1990s--Challenging Times
States step up support
Throughout the 1990s, important projects were undertaken on both coasts. Passengers in California gained additional state-supported trains and routes, and new bi-level passenger cars.
In the Northwest, distinctive Talgo trainsets were placed into service on the Cascades route.
During the mid-1990s, reduced funding from the federal government resulted in the elimination of some routes and reductions in service on others. In response, eight states provided financial support to preserve or restore some of the affected trains.
On the East Coast, plans were developed for the introduction of 150 mph high-speed rail service on the Northeast Corridor. The key factor in this effort was the electrification of the line from New Haven to Boston. To make maximum use of the potential of the new electrification system, Amtrak partnered with Bombardier Transportation to design, build and introduce the fastest train in North America – Acela Express.
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