WASHINGTON — The unprecedented funding windfall available to Amtrak under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will challenge the company’s ability to manage projects related to the new funds while continuing to oversee current operations, the Amtrak Office of Inspector General says in a new report.
The challenges will come in four areas, the report contends:
— Demonstrating fiscal responsibility in managing the funds, by being transparent in spending and avoiding fraud, waste, and abuse;
— Building and deploying a skilled workforce, including hiring more than 750 managers in 2022 to replace those that have left and for new positions related to the infrastructure funding, as well as hiring outside contractors;
— Coordinating effectively with partners, such as state operating authories and freight railroads, as well as government at all levels;
— Improving program and project management, through efforts such as a focus on early planning, providing adequate personnel resources, and managerial accountability.
The report also says safety needs to remain the company’s first priority: “Amtrak and its stakeholders cannot risk allowing new IIJA-drive programs, projects, or requirements to otherwise detract from promoting safety — at all levels of the organization — as its overarching point of emphasis.”
The full report is available here.
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