Introduction: Amtrak's current situation -- A brief history of Amtrak -- Amtrak's role in intercity transportation -- The basic economics of passenger rail -- Policy options for the future of passenger rail -- Appendix. Amtrak's interconnections with freight and commuter railroads.

This insightful book exposes how Amtrak--which is seeking record federal subsidies while continuing to resist meaningful reforms--is not as essential to mobility as it claims.

A hearing held to look at the current financial situation of Amtrak and to determine the best way to handle Amtrak's fiscal and financial situation, including the best way to address capital needs. Witnesses include: Thomas M. Downs, Pres. and CEO, Amtrak; Donald M. Itzkoff, Deputy Administrator, Federal Railroad Admin., U.S. Dept. of Transportation; Phyllis F. Scheinberg, Assoc. Dir., Transportation Issues, Resources, Community, and Economic Development, General Accounting Office; Karen Borlaug Phillips, Assoc. of American Railroads; and Senators Kay Bailey Hutchison, John McCain, Ron Wyden, Daniel K. Inouye, and John F. Kerry.