Amtrak has expanded capacity by adding trains and cars to maximize available space for service to and from Washington, D.C. during the inauguration of the nation's 44th president on January 20, 2009.

Although there are some seats still available on trains running in the Northeast Corridor at peak periods on Inauguration Day, space is limited and travellers are encouraged to purchase tickets as soon as possible. The extra trains and cars add more than 50 percent more capacity than a normal weekday, with the majority of the additional service available southbound toward Washington in the morning and northbound from Washington in the afternoon and evening.

All Amtrak trains in the Northeast require reservations and ticket purchases prior to boarding.

"With Amtrak's added capacity, the train is one of the best ways to get into the city for this historic event," said Emmett Fremaux, Amtrak vice president of marketing and product management. "Since many roads into the city and along the parade route will be closed, passengers can access inaugural activities just down the road from Union Station."

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Amtrak has posted six consecutive years of growth in ridership and revenue, carrying more than 28.7 million passengers in the last fiscal year. Amtrak provides intercity passenger rail service to more than 500 destinations in 46 states on a 21,000-mile route system. For schedules, fares and information, visit www.amtrak.com or travel agent.

For more information, contact Jane Wilson, Attach� Communications on 0208 948 2388 or email: amtrak@attachecommunications.co.uk