Treadwell Says Federal Bill to Improve Rail Services is Smart Strategy for Our Region

HALFMOON, NY (06/12/2008)(readMedia)-- Former New York Secretary of State Sandy Treadwell, Republican candidate for the 20th Congressional District, said the passage of a funding bill for Amtrak is a good investment for our future, but cautioned that the company must be held accountable for using these funds to improve service in our region.

“Rising gas prices have drivers seeking alternative modes of transportation and trains are an economical, environmentally-friendly and reliable way to travel,” Treadwell said. “By upgrading our rail system we can save on the use of costly fuels, lower emissions, and provide a boost to our economy. However, this investment must be dedicated to increasing rail capacity, improving performance, and providing safe and affordable travel options, or else it will just be a wasted opportunity.”

The legislation that passed the U.S. House of Representatives yesterday (H.R.), would provide more than $14 billion to Amtrak over the next five years. The bill, which received bipartisan support, would authorize repairs along the Northeast Corridor network, congestion grants to state for capital costs of facilities and equipment for high priority rail corridor projects, the preparation of state rail plans, the solicitation of proposals for a high-speed rail system between New York City and Washington, D.C., and the restructuring of Amtrak’s debt,

Treadwell cited a 12 percent increase in ridership on Amtrak trains over the past year, fueled by soaring gas prices.

“From the North Country down through the Hudson Valley, people can access rail service, but are often discouraged from using trains because of Amtrak’s mixed performance record, delays due to congestion or faulty equipment, or the lack of basic amenities available,” Treadwell said. “Improvements in rail service will produce more riders and more benefits to our communities, and this investment will help to make these needed improvements in the overall system.

“The use of taxpayer dollars should always be done in a fiscally-responsible manner and we should not just throw money at a project and hope it is used correctly,” Treadwell said. “I would have liked to see additional safeguards and oversight in this bill, but our government can and must still hold Amtrak accountable in using this funding for infrastructure, equipment and better services. Amtrak is not a gravy train and we must ensure that it is a viable, accessible network that works efficiently.”