Alstom, the French multi-national company whose local operations include a facility in Hornell, is expected to be selected by Amtrak for a $2.5 billion contract that would create about 400 jobs in Hornell, and potentially another 350 across New York State.
That according to Senator Chuck Schumer who visited Steuben County today to announce that the Amtrak Board of Directors is expected to select Alstom as the train provider for a program to build next-generation high-speed trains. The trains would operate on the Northeast Corridor.
Final details of the contract are still being worked out. Schumer says there is a strong need for better trains along the Northeast Corridor with passenger ridership expected to continue increasing in the coming years.
Congressman Tom Reed says this contract could provide a big economic boost for the Southern Tier. But he says it's not a done deal yet, with a federal approval pending for financing through a rail improvement program.
Alstom employs more than 1,000 people in New York State, including around 500 in Hornell. A company spokesman says they can't comment yet since contract details haven't been finalized.
