(Stamford - January 29, 1998): In an effort to improve communication between commuters and Metro-North, The CT Rail Commuter Council is holding its first "Meet The Railroad / Meet The Commuter" day, Monday February 9th from 6am to 9am at the Fairfield Railroad Station.

A volunteer group of commuters, appointed by the CT legislature, the members of the CT Rail Commuter Council act as advocates for their fellow riders in monthly meetings with Metro-North and CT Dept of Transportation. Most meetings are held in the evenings at various stations served by the railroad.

"Often that's an inconvenient time for commuters to attend," says Jim Cameron, Vice Chairman of the group. "So we decided to bring the representatives of the railroad to the commuters. That way they'll be able to get their questions answered right away. And the folks that run the railroad can hear what's on the minds of their customers."

In addition to representatives of Metro-North, CT Dept of Transportation and the CT Rail Commuter Council, local officials will be joining in the event. "We've invited Fairfield First Selectman Ken Flatto and he's been enthusiastic about attending," says Cameron. "Having town officials there is important because commuters' concerns about parking, station facilities and security are town issues, not just the railroad's."

The CT Rail Commuter Council members will be distributing questionnaires to riders to get an idea what they like most and least about their commuting experience. "We promise to get answers to those commuters questions," says Cameron. "That's our job as their advocates."

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