Durbin Recognizes CN Progress, Continues Effort for Grand Crossing Funding Agreement

Press Release

Durbin Recognizes CN Progress, Continues Effort for Grand Crossing Funding Agreement

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today made the following statement referencing a March 12, 2008 letter from the President and CEO of Amtrak Alex Kummant to the President and CEO of Canadian National E. Hunter Harrison regarding the proposed purchase of the Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railway.

"It is promising that Canadian National has agreed to cap the cost to Amtrak for use of the St. Charles Air Line Route. At the same time, Amtrak and I share a concern over CN's lack of commitment to funding the Grand Crossing Route construction to ensure the continued success of Amtrak service in and out of Chicago."

"As the Surface Transportation Board begins to investigate the potential impact of the purchase, I think it is essential that we work together to see that each community affected by the deal has its concerns addressed. I look forward to facilitating a workable solution by keeping a dialogue open between CN, Amtrak, community leaders and policy makers."

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