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Trainsmag.com just reported that Amtrak President and CEO David L. Gunn told the Washington Post that he was optmiistic that the railroad could land a $205 million loan and avert a shutdown in july.
But he made it clear that any shutdown would involve the entire system, not just certain routes or long-distance trains. Gunn told employees that Amtrak would run out of cash by july if it couldn't obtain a loan to tide the railroad over to the beginning of the fiscal year in October.
Despite the talk of a shutdown, Amtrak urged passengers holding reservations beyond July 1 to keep them. Travel agents contacted by Trains didn't report any unusual activituy among clients holding Amtrak reservations for summer travel.
If Amtrak had to shut down, the effects would extend far beyond the lack of intercity rail transportation.
Eric Member # 674
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Gunn doesn't BS, and I think Congress knows it. They'll come through for Amtrak again, and they say, "next year we'll work on an overhaul."
[This message has been edited by Eric (edited 06-10-2002).]
Mr. Toy Member # 311
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quote:Originally posted by Eric: They'll come through for Amtrak again, and they say, "next year we'll work on an overhaul."
...because 31 years just wasn't enough time!
I am glad Gunn is making it clear that no portion of the system is more sacred than others. All the trains are valuable.
------------------ Trust God, love your neighbor, and never mistake opinion for truth. -Mr. Toy
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Threat of a shut Shutdown or no threat, I'm buying plenty of tickets for June, July, August and beyond!
Eric Member # 674
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Mr. Toy made a good point, and I'm sure others have the same thoughts. It's great to have a president that still believes in a national system, and Amtrak will hopefully receive more support if they take the focus off of the NEC. LSL- I hope we all do!
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