Gov. Rick Snyder Submits Letter Supporting Troy Transit Center

Gov. Rick Snyder on Friday afternoon submitted a letter of support for the to Troy Mayor Janice Daniels and members of Troy City Council.

In the letter, Snyder writes:

"As you are aware, the City of Troy was awarded a contract with the State of Michigan on September 12, 2011 for the final design and construction of a multi-modal facility. This facility will be a gateway to the intercity passenger rail system and will provide vital economic benefits in the short- and long-term. ... The project will be an asset to the City of Troy and the entire state. The exposure and economic benefit the city will receive through a nationwide connection to Chicago and points beyond will be extremely beneficial."

Snyder goes on to highlight the positive impact he believes the project will have on the economy. He ends by writing: "Not only is this project good for Michigan, it is important for the people and the economic future of Troy. I encourage you to take the next step in moving forward with this project."

“We’re very pleased with this development," said President Michele Hodges, who had advocated for the project, "and we think it’s an indication of the broad base of support that exists for this project.”

Troy Councilman Dane Slater said: "It’s a positive response, a positive letter in support, and I agree with the governor. I hope the governor’s letter has an impact on the vote.”

Slater has been a supporter of the project.

Troy Councilman Jim Campbell, also a supporter of the project, said: "I think it’s the icing on the cake that the governor is behind us. ... I think it’s the right thing to do for Troy."

Daniels, reached by phone about 4:10 p.m., said she had not read the letter yet, and would not comment.

Troy Residents Unified for a Strong Troy sent this comment via email after seeing the news on Troy Patch:  "On behalf of TRUST (Troy Residents Unified for a Strong Troy), we are extremely pleased with Governor Snyder's endorsement of the Transit Center."

To view the letter in its entirety, please see the attached pdf file.

For complete coverage of the Troy Transit Center, click here.