Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Amtrak

Urge Congress to Support Amtrak and Passenger Rail

Here's a great way to support transit before we head in to another traffic-snarled Memorial Day weekend. H.R. 6003, the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act, is currently in need of co-sponsors in the House (a version has already passed the Senate). The bill "authorizes Amtrak for the five years Fiscal 2008-2012, provides for capital assistance for states, and development of state rail plans," according to the National Association of Railroad Passengers. Five years of funding will, among other things, put a stop to the current practice of forcing Amtrak to beg for money every year.

Jerrold Nadler is the only member the New York City delegation to sign on as a co-sponsor so far. It needs 218 co-sponsors to get floor time in the House, but only 41 are on board. (See who's a co-sponsor.)

Judging by the response to a recent post about the bill on Daily Kos, progressive-minded voters are more than willing to get behind investment in rail. Streetsbloggers can join Kossacks in urging support for the bill by contacting your representatives. The NARP website has some handy talking points to help get started.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Mayor Adams Abruptly Calls Off Planned Queensboro Bridge Pedestrian Path Opening

The Queensboro Bridge's long-awaited pedestrian path was in the works to open this weekend — until Mayor Adams intervened.

March 14, 2025

DOT Report Reveals How Eric Adams Kneecapped Progress on Bus and Bike Lanes

The agency offers an explanation for its shortcomings, even trotting out a "We told you so" from the former mayor's transportation commissioner.

March 14, 2025

Public Grilling: Queens Panel Berates Opponents of Bob Holden’s E-Bike Registration Bill

Queens cyclists who came out to oppose an e-bike registration bill faced hostile questions from their local community board.

March 14, 2025

Friday’s Headlines: Ms. Hochul Goes to Washington Edition

Gov. Hochul "wants to talk about congestion pricing" when she meets with President Trump on Friday. Plus more news.

March 14, 2025

Open Streets Won’t Survive Without More Money From the City, Organizers Warn

Open streets have shrunk significantly — and more cuts could be coming if the city doesn't cough up more funding, volunteer organizers warned.

March 14, 2025
See all posts