Repeal the Rail Transit Authority?

The Rail Transit Authority was created in 2007 to expand commuter rail opportunities in New Hampshire. The group includes elected officials and members of the public and has so far overseen several studies of expanded commuter rail service.

Rep. Neal Kurk is sponsoring a 2017 bill to disband the group. 

The New Hampshire House last considered repealing the Rail Transit Authority in 2011. 

Supporters of a repeal generally argue that after several studies, it is now clear that commuter rail will end up costing the state more than it generates. To them, the Rail Transit Authority has outlived its usefulness.

Opponents of a repeal point to evidence that commuter rail could significantly boost New Hampshire’s economy. They also note that the Rail Transit Authority is not paid, and so far studies of a commuter rail have been funded through federal grants.