Senate OKs $13.1 billion, five-year Amtrak plan

摘要

Almost overlooked amidst turmoil surrounding the nation's financial market woes, Amtrak's outlook for future fiscal years was bolstered dramatically as, by a 74-24 vote, the Senate Oct. 1 passed the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008, which contains provisions to invest in Amtrak and expand intercity rail passenger. President Bush said he would approve the measure. It supports a five-year cumulative $13.1 billion federal subsidy to Amtrak, provides seed money for the development of additional high-speed rail corridors, and permits the STB to fine host freight railroads that delay Amtrak trains, should it be determined after an investigation that a delay was indeed the fault of the host freight railroad. Federal grants are provided to states to develop new services, increase capacity on heavily used rail lines, and attract new riders. For high speed, grants are provided to construct 11 to-be-determined corridors. Advocates caution that reauthorization does not guarantee funding, and that the appropriations process still lies ahead.