The revival of a long-dormant rail connection between Scranton and New York City is gaining traction, buoyed by significant political backing. In a recent letter, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan expressed his “strong support” for the proposed passenger train, highlighting its potential economic benefits for Northeast Pennsylvania.
Amid concerns sparked by federal budget cuts advocated by former President Donald Trump, Bresnahan emphasized the positive impact the train could have on the region’s economic landscape. He stated, “This project, which will connect Scranton and New York City by rail for the first time in 55 years, will help Northeastern Pennsylvania continue its momentum as a growing economic, logistics, and tourism powerhouse.” This was addressed to Federal Railroad Administration Acting Administrator Michael Lestingi.
In January, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) gave the green light to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to start formulating a service development plan. This plan will outline the operational specifics of the proposed Amtrak service. The Scranton-to-New York City route is one of five routes nationwide that received authorization for development planning just before President Joe Biden’s term commenced.
The planning phase, estimated to cost $5.46 million, is expected to receive 90% of its funding from the federal government, with the remaining 10% covered by PennDOT.
According to an estimate from an Amtrak study, Bresnahan noted, “This proposed project will carry an estimated 470,000 passengers per year and contribute $84 million in local economic development and opportunity.” However, the FRA has not yet allocated construction funds for this or any other local project.
The proposed train service is particularly seen as a boon to Monroe County’s burgeoning outdoor recreation sector, potentially drawing visitors from New York to explore Northeastern Pennsylvania’s attractions. Bresnahan requested the FRA to “continue to give the project due and fair consideration” as the development plan progresses.
Bresnahan asserted, “This project represents a significant investment not only in Northeastern Pennsylvania but also in Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor and the broader national passenger rail system,” and expressed confidence in the FRA’s commitment to a fair review process.
Bresnahan’s support has been consistent since his election, contingent on the project’s ability to deliver economic gains and community safety without taxpayer strain. Larry Malski, president of the Pennsylvania Northeast Regional Railroad Authority, one of the chief sponsors, acknowledged the importance of Bresnahan’s backing, stating, “It’s definitely a very big plus. It helps with everyone. It helps with PennDOT, who’s going to be a major funding partner, who’s already invested money as a state match to the federal funds.”
PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll confirmed the planning will proceed, supported by FRA’s financial obligations to the state. “So, if the federal funds are obligated, we consider them contractually married to the commonwealth (state),” Carroll explained. “They haven’t told us to stop. They know … the five — Scranton being one — that are developing those service development plans, and we continue with their full knowledge.”
FRA spokesman William Wong confirmed the agency’s continued financial support for the planning, which will cover trip frequency, preliminary construction costs, scheduling, environmental considerations, and future funding sources.
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