For Release: Friday, October 27, 2006
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO COMMENDS AGREEMENT ON NEW AMTRAK ROUTES

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) today commended an agreement between the Canadian National Railroad (CN) and Amtrak that will allow new routes in Southwestern and Southern Illinois to go forward as planned.  Late last week, Canadian National announced it would not honor a plan worked out this summer. 

Costello joined most of the Illinois congressional delegation in sending a letter to CN President and CEO E. Hunter Harrison urging CN to reach a resolution by October 30, the date regular service on the new lines is set to commence. 

"While the process has been rocky, it is important that the new routes will open on time," said Costello.  "The increased use of rail provides important transportation alternatives, saves energy, and is critical for the economy of Southwestern and Southern Illinois and Southern Illinois University.  I applaud the state of Illinois for its commitment to passenger rail, and I will continue to support Amtrak at the federal level."

Costello is a senior member of the House Railroads Subcommittee and a long-time supporter of Amtrak.  He has been a leader in the effort to ensure the stability of the railroad and he urged Amtrak to name the new line to Carbondale "Saluki," and participated in the inaugural ride of the line last week.    

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