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Capital District Times

Sunday, December 22, 2024

Stefanik leads opposition against Amtrak's planned service reductions

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U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik representing New York's 21st Congressional District | Official U.S. House headshot

U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik representing New York's 21st Congressional District | Official U.S. House headshot

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, along with fellow New York Republican Representatives Nicole Malliotakis, Nick Langworthy, Andrew Garbarino, Anthony D’Esposito, Nick LaLota, and Marc Molinaro, has addressed a letter to Amtrak President Roger Harris. The letter expresses concern over Amtrak's decision to reduce service and introduce lengthy delays starting November 11, 2024. This move is part of the East River Tunnel rehabilitation project.

The lawmakers have urged Amtrak to delay the implementation of these changes by 60 days to prevent disruptions during the holiday season. They emphasized that reliable Amtrak service is crucial for communities and businesses in connecting tourists and neighbors from Canada to New York.

“Our communities, families, and students rely on Amtrak service as a vital source of transportation. Reliable Amtrak service is also a crucial economic driver as our small businesses rely on the service to connect tourists and our Canadian neighbors to our region," stated the lawmakers in their letter. They further criticized the projected 36-month duration of reduced services as "unacceptable."

The group also suggested evaluating options such as changing schedules or lengthening remaining trains to mitigate negative impacts on passengers at stations like Albany-Rensselaer.

Garry Douglas, President of the North Country Chamber of Commerce, commented on the situation: “The continued lack of communication and interaction with impacted communities and stakeholders by Amtrak remains astounding." He acknowledged support from State Assembly members including Billy Jones, John McDonald, and Pat Fahy in this advocacy effort.

Steve Strauss from the Empire State Passengers Association thanked Congresswoman Stefanik for opposing these reductions: “Amtrak must add cars to the remaining trains and relocate planned layover locations.”

The full letter can be accessed through Congresswoman Stefanik’s official website.

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