Rail advocates to be inducted into Michigan's Hall of Honor

Two men who helped make a difference in Michigan's rail industry will be inducted into the Michigan Transportation Hall of Honor later this month.

Robert Chaprnka and Philip Kazmierski will be among five people to be inducted at an Oct. 18 event, according to a press release issued by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

Chaprnka advocated for the freight-rail industry from 1990 to 2013 as president of the Michigan Railroads Association. He championed for the passage of the Michigan Railroad Code of 1993, which revised the law that led to more efficient railroad operations, MDOT officials said.

Working with MDOT and the Michigan Legislature, Chaprnka advocated for laws to improve the surface and safety of grade crossings and helped establish Michigan Operation Lifesaver.

Kazmierski was appointed in 1987 by Gov. James Blanchard and reappointed by Gov. John Engler to serve as the deputy director of the MDOT Bureau of Urban and Public Transportation. He was responsible for statewide public transit, rail and marine programs, as well as regulatory functions for bus and rail.

Kazmierski worked "tirelessly" with elected officials to secure state and federal funding for public transit, intercity bus and ferryboat services, resulting in Michigan providing the sixth-highest level of state funding for public transit, MDOT officials said.

The Hall of Honor is a permanent display in the Van Wagoner Transportation Building in Lansing. It has recognized 88 men and women for their contributions to all facets of transportation in Michigan.