Issue: The demand for passenger rail service in the United States is increasing. More and more communities are asking for new or enhanced inter-city rail service.

However, improved rail service is costly and the current federal support of Amtrak is insufficient.

Background: Because railroads provide an essential link in the transportation system, there should be a coordinated federal-state-local effort to return passenger rail service to its appropriate place in a balanced transportation system. Presently, the only high-level rail service in the country is along the Northeast Corridor, with other intercity service at levels below this. However, a substantial number of local government and states are exploring and planning the expansion of service. This is being advocated for a number of reasons.

First, passenger rail should be part of any national transportation system.

Second, better rail service would help relieve congestion on the nation’s highways.

Third, the air traffic system is overcrowded and the rail option in some markets is a viable alternative to air service and would reduce congestion.

The federal government’s contribution to Amtrak has been static; the current year level is $521 million, substantially less than the $955 million authorized for the program. Last year there was an effort to pass an Amtrak bond proposal as a way of raising funds for passenger rail. While enjoying broad support, it was not enacted.

Supporters have introduced S.250 that would provide $12 billion in bonding authority over 10 years for improved rail service.

NACo policy: NACo supports efforts to expand and improve national and regional rail service, with service to more parts of the country. This includes providing additional funding. However, no Highway Trust Fund should be used top address Amtrak’s problems.

Action needed: County officials should call, fax, e-mail or write their members of Congress and urge increased appropriations for Amtrak and support for other legislation to improve passenger rail service

June 2001 | National Association of Counties:
| http://www.naco.org/leg/facts/02passrailsvc.cfm |

"Let's roll"!

SAVE AMTRAK
Get Amtrak The Funding It Deserves!
JOHN LONGENECKER
| http://www.JL-Site.com/SaveAmtrak/Directory.html |
Email: JL@MainNet.com

I'm on the lookout for other good boards. If you do the same, before long we'll have covered the internet!

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Trust God, love your neighbor, and never mistake opinion for truth.
-Mr. Toy

The Del Monte Club Car