The NARP put out a statement today about President Bush’s proposed 2009 budget. Despite being the largest federal budget ever, over $300 billion (and it doesn’t include the wars), basic transportation necessities like Amtrak are threatened with huge cuts. Again.
“While the Administration’s funding recommendations released today for Amtrak are disappointing, they are not surprising, given this Administration’s eight-year lack of vision for a balanced transportation network and most recent hostility to the recommendations of the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission (NSTPRSC), a federal blue ribbon panel.
“Ignoring the recommendations of the NSTPRSC, polls and referenda around the country showing that Americans want passenger trains as a travel choice, and support from Congress, President Bush again has proposed to dismantle the national train system with a figure $525 million below this year’s budget.
“By proposing a 40% cut in Amtrak funds, the Administration would reduce the American people’s travel choices in an era of rising gas prices, concerns about the environment, and hours of lost productivity due to highway and aviation congestion. . . ."