(KFGO AM) -- The CEO of Amtrak met with local leaders in Fargo and Grand Forks to ask for support while it looks for more funding from Congress.
The company is asking for $1.6 billion to repair and improve its railways, rail cars, bridges and tunnels.
CEO Joe Boardman is arguing for full funding since long-distance routes have had their costs hidden for years by the profitable northeast corridor.
He says Amtrak is important to Fargo and North dakota.
Amtrak passes through Fargo, Grand Forks, Devils Lake, Rugby, Minot, Stanley and Williston.