February 09, 2023

REP. SYKES STATEMENT ON AMTRAK EXPANSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Emilia Strong Sykes (OH-13) released the following statement after Governor Mike DeWine announced Ohio would request the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) select Ohio routes for entry into the FRA’s Corridor Identification and Development program to fund route planning:

“I commend Gov. DeWine and regional leaders for taking this important first step to expand Amtrak in Ohio, made possible by the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” said Rep. Sykes. “Expanding Amtrak in Cleveland will have a profound impact on the entire Northeast Ohio region by creating jobs, boosting our economy, and improving mobility for all. I will continue to advocate for an expansion route in Akron-Canton so that residents in Ohio’s 13th Congressional District can be better connected to economic, educational, and healthcare opportunities across the state.”

As the sole Ohio member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Rep. Sykes will oversee implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s $66 billion dollar Amtrak funding. A longtime transit advocate, Rep. Sykes secured historic investments in public transportation while serving as the Ohio House Minority Leader, including $140 million for the state’s public transit systems.