What Next for Amtrak

This article looks at the debate over the future of Amtrak and intercity rail by citing concerns expressed by attendees at the 12th annual Passenger Trains on Freight Railroads Conference. Competitive procurement advocated by U.S. Department of Transportation has caused the freight railroaders to fear that it would mean extending access rights to non-Amtrak entities. Further issues include the apparent lack of coordination within the federal transportation bureaucracy over the degree and type of federal support for the railroad. Concerns were expressed regarding radical ideas for restructuring Amtrak without the capital investment to back it up. Attendees warned against divisive partisan proposals that would weaken the alliance Amtrak supporters have forged with freight operators. The House and Senate approved $1.17 billion and $1.45 billion, respectively, for Amtrak in fiscal 2006. The amounts will be reconciled in conference.