FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, October 26, 1998
Contact: Warren Flatu
Telephone: (202)-493-6024
FRA 25-98
Transportation Secretary
Slater Announces Grant Award
Of $2.5 Million to New York for High-Speed Non-Electric
Locomotives
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Rodney E. Slater today announced a $2.5 million Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) grant to the New York state Department of Transportation to enhance the performance of Amtrak’s Rohr Turboliners (RTL) on the Empire Corridor.
"Safety is President Clinton’s highest transportation priority," Secretary Slater said. "This grant reflects our commitment to safe, cost-efficient, high-speed rail passenger service now and into the 21st century."
The grant specifically provides for the upgrade of the turbine propulsion system, which will increase the acceleration capabilities and fuel efficiency of the Turboliner fleet. New York state is matching the FRA’s contribution and has dedicated these funds toward the refurbishment of the fleet’s passenger equipment.
Prior funding for this project has included $10 million in federal funds and $10 million from New York. This cooperative effort has also involved the development of advanced fleet utilization and maintenance practices which will result in more cost-efficient operations. The federal and state funding are part of a larger, joint effort by the New York state DOT and Amtrak, totaling $185 million, to undertake a comprehensive upgrade of rail service on the New York-Albany-Buffalo route, also known as the Empire Corridor.
"Through our cooperative efforts with New York State and Amtrak, the RTL equipment will provide greater safety, comfort and reliability for Amtrak’s passengers," FRA Administrator Jolene M. Molitoris said. "This success in stimulating significant state and private investment will lead to even greater benefits from the federal investment."
The FRA is an operating modal administration within the U.S. Department of Transportation.
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