SE MN Rail Alliance asks community: "What would you name the train?"

The Southeast Minnesota Rail Alliance is seeking the community's help to name the proposed high-speed passenger rail service to Rochester. Once selected, the name will be used to promote and advance the route with the general public and decision makers.

"We are calling on the collective creativity of Southeast Minnesota residents to help name the train,"says Rochester Mayor Ardell Brede, a member of the Alliance. "Names might note our unique geological characteristics, rich history, regional wildlife or notable industries. But we are looking for all ideas, including those that are considered 'outside-the-box.'"

Interested residents can submit their ideas at www.semnrail.org. The Alliance will solicit public input through Dec. 31, and announce the name in mid-January. Throughout the effort, the Alliance will provide updates through its Facebook page and Twitter account (@semnrail). The Minnesota portion of the proposed high-speed passenger rail line will serve Rochester and neighboring communities with a route that will head north to the Twin Cities, likely with a hub/stop in Dakota County.

The Southeast Minnesota Rail Alliance, which includes the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, is committed to a rail infrastructure plan that meets the freight and passenger needs of Southeast Minnesota for generations to come. The Alliance is focused on enhancing the economic vitality, access and safety of the region. For more information, visit www.semnrail.org.