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Amtrak recently obtained $25 million in stimulus funding to replace transformers and other electrical equipment — some of which pre-dates World War II — at 40 substations that provide power for electrified tracks between New York City and Washington, D.C.

In 2002, Amtrak launched a long-term program aimed at upgrading and modernizing 82 substations along the Northeast Corridor. In 2006, the railroad experienced a power failure between New York and D.C. that left thousands of passengers stranded on trains.

The federal funding will help Amtrak accelerate the substation modernization program and support projects in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and D.C. the next few years. Some transformers that have been in service for as long as 75 years will be replaced to boost reliability. In addition, Amtrak will install devices designed to self-monitor key substation operations and identify potential problems.