HOUSE MEMORIAL 50

51st legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2013

INTRODUCED BY

Sheryl Williams Stapleton

A MEMORIAL

REQUESTING THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT TO ANALYZE THE BENEFITS OF PURCHASING THE RATON PASS TRAIN TRACKS.

     WHEREAS, the railroad tracks from Raton pass to Anthony are a great ready-made asset for the state; and

     WHEREAS, ownership of the tracks could be an economic benefit to the state by serving the public and providing a financial investment return; and

     WHEREAS, the tracks are an excellent complement to the state's other transportation networks, and owning the tracks could position the state to ride the coming rebirth of passenger and freight railways; and

     WHEREAS, modern rails generate many economic, environmental and social benefits, including fuel and energy economy; long vehicle life; long right-of-way life; easier security through deployment of law enforcement; thrifty use of land and materials; sensible development; historic preservation; usefulness to people of all ages, ethnicities and economic status; compatibility with renewable energy; reduced vehicle tire disposal; and smooth, safe, timely rides; and

     WHEREAS, the state is very close to realizing all of the above benefits if it makes use of the over four hundred miles of tracks already in place;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the economic development department be requested to conduct a market analysis to examine the potential economic and job creation benefits of the state purchasing the railroad tracks from Raton pass to Anthony; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to the secretary of economic development.

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