Hey all,

Please take a second to write your congressperson about Bush's proposed 40% CUT in funding for Amtrak in 2009.  Huh?  Did he miss the news?  The whole global warming, environmental thing?  The rising costs of oil?  The ugliness and pollution that cars bring?  Oh yeah, he lives on some other planet or something.  This is a copy of the letter I wrote, courtesy of Susan Och and the National Association of Railroad Passengers.  Took about 10 minutes to find my congressman, customize, proofread, and send.  I can't tell when they'll vote on it this year, but it looks like they've gotten to it in May or June in past years.  Thanks!

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Dear Congressman Rangel:  

President Bush has only requested $800 million for Amtrak in his Fiscal 2009 budget. Please work to reject this 40% cut and fully fund Amtrak. America needs passenger rail now more than ever as gas prices rise, airlines shut down, and climate change gets closer to the crisis point.

Rail is an efficient, low carbon way to travel. In Europe and Asia, they are investing in high tech trains that can travel over 250 MPH. The US should at least maintain a 20th century level train system, and consider catching up with the rest of the world.

I also urge your support for the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act, S. 294. The bill provides real, meaningful reform for Amtrak and a federal-state partnership for capital investments, which is enjoyed by the other modes of transportation. Please urge House leadership to pass companion legislation.

As you know, these issues are particularly critical to the citizens of New York State, a large portion of whom do not maintain personal vehicles.  In addition to the day-to-day uses of the rail lines, train rides can provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for cross country-travel: my parents just enjoyed our beautiful country by rail from San Diego to Seattle to Montana.  They are looking forward to exploring the state of New York in the same way.  Please continue to make this possible for future travelers.
Thank you very much for your leadership.

Sincerely,
Megan Metcalf