WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. Senate approved six-year, $11.4 billion legislation to bolster Amtrak’s operations and improve railway infrastructure. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) has been a strong supporter and co-sponsor of the Passenger Rail Improvement and Investment Act, which was introduced by Senators Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Trent Lott (R-MS).

“For all of us who rely on trains to go to work, do business or visit our loved ones, we know how important it is to keep Amtrak and our regional rail systems up and running,” said Sen. Menendez. “I applaud my friend and fellow senator from New Jersey, Frank Lautenberg, for being a champion for Amtrak and, by extension, the economy of our state.

“In many ways, rail travel is the lifeline of our state. Historically, the federal government has shortchanged Amtrak, but it must not be treated as a second-class mode of transportation. This is the type of investment boosts economic activity, clears our air and makes traveling a whole lot easier.”

Provisions in the bill include:

·         Funding for Amtrak’s operations,

·         Amtrak capital improvement grants and a new state capital grant program,

·         Operational reforms to reduce operating costs by up to 40   percent,

·         Repairs and improved governance for the Northeast Corridor, and

·         Improved rail security.

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