Amtrak is called out by MTA CEO Janno Lieber for wreaking havoc on major delays for the Penn Access project, as he pressures the corporation to keep its promises and assist New York’s transit ambitions.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Amtrak Delays Threaten New York’s Penn Access Progress
Photo: wikipedia

Amtrak Ruffles Feather Over Penn Access Delays

MTA CEO Janno Lieber criticized Amtrak for slowing work on the Penn Access project, saying its actions are “outrageous.” He told New York, “They slow us down every day of the week,” noting how lost staff and delayed track work cause scheduling disruptions.

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He went on, “The co-ops are waiting for a goddamn train,” highlighting frustration with deadlocked building projects by the public. The MTA contends Amtrak’s inability to deliver on its own pledged blackout periods has itself resulted in a complete year of delay on a $3.1 billion link between Metro-North trains and Penn Station.

Amtrak Collaboration Secret to Completing the Penn Access Project

Penn Access project is reliant on Amtrak, which owns the Hell Gate Line right-of-way. As of 2023, MTA Construction & Development President Jamie Torres-Springer described a seven-month setback due to a lack of access and management by Amtrak. Even though a reschedule by Amcak occurred later, work continues to be slow-going.

Lieber indicated negotiations remain ongoing to acquire further access and regain lost time. “We’re getting Amtrak to follow through on their commitments,” he said, requiring that the corporation uphold contractual commitments so Bronx commuters may finally enjoy expedited service.

The growth will bring four new Bronx terminals and a decrease in citywide congestion. However, lingering disagreements might cause closure after 2031 and escalate expenses. Amtrak did not reply to several media requests for information.

Source: www.trains.com

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Why is Amtrak delaying the Penn Access project?

Amtrak controls the Hell Gate Line and has not provided promised track outages and supervision required for MTA’s construction work.

When will the Penn Access project be completed?

Completion is expected by 2031 if cooperation improves and no new delays occur.

How does Amtrak’s role affect New York’s rail expansion?

Amtrak’s cooperation is crucial because it owns the tracks used for Metro-North’s new access to Penn Station.

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