Former Macomb mayor has big goals for rail service
By Melissa Shriver
Tuesday, February 03, 2009 at 11:19 a.m.
Read more: Local, State, Community, Amtrak, Carper, Rail, Train
Amtrak Board Chairman Thomas Carper says the rail service faces many challenges in the coming days.
He should know. He became Amtrak board chairman last week. His term as chairman couldn't have come at a better time. President Obama's economic stimulus package contains money for Amtrak service.
What is the number one challenge?
Carper said, "I'd have to say on-time performance and continuity of service. Being able to leave when we say we will, and equipment is a huge issue in that."
Carper says aging equipment is a major factor in delays. In fact, some machinery is 40 to 50 years old and needs updates. Other broken-down equipment is too expensive to repair and sits idle.
Is there a plan to fix this?
Carper said, "Absolutely, part is retrofitting some equipment and getting maintenance up. We're confident, given adequate resources and support from the administration, we'll be able to take care of these problems."
Funding for capital projects and equipment has been and continues to be an issue for Amtrak. But help may be on the way thanks to the proposed economic stimulus package. It currently includes money to cover much-needed projects, like equipment repairs that Amtrak can't afford right now. Bridge repairs, safety signals and upgrades to train engines to allow for higher travel speeds also top Amtrak's wish list.
Carper said, "I think the stars are lining up and future for Amtrak is as good as it's ever looked."
Carper says the ongoing support from President Obama and Vice President Biden as well as Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood will help. You'll remember LaHood served as Congressman for Illinois' 18th District. Carper says all those leaders understand the importance of rail service and have said they will support it.
Carper says he's looking forward to tackling the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Thomas Carper has been a director on the National Passenger Railroad's Board since March and was recently elected Chairman. He served as mayor of Macomb from 1991 to 2003.
