Amtrak is the only intercity passenger rail service provider in the Southeast Corridor. Amtrak’s routes link the Northeast Corridor (NEC) and Washington DC with Florida, via cities in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.

Amtrak’s intercity passenger rail system began service May, 1971. Officially known as the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, "Amtrak" is an acronym of "American" and "track."

Operating as a private corporation, Amtrak receives considerable Federal oversight, involvement, and support. Amtrak's board of directors is appointed by the President of the United States and subject to confirmation by the U.S. Senate.

Amtrak’s nationwide network of 21,000 miles of routes serves some 500 stations in 46 states, and Canadian communities. During Fiscal Year 2007 (October 2006 to September 2007) Amtrak welcomed aboard more than 25.8 million passengers, a 1,500,000 increase from Fiscal Year 2006. This set the fifth straight fiscal year of record ridership on key routes. Amtrak employs almost 19,000 people.

Amtrak Website

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