November 17, 2003

Statement by Amtrak President David L. Gunn on Tentative $1.2 Billion Funding Level

Amtrak President David L. Gunn made the following statement today concerning the tentative agreement by the House and Senate conference committee on Amtrak's federal funding of $1.2 billion for FY'04:

"I appreciate the efforts of the mayors who advocated for adequate funding for Amtrak.

"This number will allow us to continue to operate the national system. However, we will have to assess the impact of this funding level on our current budget over the next month or so."

Statement by Amtrak Board Chairman David Laney

"Thanks to the U.S. Conference of Mayors for their ongoing and Herculean support of Amtrak and the development of passenger rail in this country."