Amtrak is outlining their ambitious plans on doubling their annual ridership to 66 million passengers by 2040. In order to meet these objectives, Amtrak has outlined key objectives slated to be implemented this year. The two overarching objectives include improving passenger train service and improving infrastructure across the network. Currently, these two objectives are a major weak point for Amtrak.
Improving Service
Amtrak is making a handful of onboard service improvements aimed at improving the overall experience. There is no doubt that Amtrak’s rolling stock (railcar fleet) is starting to get long in the tooth. Some equipment dates back to the early 1980s. Over the next decade Amtrak will begin replacing aging Acela Trainsets, rolling out new locomotives as and is beginning the RFP procurement process for new log distance trains. The soft product is also seeing a much needed overhaul. On the Acela, first class passengers will be welcomed to a completely redesigned breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. Superliner trainsets have received new more modern and yes comfortable bedding, a welcome change.
Infrastructure Improvements
Rail infrastructure in the United States has been a contentious issue for Amtrak over the years. To keep rail infrastructure operational to 2040 and beyond, Amtrak is investing heavily in growing their workforce including the hiring of 3,500 employees to assist in rebuilding existing infrastructure. Roughly $5.5 billion has been allocated to Amtrak’s capital program used to modernize stations, tunnels and critical infrastructure. The East River Tunnel Rehab Project will benefit from the allocations, reducing delays in and out of New York’s Moynihan Train Hall. Several bridges which date back to the early 1900s will either be replaced or refurbished in the coming years. This will allow trains to operate at faster speeds over these bridges. While these two key objectives will help Amtrak in reaching their projected 2024 ridership goals, are these enough to bring railroading in America back to its glory days? Time will tell.