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With the gas prices being high, Amtrak is reporting an improvment or jump in the number of people who use Amtrak. People now are using Amtrak for their vactions instead of car due to gas prices, looks good for Amtrak.
PullmanCo Member # 1138
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Just one itty bitty problem... and it's about to be a much bigger problem.
Amtrak has limited capacity. The reserve of railcars available for peak season movements is gone, and has been for years.
Amtrak will hit capacity, and that will be it for a couple of years, until it can convince Congress to buy more FRA compliant equipment.
Here's the question: Will Amtrak stay popularly accepted once its slack capacity is absorbed?
Gilbert B Norman Member # 1541
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There are reports at one Forum or another that the existing Northeast Regional consists will be lengthened using cars returned to service from the "deadlines". Some may even go through a rebuild to bring them to "Capstone" standards (that was a "from the wheels up' A-I rebuilding program during the later '90's).
I believe that the "next President', McCain or Obama notwithstanding, will sign off on an appropriation to build some 200 cars for Northeast Regional service. I would also expect the Acela fleet to expand; possibly a public-private sector partnership.
As for the LD's, the existing five or six car consists will be more filled - and the prices to ride such will increase - especially in Sleepers.
Santa Fe buff Member # 8125
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Yes, then Amtrak will have to get more cars and equipment if people contiue to use them, unless gas price go down, then Amtrak will be fine.
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