12 Dec 2007
Today’s announcement that Amtrak and the New York State Department of Transportation have resolved long-standing litigation over the implementation of high speed rail service in this State is another major step forward in our efforts to turn the recommendations of the Senate Majority’s Task Force on High Speed Rail into reality in New York.
I am pleased that under this settlement Amtrak has agreed to partner with the State to improve passenger rail service and to invest in major rail improvements, a number of which are already moving forward under the memorandum of understanding we signed earlier this year with the Governor’s office.
While the Senate has already committed $27 million to high speed rail, we urge the State to utilize these additional funds for further improvements, and we look forward to working with the Department of Transportation in the 2008-09 Budget to enhance these ongoing initiatives.
By implementing an efficient, high speed rail system from Albany to New York City, and across this State, we can end needless delays, increase the speed of travel and strengthen our economy for the future.
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