needed how will the opposition of the sale of EJ&E to CN affect their decision on permission to use their tracks and how will the new extension affect the current line schedule? There are too many what ifs that need to be answered before we can even consider building another train to Chicago. It’s about cost vs. benefits folks. What are the pros and cons of this new proposed extension? If it’s only to get people that choose to live in the middle of nowhere to Chicago then It’s just a waste of time and money. "

To Wake Up wrote on May 29, 2008 6:43 AM:

" You are right completely. Indiana and especially NW Indiana has to be the most backward places in the country. The reason: Crooked politicians and their high roller supporters! Folks are fed up with being taxed to death because of wasteful spending. So naturally the only support for this SS extension comes from the money grubbing politicians and their buddies. That's why the 86% of the people here against it will have this project shoved down our throats. "

nb wrote on May 28, 2008 10:03 PM:

" NWI is so anti-progress it's pathetic. I've lived all over the midwest and I've never seen such a congleration of negativity in my life. This is one of the few times I think our politicians are acting like good parents and trying to get many of you to do something you don't want to do, for the good of your future. The train extensions are excellent ideas. Yes, they should've been done this 20 years ago, but my guess is that the backward anti-progress movement of today is hereditary. Let's not cripple our childrens' future by not doing the right thing on our watch. "

Schererville Res...to Todays Report wrote on May 28, 2008 2:38 PM:

" I had moved to Munster in the early 70's and just recently moved to Schererville. Believe me, it won't happen. They've been talking about extending the South Shore from the 1970's. What you read or heard today, probably reflects all charges, including gas and parking fees at the airport. It's not cheaper. What report did you read today? I looked into taking a train ride to New York City and there are so many stops, it'll take forever to get there. And by the way, that's only if you want a basic regular seat. Meals are NOT inlcuded on a train, you pay extra. So please check your facts before you make more comments. "

Whoa Part ONE wrote on May 28, 2008 2:06 PM:

" Yes build it! I can’t wait to ride the magic train to la-la land. You people talk as if this new extension will solve all our problems yet you fail to see the facts over and over again. Right now is not a good time to raise taxes( we are already paying though the roof), how will Chicago handle the increased NWI rail traffic( If they will even allow new trains on their tracks), what kind of jobs will be created(during construction or after), what of the impact from increased rail traffic, how will this effect the environment( what properties will be bulldozed for parking lots and stations? "

TD wrote on May 28, 2008 1:14 PM:

" I don't think many are against the expansion just to be against it. There have been many questions asked and none of them have been answered. This is over one billion of our tax dollars. We have the right to have answers before this scheme goes through. I'm looking forward to the reports from the bus route from Valpo. That should tell us a lot about what we can expect if the expansion goes through. "

Wake Up wrote on May 28, 2008 12:01 PM:

" This train line should have been built 20 years ago. The Illiana Expressway should have been built 20 years ago. It seems all these moronic, obstructionist Hayseeds with no vision nor care about the future do nothing but stop progress. Build the train line. It is needed! No wonder Indiana is one of the most backward states in the Union. It is ranked 48th in the up-to-dateness of its laws! "

To Our Future wrote on May 28, 2008 10:52 AM:

" AMEN-I am with you. Finally, someone on the blog who sees the light. Whether or not you use the train now or will ever use it, we need to embrace the idea of an expansion if it be now or 20 years down the road. I don't care if you don't/won't ever use the train, just remember that your children and/or grandchildren or someone in your family or you know might. I am a everyday rider on the SS. Just a point of clarification, there is not railroad system in the US that is not subsidized, either by taxes or local, state or federal funding. If you find a railroad in the US that IS NOT, let me know. The blog is not the place to complain either. If you not for the expansion, stay out of it. If you are for the expansion, then write or talk to the people that you THINK CAN HELP get this going. Yes, I do realize that politics are ugly. Otherwise, be quiet. The train sure beats sitting in traffic, wear and tear on my car, gas every 2-3 days. If I drive, I can't read, visit with my friends, sleep, etc. "

Beauty The Beast wrote on May 28, 2008 7:50 AM:

" As a member of the "townsfolk" of NW Indiana, I sometimes like I'm living in the Disney classic "Beauty & The Beast." Where's my torch, pitch fork & sycle... "

I wonder sometimes... wrote on May 28, 2008 7:47 AM:

" I wonder sometimes if opposition to progress is simply a function of the daRegionites inability to comprehend a project which is admittedly large and complex. The intellectual acumen of our population has long been suspect. Does this explain why we celebrate average, why we're gullible bleeding hearts, why we elect clowns, and are suspicious of progress. We seem to shun excellence as if it's something to be ashamed of and distrust. "

The reason wrote on May 28, 2008 5:47 AM:

" I don't take the South Shore is the parking lots. I don't want to leave my car all day in E. Chicago or Gary. Why does it have to be an extension of the South Shore. If the train would go from Valpo to Lowell and over to Illinois and then on to Chicago there would be a lot more support for it. How many people who live in Gary, Hammond and E. Chicago actually have jobs in Chicago anyway? "

Speed wrote on May 27, 2008 10:33 PM:

" Speed up...or get the heck out of the way. The train is coming, get with it people. "

True Leadership wrote on May 27, 2008 7:49 PM:

" I guess in the absence of true leadership we're willing to listen to the first passionate person to step up to the microphone... even if that person is entirely misguided and mistaken. "

Darth Vador wrote on May 27, 2008 7:44 PM:

" I find your lack of faith disturbing. "

All Aboard wrote on May 27, 2008 7:35 PM:

" Perhaps the conductor simply failed to cry out, "ALL ABOARD!" "

Lets Just Pretend wrote on May 27, 2008 7:30 PM:

" I have an idea. Let's just pretend we're intelligent enough to appreciate the fact that this is an idea whose time has come. Hell, we've pretended for decades that our local elected officials were honest, forthright and capable. "

Todays Report wrote on May 27, 2008 7:27 PM:

" It was revealed today that the least expensive way to travel between Chicago and NY was be RAIL...cheaper than air or road. Dollar for dollar the most efficient, least expensive way to move freight and people is RAIL. We need to embrace that fact and invest in it. Cuz the price of fossil fuel is not going to go down... NEVER MORE. "

Stuck on Stupid wrote on May 27, 2008 7:21 PM:

" What does not makes sense is judging the value of the new extensions on the acute problems with the present system. My understanding is that the problems the "Kensington Strangler" plagues the present system will be remedied as a product of accommodating the 2 new extensions which increases the performance of the entire system and makes it more viable and reliable. "

Rust Belt wrote on May 27, 2008 5:33 PM:

" Perhaps we are nothing more than a "rust belt," perhaps we shall never be. We mirror the roots of our economic origin - Pennsylvania. Among the least educated, among the most indignant and most stubborn. "

NO SENSE wrote on May 27, 2008 5:20 PM:

" This makes NO sense. SS does not have the equipment NOR does it have the rights to the tracks into Chicago (from 115th Street on in). You can work all the little choo choo trains you want across Indiana but none of them will get you downtown. Take one LOGICAL step at a time... Try doing somethiing with your parking lots as well - there is glass all over the lot in Hegewisch and people have had car parts stolen in Gary and Miller. Yet you want more of OUR hard earned dollars for riding the ghetto train. "

Connections Indeed wrote on May 27, 2008 4:20 PM:

" The prosperity of NW Indiana is a function of our connections to the world. Rails, roads, air, water - the more robust our connections, the greater our opportunities to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. "

Our Future wrote on May 27, 2008 4:16 PM:

" While I may never ride this train, if it helps to keep our kids around and connects NW Indiana with the world via Chicago, I'm willing to invest in it. Nothing ventured - nothing gained. "

Dumbed down wrote on May 27, 2008 4:10 PM:

" We've unwittingly dumbed down da Region to the point where reason makes no sense any longer. This is an opportunity of a lifetime we're willing to forsake in favor of the status quo. How many more failures will we withstand before the "silent majority" steps up and says NO MORE. "

Revelation wrote on May 27, 2008 4:05 PM:

" What bothers me is the selfish myopia disingenously disguised as altruism. This is not about preserving the character of NW Indiana, it's about saving a buck while keeping Chicago at a comfortable distance... neither of which is possible or reasonable! "

Poor NW Indiana wrote on May 27, 2008 3:54 PM:

" Poor NW Indiana... so far from God and so close to Chicago. "

Retired and Tired... wrote on May 27, 2008 3:45 PM:

" This is what happens when we permit the retirees who are determined to preserve their wealth drive the agenda. They've chased their offspring off and are commited to preserving a world which never existed. Keep dreaming! "

Abandonment wrote on May 27, 2008 3:40 PM:

" If we forsake our future, it will absolutely abandon us! "

Isolationism wrote on May 27, 2008 3:39 PM:

" It is impossible to insulate/isolate NW Indiana from Chicago, the U.S. or the world economy. The rails, the interstate, the Port ... the world runs through NW Indiana! Efforts to hold it back are counter-productive and merely delay the inevitable. Our attempts to defy reality make us look backward and foolish while cheating our posterity of their inheritance. And we wonder why our "best and brightest" are choosing to escape this nonsense in droves. "

Too funny... wrote on May 27, 2008 3:30 PM:

" From the ridiculous to the sublime. Some folks are determined to confine Chicago's influence on NW Indiana to a place we "visit" on occasion vis-a-vis a place which has a profound influence on our local economy... not just our television stations. "

Shallow Water wrote on May 27, 2008 2:17 PM:

" Want to know what would be cool? Trains like they have in India! You've seen the pictures of people hanging on the top and the side of the cars. This would be acceptable to all sides....used passenger and box cars cost next to nothing...the rails would be minimal standards....6.000 people could take the train at the same time for $10. As a bonus: Winter's snow, cold and ice! Finally; a workable solution! "

RE Job Envy..... wrote on May 27, 2008 1:48 PM:

" What are you talking about? What jobs? Please stop commenting, because you only made yourself sound more like the idiot that you are!! "

Job envy wrote on May 27, 2008 11:22 AM:

" It sounds like some people don't want the train b/c they don't want more people to have access to "their" jobs. "

BRAVO wrote on May 27, 2008 11:06 AM:

" May I add that I think we've also lost our collective conscience (expect apparently when it comes to matters concerning the environment). Which explains why we've become so tolerant of corrupt behavior and abject racism. "

God Helps Those wrote on May 27, 2008 9:17 AM:

" I am so SICK of hearing the Indy vs. daRegion argument to explain the disperate distribution of government hand outs and favorable legislation. The reason why NW Indiana is greeted with distain and disrespect across Indiana is because we're so self-absorbed and blinded by our own ignorance. Time and time again we fail to help ourselves and expect others to come in and save the day. We deserve to fail. Our celebration of mediocrity is shameful. "

Funding pulls out late wrote on May 27, 2008 9:13 AM:

" Just like the trains! "

delbert wrote on May 26, 2008 8:26 AM:

" This project will never happen and I can tell you why. Downstate they are considering starting a rail service from Indy to Fishers. Both projects will probably cost about the same-who do you think will get the money? It's no wonder they've been fighting this down state, suprise, suprise! "

To Yes Yes Yes wrote on May 26, 2008 7:16 AM:

" You should know that the 86% of Lake County citizens who are against the extension will be more than happy to pay for your ride from your home in Ogden Dunes to your well paying job in Chicago and also so you can visit relatives in Lowell. Yes, Greed is good. "

David wrote on May 26, 2008 5:35 AM:

" I wish the South Shore did extend into Lowell. I work in Lowell and live in Gary. If the South Shore were available to Lowell, it would reduce my costs on driving to work, as my job is about a 15 to 20 minute walk from Downtown Lowell. As for the NIMBY's that are against the South Shore expansion just don't want to give up driving. What would it take for people to realize that we need public transportation in the area? The way it's looking, I'll be getting that job transfer before I see the South Shore expanded to Lowell. At least where I'll eventually relocate to has public transportation. "

Yes Yes Yes wrote on May 25, 2008 10:55 PM:

" In response to the person who commented on my post: yes, I fully realize that I will have to go to Hammond then down to Lowell. I never expected any different. I am VERY familiar with the South Shore as I am a long-term rider as I work downtown Chicago, but thanks for your advise anyway. I still think the South Shore extension is a benefit and will help families visit each other more frequently! "

Greater Chicagoland Area wrote on May 25, 2008 4:10 PM:

" I sense resistance to expansion and change. Would we rather keep our jobs in manufacturing and deny ourselves opportunity? Will we continue to squander our options with negativity and fabricated road blocks? Would expansion breed further crime and poverty or provide jobs and opportunities to build a better community? "

RE Paul wrote on May 24, 2008 7:48 PM:

" He is absolutely right. I remember when they wanted to expand Ohare into Indiana, and they had made all these plans and stuff. Until Indiana put a "whooah Nelly" on Illinois' plans. Now we need the officials from Illinois to give the okay. I doubt they'll agree and it will be best for us in the longrun. "

Paul wrote on May 24, 2008 8:25 AM:

" This extension does not just involve Northwest Indiana. NWI also needs cooperation with Chicago, most importantly with added rail lines. Until that happens, all this planning is a waste of time. "

RE Hey Einsteins... wrote on May 23, 2008 11:44 PM:

" Yeah, keep talking. Unless they start placing rails all over the place, I highly doubt I'll be crying for the South Shore anytime soon. I stopped riding that piece of trash long ago. Do you know what you're talking about? Because honestly, bringing the South Shore to Munster is only going to bring in more crime from other towns and cities. And to Munster Guy...you only sound like an idiot when you're trying to make fun of other people. I doubt you even live in Munster. I do, and I hope trash like you lives nowhere in my vicinity!! "

YK to No way wrote on May 23, 2008 7:12 PM:

" Trash from Chicago would improve the region. "

NO WAY wrote on May 23, 2008 6:23 PM:

" ALL THIS TRAIN WILL DO IS BRING THE TRASH FROM CHICAGO TO LOWELL - WE DON'T NEED IT- LOOK WHAT HAPPENED TO DOLTON AND RIVERDALE "

Bex wrote on May 23, 2008 5:14 PM:

" Why doesn't the V-Line go to the South Shore on weekdays? "

The Same Big Shots wrote on May 23, 2008 4:29 PM:

" who are pushing for this idiotic train are the same ones that wanted to build a stadium for the Bears along Cline Ave. "

Yes yes yes let me guess wrote on May 23, 2008 1:48 PM:

" You're a blond aren't you? "

To Yes yes yes wrote on May 23, 2008 1:45 PM:

" So, you do know that the extension is not going to take folks from Ogden Dunes to Lowell to visit with family, don't you? You will take the train to Hammond and then catch a south bound train through munster and then it will go east to get you to Lowell. If they run that service as well as they do the current service, don't count on visiting your family when the air temp falls below 35 degrees. They run hours behind for 6 months out of the year at least 3 days per week. Service is only slightly better when the air temperature is above 40. You might want to bring sleeping bags and a few books to read on your trip to grandma's. "

RIDER wrote on May 23, 2008 12:22 PM:

" I am still waiting to hear how capacity at Randolph will be increased to handle the extra trains. Since I doubt most of the pols who want this extension have ever ridden the SS, I doubt they know this will be a problem.

As far as riders who will take the SS from Valpo. What new riders will take the train from Valpo that currently are not taking the train from Dune Park or Odgen Dunes. Do these new riders drive to Chicago instead of driving to the one of current train stations now but will take the train if a new line is built? "

Go train wrote on May 23, 2008 11:50 AM:

" Anybody that votes against the train, vote them out of office.

Seriously, the train is needed, especially the Lowell line. It will decrease road congestion and the need for repair, can spur development of local transit - private bus or walk/bike paths, cut pollution, and drop gas prices (by decreasing demand).

I repeat: Go train!!! "

Yes Yes Yes wrote on May 23, 2008 11:21 AM:

" Two suggestions for the RTA though....air conditionong would be ideal with summer coming, with higher gas prices it's likely more people will opt to take the train. Also, Ogden really needs to address the parking lot. It REALLY needs to expand!!!! "

Yes Yes Yes wrote on May 23, 2008 11:16 AM:

" I am all for the South Shore Expansion! I rode the train with my 3 year old son yesterday from Ogden to Chicago, he loves it and rids the train like a pro! A train ticket is much less expensive than driving and it gives us an opportunity to talk and play more, instead of me being the quiet mom driving defensively. We have family in Lowell, we use to drive down there about 2x monthly, due to gas unfortunatly we only go about 1x bi-monthly now. The train will help keep families together!!!! "

Follow the money wrote on May 23, 2008 9:24 AM:

" Follow the money. Why do these people want this? Who is going to make a buck?
How many tax dollars every year go to help the South Shore? Look Gary airport is a bust, 4 airlines, but they this still want to spend more. They cannot even finish the bike trails in the 3 county area. However, they want more. Follow the money, your tax dollar. Remember very good corruption ain't cheap.
"

Cars off the roads How wrote on May 23, 2008 8:55 AM:

" Don't you still need a car to get to and from the train stations? How does this help "local" traffic? will the trains stop at the various malls in Hobart, Merrillville, Schererville, and Highland? Will folks from Valpo or Lowell take the trains to go shopping in Indiana? Who will this serve? 40 to 100 people that made a mistake and bought a home far from an existing station and they want the rest of us to subsidize their ride to work in the city? How does this conserve gasoline? What are the mythical 22,000 jobs this will create? Why is it that no one can answer these questions? Who really stands to make a mint if this happens? Who really stands to foot the bill for this, not those that will make a fortune or private investors would have done this years ago. "

Harley Snyder wrote on May 23, 2008 8:03 AM:

" Isn't he a big time realtor and also a RDA board member pushing for this SS boondoggle? I wonder who else on the RDA board plans on getting rich on the backs of taxpayers. "

Buzz wrote on May 23, 2008 7:21 AM:

" When fuel prices hit $10.00 a gallon you will be praying for other alternatives. Think about it! "

I love Indiana wrote on May 23, 2008 6:01 AM:

" I live in Lowell and have a good paying job in Chicago. The only thing that would make my life better is to have the taxpayers build me a railroad so I can take a nap on my way home from Chicago. "

To Daniele wrote on May 23, 2008 5:44 AM:

" Boo Hoo...You are just like the welfare cheats in the northern part of Lake co. You moved from Illinois to Lowell, a place you call the middle of no where, and you want taxpayers to pay for a train so you can go back. Why don't you and all the other people who work in Illinois and live in Indiana just move back to Illinois? Wouldn't that solve the problem? "

Stop the Train wrote on May 22, 2008 10:27 PM:

" The train is going nowhere,fast.No local tax for a free train ride for a few. Anybody that votes for the train,
vote them out of office like the clowns who sold the toll road. "

no way wrote on May 22, 2008 8:53 PM:

" We still don't want or need the expense of a train to Valpo. Get on the train in Chesterton. It won't take you anyplace but Chicago. It won't take you to work in the mills on the lakefront.

We need a Proposition on the ballot in November to put the train in it's grave for good. Tallian's and other studies show we DON'T WANT A VALPO TRAIN.

Porter County voted down a gambling boat, they will vote down the train to Valpo.

"

Me Again Curtis wrote on May 22, 2008 7:08 PM:

" Just what is your point then? I read your post again. What are you whining about? You admit the train will not help you or are you crying that you want your own line from Valpo to LaGrange? You say gas will be $5 a gallon soon but you will have to drive. So, as I stated previously, not my problem. See, I bought a home close to an existing station and I make great money downtown. I still have to drive to the grocery store, to Kohl's, Target, etc. Am I supposed to take a train to these places? You make more dollars than sense Curt oh boy. "

david wrote on May 22, 2008 5:48 PM:

" i am for this 100%. i hope our legislators can pull this off and do something positive for our community. "

Hey Einsteins wrote on May 22, 2008 3:40 PM:

" Hey, lets do nothing.. Gas is $4 a gallon, so why provide transit for the commuters.. Let them keep spending a fortune on gas, creating more pollution and giving our enemies more money in oil revenue..
Phooey on civic improvments.. Lets stay keep this area in urban decay.. Who need the cash that people bringing home paychecks from Chicago will spend here.. Since the mills don't hire like they use to, lets keep NWI going with Walmart and minimum wage saleries..
Are you anti South Shore people stupid or what?? "

Smarter Idea wrote on May 22, 2008 3:30 PM:

" How about instead of spending a load of money on a train system that is questionable we spend a little money on a bus or two thats run with bio fuel or electricity like they have in places like oregon and california? "

Daniele wrote on May 22, 2008 3:17 PM:

" I live in Lowell & I can't wait for the train. I grew up in Illinois and being in the middle of no where with no public transportation is a huge drag. While you are at it, we could use a university in southern Lake county too:) "

To Hey Curtis wrote on May 22, 2008 2:46 PM:

" You need to learn to read people's comments carefully and understand their point. Its ignorant people like you who jump to conclusions and don't THINK things through before creating a sensible opionion. Chill out and think....YOU IDIOT! "

Local bustrain service wrote on May 22, 2008 2:10 PM:

" We do not need to exten the SS. We need local bus or train service, similar to what you find in Chicago. Local buses can take you to and from various malls and stores. SS can not do that. We need something that will take you from Valpo to Hobart for the malls of from St. John to Highland/Schererville to shop. That would be much more beneficial than a train to Chicago, used only by folks with jobs in the city. Who wants to go to Chicago to pay 10% sales tax and higher prices because it is Chicago? "

Listening is a skill wrote on May 22, 2008 2:04 PM:

" Listening is skill I believe the RDA has yet to master. Along with sound investment strategy. "

Sick of the South Shore wrote on May 22, 2008 2:03 PM:

" I ride the train to and from work every day. Im for an efficient means of public transportaion that will benefit hoosiers. This aint it !! If the same bone heads are running the new line it will be a joke like the already running line. Customer service doesn't exist with the current South Shore. If you ride from Ogden Dunes or Dune Park you pay almost $200.00 a month and it keeps going up after that. Our State needs to manage the already inefficient line we have. Put money into updating the ancient equipment and cars with NO air. "

Olympic Mistake wrote on May 22, 2008 1:49 PM:

" This amounts to nothing more than Richie Daley and his democrat allies in NW Indiana getting the taxpayers to foot the bill for what he thinks he needs to land the Olympics in Chicago. Indiana may just as well deed NW Indiana to Chicago and be done with it. Maybe Mitch can find a way to lease it to them. "

lets do it wrote on May 22, 2008 1:48 PM:

" The Gary airport gets millions and no commercial flights takeoff or land there. The South Shore expansion would help everyone even if you don't ride it personally. It would get cars off the expressway and roads you do drive. You all say your taxes are too high. Ever think you live beyond your means. Being a citizen means paying for roads, schools, parks,hospitals,police,fire protection, and alot of other things you may not use yourself. "

Defies Logic wrote on May 22, 2008 1:47 PM:

" This whole scheme defies logic - unless you're an investor who's already speculated on the land surrounding the proposed lines and have positioned yourself to make a killing at the taxpayers expense. It's a scheme - the get rich kind. With the taxpayers getting stuck with the bill. "

How about a plan wrote on May 22, 2008 1:41 PM:

" You'd think they would have wised up and understand that you have to detailed plan before you go around trying to sell it to the taxpayers. This idea is long on vision and very, very short on necessary detail. "

Follow the money wrote on May 22, 2008 1:38 PM:

" Want to know why the big push for this? Find out who's speculated on the property and businesses surrounding the proposed route and accompanying train stations. Bet some familiar names pop up. "

Lets fix what weve got st wrote on May 22, 2008 1:35 PM:

" Why not invest in eliminating the "Kensington strangler" and enhancing the existing SS line including increased parking and bus convenient bus transportation to and from the present stations. That seems far more reasonable and less expensive. It increases the viability and reliability of the system we already have. "

The only worse idea wrote on May 22, 2008 1:31 PM:

" The only idea worse than this is the millions of tax dollars we're pouring into the other white elephant ... the Gary airport. Who exactly is pulling the strings on these BAD ideas? What we need is a comprehensive study of the real transportation needs of the region... not more "shoot from the hip, pie in the sky projects." "

For a minute wrote on May 22, 2008 1:21 PM:

" Or two put aside the fact that it will cost tax payers money. Ok please. Now people are looking for ways to save money on gas correct. A train system is not perfect by any means, but it is a start. We need to do something about the high fuel costs and if a train can cut costs then I'm all for it. "

To Hey Curtis wrote on May 22, 2008 1:05 PM:

" I was not just talking about me. I know I made the choice to take the job in LaGrange, because the money I am making here is MUCH MORE than what the same job in Northwest Indiana pays. Actaully, close to $15,000 more per year.

It is not your responsibility to get me to and from my job, nor did I even mention anything of that nature in my posting. I drive back and forth from work, and am fine just doing just that.

What I was refering to was that the SS is going to be very needed in the near future. Our government needs to begin putting more focus on public transportation, especailly when the gas prices keep going up and up.

I take the responsibility for driving back and forth from work, but would like to see more public transportation to assist those who need help in paying for the gas.

Reread the posting three or four times before making a posting, because it is obvious you misread my posting. "

Valpo already has the train wrote on May 22, 2008 12:57 PM:

" The current SS runs ten miles north of Valpo-cant you empty heads understand that? Are you too lazy to drive ten miles heck we know you weren't smart enough to buy a house in Chesterton. "

GVT wrote on May 22, 2008 12:15 PM:

" Maybe George Van Til can help save the taxpayers money on the South Shore project. "

Hey Curtis wrote on May 22, 2008 12:13 PM:

" You commute to LaGrange so explain how a train to Chicago will help you? How do you get from Chi to LaGrange? Second, did I tell you to work in LaGrange and live in Valpo? NO? Why is it my responsibility to help you get to work? You can help me get to my job if you want. I live in Hammond and work in Chicago. Why not swing by my place, pick me up and drive me to the Hohman Ave. SS station? I take the 4:57 home, the train gets in Hammond at 5:40, you can pick me up and drop me off at the house on your way back to Valpo? What do ya think? "

South Shore Matron wrote on May 22, 2008 12:08 PM:

" What a joke! When I began riding the South Shore more than 25 years ago, it was a mismanaged, poorly scheduled train line that was the laughing stock of the community. Today, it is still a mismanaged, poorly scheduled train line that is the laughing stock of the community. When equipment fails (often), or perhaps some other disaster occurs (often), it is as if it has never ever happened before, and they have no clue what to do. It takes them hours to drum up an emergency plan. Imagine how long it will take them to build a whole new line! "

bye bye nwi wrote on May 22, 2008 12:06 PM:

" ha, glad i moved to indy...we got the tax break and don't have brainiacs like Visclosky trying to spend our money for us. "

Voltz wrote on May 22, 2008 12:05 PM:

" I dream of the day the SS goes through Munster and I won't have to get stuck by a freight train every day when I go to catch the train in Hammond. It will be well worth it; people that don't want it must not get out of their towns much. "

RG - Highland wrote on May 22, 2008 12:04 PM:

" By the time this ever gets off the ground, the environmental studies needed, the buying up of property, getting the track bed ready for use, lawsuits (there always are) etc etc it is 10 years away from happening. $5.00 a gallon of gas will be a bargain by then. Maybe Pete has some more bright ideas. "

Ok smarty wrote on May 22, 2008 11:59 AM:

" Just how will we get to and from the trains? Most people I know do not live or work anywhere near a train. We will still have to drive to and from the station and to the grocery store. Or will a train go there too? If you work in Chicago if you want a train then you pay for it! "

G Davis wrote on May 22, 2008 11:47 AM:

" This is going thru weither you like it or not! There is just too much money to be mad by people who have too much money aleady.And YOU and every other Serf who are living pay check to paycheck are going to pay for it!They will all be out soon giving the same old lies that they know most idiots will fall for .Jobs, the oldest lie in the book,We need it,Ya ok,We need it in case the Olympics come so We can make money off of it thru tourism,Ya right!Since most rails that this antique rides on are 100 years old and they haven't had a new engine in 30 years do you think they would buy new equipment?No they would just use the money to scam off of!They would just use ancient equipment and pay prices like it was new.thats why it can barley make it down the tracks!This is all about money for the big time players and it ain't you!They will scam on the big time payers, and that's us! "

No Rails wrote on May 22, 2008 11:38 AM:

" To: When Will,
There is one thing that America lacks and that is a nation wide public transportation system.

What are those Grey Hound Buses for and those trains that I can buy tickets for to travel all the way from Northern Indiana to California, with stops in between? I can also ride these north and south. East I'm not sure, cause I have no reason to go that way, but I would bet one can.
"

CJ Dunnaway wrote on May 22, 2008 11:26 AM:

" I say pay for my train with taxes from your poisonous gasoline. "

valpobob wrote on May 22, 2008 11:17 AM:

" i have lived in Valpo for 40 yrs, i have seen the Dummy come and go out of Valpo. it was stopped for lack of riders. the Pennnys and then conrail and amtrk. they all stopped to .
we dont need the SS. "

Mad Voter wrote on May 22, 2008 11:02 AM:

" Just remember people, government doesn't make money, they take it. We need a clean sweep from the top down with the politicians. Pete Visclosky says give the home owner a brake with taxes then wants to build a railroad. What a joke!!!Typical politician, talk out of both sides of their mouths. "

No More Taxes wrote on May 22, 2008 10:45 AM:

" Enough already! Didn't Senator Karen Tallian take a poll that showed 64% of the people are OPPOSED to this boondoggle on general principles? Then 84% said they are OPPOSED if they are required to pay a fuel/gas tax. One assumes that there would be 84% opposed to this fiasco based on ANY tax increase. If they want the dadgummed expansion then figure out a way to pay for it with existing revenues. This includes the federal government too! No more taxes. Fiscal responsibility!
"

The train has left the station... wrote on May 22, 2008 10:43 AM:

" and the ducks were all run over by it!! "

VOTE OUT THE LAKE COUNTY LEGISLATORS wrote on May 22, 2008 10:41 AM:

" The local legislative delegation supports the project, but coming up with local funding continues to be the sticking point, Rogers said.

AND THAT IS EXACTLY WHY WE HAVE TO VOTE ALL THESE IDIOTS OUT OF OFFICE!!

Rogers, Brown, Stevenson, Dobis, Mrvan, Smith, Lawson, etc. - THEY ALL HAVE TO GO!!

Matter of fact, I'll buy 'em all a one-way ticket to Chicago or South Bend (their choice) on the South Shore!! "

Munster Guy wrote on May 22, 2008 10:26 AM:

" Heck yeah run it through Munster...we will gladly take it and the conveniences it brings by getting us to and from the city. Munster folks are smart enough to know a good thing when we see it. Commerce is good people and if you haven't learned by now that the region is an extension of the greater Chicagoland metro area then please, drop the price on your house that wont sell and leave. Im sure there's a big-o piece a grass ya'll can buy somewheres down south. Then ya'll can drive em-pickups round and not worry bout no darn trains and dem taxed we dont want to pay. Fools. "

Curtis wrote on May 22, 2008 10:21 AM:

" You people sure will be crying for the South Shore extension as the gas prices continue to skyrocket higher and higher.

I would not be surprised if we saw close to $5.00 per gallon by the end of June. I wish I could take the South Shore train back and forth from work, but unfortunately, I commute from Valparaiso to Lagrange, IN (200+ miles round trip) to have a good paying job to support my family. "

NO NO NO. wrote on May 22, 2008 9:54 AM:

" In the past, both a "wheel tax" on automobile registrations and a gasoline tax have been raised as possible funding sources. Are these people out of their minds. We have had to cut down now on our driving, because of the price of gas. I can't afford now to drive to a train station, to catch one.
Don't these people know what no means? "

Sick of South Shore wrote on May 22, 2008 9:34 AM:

" So it begins again. Management for the South Shore cannot even maintain nor efficiently run the line they already have. Let's give them another to screw up.Oh, and great idea to keep taxing already bankrupt hard working hoosiers to fund more politicians and idiots lame brain ideas. Our St. Reps want to stop the canadian rail line from buying US steele tracks because they don't maintain the tracks they already have, why fund the south shore for the same reason. "

When will wrote on May 22, 2008 9:25 AM:

" People wake up and realize that a train system can and could help.
There is one thing that America lacks and that is a nation wide public transportation system. "

NWI resident wrote on May 22, 2008 8:31 AM:

" Man I wish someone would buy my house in Lake County...I want away from this nonsense "

a ready to move taxpayer wrote on May 22, 2008 7:37 AM:

" hmm-let me see, a gas and wheel tax, plus who knows what other taxes in order to fund a rail extension running on train beds of former lines that could not make of a go of it financially--that sounds just like total stupidity or worse???????? "

Already Taxed to Death wrote on May 22, 2008 7:21 AM:

" When will these people get it through their heads that we DON'T want nor need this boondoggle! Put it to referendum this November. "

Halt the ducks already wrote on May 22, 2008 7:08 AM:

" Yes, make sure you have all your "ducks in a row, alright", otherwise many will be sitting ducks. there is no way lake county residents should tab the bill by more taxation, we are already in a recession thanks to our commander in chief making all the "wrong" decisions. stop making us pay your bills already! residents are already leaving due to foreclosure, poor air quality, higher taxes, bad leadership, crimes, poor healthcare, etc. need more reasons? i didn't think so! "

Laughing...... wrote on May 22, 2008 1:20 AM:

" Yeah right, and by the time this all happens, it'll be another 30 or so years. They've been talking about expanding the South Shore into Munster for almost as long as I've lived in the area. Never going to happen!!! "

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