FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

All Aboard Ohio’s advocacy drives inclusion of language in the state operating budget to rejoin the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission (MIPRC), bolstering current service while laying the groundwork for future enhancements.

COLUMBUS, OHIO – The Ohio House of Representatives has approved language in the state operating budget to rejoin the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission (MIPRC). This decisive move underscores Ohio’s commitment to modernizing transportation by enhancing existing rail services and positioning the state to secure critical federal investments through the Federal Railroad Administration’s Corridor Identification and Development (Corridor ID) Program.

“Rejoining MIPRC is a win for passenger rail in Ohio,” said Mitch Radakovich, State Board Chair of All Aboard Ohio. “This measure not only strengthens our current network but also lays the foundation for future enhancements. While our immediate focus is on improving service, our long-term vision includes key routes such as the dynamic 3C+D corridor connecting Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Dayton.”

All Aboard Ohio’s grassroots campaign — generating over 1,500 calls, emails, and in-person visits to legislators — was instrumental in advancing this legislation. Rejoining MIPRC enables Ohio to take a central role in advocating for better service along existing routes while strategically positioning the state to secure federal funding through the competitive Corridor ID program. This framework supports further study and future implementation of proposed routes, including not only the 3C+D corridor but also enhancements like the Cleveland-to-Toledo-Detroit and Chicago-to-Columbus-Pittsburgh corridors.

The House-passed language brings Ohio back into MIPRC, a coalition of Midwestern states committed to collaborative planning and sustainable passenger rail networks. This move paves the way for further federal investments that promise long-term economic benefits such as job creation, enhanced connectivity across major urban centers, and increased regional competitiveness.

As the state budget moves to the Senate for further review, All Aboard Ohio remains dedicated to ensuring the sustained inclusion of this critical funding—helping Ohio build on today’s improvements and setting the stage for a more connected Midwest.

About All Aboard Ohio 

All Aboard Ohio is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for enhanced public transportation and passenger rail services throughout Ohio. With decades of advocacy, the organization works diligently to connect communities, spur economic development, and promote clean, efficient transportation solutions that elevate the quality of life for all Ohioans. 

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