Senator Frank Lautenberg
DOT Inspector General study shows Amtrak freight delays costs Amtrak, travelers, taxpayers millions
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A new report requested by Sen. Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) and released today describes how delays to Amtrak trains that operate over freight railroad lines cost the company almost $137 million in fiscal year 2006, an amount equal to 30 percent of its federal operating subsidy.
“This report puts in real dollars what these delays are costing Amtrak, taxpayers and rail travelers. Passengers shouldn’t have to miss their meetings or family engagements because a freight train is blocking the tracks,” Sen. Lautenberg said. “With high gas prices, widespread traffic congestion and flight delays the norm, we must ensure passenger rail is a reliable option for travelers.”
