About
Kenneth T. Clifford
Kenneth T. Clifford
Ken has been an RPA member since 1985 and a member of All Aboard Ohio since 1986: serving as Treasurer for both organizations. His advocacy philosophy reflects his long-time involvement in the issue.
“RPA advocacy effort must be focused on the continuing development of a national transportation policy and a truly national passenger rail system that is relevant, seamless and sustainable. It must be accompanied by creating and maintaining a dedicated stream of funding that enables new route development, new equipment, improved infrastructure and better on-time performance.”
Some of what Ken speaks of has already been bolstered by the passage of the Bi-Partisan Jobs & Infrastructure Act, but Ken is quick to point out that RPA must keep up the pressure for dedicated funding that leads to a sustainable system. He sees that mission including.
- Growing RPA’s membership and financial resources to continue effective advocacy and improve communication of RPA’s goals and objectives to both stakeholders and key leaders in the public and private sectors.
- Building on RPA’s reputation as the premier source for accurate and trusted information about the status and future of passenger rail at the national, state and local levels for members, allies and media.
- Making sure that passenger rail is seen not just as a critical part of our transportation system, but also brings significant impacts to local, state and national economies, workforce development and an overall mobility that connects people to jobs, education, health care and much more.
Ken’s background includes:
- Treasurer of All Aboard Ohio (Ohio Association of Railroad Passengers) from 2005 through 2023.
- Treasurer of the RPA from 2009 to 2024
- Colonel (Ret) U.S. Air Force: graduated from Officer Training School, Aircraft Maintenance Officers Course, Squadron Officers School, Air Command and Staff College and the Air War College.
- Graduate: Pace College (NY): BBA in Accounting & Business Administration
- MBA courses at University of Dayton.
"I wish to extend my appreciation to members of the Rail Passengers Association for their steadfast advocacy to protect not only the Southwest Chief, but all rail transportation which plays such an important role in our economy and local communities. I look forward to continuing this close partnership, both with America’s rail passengers and our bipartisan group of senators, to ensure a bright future for the Southwest Chief route."
Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS)
April 2, 2019, on receiving the Association's Golden Spike Award for his work to protect the Southwest Chief