A good choice, but don't expect miracles

Saturday, August 20, 2016

Amtrak's announcement that retired Norfolk Southern executive Charles "Wick" Moorman will be the railroad's next president has been greeted positively.

Railfans immediately started posting their wish lists for Mr. Moorman: resurrection of every route Amtrak ever had; return of old-style elegant food service; and so on...even a steam excursion program similar to Norfolk Southern's.

Well, dream on. We're pleased that Amtrak has selected a widely-respected executive. But Mr. Moorman is going to need our help to make our wishes come true. This fall, we need to vote for members of Congress, governors, legislators, and local officials who are willing to fund passenger rail.

So please, ask candidates if they support better trains, and let us know what you find out. Mr. Moorman needs our support.

-CH