News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 24, 2007

Commuter rail a hot topic at Arizona Rail Symposium

Tempe, Ariz.— With a projected growth rate of 109 percent, Arizona is expected to add 5.5 million new residents by 2030—mainly in Maricopa and Pima counties. How Arizonans get around in, and between, its two biggest metropolitan areas is the topic of the second annual Arizona Rail Symposium.

Elected officials and transit professionals from around the state will discuss the growing demand for transportation options, and whether the future of Arizona commuters includes commuter rail. Experts from commuter rail systems in Salt Lake City and the Sacramento, California, area will be among the speakers.

The highlight of the conference is expected to be a commuter rail panel discussion that will include state Sen.Thayer Verschoor, Rep. Steve Farley, Tempe Mayor Hugh Hallman, Pinal County Supervisor Sandie Smith, and ADOT Public Transportation Director Jim Dickey.

Commuter rail is rail service that typically uses existing freight railroad tracks and equipment. Stations are generally five to 10 miles apart and operations focus on peak-commute hours with less frequent service during off-peak hours. Commuter rail generally travels greater distances than light rail, at higher speeds.

The Second Annual AzTA Rail Symposium will be held 7:30 a.m.– 3 p.m., Sept. 28, at the Tempe Mission Palms hotel. The cost to attend the conference is $150 for AzTA members, $175 for non-members. Registration forms area available online at www.AzTA.org.

The Arizona Transit Association is a nonprofit, statewide organization dedicated to improving public transportation in all of Arizona’s communities. Membership includes local, regional and state governments; chambers of commerce, major employers, transit program operators; and contractor and suppliers.