NEW YORK — Amtrak along with its partners, the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) and the National Park Service Trails and Rails program, is commemorating the 35th anniversary of the operation of the historic Adirondack service with a special event at the Rensselaer station in Albany, N.Y., on Aug. 5.
“The Adirondack represents rail travel’s connection to the past as well as its importance as a vital transportation alternative now and for the future,” said Tom Connolly Amtrak’s District Superintendent, noting that the Adirondack remains a popular route carrying over 112,000 passengers during FY08, representing an 11 percent increase in ridership over the prior year.
Ceremonies will be held prior to the northbound train’s departure from Albany. In addition, to help commemorate the milestone, specially wrapped candy bars, signifying this special date in rail history, will be distributed on-board.
NYSDOT Acting Commissioner Stanley Gee said, “On behalf of the State Department of Transportation, I congratulate Amtrak on 35 years of offering this unique transportation option. The scenic train ride from New York City to Montreal takes business and pleasure travelers on a beautiful ride along the Hudson River and through the picturesque Adirondack Park. Besides affording wonderful views of our state’s natural treasures, this rail service reduces the number of cars on our roads and motor-vehicle traffic in the Adirondack Park, thereby helping protect our environment and making more energy efficient.”
