A reason why Amtrak projects are always over budget

Pensyfan19 wrote: ↑Wed Sep 22, 2021 2:44 pm What about other railroad companies when compared to Amtrak? Do projects from the NY MTA, Brightline, Metra or other commuter or freight rail agencies come within budget for projects such as this? Which railroads are usually the best in terms of budget planning and which ones constantly run over budget? What could be done to help private companies (such as Brightline) stay within budget?

Brightline (Florida) is very interesting. Overall they seem to do well in terms of schedule, budget, etc. However, they do have to deal with local government and more, and that can and does cause all sorts of problems. For instance, in their drive to Orlando, different business interests have interfered with 'route' selection, causing delays and cost increases.

photobug56 wrote: ↑Wed Sep 22, 2021 8:15 pm Long, strange story about that Central Park ice skating rink, but your point is correct. But I'm guessing that if you look at the 2nd Avenue Stubway and LIRR East Side Access projects, they would make most Amtrak projects look dirt cheap and ahead of schedule. Of course, compare them to BNSF, UP, etc., ...

Both of the projects you cite are government run, undersigning my point.

Yes. Just saying that Amtrak's not the worst.

photobug56 wrote: ↑Wed Sep 22, 2021 9:28 pm Yes. Just saying that Amtrak's not the worst.

Correct. SEPTA's Key fare system comes to mind as a good example of Amtrak not being the worst.

A crown not likely to be easily surrendered -- at least let's hope not.