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06/21/2008: "Finally, Congress Spends on Amtrak"

It might not be a good first impression for transit riders in places like Pittsburgh where a surge in ridership is met with a cash-strapped system. The city is also in a stage of revolt from the county which recently instituted a drink tax to create a stream of financing to keep the buses running.

On the federal level, years after President Reagan tried to eliminate Amtrak completely (it's not likely to be more affordable today to buy railway passengers a plane ticket), Congress appears interested in providing travelers with an alternative to high gas prices and the rising cost of plane travel.

A bill recently passing the House would authorize funding for the national passenger railroad over the next five years with some helping the states expand service.

According to the Associated Press, besides the $14.9 billion provided for Amtrak and intercity rail, an amendment to the bill would authorize $1.5 billion for Washington's Metro transit system over the next 10 years.

Help for Amtrak comes at a time when air service to many smaller, regional airports is being curtailed or even eliminated.

For me a trip from Pittsburgh to my hometown of Altoona was costing some $15 each way on Amtrak ($17 and $2 AAA discount). From New York it costs $118 round trip. The $15 price to Altoona is likely less than the cost of driving. The $118 round trip is likewise comparable to the cost of driving, and might even represent a savings given the various bridge tolls, turnpike fees and if it includes parking in New York, Amtrak is the superior alternative. Right now round trip tickets at the most affordable range are in the $270 range on an airplane. Add parking, taxi's to and from the airport and simple aggravation to that and you'll be joining the crowds at the Amtrak Station.

The other way to travel is by bus. High fuel prices are also helping a number of bus lines, and I think I am right in saying there is more competition in the inter-city bus industry than there has been for some time. My friend recently faced a sold out bus at the Pittsburgh station. A number of new bus lines from Greyhound, Megabus and the Chinatown bus lines are giving passengers options and driving down prices. A company called Megabus even offers $1 fares. Fares between New York and Pittsburgh are in the $45-$60 range. Greyhound allows passengers to pay an extra $5 to board first and choose a seat.

Eric Miller, on 06.21.08 @ 02:12PST