It was a small thing. Just $25,000 included in this year’s state budget to let Ohioans know its elected representatives support the idea of real passenger rail transportation options for the state.

The money will let the Buckeye State join the Interstate Midwest Passenger Rail Commission, according to a report by WBNS. A representative of All Aboard Ohio told WBNS there is work being done on a rail line that would connect Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and Dayton. There is another route that would go from Chicago to Pittsburgh and run through Columbus.

That is a big deal in a state where so many are now reliant on having their own vehicles.

This is still a long way in the future, but it is good news that state lawmakers are on board. They understand there is a lot of good to be accomplished when people have more options.

Here’s hoping this is only the beginning of meaningful cooperation and support that will get Ohioans (and those hoping to visit the state) where they want to go. An interconnected rail system could transport Ohio into its next iteration.