Senators Carper, Coons Cosponsor Resolution Honoring National Train Day

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons (both D-Del.) cosponsored a resolution this week to designate May 7th as National Train Day and recognize Amtrak’s 40 years of work to improve our rail system and provide rapid transportation between America’s communities.  

“As a longtime advocate and regular passenger of Amtrak, I take great pleasure in being able to formally recognize the 40th Anniversary of Amtrak and the importance of our national rail service on National Train Day,” Senator Carper said. “Each year, Amtrak meets the transportation needs of millions of Americans, myself and countless other Delawareans included. Our nation continues to experience a substantial return for our investment in transportation infrastructure—in the form of job creation, decreased reliance on foreign oil, improved air quality and more efficient and enjoyable travel. Not only do trains make our lives better, but they also play a major role in the success of our economy and the development of our communities. With that in mind, I’m glad to join my colleagues today on a resolution to underscore the value of our national rail service.”  

“Railroads are an integral part of our country’s history, but more importantly they are an essential resource to diversify our future transportation options,” Senator Coons said. “In addition to providing energy efficient, reliable transportation to our residents, Delaware’s rail system also provides jobs and economic opportunity for the First State. As a daily commuter, I’m grateful that our rail system ensures I am able to maintain close ties with Delawareans.”  

Longtime advocates for expanded rail service in the First State, Senators Carper and Coons are members of the Bicameral High-Speed & Intercity Passenger Rail Caucus, which was formed in March of this year and currently has 11 members.  

Both Senators Carper and Coons travel by Amtrak from Wilmington to Washington on a near-daily basis. The rising price of fuel and the convenience of rail is why Amtrak recently celebrated 17 consecutive months of year-over-year growth.  

The resolution, which was introduced by Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) on Wednesday, underscores Amtrak’s commitment to providing a fuel-efficient transportation system and reliable rail options that reduce congestion on our roads and in our skies, providing intercity passenger rail service to 28,700,000 Americans in 46 states during 2010.  

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Amtrak is holding a nationwide event tomorrow at train stations around the country to raise awareness of the benefits of passenger rail transportation. This year’s events will highlight memorabilia and exhibitions of rail equipment, as well as informational displays about the benefits of passenger rail.  

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