On February 12, 2025 I testified before the Ohio House Transportation Committee on behalf of All Aboard Ohio, in support of an amendment to House Bill 54 that would reinstate and fund Ohio’s membership in the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission. A recording is on the Ohio Channel. The written testimony follows.
Chair Willis, Vice Chair Daniels, Ranking Member Grim, and members of the Ohio House Transportation Committee. My name is Mitch Radakovich, and I am here today on behalf of All Aboard Ohio, the largest transportation advocacy organization in Ohio, with more than fifty years of history. We urge your support for an amendment to House Bill 54 that would reinstate and fund Ohio’s membership in the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission (MIPRC).
MIPRC is the subdivision of the Midwest Council of State Governments that represents the interests of passenger rail. It serves as a forum where Midwestern states work together on the funding, development, and operation of rail routes, connecting our region and making sure we have a voice in national rail discussions.
I had the privilege of attending MIPRC’s annual meeting last November in St. Paul, Minnesota, where I met legislators, transportation administrators, and planners from states like Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, and Kansas. These states are making real progress in expanding and improving their passenger rail systems. I have since shared what I learned with our membership and with Ohio’s local and state transportation partners. Those lessons apply to any of the proposed routes in our state.
While I was able to attend as an observer, Ohio was absent from the official discussions because we are no longer a member. When the Federal Railroad Administration spoke about projects in member states, Ohio’s projects were not mentioned. When Amtrak shared plans for shared equipment strategies that could reduce costs, Ohio was not part of the conversation. Without a seat at the table, we risk missing critical funding opportunities and making costly missteps as we work through the planning process. During the meeting, Republican Kansas State Senator Carolyn McGinn said, “one of the best things Kansas did was join MIPRC.”
The cost of membership? Just $25,000 per year, less than the cost of a slightly used Honda Accord. The return will be immense, ensuring Ohio is plugged into the federal and regional discussions that will shape the future of passenger rail. Rejoining MIPRC benefits Ohio even if no additional routes are ever constructed. A presence in MIPRC also gives Ohio the ability to advocate for daily and daylight service along our three existing routes, which would make rail a much more viable choice for our residents.
By passing this amendment and rejoining MIPRC, Ohio’s legislature can position the state for a more connected, competitive, and forward-looking future. Mr. Chairman and members of the committee, thank you for your time. I am happy to answer any questions.