Summary
Amtrak has seen a record number of passengers, with 36.2 million people using the service in fiscal year 2025, an increase of 10% from the year before. However, the U.S. train system is not prepared to handle this demand due to outdated infrastructure. Lack of investment and political support has kept the U.S. rail system behind compared to other countries like China and France.
Key Facts
- Amtrak had 36.2 million passengers in fiscal year 2025, a 10% increase from 2024.
- The rise in Amtrak riders comes while other travel options, like flying, are less popular.
- Amtrak says cheaper fares are attracting cost-conscious travelers who avoid airports.
- U.S. rail infrastructure is aging and not ready for the increased demand.
- Experts note that other countries, like China and France, have invested more in high-speed rail.
- Funding issues and complex regulations have slowed U.S. rail development.
- The 2021 infrastructure law allocated $66 billion for rail, but progress has been slow.
- Few major rail projects have advanced, like the Gateway Tunnel project between New York and New Jersey.
