[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 36, Number 9 (Monday, March 6, 2000)]
[Pages 400-401]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Funding for Amtrak

February 28, 2000

    There has never been a better time to expand our investment in 
Amtrak and the Nation's passenger railways. The number of Americans 
relying on Amtrak has continued to grow for 3 years in a row. And 
through sound financial management, Amtrak continues its movement toward 
viability.
    Therefore, this year I am asking Congress to increase Amtrak funding 
by more than $400 million, or more than 70 percent, in order to make 
investments to expand Amtrak

[[Page 401]]

routes and provide even more efficient service, laying the foundation 
for high-speed rail. With this major funding increase this year, we can 
help ensure a thriving passenger rail system for many years to come.

Note: A portion of the President's statement was also made available on 
the White House Press Office Actuality Line.