New Jersey Assembly Bill AR47

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Urges Congress to examine operations of Amtrak at New York Pennsylvania Station.

Impact

The resolution addresses significant nuisances caused by Amtrak's infrastructure management and funding challenges. It notes years of under-investment leading to reliability issues, exemplified by recent derailments that affected tens of thousands of passengers and disrupted service across major rail lines including New Jersey Transit and the Long Island Railroad. The lack of transparency regarding the consultative process between Amtrak and commuter rail operators is highlighted, calling for better engagement of these stakeholders in decision-making concerning the station’s operations.

Summary

Assembly Resolution 47 urges the United States Congress to examine the operations of Amtrak at New York Pennsylvania Station (Penn Station). As the busiest train station in America, accommodating over 10 million passengers yearly, the resolution expresses concerns regarding the outdated infrastructure which currently supports more than 1,300 train movements weekly, far exceeding its designed capacity. The resolution emphasizes the critical role that Penn Station plays in the Northeast Corridor and highlights the increasing train traffic due to urban growth and highway congestion, significantly impacting regional economies.

Contention

Notable contention arises from the apparent failure of Amtrak to reinvest in the critical infrastructure despite substantial commuter traffic fees paid by New Jersey Transit and others. Advocates for the resolution argue that federal oversight and financial support are necessary to remedy the situation and enhance safety. Critics might argue that a greater emphasis on federal control could stifle local rail service operations and defer necessary local input in addressing commuter needs, which can lead to further delays and issues.