July 7, 2011

http://s4prc.org/Resources/media/SPRCStatement-CompetitionforIntercityPassengerRailinAmericaAct.pdf

All Aboard Washington continues to be pleased that our Secretary of Transportation, Governor, and Lieutenant Governor are all outspoken advocates of our intercity passenger rail program.  We are also pleased Secretary Paula Hammond was chosen Chair of the national States for Passenger Rail Coalition. Paula’s letter to Mica/Shuster (above) essentially reflects the views of most All Aboard members. We support Amtrak and do not feel it should be broken apart or defunded,  but don’t oppose the idea that private investment can also have a role in providing passenger train service.

Our Northwest Corridor trains received another real compliment:  Respected rail journalist Fred Frailey in the latest TRAINS gave our Talgo-equipped Amtrak Cascades an “A” grade for quality. Only the Acela Express,  and the (now mostly-on time)  Coast Starlight (can’t top the scenery and Pacific Parlour Car) received higher grades (A+) among Amtrak trains.