Amtrak's NEC: Healthy Hybrid

This article gives an overview of Amtrak operations in the Northeast Corridor (NEC). Focus is on the hybridized approach towards rail transportation on the NEC. Of the the 457 miles of track that make up the NEC between Washington and Boston, Amtrak owns 363 miles. 2,000 trains travel each day, from freight trains running at 40 mph to the 150 mph Acela Express. Amtrak runs competitively with air transportation in the NEC, achieving almost 50% of the air-rail market. The article also discusses funding issues, noting that Congress plays a large role in Amtrak's viability, especially as high speed passenger rail is being considered in other parts of the U.S.