SMART Local 769A

26/03/2026

The Demand Is Here. It’s Time to Run More Trains.

America is defined by its regions. From the mountains and lush forests of Cascadia, to the plains and Great Lakes of the Midwest, to the bluegrass and sweet wetlands of the Southeast—every region is unique.

26/03/2026

Weekly news and analysis of Michigan politics by the professional journalists of MIRSnews.com

17/03/2026

Sláinte!

05/03/2026

Today SMART-TD had the opportunity to present before the Michigan House Committee on State and Local Transportation Appropriations to discuss the importance of continued investment in passenger rail across our state.

Representing our membership, Local Chairperson Nate Hatton along with SMART-TD State Safety & Legislative Director Eric Stanger, spoke about how passenger rail is more than transportation, it is a driver of economic development, workforce mobility, and good-paying union jobs

Nearly 8 million Michiganders live within commuting distance of our existing passenger rail network, making rail one of the most effective ways to connect people to jobs, education, and opportunity. Continued investment ensures Michigan remains competitive while strengthening our communities and supporting working families.
Passenger rail doesn’t just move people, it creates jobs, attracts businesses, supports tourism, and helps build vibrant downtowns across Michigan.

SMART-TD will continue advocating for policies and investments that support our members, strengthen our transportation network, and keep Michigan moving forward.
Thank you to our members who proudly represent our craft every day on the rails.

🚆 Investing in passenger rail is investing in Michigan’s future.

Subscribe and never miss Committee or Session livestreamsAGENDAPresentations on Rail Passenger Programs from: -Peter Anastor, Administrator, Office of Rail, ...

20/01/2026

17/01/2026

The Passenger Rail Crew Protection Act is a new bill that promises to make the assault or intimidation of passenger rail workers a federal crime, bringing rail protections in line with long-standing federal laws safeguarding airline flight crews. Read on to learn why SMART-TD is excited for the bill, and why it should be expanded to include bus operators as well.

https://www.smart-union.org/federal-protection-for-train-crews-promised-by-passenger-rail-crew-protection-act/

08/01/2026

Help Shape the Future of Michigan Rail Travel!

The North+South Passenger Rail Project is exploring a new intercity train service that would connect Southeast Michigan to mid-Michigan and the northwest Lower Peninsula. This proposed service would open up a new way to travel across the state, offering a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable alternative to driving while expanding access to Michigan’s vibrant communities.

As we are working through a major planning study for the route this year, we want to hear from you! Your input is essential. By completing this survey, you’ll help us understand travel needs, preferences, and priorities, ensuring that this service is designed for the people who will use it.

Thank you for taking a few minutes to share your thoughts and help shape Michigan’s transportation future.

Take this survey powered by surveymonkey.com. Create your own surveys for free.

12/12/2025

Amtrak’s 18,000 frontline union employees will receive a $900 bonus following a strong year for Amtrak. Recognition for the employees who keep the trains moving is long overdue after management rewarded themselves in the millions.

WASHINGTON — More than 18,000 union workers at Amtrak will receive $900 holiday bonuses to mark the company’s record year of ridership and revenue, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced. The worker bonuses announced today (Dec. 11) come as Amtrak executives have agreed to forgo 50% o...

11/11/2025

"We owe so much to all veterans and servicemembers. Across our two nations, they are a true example of our union's values: service, solidarity and dedicating yourself to your fellow citizens."

Today is Veterans Day in the United States and Remembrance Day in Canada. Read General President Michael Coleman's message to members: http://lil.ms/ov6k/92lsju

21/08/2025

🚨 SMART-TD Raises Concerns Over 10-Day Amtrak Service Disruption 🚨

Starting September 15, all Amtrak Wolverine and Blue Water services will shut down for 10 days! Halting critical transportation across Michigan and affecting up to 25,000 passengers.

SMART-TD is urging MDOT, Amtrak, and Michigan legislators to work collaboratively on:
✅ Alternative service options
✅ Transparent communication with riders
✅ Protections for Michigan-based rail workers impacted by the closure

This shutdown comes amid a series of recent breakdowns, highlighting the urgent need for investment in our passenger rail system.

Passenger rail isn’t a luxury — it’s essential infrastructure.

📣 Let’s work together to keep Michigan moving.

17/07/2025

🚆 A Win for the UP and Working Families!

We are thrilled to see Menominee County Commissioners throw their support behind expanding Amtrak service into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Extending rail access to communities like Menominee and Marquette isn’t just about connecting towns it’s about boosting economic opportunities, strengthening tourism, and creating good-paying union jobs in construction, rail operations, and maintenance.

✅ Reliable public transit
✅ Sustainable economic growth
✅ Empowered local workforce

We urge state leaders, Congress, and Amtrak to keep pushing this forward. Let’s get the UP on track—for workers, families, and future generations!

https://www.ehextra.com/news/will-amtrak-expand-to-the-up/article_31e4615a-fff1-4211-80f1-c7927477ecc5.html