FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement by
Richard F. Timmons, President and Treasurer
American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association
On the Selection of Joe Szabo as Federal Railroad Administrator

Washington, D.C., March 19, 2009 - The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) commends President Obama's choice of Joseph Szabo to head the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Szabo's railroad career spans work in both freight and passenger operations, as well as union leadership, which combined, prepare him to take the helm at FRA.

We are at a pivotal juncture in our nation's history as it relates to our economy, our infrastructure and our environment. Given the magnitude of the full range of pressing issues facing the country, we believe railroads, their employees, shippers ,suppliers and regulators all must work together toward a higher purpose and seek common solutions.

Freight railroads offer solutions to many of our nation's current and future challenges, and short lines, in particular, must be a national transportation priority. Short line and regional railroads operate safely and efficiently to provide good jobs, often in hard-hit rural communities. They serve as key links to the larger railroads and other transportation modes, and they take trucks off the highways to ease congestion and pollution. With this record of success to build upon, we look forward to working with Mr. Szabo and Secretary  LaHood to ensure short line and regional railroads continue to operate in the safest, most efficient manner to keep the nation moving forward.