South Shore expansion hits speed bump

Font Size:

BY PATRICK GUINANE
pguinane@nwitimes.com
317.637.9078 | Wednesday, February 13, 2008 | (85 comment(s))

INDIANAPOLIS | The legislative prospects for South Shore commuter rail expansion took a steep dive Tuesday amid an ugly display of regional factionalism.

The odds weren't great to start. Senate Tax Chairman Luke Kenley, R-Noblesville, began the more than two-hour hearing by restating his opposition to the plan to divert $350 million in state sales tax money toward the $1 billion plan to extend South Shore lines to Lowell and Valparaiso.

Kenley said he hopes to "do something" with the legislation next week. But that something could mean inserting a regional tax hike, which Rep. Chet Dobis, D-Merrillville, said would sound the death knell for the funding bill.

"We're at a point where I believe we need to take action now," Sen. Ed Charbonneau, R-Valparaiso, told Kenley and the rest of the Senate Tax and Fiscal Policy Committee. "My fear is that (the South Shore extension) will never be built."

Later testimony abetted that fear. Gary Mayor Rudy Clay and Sen. Earline Rogers, D-Gary, continued to press for a $130 million rail link to Gary/Chicago International Airport. The plea for that costly add-on led to testy exchanges with Sen. Frank Mrvan, a Hammond Democrat who serves on the tax panel.

East Chicago lobbyist John Aguilera joined Clay in expressing concern the massive rail expansion would sap funding for other projects overseen by the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority. East Chicago wants the RDA to help bankroll the city's $270 million shoreline redevelopment plan.

The RDA, which is funded by $3.5 million in annual contributions from East Chicago, Gary, Hammond, Lake County and Porter County, was created in 2005 to unite the region behind key infrastructure projects. It served to do just the opposite Tuesday.

"It seems to me that we have a disagreement between the whole region," said Sen. Connie Sipes, D-New Albany. "Is this the proper place to discuss this?"

After the hearing, Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr. said he was embarrassed that the region had "aired its dirty laundry" in front of the committee. McDermott worked behind the scenes in recent weeks to secure a commitment for his city to receive a gateway station linking current and future South Shore lines if the expansion plan moves forward.

Clay later said the hub should be built in his city. He and Rogers argue the South Shore expansion, which would require $150 million from the RDA, would sap funding from the Gary airport. But RDA Chairman Leigh Morris told the Senate committee that the RDA could shoulder the cost without shortchanging other commitments.

Kenley said $150 million from the RDA isn't enough local "skin in the game" to warrant $350 million from state coffers. He told U.S Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Ind., he doesn't "buy" the argument that the state should pony up the money just because $500 million in federal dollars are available for the project.

Kenley also noted that a 1 percent food and beverage sales tax in the four counties served by the South Shore could raise $15 million a year.

WHAT HAPPENED

The Senate Tax and Fiscal Policy Committee heard more than two hours of sometimes contentious testimony on legislation to extend South Shore commuter rail lines to Lowell and Valparaiso. The measure, House Bill 1220, would divert $350 million in state sales tax money -- $30 million annually -- toward the project. A vote could come next week, but Senate Tax Chairman Luke Kenley remains strongly opposed to the funding concept, suggesting a regional tax would be a better fit.

Back to story 85 comment(s)

Please note: Comments from readers will be screened and may not be posted immediately. If you don't see your comment perhaps:

It wasn't clear, concise or focused on the topic in the story.
It was a personal attack, vulgar, explicit or degrading, used actual or implied profanity or contained potentially libelous statements.
It accused someone of being guilty of a crime.
It promoted violence or illegal acts.
It contained telephone numbers or street addresses, or e-mail addresses and links to Web sites other than nwi.com or government agencies.

In no way do these comments represent the views of The Times or Lee Enterprises.

Passionate views, pointed criticism and critical thinking are welcome. Name-calling, crude and profane language and personal abuse are not welcome.

Reader comments will not be edited - they will be approved or declined. They may be used in the print edition of the newspaper.

If you feel a posted comment has violated these guidelines, please email our New Media team the commenter's name, the comment and a link to the article.

For more information please read our Terms of Service.

CJ Dunnaway wrote on Jun 11, 2008 11:32 AM:

" Several airlines have gone belly up and the remaining airlines are discontinuing service to many smaller cities. Go ahead - scrap a useful rail extension project and expand a useless airport. You can maintain your image as the pathetic, hayseed, laughing stock of America. "

Adam wrote on Jun 11, 2008 1:27 AM:

" NW Indiana is to Chicago as New Jersey was to Manhattan. 30 years ago any New Yorker cringed at the thought of moving to Jersey, now the parts of New Jersey 40 minutes plus out are thriving, their communities growing. East is the logical progression of future Chicago commuters. Like it or not, NW Indiana will continue to grow as commuters opt to go east rather than pay the price for the already congested Northwest and west suburbs. It's not if, it's how fast will this take place. It's already begun and legislators need to plan for this. "

Lowell to Chicago wrote on Mar 19, 2008 4:53 PM:

" I commute from Lowell to EC station (45 min) then on to Chicago (42 min hopefully). It was posted that the expansion would provide an 83 min. ride from lowell to Chicago. What century is this?? I do not see any "improvement" unless the travel times can be shortened. "

William Jamieson wrote on Feb 27, 2008 9:23 PM:

" To Skeptical, as a rider of the South Shore, I am truly insulted by your ignorant comment that "gangs" ride the South Shore. I can assure you that I and the other 99.99% of the 4.2 million riders are NOT gangbangers. Why don't you ride the South Shore for yourself and see what an easy and convenient way it is to get around? You might also observe that the people on the train don't have drugs, and that most of them are pretty amiable. You might want to actually see the facts before making such a stupid comment. Or you might not want to, and continue complaining about things that would be good for Northwest Indiana. People like you make me sick. "

Robert N Garity wrote on Feb 20, 2008 9:39 PM:

" As stated before there needs to be a new direction for commuter service. Monorail privately ran with private funds is the best way to get any further new services off the ground. we are becoming a bigger slave to oil and the public is tired of more taxes. by the way Monorail can be ran with solar and wind energy with electric backup. "

Reality vs perception wrote on Feb 20, 2008 6:48 PM:

" This whole thing has been a distraction from Visclosky's Marquette Greenway plan now Marquette Plan, which is going to be renamed again to the Marquette "vision" because plan makes it sound like they are actually going to go through with the idea.! Visclosky is in big industries court and will do everything in his power to keep people away from the Lake. That's why he's shifted his focus way south of the Lake! He want's BP, US Steel, Mittal and Nipsco to monopolize the lake without being a benefit to the residents of NWI. "

William Jamieson wrote on Feb 20, 2008 3:21 PM:

" I am just posting this to clarify that my previous post was addressed to To: Kevin, and not to Kevin. Sorry for any misunderstanding. "

William Jamieson wrote on Feb 20, 2008 3:18 PM:

" Kevin, this $1 billion price tag came from an indipendent research group called Policy Analytics LLC. I would sugguest you read their research, but the fact that you can't even spell the word "throats" leads me to believe that you would lack the intellegence to even comprehend such a study. Go back to 3rd Grade. "

To: Jack Frostman wrote on Feb 20, 2008 1:37 PM:

" Sir,
1. Can you substantiate your figures ?
2. Is that the current amount without
the anticipated additional riders ?
3. Also, what would you estimate the new ridership to bring in ?

"

Great Point, Jack wrote on Feb 20, 2008 1:15 PM:

" But, why pay a billion to expand something without really knowing the number of riders that will be served? Lets say all it does is shift 500 to 800 hundred commuters that already take the north county part of the line? We do not know and cannot say how many additional riders, if any, will ride. It would merely be a guess. So, given the above, we may pay a huge amount of money for NO benefit which means the cost of doing so negates a large portion of the money already coming in from the old line. I want facts, not guesses. "

JW wrote on Feb 20, 2008 12:42 PM:

" Can anyone say for fact where this 1billion price tag came from? Is it a guess,a bid price, Anyone know? You are willing to back a project with this price tag and you dont even know how this price came about. Go for it, I wont... "

Good point Jack wrote on Feb 20, 2008 12:03 PM:

" Interesting thing to consider Jack. Yes, let's take into consideration all the state taxes that are paid to IN by people who work in Chicago. If those people move back to IL, NWI will be hurting, big time. Housing prices will plummet, tax base goes to hell, small business close because 20-25% of their $$ business moves away, and then it starts to snow ball. "

Jack Frostman wrote on Feb 20, 2008 11:38 AM:

" Does anyone have a clue how much money is returned to the state of Indiana? from the people that work in Chicago and ride the South Shore? How about 300 million a year...yes thats right folks. So its not like your not getting a return on your money!! "

Tim wrote on Feb 20, 2008 9:41 AM:

" I've been against any expansion of the SS for a long time. It doesn't haave anything to do with being a C.A.V.E. man. Childish name calling is a poor excuse for discussion, no matter which side. It's interesting to hear the talk about how Illinois development is so great. Most of those people keep looking for greener pastures as development chases them further from the city. Chicago hasn't sufferered, but look at the immediate belt of cities around it, and look how that decay spreads. Illinois also had Daniel Burnham and the brilliant Forest Preserves. We don't. We need a plan that works for the lakefront cities. We need a plan that encourages and makes urban living desirable. We need a plan with long term solutions. Illinois does to, it's getting to be a mess. We do not need more plans that provide easy profit. "

To: Kevin wrote on Feb 20, 2008 8:04 AM:

" Ever ride the South Shore, Kevin? I didn't think so. "

To: Kevin wrote on Feb 20, 2008 7:42 AM:

" GO C.A.V.E people. its to bad this is the only place people can express their RIGHT to attack, complain,etc... If these theifs you call polticans would ask for public input or put it a vote in the fall election instead of CRAMMING IT DOWN OUR THROTS. maybe just maybe people would be more acceptive of this project, or any other hairbrain scam they want. If you can post where the $1billion price came from and how they came up with it, I for one will not comment on this post again.It has to be facts. Bet you cant. "

politicos as parents wrote on Feb 19, 2008 3:45 PM:

" I'm not a big fan of politicians, but they are a necessary evil. Regarding the SS extension, I see them as parents. As a kid, I hated the fact my parents always bought station wagons. I hated riding in them, being seen in them, therefore, a big waste of money that could be spent on a corvette or mustang. But, as a parent, I now understand the wisdom of the station wagon / mini van. It's about utility, efficiency and common sense. Same with the SS. No one wants to pay extra taxes, but for once, the politicos are trying to make a wise long term move that is based on utility, efficiency and common sense. "

Bubba wrote on Feb 19, 2008 1:06 PM:

" Ok... lets starighten out a few things....1. we all agree that the South Shore extension is a good idea. I think it is a good idea and would create jobs. BUT, I do not want it done with MY tax money. 2. Our "elected" officials want this done, even if the majority of us do not. They should listen to us, their constituents................so all those in favor of the South Shore extension, can pay for it in higher fares.... perhaps move somew of those better jobs from Chicago down here, OR MOVE TO ILLINOIS!! WE DO NOT WANT THE EXTENSION!!! "

Kevin wrote on Feb 19, 2008 12:40 PM:

" Once again, score one for the CAVE people - Citizen's Against Virtually Everything....It would be nice to be able to discuss differing points of views but apparently that's not what the bloggers who dominate sites like this want. Attack, sccuse and complain - now that's the only ticket NWI is interested in punching... "

Robertsdale Resident wrote on Feb 19, 2008 12:29 PM:

" The reason that Lake County is in the state it is in is because the people who live in North Lake County don't want anything to change. They don't want people to get to work, they don't want to provide transportation so people will move to their areas, they don't want restuarants, shopping areas. In order to go out to eat or shop if you live in Robertsdale you have to drive 20 minutes. They want their taxes to continue to rise because they have no businesses paying taxes. They don't want to develop NW Indiana. The guy above was right. He is lucky he moved out of Indiana. "

SS Rider wrote on Feb 19, 2008 12:05 PM:

" The people that moved to Lowell, CP and Valpo want a better school system and life for their children. There is no possible way you can find that north of Rout 30. Also, the people against the expansion are people who don't ride the SS and don't understand the need. The tax increase is a downfall, yes, but think outside the box and how over time it will benefit the area. "

Alternative solutions wrote on Feb 18, 2008 9:11 AM:

" Did Visclosky have people beating down his door demanding a South Shore Extension? No! All he had was his so called grass roots organization which is funded by the RDA being promoted in the paper. The issue slapping us in the face is the terrible environment people have to live with along our shoreline. Deal with this and our troubles will vanish along with the pollution! "

Grow Up and Play Nice wrote on Feb 16, 2008 5:58 PM:

" People need to get a clue...First, every negative comment on here refers to Gary, EC, etc. Have you forgotten that the SS runs through Miller, Ogden Dunes, Beverly Shores and Dune Park? Many of the properties are worth alot more than most in St. John, Munster, Valpo, etc. I'm confident the residents of these communities are OFFENDED at the superior attitude of many who have responded. This extension is not about accessibility, it's about segregation. The people who are complaining about the communities the SS currently services, do not live in racially diverse environments. The focus should be about cost and need. Yes, we need a reliable train to commute to/from Chicago. Yes, the line needs to be upgraded. No, an extension is not necessary or needed. The residents of Lowell, Valpo, etc. made a choice to live where public transportation is not convenient. Munster residents need to stop complaining as well. You have a train station VERY close to you. Grow up and play nice. It's just transportation. It's not as though you need to socialize with the commuters on the train. "

bomb it, pave it, stripe it wrote on Feb 16, 2008 3:00 AM:

" Jobs in steel mills for undereducated workers, will never return. Crown Point, Munster, Highland, Schereville, St. John, these cities have good real estate prices, because they have good schools. People will not move to a community with an ordinary school system. Hammond declined when the mills declined.

Folks, it is a CLASS WAR. All that money going to Halliburton, I mean 'the war'. We have no voice.

"

Future wrote on Feb 16, 2008 2:54 AM:

" ALL transportation is subsidized. Four million riders on the South Shore, do not drive on the under capable roads in NWI.

Now, corruption and greed in Gary and East Chicago... now THAT is another issue entirely... "

kb wrote on Feb 16, 2008 2:49 AM:

" Let's just stop this nonsense! We do not need this expansion. We should upgrade the current south shore infrastructure instead. We should not be trying to urbanize rural lake county! "

K wrote on Feb 15, 2008 8:43 PM:

" The South Shore expansion project should be put to a referendum vote as there appears to be so much controversy. Perhaps it would be better to have some funding to upgrade what is in existence already and additional security measures. If the expansion would pass - let's hope that there is enough money in the budget to pave the roads and fix the highway infrastructure for the commuters to even be able to drive to get to the railroad stations, because right now many of the major highways and secondary roads are in terrible condition and have been for some time. "

Agree with Valpo Attracting Residents wrote on Feb 15, 2008 6:14 PM:

" Exactly people move to Valpo, C.P., and Lowell knowing full well there is no train service. Train service to these cites and towns would not make life better for the residents bottom line. "

To Munster Resident wrote on Feb 15, 2008 4:06 PM:

" Well, no one really cares about you driving all the way to Valparaiso. The traffic is always bad going the opposite way, anyway. I do it everyday, too, so stop being so dramatic! I bet if someone commented on your driving, they would say you were the nut on the road. Like it's so hard to go down Indy and then left on 30 all the way to Valpo, or however you get there. It's a half hour or so ride. You sound more like a lazy individual than someone with a valid point. If you lived and worked farther, then it would make sense. I'm not for the expansion either. I used to ride the train into Chicago when I worked there. If anything, they need to update and upgrade the system. "

john boy wrote on Feb 15, 2008 1:47 PM:

" Dump the Train. There is no need for another way to get to Chicago because you can drive to the train station.
And if you can,t afford to do that then what,s the point of going to Chicago???
Who wants to pay for it??? Double the fares on the train riders now and wait and see what happens next.
"

regional agenda WingSPREAD wrote on Feb 15, 2008 1:33 PM:

" Just a tidbit:

"This is the first time in the nation that four adjacent regional planning agencies covering all or parts of 17 counties in three states have come together in this kind of partnership, and it can serve as a model for similar agreements in other areas of the country," said NIPC President Herbert T. Schumann. "We recognize that the future of the greater Chicago metropolitan region depends upon initiatives that extend beyond state borders." "

4.2 Million Riders wrote on Feb 15, 2008 11:01 AM:

" Four million riders a year. The present South Shore Line is carrying over 4 million riders per year. Hmm, "

Tallian needs to go too! wrote on Feb 15, 2008 9:40 AM:

" Now Senator Tallian thinks she can come and save the train deception scheme. She's been part of the political machine for decades. She's against the people too. She wants power by spending a billion of our money too. She needs to go! "

Inform wrote on Feb 15, 2008 9:28 AM:

" Politicians take care of constituents that have "supported" them...and that means M O N E Y! The rude bottom line!
They don't care about people or the problems of taxation to the middle class working family, health insurance to the uninsured worker, how the worker ruins axles on bad roads, or is hi-jacked in areas on the way to work, or is killed in businesses or schools that have no security system in place..... "

Skeptical wrote on Feb 15, 2008 9:19 AM:

" Cheaper public transportation for gangs who ride the South Shore right now between South Bend and Chicago to deliver drugs! South Shore used to be upscale, now the line runs through the most destitute run down areas of Chicago and Northwest Indiana. Most people want the privacy of their own vehicle...politicians should solve the improvement to roads, just look at the potholes and congestion! The South Shore line serves areas where the people with the money had exited to suburbia years ago, so the trick is to commit the suburbia who don't need it to line the politicians' pockets through contracts for construction and maintenance... .which has proven to be a money maker for Chicago politicians. "

you crazy people wrote on Feb 15, 2008 8:58 AM:

" People please stop posting, "I don't use the train, so why should I pay for it." My kids don't go to school yet, I've never had a fire, there are many roads I do not drive on, I've never used many of the parks in the region, etc, etc, etc. Why should I pay tax money for schools, a fire dept, roads, parks and rec depts. Make the people who use them pay more money. Lets charge a toll for every service that people use, that would be more fair. We need to take the SS to better jobs because our local government legislators sure as heck aren't going to do anything to bring new jobs to the region. Quit your belly-aching and focus your negative energy on something more productive, like getting the 1% property tax pushed through. "

Silly Sally wrote on Feb 15, 2008 8:50 AM:

" I'm not sure why people in favor of the SS expansion even post on this board. The naysayers just end up jumping all over them with half-baked reasons why the expansion shouldn't go through. NWI has always been the laughing stock of Indiana legislature, which is why we never move forward with any economically progressive projects. Our politicians fight amongst themselves as the rest of the state just laughs at us and takes our tax money. "

Yubba Bubba wrote on Feb 15, 2008 8:46 AM:

" Please read the post by 'common sense.' This some up the whole darn thing. Indy just laughs at us, they take our money and blow it on goofy projects (ie the new football stadium). People in NWI don't look to the future and that is why the job market here sucks and the region is econmically stagnant. These same people argue anytime a project comes up that will move us in the right direction just because it will cost more tax money. People, wake up, we need to move forward. Instead of fight progress, fight for our local government to use our tax dollars correctly. About half the excuses on this board are not well thought out or just plain idiotic. Please really think about the benefits the SS expansion will bring. "

BIGGER PLAN? wrote on Feb 15, 2008 8:34 AM:

" I had stumbled upon the WINGSPREAD TRI-STATE REGIONAL ACCORD quite by accident. This accord was THE FIRST of its kind signed in OUR NATION.

Do a search, and check it out ... quite enlightening!

I smell a rat! "

SS Rider wrote on Feb 14, 2008 2:17 PM:

" 7:14 train due into East Chicago just kept going this morning. It seems it was having mechanical difficulties. I sure hope the brakes on that train worked. "

To Munster Resident wrote on Feb 14, 2008 1:12 PM:

" You said that the areas mentioned went bad because "no one wanted to fight the gangs" - you do realize that it is just a matter of time before Munster is trying to "fight the gangs" right?????

You can disagree all you want - BUT IT WILL HAPPEN. Lansing use to be a decent area and look what is happening there - and just think - Lansing is your neighbor!! "

just a thought wrote on Feb 14, 2008 12:47 PM:

" I'm not alone on this issue, I moved away from the Hammond area simply to escape the congestion and hectic conditions of living in an extremely densely populated area - other people are moving to Crown Point and St. John and Valparaiso to escape the congestion of densely urbanized areas that have heavy traffic, buses, taxis and trains at every turn...and now, you want to add trains and buses to these havens! Give me a break, who does the expansion really benefit? Oh yeah, that would be the politicians and the businesses in Chicago.

Who really benefits from the expansion? Surely not the residents of NW Indiana who will have their land abused, easements abused and properties devalueized, and then taxed for it too.

If the South Shore wants to expand, let them secure their funding from private enterprises, not the public. We've already been hit with enough taxes! "

JW wrote on Feb 14, 2008 11:27 AM:

" Ah, the region was well represented once again. Just for the record I did not vote for anyone of these slugs that went to Indy. and aruged among themself. what kind of morons did you people vote for? I hope this kills this SS waste of money. Why dont you people look up "THE BRIDGE TO NOWHERE" in Alaska. This is the exact same thing. Guess what.Ted Stevens tried to shove it down peoples throts, but they VOTED it down. Now Mr. Stevens is indided. "

Catherine wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:56 AM:

" I have been commuting daily on the South Shore for 7 years. Forget the expansion, upgrade the current line. Again my train was late, 27 min late. My commute total commute time is 2 hours and 19 min with no delays, one way. I need to leave my house even earlier to get to work on time with all the delays. A 2-3 hour commute into the city sucks your life away. Express trains would be great. How about seats that don't harm your back or knees.

There are no decent paying jobs in NW Indiana. All of this is pointing me to move out of the area.

PS. The 8:45 didn't run Tues. night. Commuters had to wait for the 11:15PM to get home. "

EC resident wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:39 AM:

" To the "visionary" who said East Chicago wants the money to build a local development project that no wants:

No one goes to the casino on EC's lakefront? (Try finding parking).

No one has a boat at the EC Marina on the lakefront? (Try getting a slip (there's a waiting list)).

No one attends the many activities on the lakefront Boardwalk? (Standing room only at every event).

No one enjoys the lakefront beach? (I dare you to find a spot for your blankie on a summer's day). "

Jeff C. wrote on Feb 14, 2008 8:56 AM:

" Our local politicians may lack common sense but it's good to see the down state politicians do. Maybe the locals are getting a little something extra, under the table, for ramming this down our throats that the the others are not getting. Visklosky, Mrvan, you both have lost my vote. I support you opponent, whomever he/she may be. "

People have spoken wrote on Feb 14, 2008 6:54 AM:

" Obama will look into the permits being issued by Indiana to allow more pollution into Lake Michigan. This is the key to turning things around here. Good things are just around the corner for all of us! "

Kim wrote on Feb 14, 2008 5:47 AM:

" The Bozos that went to Indianapolis to state their case for the South Shore expansion really convinced downstate legislators what kind of politicians we vote in every time. No wonder they hate us. "

Seriously.... wrote on Feb 14, 2008 12:04 AM:

" It's gotten to a point, I don't even know what to say about this anymore. The whole thing is a joke. Gary airport is a joke. They've had plenty of opportunity to do something with that airport, and the city blew it. It should just shut down all together. And what is the hurry and the serious need for a South Shore extension? I think what the politicians want, is if it happens, they want to take the credit for it, and that's all. They could care less if it happens, but if it does, better for them. I think I'll sit back and wait....'cause it may take years before anything happens. I have a feeling if and when they start the project, funding will run out and we'll end up paying more in raised taxes....WHAT DO YO THINK??? "

Munster resident wants SS wrote on Feb 14, 2008 12:01 AM:

" I would happily get on a train here in Munster and ride to Valpo than drive my car for an hour trying to avoid people who have no clue how to drive. Traffic is getting more and more congested and you people want to keep your heads in the sand about it. Maybe people in Hammond, EC, and Gary dont want the SS, but quite a few of us in Munster do. Dont ever say no one unless you know for sure NO ONE wants it. Don't speak for me. Those three did not go "bad" because of the SS. They went bad because no one wanted to stop the gangs. The SS was in Hammond long before the gangs infested and Hammond was a very prosperous city. "

No Plan Just deception wrote on Feb 13, 2008 4:40 PM:

" The fact that they needed to do a $400,000 study to see if hooking up to the Gary airport was a good idea shows this thing wasn't planned from the beginning. We need to enforce strict pollution standards to make East Chicago, Hammond and Gary attractive to economic development, that is all. It won't cost us a penny. it will cost BP, US Steel , Mittal and NIPSCo a small fraction of their enormous profits. "

Piece of the Olympic Pie? wrote on Feb 13, 2008 3:40 PM:

" Cars are a liberating American experience. If you ride the train you don't heve the luxury of just going where ever you want. I know people ride the South Shore but I just don't see it taking off like they say adding so many new riders. Is this something that Mayor Daily has tried to push on us for the Olympic bid? "

Could this be a problem? wrote on Feb 13, 2008 3:33 PM:

" Is the South Shore also a way to attract crime? While you get on to go to work in Chicago does someone somewhere else get on to go to your house or your neighbors to rob it? "

The South sHore wrote on Feb 13, 2008 3:30 PM:

" The train is just a way to try and influence more people to move from Illinois to here. So they can live here and not spend so much to get to work ie gas and parking. There is no benefit of a new train to any existing community except those at the ends of the line. It brings more growth and congestion, and they never lower taxes because there are more people. They raise them to pay for municipalities. And these towns looking to "revitalize" their downtown areas. No one ever gets on the train for the purpose of stopping and shopping in Hegwish or East Chicago. "

The Great Wizard of Oz wrote on Feb 13, 2008 2:50 PM:

" So a REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT goes by the wayside because East Chicago wants the money to build a LOCAL DEVELOPMENT project that no one wants.

BEEEEUTEEEFULL!!!

"

Common Sense wrote on Feb 13, 2008 1:25 PM:

" Just another example of how NWI will drown in it's own self pitty. Good job looking like clowns. Indianapolis does not care what goes on in NWI, when is everyone going to get a clue on this? Try looking up INDY info on the projects they blow money on down state that YOU have already paid for. Things not in local news that you have and continue to pay for, of no benefit to NWI no less. Keep in the dark, live in the past and you will have NO future. "

Valpo Attracting Residents wrote on Feb 13, 2008 12:58 PM:

" Valpo, Crown Point, Lowell are all attracting residents now and they have no train service. These people moved there knowing there is no train service so the argument that more people will have access to higher Chicago wages is a bogus as Visklosky's hair piece. Somehow, those of us with jobs downtown seem to get to a train station now and the others continue to drive as they will if/when this undependable dinosaur is expanded. "

Valpo former SS commuter wrote on Feb 13, 2008 12:05 PM:

" This is fantastic news! Let's watch the Valpo buses fail first with no riders since the money has been approved. And why aren't those V-Line buses going to Dune Park if there is the big traffic congestion problem and so many people without access to the jobs? Way cheaper way to go as a test. "

Brian wrote on Feb 13, 2008 11:49 AM:

" If Hammond, East Chicago, and Gary were to make their cities more desirable to live in people wouldn't need the expansion. Most people don't go to college and work hard to come home to a low income and high crime area. "

Caring Hammond Tax Payer wrote on Feb 13, 2008 11:32 AM:

" No one In NWI wants anything to do with this South Shore expansion. Why does the Governor and other Politicians understand this. It is to expensive and our cities have more important things that need to be done. Beside we can not afford 1 Million dollars for the expansion. I have never seen any thing build for the amount quoted. They always have huge over runs. Like the Lost Marsh Golf course went 45 million over budget. Don't let Mitch or anyone else fool you on the cost for this project. Beside for the very few 1000 new rider (if that many) 1 Million is way to much to pay. "

Thank God I am not an Indiana Resident wrote on Feb 13, 2008 11:22 AM:

" The State of Indiana is a joke!! Thank God I got out of there! "

Daily South Shore Rider wrote on Feb 13, 2008 11:17 AM:

" The South Shore cannot operate the current lines on time and should prove that they can before any legislation comes through for expansion.

I challenge any legislator or person who is for the expansion to get out onto the platforms in the brutal weather conditions and have to wait for the train to come. An occasional late train is bound to happen, but nearly every day, there are 5,000 of who need to get to their job on time, and instead have to listen to the excuse "du jour" why the train is late.

I am really surprised the South Shore hasn't gone broke with all the "late slips" that they have to print and hand out to the passengers more often than not.

Use the money to attact businesses and decent paying jobs so that people don't have to spend 3 hours of their day commuting to and from Chicago. There are no major businesses around any of the South Shore stations in East Chicago, Hammond or Hegewisch, so where is the evidence that all these restaurants,coffee houses, etc. will just sprout up once a station is built. "

cc wrote on Feb 13, 2008 11:13 AM:

" We should fix the roads that lead to the train station before we expand the railroad! I've gone through 2 new tires this winter NWI politicians... "

Gary politicians stick it to NWI again wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:57 AM:

" They are showing they selffish ignornance. The SS would bring growth and prosperity to the surrounding towns and communities. Why can't these fools let the rest of us prosper? We have supported them for years and all they have done is siphon our tax dollars for Gary. Also, the rest of the state must understand this fool Harper does not speak for Lake County residents. Pass this bill!!!!! "

D. Villarreal wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:35 AM:

" NO S.S. EXTENSION!! I'm a daily rider to Chicago (since '98) and bought my house in Hammond 2 years JUST SO I WOULDN'T ADD 20-30 minutes into my commute!!
In regards to: "We now look like a laughing stock in the Indiana legislature"; haven't the cities already made an a%* of themselves before!?! Instead of trying to divert more people into the City of Chicago, why not "invest" that money in OUR cities. Make me WANT to work in Indiana! We ALL have bills to pay; pay us WELL so we can accomplish that while still keeping our money where we live!! Freakin politics; I'm so tired of "You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours!!" MY BACK ITCHES TOO!! "

TMGIPPER wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:31 AM:

" MAYBE WE SHOULD TAKE A LESSON FROM SOUTH
BEND,IND? THE AIRPORT AND RAIL STATION HAS WORKED FINE THERE WAKE UP PEOPLE!!! "

Daily Commuter wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:16 AM:

" I ride the train every morning to Chicago, and I know how important it is for the expansion.

Maybe if we sold our Toll Road for more money, we wouldn't have this funding issue to expand the South Shore line.... "

BB wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:12 AM:

" I love how every time the government wants to improve the infrastructure of NWI everybody complains. If your happy living in the below average areas of East Chicago, Gary and Hammond that's fine, but don't try to bring down the rest of the region with you. Anyone who thinks increased public transportation will have anything but a positive impact on the area is terribly mistaken. When the economy of NWI was at it's strongest there were railroad tracks everywhere to support manufacturing facilities, now that the manufacturing sector is dwarfed by the service sector new means of transportation needs to be added to deliver employees to their employers. "

Unders Tanecon wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:07 AM:

" Hammond Resident: There are many people that want this improvement in our transportaion system. It is key to future economic development. Filling potholes and repairing your sidewalk is a function of local government, but will do nothing to improve the economy of the area. South county needs to expand its economy so that their taxes can be spent on providing YOU with more free services. YOU need more +$100K employees out of Chicago to pay for your services. These people don't just pay for their tickets. they pay income, sales, property taxes as well. They are new taxpayers moving from Illinois. Or Hoosiers not moving to Illinois. Why can't you understand this? "

Frank wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:06 AM:

" Its a question of economics .. does NW Indiana want to join in the economic growth of the midwest, or does it want to remain in the dustbowl .. look at the employment statistics .. we are willing to increase pollution for 80 long tem jobs, because 80 long term jobs seems like the end of the rainbow .. How about thousands of new jobs? "

surprised wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:56 AM:

" If you're going to divert monies from Indianapolis to other regional areas in Northwest and/or Northcentral Indiana then I'm for it; but, if you want to raise taxes in Northwest Indiana to pay for the extension of a commuter system that's a private enterprise, then I'm definitely opposed to the expansion. Isn't it bad enough that the automotive emissions gig is penalizing the residents of Lake and Porter counties when the rest of the state gets a free ride? Why do the lion's share of all our tax dollars end up in Indianapolis? I thought those tax dollars were supposed to benefit the entire state. "

Endo Daride wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:52 AM:

" After the county and every town in the county threw in behind the airport, committing time, energy and money, this is how Gary stabs us in the back again. there is a lot more work and money going to that airport. Congressman Visclosky is working dilligently for funding and rail relocation to finish the expansion. I expect he is thoroughly embarrassed. If Clay and Rogers think that they are going to play hardball to extort more money for Gary, I say, cut off every last stinking dime going to that city. No more support for the airport. Say yes to Peotone and let Gary sink. "

Say no to wasteful spending wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:49 AM:

" Until the political machine is cleaned up in NWI we shouldn't let them spend a dime! "

david wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:45 AM:

" what a shame. i guess all the other rda projects that were to benefit gary weren't good enough. "

lifer wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:42 AM:

" It's a shame we looked like a bunch of idiots in front of the senate, but thank goodness it's now public that not all of NW Indiana wants this rail extension. Before anybody agrees to anything, put this thing to a referendum and let the people vote. There is no reason this couldn't be added to the May primary. "

Clueless No-wheres-ville wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:26 AM:

" The rest of Indiana doesn't have a clue about the needs of an urban area. The EC and Gary concerns are legitimate, but any indication of Region disagreement will be taken advantage of by those from the rest of the state. "

not good wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:21 AM:

" Since Gary, East Chicago, and Hammond want to be babies about al of this, how about NICTD moves it's trains onto the east and west Canadian National tracks through Highland, Griffith, Munster, Lansing, Merrillville, Hobart, and into Valparaiso. They are going to have less traffic anyways with the new EJ&E purchase. NICTD can then connect with the CSX tracks in Dyer to go to Lowell or even use the Norfolk Southern tracks from Highland to go South. Then bye, bye, E.C., Gary, and Hammond. Oh by the way the Gary airport is a joke. "

Good! wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:18 AM:

" Someone with some common sense finally speaks up. This project was being shoved down our throats and now it has slowed. Put it to a vote before enacting any food and beverage tax also. "

Robertsdale Resident wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:15 AM:

" As usual we have leaders who stall projects and don't look to the future. But, of course when your Rudy's age what's the difference! Thanks a lot! "

Hammond Resident wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:07 AM:

" No one In NWI wants anything to do with this South Shore expansion. Why does the Governor understand this. It is to expensive and our cities have more important things that need to be done. Beside we can not afford over 1 Million dollars for the expansion, It will run over. Expansions always run over budget. Be careful what you wish for. I have never seen any thing build for the amount quoted. They always have over runs. Like the Lost Marsh Golf course went 45 million over budget. Don't let Mitch or anyone else fool you on the cost for this project. Beside for the very few 1000 new rider (if that many) 1 Million is way to much to pay. "

Feeto Clay wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:06 AM:

" Over the decades, there was never a problem using state funds for all of the massive highway construction / reconstruction in and around Indianapolis. Or the airport. Or the parks systems. Always money for Marion County projects. As usual, Lake is short changed. And, as usual, Gary is a drag on the county. Clay wants Gary to be the hub? What a joke! If Lake misses this opportunity, we might as well plow it over and turn it all into a parking lot for Chicago. "

bob wrote on Feb 13, 2008 7:33 AM:

" Not that I am for the expansion but, this is just another example of an Indianapolis area legislator dictating what they think is best for NW Indiana. If this project was to run trains from downtown Indy to Noblesville, Sen Kenley would be all for using state tax dollars to do it. He'd probably even tax the region more. Thanks Sen Kenley, why dont you visit the area soon... "

concerned Griffith Property Owner wrote on Feb 13, 2008 6:55 AM:

" Thanks EC and Gary - great job! NOT!

We now look like a laughing stock in the Indiana legislature. "

Vapo Taxpayer wrote on Feb 13, 2008 5:33 AM:

" Why does it take a Senator from the opposite end of the state to tell us we haven't done our homework and come up with the total cost of all RDA projects?

The "South Shore project" is percieved by some to be the new economic engine. The maybe jobs in Chicago are just an excuse. NWI is fighting over who gets which piece of the free money pie.

The RDA has too many blue sky pie projects already. The NWI guys in Indy just made a BOZO pie fight; we should be embarrassed. Indy will never trust us now and they know it will take real taxes to make RDA work. "

TD2 wrote on Feb 13, 2008 1:01 AM:

" Thank goodness someone is injecting some common sense into this issue. The taxpayers of Indiana can't afford this. "

Back to story 85 comment(s)

Post a comment Once your comments are approved, they will appear here.

Marketplace

Sections

Services

Other Publications

Search