Amtrak will restore its full train schedule between New York City and Albany in March. However, this return to full service comes with the cancellation of a proposal that would have extended Metro-North service to the Capital Region.
Service Restoration and a Lost Opportunity
The decision to reinstate the full Empire Service schedule follows significant cuts announced last April to accommodate construction on the East River Tunnel. That tunnel sustained damage during Superstorm Sandy.
The proposed Metro-North extension would have provided commuters with a cheaper, fixed-fare alternative along the Hudson Line. Amtrak’s decision not to allow the temporary service to proceed effectively ends that plan.
Criticism and Response
The initial reduction in service drew criticism from an estimated 3 million New Yorkers who rely on Amtrak for travel between New York City, the Hudson Valley, and the Albany area. Former Mayor Eric Adams, other elected officials, and the MTA also voiced concerns.
Governor Kathy Hochul stated on Tuesday, “I have been clear that our commuters cannot suffer disproportionately for regional construction projects and am glad Amtrak has heeded my call and committed to running full service for the duration of the project and beyond.”
Amtrak spokesperson Jason Abrams confirmed the full schedule will be restored in early March, citing schedule changes related to the Northeast Corridor infrastructure projects as enabling the restoration. He also stated the East River Tunnel project remains on schedule and within budget, with an expected completion date of 2027.
What’s Next?
Governor Hochul indicated she remains open to considering an expansion of Metro-North service north of Poughkeepsie in the future, should sufficient demand exist in the Hudson Valley and Capital Region. It is possible that further studies could be conducted to assess the feasibility and potential ridership of such an extension.
The focus will likely remain on the completion of the East River Tunnel rehabilitation. Depending on the project’s progress, Amtrak could potentially explore further service adjustments or improvements in the coming years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the initial reduction in Amtrak service?
Amtrak originally cut service to accommodate construction on the East River Tunnel, which was damaged during Superstorm Sandy.
What happened to the plan to extend Metro-North service?
The plan to extend Metro-North to the Capital Region will no longer move forward, as Amtrak did not allow the temporary service to proceed.
When is the East River Tunnel project expected to be completed?
The East River Tunnel project is expected to be completed in 2027.
How will infrastructure projects like this impact regional transportation in the future?
