Amtrak details stimulus projects

Amtrak released a list of capital projects to be funded by $1.3 billion from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

Submitted to the Federal Railroad Administration, the highlights of the list include railcar and locomotive restoration to augment the current fleet; projects to bring stations into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); facility improvements; and track, bridge and signal replacements and upgrades.

"These Amtrak projects fulfill all of the objectives of the ARRA, and more. They are 'shovel-ready;' they will improve the efficiency and accessibility of Amtrak trains and facilities; and we estimate they will result in the retention or creation of approximately 6,000 jobs," said Amtrak President and CEO Joseph H. Boardman. "It is extremely encouraging to see the direction our country is taking to improve our national mobility, reduce our dependence on imported energy and make a stronger, healthier passenger rail system."

The investment package is broken down into two separate accounts: one for railroad and station capital projects funded at $845 million and one for security and life safety projects, funded at $450 million.

For a detailed list of projects, click here.