Observers expect a quick settlement in Amtrak’s latest attempt to improve passenger service.
The Justice Department last month sued a freight railroad on behalf of Amtrak, saying the company was interfering with passenger trains. It’s the second time since 2022 that Amtrak has taken action against freight railroads for slowing down passenger travel.
The suit says Norfolk Southern routinely forces trains on the Amtrak Crescent line, which connects New York City and New Orleans, Louisiana, to pull aside for slower-moving freight trains, which violates federal law.
It’s a common complaint, and bringing in the Justice Department gives Norfolk Southern a reason to negotiate, said Jim Mathews, president of the Rail Passengers Association. Outside the Northeast, Amtrak trains run mostly on tracks owned by freight railroads, but federal law requires passenger trains to get right-of-way in most cases.
