Also, what about the real-estate tax bills that Amtrak paid on all its stations for 2002 ?

These were dollars paid to some government treasury--whether federal, state or local.

There have to be more "give-backs" that I am not considering.

Amtrak critics are quick to point out that the highway and aviation systems are only getting back what they paid into the "system" through gasoline taxes, diesel taxes and tolls.

My contention is that Amtrak contributes to the federal treasury (in particular) with dollars of its OWN----much more so than most people realize.

Just the taxes on diesel fuel and real-estate are probably quite substantial.

Who does Amtrak pay their real-estate taxes TO ?

Anyhow, the point I am trying to make is that Amtrak DOES contribute money of its own to the federal treasury----and probably to state and local treasuries, also.

I would like to have you all suggest a yearly dollar figure to me that approximates how much Amtrak pays just in diesel fuel tax and real-estate tax ALONE.

I realize Amtrak has huge expenses. But those two TAX expenses MUST be substantial---and my main point is that the money goes directly from Amtrak into SOMEBODY's treasury , whether it be federal , state , or local.

It is possible that Amtrak, being a quasi governmental entity, is exempt from property taxes, but I don't know.

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

But just those tax bills alone must be enormous.

Then, consider the expenses involved with just keeping the stations open (utilities), maintained , and staffed---with over 500 of them !

Dollar figures must be available somewhere.

Glad you agree with me, Mr. Toy

a chart comparing government spending on road, air and rail.

From a quick search via google.com I'm guessing that Amtrak normally is obligated to pay real estate taxes which would go into the local, county, state coffers for whatever distribution setup therein exists.