Lawmakers urge Amtrak to delay planned construction

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. (WCAX) – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is joining other lawmakers asking Amtrak to delay construction.

Amtrak plans to begin work on one of the tunnels in New York City later this month. Once launched, Amtrak said rail service will be reduced by 20% and passengers traveling on the Adirondacks will be delayed by nearly two hours.

Rep. Stefanik and others are now asking Amtrak to delay that plan by at least 60 days to avoid long waits during the holiday season.

“We are fully funding this and that means they have to live up to their responsibility and serve these communities. This is an important thoroughfare not only for tourists, but also for people who live and work in the Adirondacks and the North Country,” said Rep. Stefanik.

Consulting group Ameristar Rail has also proposed a similar plan, asking Amtrak to wait until after the holidays and extend existing service to Washington, D.C., to avoid delays and service cuts.

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