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ALBANY---State taxpayers will subsidize Amtrack's private passenger service through the Adirondacks to the tune of $8.6 million.
The Governor's office has announced that a new rail construction fund will be used to continue Amtrack service from New York City to Montreal through at least March, 2007. The state is expected to pay $4.2 million this year and $4.4 in 2006 to subsidize the service which serves approximately 100,000 passengers annually.
The $100 million rail construction fund is part of the state's $17.9 billion five-year transportation capital plan approved by voters.
The Adirondack run from New York to Montreal is run once a day and takes 10 hours and 15 minutes. There are stops in Plattsburgh, Westport, Port Kent, Port Henry and Ticonderoga.
"These critical investments to our rail infrastructure are an essential part of our commitment to making New York's transportation and rail system the best in the nation", Gov. George Pataki said.
Amtrak had threatened to shut down the run in July 2004 and in past years, Pataki has vetoed funding the rail service. By agreement with Amtrak, the state subsidizes 100% of the company's operating deficit.
The agreement will also provide Amtrak with $2.5 million for design and engineering work to upgrade the Canadian Pacific track used by Amtrak.
12-09-05
© 2005 North
Country Gazette
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