Dearborn, MI - Congressman John D. Dingell (D-MI15) met with representatives from the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) and the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) today to discuss transportation planning in Southeast Michigan. Congressman Dingell sought input from experts on transportation in the region, so that he will be able to ensure that the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill benefits his constituents in Michigan’s 15th Congressional District.

“I’m always happy to meet with my friends at SMART and SEMCOG,” said Congressman Dingell. “SMART and SEMCOG are experts in their field and I always value their opinion on what I can do to help Southeast Michigan address its ongoing transportation needs now and in the future.”

SMART and SEMCOG are both critical groups in regional planning for Southeast Michigan. SMART currently provides bus service across the region, including the cities of Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Inkster, Romulus and Taylor. Congressman Dingell has long supported SMART’s efforts to convert its fleet to alternative fuel vehicles and he worked with Congresswoman Carolyn Kilpatrick (D-MI13) to secure $1.5 million for alternative fuel vehicles for SMART, under the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010. H.R. 3288 passed the House of Representatives on July 23 by a vote of 256-168. Congressman Dingell will work with Senators Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow to ensure that the funding is maintained in the Senate version of the bill.

SEMCOG is responsible for developing and coordinating the region’s long-term plans for its transportation system and is involved in the ongoing discussion of rail transportation in the area, including proposed high-speed train service between Detroit and Ann Arbor. Further, SEMCOG serves as a valuable resource to the communities of the 15th District and will be able to provide Congressman Dingell with valuable information about future transportation planning in the region.

“As the House considers the Surface Transportation Reauthorization Act of 2009, it is important that I be in touch with my communities, public transportation entities and regional planning organizations to ensure that their needs are met. I am committed to supporting Southeast Michigan’s efforts to expand public transportation options,” said Congressman Dingell. “Transportation solutions will be a critical component of our Michigan’s economic recovery by improving the quality of our infrastructure and creating much needed jobs in our region.”

During the meeting with SMART officials, Congressman Dingell was presented with a plaque for his “long commitment to transportation in Southeast Michigan and SMART.” The Congressman appreciates the organization’s praise and promised to continue working on their behalf in Washington.