Update: Click Here for Photo Gallery From the Evening
Vermont Rail Action Network Annual Meeting Honors Flood Reconstruction
Awards Go to David Wulfson, Vermont Rail System, New England Central Railroad
For more information contact Christopher Parker, Vermont Rail Action Network Executive Director: (802) 536-4607
At its annual meeting in Montpelier on Monday, the Vermont Rail Action Network celebrated the railroad’s restoration from Irene and gave two awards to honor the Vermont Rail System’s investment in the tracks used by the Ethan Allen and to recognize the incredible teamwork of the flood restoration.
David Wulfson, President of the Vermont Rail System, was awarded the Jim Jefford’s award for Community Rail Advocate of the Year in recognition of his commitment to addressing the track issues that had caused timekeeping problems for Amtrak’s Ethan Allen.
Governor Peter Shumlin spoke, emphasizing his commitment to rail and its necessity for future environmental and economic realities and presented Wulfson with the Jefford’s award.
The Herb Ogden award for Rail Advocacy work was presented jointly to both railroads, the Vermont Rail System and the New England Central Railroad, in recognition of the heroic effort of recovering from Irene, which excepting one bridge took just three weeks.
Transportation Secretary Brian Searles presented the awards to the railroads, noting that the best advocacy is results.
The important role of the contractors who helped the railroads was highlighted by the Governor. Engineers Construction and R.J. Corman were present. Shumlin called the restoration “extraordinary.”
Freelance photojournalist Kevin Burkholder presented a slide show narrated by New England Central Railroad General Manager Steve Coomes of the flood damage and repair as well as “high-speed” rail construction. Burkholder’s photos were also part of a presentation by Dave Wulfson, President of Vermont Rail System about the flood.
Photos: Governor Peter Shumlin and Vermont Rail System President David Wulfson; Transportation Secretary Brian Searles with Wulfson and New England Central Railroad General Manager Steve Coomes.
Amtrak's Ethan Allen will be leaving Rutland 15 minutes later and making it's trip 15 minutes faster, thanks to summer trackwork by the Vermont Rail System between Whitehall and Rutland.
