News Releases for January 2004
January 13, 2004
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Hoeven: Amtrak Ridership In North Dakota Up
Governor Cites Need for Mix of Transportation and Continued Support
Revised
BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven today said Amtrak ridership is up by more than 35 percent statewide over last year, and three communities - Devils Lake, Fargo and Grand Forks - are up more than 40 percent. The increase is owing to a growing economy, improved service and a new marketing effort, according to Amtrak officials.
“The most recent ridership numbers make apparent that Amtrak is serving a real need in North Dakota,” Hoeven said. “Our citizens are relying on the railroad for both leisure travel and business, which underscores the fact that there is a demand in our state for a balanced mix of transportation.”
First quarter federal fiscal year ‘04 ridership (October through December) for stations in North Dakota are as follows:
| Station | FY04 | FY03 | % Chg. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Devils Lake | 1,080 | 739 | +46.1 |
| Fargo | 4,105 | 2,834 | +44.8 |
| Grand Forks | 4,130 | 2,742 | +50.6 |
| Minot | 8,077 | 5,845 | +38.2 |
| Rugby | 1,319 | 1,010 | +30.6 |
| Stanley | 531 | 466 | +13.9 |
| Williston | 4,695 | 4,044 | +16.1 |
| Total | 23,937 | 17,680 | +35.4 |
During Amtrak’s last funding cycle, Hoeven forwarded resolutions and letters from across North Dakota and Minnesota in support of continued funding for Amtrak service to President Bush; North Dakota’s congressional delegation; and congressional committee chairs of both houses. The Governor appealed to the President and lawmakers to support Amtrak’s funding request. This fiscal year, Congress appropriated $1.2 billion.
America and North Dakota need a dependable, efficient and affordable rail system,” Hoeven said. “Amtrak service links North Dakota and nation, connecting Chicago to Seattle across the northern plains and much of the western United States.”
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