More Americans Are Taking the Train Than Ever

[BumRushDaShow]

Source: Newsweek

Published Dec 15, 2024 at 4:00 AM EST


ore Americans rode Amtrak trains than ever in 2024, as interest in passenger rail has seen a resurgence across the United States. Amtrak set its all-time ridership record for a fiscal year in December, surpassing 32.8 million passengers, an increase of 15 percent from 2023. Amtrak's ticket revenue reached $2.5 billion, a 9 percent increase year-over-year, and also the highest in its history.

Board Chair Tony Coscia credited the ridership growth to several factors, saying in a statement that it "reflects not only the need for train travel in America but also the impact of strategic investments that support our long-term vision.

"We're modernizing and expanding our network in ways that will improve service, enhance reliability, and increase capacity. This is an exciting time for rail in America, and Amtrak is committed to leading the way."
The company invested $4.5 billion into major infrastructure projects and secured more than $10 billion if competitive federal grants for current and future projects.

The investments included launching one new temporary train service and expanding four additional routes as part of its push to double ridership to 66 million by 2040. It also invested in bridges, tunnels and station upgrades to improve service, accessibility and safety across the country.


Read more: https://www.newsweek.com/more-americans-taking-train-ever-passenger-rail-amtrak-1999868