Policies
All Aboard Washington has developed a series of policy positions describing the goals of the organization.
Transportation Priorities
The public needs its elected officials to make the hard choices necessary to turn our hard-earned, limited dollars into a functional transportation system.
Restoring Cascades Service Levels
AAWA urges WSDOT, Amtrak, and ODOT to replace the trainset lost in the Cascades 501 accident and to restart service on the Point Defiance Bypass at the December 2017 planned running time and frequency of service as soon as possible.
Cascades Service Improvements
AAWA believes we need to make Amtrak Cascades service safer, more comfortable, more reliable, faster, and more frequent.
Transportation Funding
AAWA believes Washington must take a new approach to funding its transportation improvements.
Intermodal Connectivity for Rail Passengers
AAWA believes that one of the greatest opportunities for improving America’s mobility over the next decade is in the area of intermodal connectivity with intercity passenger rail.
Regional Cooperation
Local, state, provincial, and national agencies need to work together to realize Amtrak Cascades' full potential and maximize its benefits.
High-Speed Rail
AAWA supports High-Speed Rail (HSR) as part of a balanced, multimodal transportation network that addresses the needs of all Washingtonians in a fiscally responsible manner. Planning and implementing a useful HSR system should be a priority to improve our region’s long-term economic health, reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, and provide a safer alternative to driving.
Cascades as Emerging High Speed Rail
AAWA believes that maintaining and enhancing the existing passenger rail system in Washington state, the Pacific Northwest region, and the country, is a key way for us to make the most of our limited financial resources in ways that will produce results in the short and medium term. AAWA supports the development of advanced High Speed Rail (HSR), but we also recognize that it will take many years to design and build.
AAWA’s Role in a Northwest Transportation Coalition
AAWA supports the maintenance and enhancement of passenger rail service in Washington state, the Pacific Northwest, and the country. The Cascades and other Amtrak services are successful because of their abilities to reach across city, county, state, and even national borders. AAWA is a leader in promoting better passenger train service in Washington, but we recognize the need to work in partnership in order to maintain regional, national, and international connectivity.
Diversity and Inclusion Statement
All Aboard Washington (AAWA) strives to be a diverse, inclusive, and equitable organization where all employees, volunteers, and board members, whatever their gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education or disability, feels valued and respected. We are committed to a nondiscriminatory approach and provide equal opportunity for volunteer opportunities, employment, and advancement in all of our programs and worksites. We respect and value diverse life experiences and heritages and ensure that all voices are valued and heard.
AAWA Coalitions Policy
AAWA should become coalition partners with organizations which promote economic recovery, environmental stewardship, and equitable transportation access, and that can commit to supporting Northwest passenger rail to further these causes.