Story: Railroad Giant Faces Threat Of Extinction: 04/27/05
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/extra/features/jan-june05/amtrak_4-27.html

Reading Comprehension Questions:

1. When and why was Amtrak created?

2. Where are Amtrak's major routes?

3. How much money has President Bush allotted to Amtrak in his latest budget? Why is this significant?

4. Who has criticized President Bush's proposal? Why? What do they argue?

5. Who supports the president's proposal? Why? What do they argue?

Discussion Questions (more research might be needed):

1. Some politicians argue that train service should be subsidized by the government, just as highways and commercial airlines are. Do you agree? Why or why not? Explain your reasoning.

2. Trains have been an important part of American history-opening up the middle of the country for expansion and economic growth. Many older people are nostalgic about trains. Ask your grandparents or people older than 60 about their train experiences.

3. One possible solution for Amtrak's problems, according to the article, would be to contract passenger rail service out to private companies. What impact might this have? Where will companies invest? Where might rail service be limited?

4. Have you ever traveled by train? What was the experience like? How was it better or worse than other ways you have traveled? Would you travel by train again?

Send your answers, in essay form, to extra@newshour.org for possible publication!