The Amtrak Board of Directors announced today the release of David Gunn, its President and Chief Executive Officer for the past three years.  The Board has named Chief Engineer David Hughes as Acting President and CEO to run the railroad as we conduct a national search for Amtrak's next leader.
 

Together with your hard work, David Gunn made important operational improvements during his tenure. Now, as we look to the future our priorities are changing and Amtrak requires a different type of leader who will more aggressively tackle the company's significant financial, management and operational challenges.
 

Earlier this year, Amtrak's Board and management prepared a blueprint for comprehensive reform as part of our fiscal 2006 grant request to the Congress.  The good news in this strategic plan is that we can improve Amtrak, upgrade service in the vital Northeast Corridor, expand rail services in densely populated and increasingly congested corridors across the country, and bring more economic discipline to Amtrak's long distance services.
 

These reforms and others envisioned will require fundamental change, hard work and consistent support.  They also require a leader who has the organizational, financial and management skills needed to help transform Amtrak into a more sustainable and high performing company.
 

Both chambers of Congress have passed 2006 appropriations for Amtrak that recognize the importance of an effective intercity rail travel system, while demanding much needed reform.  The Board is committed to pursuing these reforms, and to working closely with the Congress, the Administration, state governments and other essential partners to make sure we get this right, and get it done.
 

Putting Amtrak and intercity passenger rail service on a more stable and stronger course is our highest priority and in all of our interests.  We look forward to working together in the critical months ahead.
 

Sincerely,

/s/

David M. Laney, Esq.

Chairman