Passenger rail is full steam ahead.
Our rail system isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It supports a strong economy and opens the door to countless opportunities.
Passenger rail is better for our environment and better for commuters. In fact, expanding passenger rail service is estimated to generate $30 billion in direct investments in our communities and reduce carbon emissions by nearly 50% when compared to car travel. And now, we’re making our passenger rail system better than ever.
I’m proud to serve on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee as we’ve overseen monumental infrastructure accomplishments. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is reshaping our roads, bridges, and ports, and it’s also delivering the largest investment in passenger rail since the creation of Amtrak 50 years ago.
Today’s subcommittee hearing on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials explored how we can continue boosting intercity passenger rail and Amtrak, making it perform better and more safely. Indianapolis is home to one of the most important rail maintenance facilities in the U.S. Workers at this Beech Grove facility have long warned against downsizing or outsourcing this vital safety work. Today, Amtrak testified it’s finally investing in this workforce, which will help keep our trains running safely, with fewer delays.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests $66 billion in our rail network – including $22 billion in direct funding for Amtrak’s capital programs. In December, I wrote to you about a major step in this investment for Hoosiers. We’re moving Amtrak services between Indianapolis to daily service, plus updates to make this trip even more efficient. We’re also funding a new rail corridor between Indianapolis and Louisville.
But it’s not just happening in our backyard. Across the country, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is funding passenger rail projects, including the first world-class high-speed rail projects in our country’s history. With high-speed rail between California and Nevada and between Los Angeles and San Francisco, we’re entering a new era for our country.
Someday, I hope to realize my goal of high-speed rail in the Midwest, and we’re closer than ever to making that dream a reality. It’s clear Americans agree -- Amtrak is set to break passenger records for 2024. I’ll keep fighting to grow and strengthen our passenger rail system.
Energy efficiency upgrades
Do you struggle with your monthly energy bill? I voted for the Inflation Reduction Act to create programs that will save Hoosiers thousands of dollars with home energy efficiency upgrades. Applications will be available starting in late 2024, but in the meantime, the Indiana Office of Energy Development wants to hear from you on how to make the application process as smooth as possible. You can submit a survey here and check back in on my website for more updates.
Team Carson is Here to Serve:
Did you know that in 2023, my office responded to over 70,000 of your messages and brought $1.5 MILLION directly back to Indianapolis families? Team Carson is here to serve you – get in touch to find out how we can help you navigate a federal agency, access government benefits, or recognize a community member’s milestone.
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Your Friend,
André