What's seemingly lost in the discussion is the fact that too many people don't live near AMTRAK'S system, and therefore cannot utilize it like we'd wish.

Then too, while I live minutes away from Fort Worth' s station, I still have no access to the eastern seaboard without having to go clear to Chicago. to find an appropriate train.

Here's an idea--why not let a major restaurant provider purchase the parlors/diners, et al, and operate them independently (albeit still integral with the train)?