America’s fastest passenger trains were developed through an innovative high-speed rail program that spanned more than forty years. For two generations of rail travelers, “Metroliner” evoked an image of speed and convenience. Conceived when the future of U.S. rail travel was in doubt, Metroliner captured the public’s attention and arguably led Congress to create Amtrak. The Metroliners tells the story of the development, marketing, and operational challenges, all of which led to the train becoming the most-used travel mode in the busy corridor between New York and Washington. Authored by industry insiders, The Metroliners follows the story from the turbulent 1960s to the development and introduction of Acela in the 21st century.

Foreword by Robert Watson

Introduction by Bruce Goldberg and David Warner

Chapter 1: Laying the Foundation

Chapter 2: Testing and Development

Chapter 3: The Penn Central Years

Chapter 4: The Early Amtrak Years

Chapter 5: From NECIP to New York Air

Chapter 6: Metroliner Meets the Challenge

Chapter 7: A Northeastern Institution

Chapter 8: Metroliner Away from Home

Chapter 9: Seeking the Next Generation

Chapter 10: Enter Acela, Exit Metroliner

Epilogue

Appendix

• 1969 Metroliner Press Release
• Metroliner Chronology
• Metroliner Roster
• Equipment Notes
• Service Notes