NM Capital Outlay of $850,000 for C&TS for FY 2013-14

[Dick Cowles]

Well, the NM Legislature just concluded this year's session, and the C&TS once again was included in the overall capital appropriations bill that passed both houses. Now, on to the Governor for signature. Always possible line-item vetos, but C&TS should be OK. Below is the language of the C&TS section of the bill (SB 60/H 337). An earlier $200,000 request for rehabilitating the Chama Depot did not make it through the sausage machine, but, considering the state of the economy I think getting $850,000 is reason for celebration. Huzzah!
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SECTION 12. CUMBRES AND TOLTEC SCENIC RAILROAD COMMISSION
PROJECT--SEVERANCE TAX BONDS.--Pursuant to the provisions of
Section 2 of the 2013 Work New Mexico Act, upon certification
by the Cumbres and Toltec scenic railroad commission that the
need exists for the issuance of the bonds, eight hundred fifty
thousand dollars ($850,000) is appropriated to the Cumbres and
Toltec scenic railroad commission for track and locomotive
upgrades and rehabilitation as required to comply with federal
railroad administration standards and for improvements and
rehabilitation of passenger cars for the Cumbres and Toltec
scenic railroad that operates between New Mexico and Colorado.

[Steve Forney]

Good news, indeed. Let's hope Colorado follows thru also, maybe with an Operating Budget grant.