In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort interviews Stephen Gardner, CEO of Amtrak, at their Washington, DC headquarters. They discuss Amtrak's record ridership of 32.8 million passengers in the past year, recent capital investments totaling $4.5 billion, and the introduction of new Acela trains. Gardner shares insights into Amtrak's strategy to double ridership by 2040, high-speed rail initiatives, and the unique structure of Amtrak as a federally-owned yet commercially-operated entity. Key projects such as the Frederick Douglass Tunnel in Baltimore and the upcoming Gulf Coast service are also highlighted, along with Amtrak's approach to modernizing and expanding its network. The episode concludes with a look into the future of rail travel and the importance of strategic partnerships. 

00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged 

00:05 Introduction to today's episode from host Paul Comfort 

01:24 Interview with Stephen Gardner 

01:34 Stephen Gardner's Background and Role at Amtrak 

03:03 Understanding Amtrak's Unique Structure 

07:42 Amtrak's Business Model and Operations 

13:23 Challenges and Opportunities in Rail Expansion 

23:02 High-Speed Rail and Future Projects 

27:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Next week on Transit Unplugged, Paul chats with Mikel Oglesby, General Manager of SunTran, SunRail, and SunLink, in Tucson, AZ. 

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com 

Host: Paul Comfort 

Producer: Paul Comfort 

Writer: Cyndi Raskin

Executive Producer: Julie Gates 

Special thanks to: 

Brand design: Tina Olagundoye 

Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova 

Transit Unplugged Newsletter & Media Support: Cyndi Raskin 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.