Washington, DC  - U.S. Congressman John L. Mica (R-7th District) announced today that the House of Representatives gave initial federal approval to funding for the City of Sanford to improve access to the Auto Train Station.
        “With the new terminal and upgraded entry, we hope to expand service and local jobs,” said Congressman Mica.  “I am pleased Amtrak is constructing a new $10.5 million station; however the problems of poor access and an inadequate entry road to the Sanford facility still exist.”
        Included in House passed Transportation-Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill is $750,000 secured by Congressman Mica for the design and construction of improved access roads to the Sanford Amtrak Auto Train Station.  Phase I of the project will support roadway enhancements including widening of Persimmon Avenue to three lanes, improved signage and implementation of signalization.
        “This funding will have positive impact on our community with enhanced roadway safety around the Sanford station.  It will also improve Amtrak service and support the local economy instead of keeping our local service roads in gridlock,” continued Rep. Mica.
        The Auto Train continues to be one of Amtrak’s most popular routes and transports passengers and their automobiles non-stop from Lorton, Virginia (15 miles south of Washington, D.C.) to Central Florida.  The Auto Train carries 300 vehicles in auto carrier cars and 500 passengers on its coach and sleeper cars.
        In 2004, the Sanford Auto Train Station was nearly destroyed by a hurricane and Federal, state and local officials have partnered with Amtrak to construct a new 600-seat station to replace the old facility.  Completion of the new station is expected in October of 2010.

                    These appropriations now move to the U.S. Senate for final approval.