Sen. Carper Statement on Department of Transportation Loan to Amtrak for Purchase of New Locomotives

WASHINGTON – Today, Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) released the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s announcement that it will loan Amtrak $562 million to purchase new locomotives for the Northeast Corridor:

“I welcome today’s news that the U.S. Department of Transportation will provide a $562 million loan to Amtrak. This loan will allow Amtrak to purchase 70 electric locomotives for use on the Northeast Corridor. As an almost-daily Amtrak rider and a former Amtrak Board member, I understand the significant need for new and improved equipment. These new locomotives will consume less energy and enhance service reliability. They will also allow Amtrak to carry more passengers, which will reduce traffic congestion and harmful air pollution. This is truly a win-win situation and great news for Delaware and the rest of the Northeast Corridor.”

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