Amtrak invests $50 billion in train and route upgrades

Amtrak continues to demonstrate rapid growth: in 2024, ridership surpassed pre-pandemic levels, and the company plans to break new records in 2025. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Demand for rail travel is rising not only in the Northeast Corridor but across the country, prompting Amtrak to actively invest in expansion.

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To increase frequency, the company is optimizing schedules and turnaround times, which has already allowed more service without purchasing new trains.

Amtrak is also investing heavily in infrastructure upgrades. In 2024, it signed $10 billion in contracts, and in 2025 it plans to invest another $7 billion.

Key projects include the reconstruction of the Baltimore tunnel, the replacement of the Connecticut River Bridge, and the rehabilitation of New York’s storm-damaged tunnel.

As part of its fleet renewal program, high-speed NextGen Acela trains will enter service in 2025. Built by Alstom in New York, they will enhance service between Washington, New York, and Boston.

These new trains will offer faster, more comfortable journeys with 5G Wi-Fi, USB ports, and personal lighting at every seat.

Amtrak launches new trains and expands its route network

In 2026, Amtrak will introduce Airo trains built by Siemens in California and North Carolina. With a top speed of 125 mph and seamless power transitions, they eliminate stopovers for locomotive changes.

A total of 83 trains have been ordered, supported by more than 90 suppliers across 31 states.

Amtrak is also developing a new long-distance fleet expected to enter service in the 2030s. The focus will be on comfort and the experience of the journey itself.

New Amtrak routes expand across the South, Midwest, and East

In May 2024, the Borealis route (Chicago–Minneapolis) launched and quickly exceeded expectations with over 100,000 passengers in just five months. Higher frequencies are now under consideration.

The Floridian route, launched in November 2024 between Chicago and Florida, also recorded strong demand. Its success reinforced the value of reliable long-distance rail options.

Soon, the Mardi Gras route between Mobile and New Orleans will be restored—its first operation since 2005. This will improve regional mobility and strengthen Amtrak’s long-distance network.

Additionally, a new route to Christiansburg, Virginia will reconnect the town to rail service, while the S-Line project between Richmond and Charlotte will convert a freight corridor for passenger use.

Amtrak is steadily building a stronger U.S. rail system. With a $50 billion investment plan, the company is laying the foundation for a modern, efficient, and connected national network.

Source: railway-news.com

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