Amtrak (the National Railroad Passenger Corporation) takes over operation of U.S. passenger rail service.

Known widely as Amtrak, the National Railroad Passenger Corporation serves as the United States' primary intercity passenger rail operator, extending its reach into Canada. The name 'Amtrak' itself is a clever fusion of 'America' and 'trak' – a stylized spelling of 'track' – perfectly encapsulating its role as a national rail service. Identified by reporting marks AMTK and AMTZ, this crucial transportation entity delivers essential medium and long-distance train services across the contiguous United States and to nine specific cities in Canada.

A Legacy of Service: Amtrak's Genesis

Established in 1971, Amtrak emerged during a period when private passenger rail services in the U.S. were facing severe financial difficulties and rapidly declining ridership. It was conceived as a quasi-public corporation, a unique structure designed to preserve vital passenger rail routes that private companies could no longer sustain. This setup means that while it operates with a for-profit management philosophy, Amtrak receives significant financial support through a combination of state and federal subsidies, acknowledging its role as a public service. Reflecting its foundational public interest, the United States federal government, specifically through the Secretary of Transportation, holds all of the company's issued and outstanding preferred stock, underscoring its national importance. Its operational heart beats in Washington, D.C., with its headquarters strategically situated just one block west of the iconic Union Station, a historical hub of American rail travel.

Connecting the Nation: Network and Operations

Amtrak’s extensive network is a testament to its commitment to connecting communities, serving over 500 destinations spanning 46 U.S. states and reaching into three Canadian provinces. Daily, more than 300 trains traverse approximately 21,400 miles (about 34,000 kilometers) of track. A distinctive aspect of Amtrak's operations is its relationship with the vast rail infrastructure of North America: while it owns roughly 623 miles (1,003 kilometers) of track and operates an additional 132 miles, the majority of its routes run on tracks owned by freight railroads. This shared infrastructure dynamic is a defining feature of U.S. passenger rail. On select, dedicated sections, Amtrak trains are capable of reaching impressive speeds of up to 150 mph (240 km/h), particularly vital for efficient travel in high-density corridors.

At a Glance: Key Statistics and Ridership

In its fiscal year 2021, Amtrak demonstrated its continued importance to American travelers by serving 12.2 million passengers, generating $2.08 billion in revenue. The organization relies on the dedication of a substantial workforce, employing over 17,500 individuals as of fiscal year 2020. On an average day, nearly 87,000 passengers choose to ride one of Amtrak’s more than 300 daily trains. Interestingly, rider demographics reveal a strong concentration in urban areas: close to two-thirds of all passengers originate from the 10 largest metropolitan regions. Furthermore, the data indicates that 83% of Amtrak passengers utilize routes shorter than 400 miles (645 kilometers), highlighting the significant role of regional and corridor services in its overall operations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amtrak

What does the name "Amtrak" mean?
The name "Amtrak" is a portmanteau, a blend of the words "America" and "trak," with "trak" being a phonetic spelling of "track." It was chosen to reflect its role as a national passenger rail service.
When was Amtrak established?
Amtrak was founded in 1971 as the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.
Is Amtrak a government agency or a private company?
Amtrak operates as a quasi-public corporation. While it is managed with a for-profit approach and receives state and federal subsidies, the United States federal government, through the Secretary of Transportation, owns all of its issued and outstanding preferred stock, underlining its public service mandate.
How many destinations and states does Amtrak serve?
Amtrak connects over 500 destinations across 46 U.S. states and extends its service to three Canadian provinces, reaching nine cities in Canada.
Does Amtrak own all the tracks its trains run on?
No, Amtrak owns approximately 623 miles (1,003 km) of its own track and operates on an additional 132 miles it doesn't own. However, the vast majority of the 21,400 miles of track it uses are owned by freight railroads and other entities, over which Amtrak has operating rights.
What is the maximum speed Amtrak trains can achieve?
On specific, high-speed sections of its network, Amtrak trains are capable of reaching speeds of up to 150 mph (240 km/h).
How many passengers does Amtrak serve in a year?
In fiscal year 2021, Amtrak served 12.2 million passengers.