85.06 Rail passenger service assistance and promotion.

(1) Definitions. In this section:

(a) “Amtrak" means the national railroad passenger corporation.

(b) “Local governmental unit" has the meaning given in s. 59.72 (1) (c).

(2) Program. The department shall administer a rail passenger service assistance and promotion program and may do any of the following:

(a) Conduct financial and technical planning for rail passenger service in this state and evaluate existing rail passenger service.

(b) Contract with Amtrak, railroads or other persons to provide rail passenger service or support services, equipment, station improvements, passenger platforms, equipment maintenance shops, parking areas or other support facilities for rail passenger service. The contract may provide for the sale or lease of any equipment or facilities acquired by the department under par. (g). Notwithstanding s. 16.75 (1) and (2m), the department may contract under this paragraph without competitive bidding or competitive sealed proposals.

(c) Consult with other states and with local governmental units regarding service levels for additional rail passenger service in this state.

(d) Monitor the quality of rail passenger service in this state.

(e) Conduct or contract for marketing studies and promotional activities to increase rail passenger service ridership in this state, to identify potential riders and to educate the public about the availability and advantages of rail passenger service.

(f) Apply for and accept federal funds for rail passenger service.

(g) Acquire equipment or facilities for the purpose of providing rail passenger service or support services for rail passenger service.

(h) Enter into agreements with other states to assist or promote rail passenger service.

History: 1991 a. 39; 1995 a. 113, 201; 1997 a. 27.