Hochul: Rail Service Restored and Improved Between Albany and NYC
The announcement begins at the 8:39 mark.
Governor Kathy Hochul, Metro-North Railroad President Justin Vonashek and Amtrak President Roger Harris today announced that New York State has secured a series of improvements to rail service on the Empire Service Corridor between Albany and New York City. Supported by New York State via the Department of Transportation, the Empire Service is an economic engine up and down the Hudson River, carrying two million riders annually and achieving record-high ridership in 2024. Following the suspension of three daily Amtrak Empire Service round-trips, Governor Hochul tasked the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to develop potential solutions leveraging its existing Metro-North Railroad service as a mitigation for affected customers. The MTA is now advancing a plan with partners to run Metro-North service between Albany and Grand Central, starting with one daily round-trip in the Spring of 2026. In addition, Amtrak has committed to restoring one daily round-trip previously suspended between New York City and Albany on December 1.
“Restoring Amtrak service and debuting Metro-North service to Albany is a huge win for riders. The Empire Service is vital to communities along the Hudson River,” Governor Hochul said. “While Amtrak’s repairs to the East River Tunnels are necessary, riders from Albany to New York City have had to endure sold out trains and higher fares for the past five months. I’ve been clear from the moment this plan was proposed that New Yorkers deserve better. This new plan will provide more travel options and lower fares for over two million annual riders, saving them time and putting money back in their pockets.”
Metro-North President Justin Vonashek said, “Extending Metro-North’s safe, reliable service to Albany closes a critical gap in regional transit by restoring capacity and connecting New York City and Hudson Valley communities with the high-quality service our customers expect.”
Amtrak President Roger Harris said, “New York State residents and visitors’ passion and patience are paying off, as additional, affordable, and improved train service between New York City and Albany is on its way. Thanks to Governor Hochul for her leadership and commitment to New York State, and NYSDOT and MTA for their partnership in helping meet the high demand of train service we have throughout the state.”
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie-Therese Dominguez said, “New York’s Empire Service, which is supported by the State Department of Transportation, is one of the most highly-utilized and important passenger rail services in the nation, and Governor Hochul has been laser focused on making the service more reliable and affordable, especially since the East River Tunnel project began. Today’s announcement by the Governor is a huge win for riders who rely on rail to get where they need to go, and truly demonstrates the possibilities that can happen when the needs of customers are at the forefront. Congratulations to all of our partners and customers and welcome aboard!”
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Source: The Office of the Governor