FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Jennifer McMahon
510-238-4360
ATK-00-31
April 5, 2000 

AMTRAK APPLAUDS GOVERNOR DAVIS' TRANSPORTATION PACKAGE

OAKLAND - Today Amtrak applauded Governor Gray Davis' announcement of his transportation-funding proposal, which supports a multi-modal transportation solution to California's growing transportation needs. The Governor's proposal includes a total investment of hundreds of millions of dollars in intercity rail.

"As millions of new residents and businesses pour into California each year, Amtrak is well positioned to continue to play a significant role in meeting California's transportation challenges. Governor Davis' proposal today is a step in the right direction and we applaud his diligent work," said Gil Mallery, President of Amtrak West.

The Governor's proposal marks the culmination of discussions with transportation officials, legislative and congressional members and the transportation industry to develop a far-reaching program that will improve mobility and ease the movement of goods.

"We are pleased that the Governor's plan embraces a variety of alternative transportation initiatives," said Mallery. "Intercity passenger rail can provide transportation solutions, while enhancing quality of life and continuing to support economic development."

Since 1995, Amtrak and the State have jointly invested $877 million resulting in a 38 percent service increase in California. Those funds have greatly improved existing track, purchased trainsets and established facilities to maintain and operate the trains. The result has been more frequent and convenient train service with reduced trip times.

Amtrak is leading a $5 million effort on a major community-based planning initiative to identify five, ten and twenty-year master plans for intercity, commuter and freight rail corridors in the state of California, complimenting the Governor's plan.

Amtrak will unveil a five-year program in May, which will incorporate the planning, engineering, technical and stakeholder outreach components of the long-range vision for California's rail corridors. The final program will be released this fall.