RailTrends 2012 Speakers and Their Bios

As Associate Administrator for Railroad Policy and Development since January 2012, Mr. Nissenbaum is responsible for Federal rail investment programs, research and development, and policy analysis. His office of 90 professionals develops and implements FRA's funding programs -- including the High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail Program, capital and operating grants to Amtrak, Rail Line Relocation grants, rail-related grants under the TIGER program, and credit under the Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing (RRIF) program -- along with the research and development program to provide innovations in safety, security, efficiency and capacity. The office provides the policy and planning tools, environmental reviews, railroad engineering services, business and economics analysis, and program oversight and technical assistance essential for delivering successful projects. During the prior four years, Mr. Nissenbaum served as Director of Passenger and Freight Programs under the Office of Railroad Policy and Development. In that role, he personally oversaw FRA's implementation of the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act (PRIIA) of 2008, and development of the High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail Program, including building new partnerships with State DOTs, railroads and other stakeholders, and expanding FRA's capacity to carry out its new responsibilities. Prior to FRA, Paul worked at Amtrak for nine years, serving in several capacities including Vice President of Planning, and was a lead author of Amtrak's 2005 blueprint for change, the Strategic Reform Initiatives. He has also served four years in Congressional offices on Capitol Hill, and nine years directing a surface transportation and environmental consulting practice. Paul holds a Masters in Public Policy from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government.

Session T14 "FRA Perspective"