The $555 million appropriation could spare Amtrak from having to siphon money
from a $2.2 billion pot created last year to help it make long-term capital
improvements. Those improvements are considered crucial for Amtrak to meet a
deadline for becoming self-sufficient by 2002.
``We are optimistic about their ability to carry their own load in a few years
ahead,'' said Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-N.J., who had fought for the
appropriation.
George Warrington, acting president and chief executive officer of Amtrak,
said he is pleased with the Senate funding but hopes the House appropriates
the full $621 million requested by the president.
The bill, which will be reviewed Friday by the entire Appropriations
Committee, also would:
Give the U.S. Coast Guard $3.96 billion, up from $3.93 billion this year.
Boost the Federal Transit Administration appropriation 11 percent. The money
would be used to build new light rail systems, replace dilapidated public
buses and construct facilities to allow travelers to make connections between
different forms of transportation.
E N D
TEXT OF LETTER FROM SENATORS
Last Updated 07/09/98 11:05 hrs. EST
INDEX OF RECENT UPDATES
Not Looking Good Again For Amtrak
Surface Transportation Board Update
CLINTON HOLDS BACK
CEO REPLACEMENT
DOWNS RESIGNS
Week of 12/05/97
CLINTON SIGNS BILL
Summary of Provisions
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