(The Associated Press distributed the following article on March 7.)
SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — The plan to run high-speed trains between the Capital District and New York City is still going forward, though the original proposal is being scaled back, Amtrak’s president said.
Super Steel Schenectady was to rebuild seven 1970s diesel-turbine powered trains for the $185 million rail project, begun about six years ago. Amtrak President David Gunn said Saturday that only four are now expected to be completed, with three in regular service.
The project was called into question in December when cash-strapped Amtrak said it could not carry through its part of the deal.
Gunn said an additional car will be added to the five-car trains to accomodate more passengers. The Turboliners were expected to save about 20 minutes travel time between Rensselaer and New York City, but track improvements needed to allow speeds reaching 125 mph have not been done.
The railroad has lost some excitement for the trains because they have smaller seating capacity and higher operating costs than standard Amtrak locomotives.
Amtrak faces funding cuts from the Bush Administration. Gunn has asked Congress for $1.8 billion ofor the 2005 fiscal year, while the White House has offered $900 million.