Amtrak after PRIIA - New opportunities for continuing the revitalization of intercity passenger rail

In PRIIA's wake, there is an opportunity to consider the progress that has been made and to identify the potential for further change. This paper builds from the following question: Does the progress that intercity passenger rail experienced under PRIIA make it feasible to consider redirecting Amtrak's mission toward supporting the development of a competitive market for intercity passenger rail services? Amtrak's ubiquitous role in providing intercity passenger rail service is indisputable. However, with a redefined mission, Amtrak could be reoriented to support the creation of a competitive marketplace.