Bob, Here are notes from our last WAR room. See the possible GR influence section in particular as well as project team information. Below are the key points for you to speak to.

·         HNTB Team, a preferred provider of engineering design and construction services to Amtrak

·         HNTB , nationally recognized and experienced rail and tunnel firm. (65 offices, 3600 people)

·         EIS Team member AKRF with an office in Maryland and NY, have more EIS Record of Decision experience on large Rail Tunnel projects than any other firm.

·         Schnabel Engineering over 300 hundred local engineers, the premiere geotechnical firm in the area with extensive experience.

·         Public Outreach Firm Kramer, premiere Outreach firms for large complex transportation projects local to Baltimore.

·         HNTB is the nation’s leader in providing HSR services. (Northeast, NY, Amtrak, California, Midwest, Florida, New England)

·         HNTB is currently providing conceptual engineering services for Amtrak on the Baltimore tunnel along with other major structures on the Northeast Corridor.

 POLITICS:

·         What is important to them? Economic growth and employment, improved HSR service on the corridor etc.?

·         What local DBE / SBE firms are strong to add to the team for Survey, Outreach, Environmental and Geotechnical support?

·         Are there any local cultural or activist groups in the community that will be important stakeholders to engage.

·         Will Maryland have a say in the selection process?

·         Will FRA have a say in the selection process?