Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Hosts Top Federal Railroad Administration Official, Amit Bose, During Community Town Hall
Media Contact: Brian Garcia | Brian.Garcia@mail.house.gov | (202) 227-0330
Houston, Texas – Today, Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29) hosted the Federal Railroad Administration's (FRA) top official, Administrator Amit Bose, during a well-attended community rail train town hall in Houston, Texas.
The town hall provided constituents an opportunity to speak directly to the FRA's head decision maker on how Houston's rail trains are impacting their lives. During the town hall, FRA Administrator Bose and Congresswoman Garcia heard several personal experiences from residents negatively impacted by rail trains.
"Many speakers expressed frustrations with rail trains blocking their commutes to work, preventing first responders from passing during emergencies, and causing students to literally climb over or crawl under the train cart on their way to school," said Congresswoman Garcia.
"Numerous residents vividly shared these dangerous situations that they see on a daily basis caused by rail trains," added Congresswoman Garcia. "Ensuring that their voices, my constituents, are heard by their federal government leaders is one my greatest priorities. I'm grateful these residents took the time out of their busy lives to shine a light on this issue. I thank FRA Administrator Amit Bose for listening to my constituents, and I look forward to learning about the FRA's recommendations."
Data shows train delays in emergency situations are on the rise. In 2019 and 2020, the Houston Fire Department experienced more than 900 delays both years due to trains. That number skyrocketed to nearly 1,400 delays in 2021, putting residents in serious risk.
The community town hall took place at Yolanda Black Navarro Middle School, located at 5100 Polk Street, Houston, Texas 77023. A recording of the event can be viewed here.
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Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in November 2018, becoming the first Latina ever to represent the Texas 29th Congressional District. She serves on the House Judiciary, Financial Services, and Armed Services Committees.