“The 2014 State Fair will be an unparalleled opportunity to experience some of the best agricultural products and entertainment that New York has to offer, and this train service will be a convenient and affordable travel option for visitors from all over,” Governor Cuomo said. “I am pleased we were able to work with Amtrak and CSX to make this service possible, and I encourage all New Yorkers – by train, car or plane – to visit the State Fair this year.”

The Governor intervened during negotiations over providing train service to the Fair, which were particularly difficult this year because CSX freight traffic has increased on the Empire Corridor west, already its busiest corridor in the nation. Because Amtrak passenger trains travel on CSX tracks, it makes adding an additional stop for Amtrak trains a dispatching challenge. Amtrak wanted to assure that its passenger trains would not be unduly delayed by the addition of the Fair stop. The Governor’s intervention helped resolve the impasse.

The Fair, which is themed “Summer’s Best in Show,” has a train stop on the fairgrounds at Gate 11, just outside the Horticulture building entrance.

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Joan McDonald said, “Governor Andrew Cuomo knows how important a robust transportation system is for mobility and a robust economy. Train service to the Great New York State Fair helps ensure that this great summer tradition is available to everyone.” 

The following trains will be serving the New York State Fair:
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For reservations or information, visit Amtrak.com or call 1-800 USA-RAIL.

The New York State Fair, operated by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, runs from August 21 – September 1, 2014. The Fair’s mission, reflected in its 2014 theme, “Summer’s Best in Show,” is to showcase the best of New York agriculture while providing top-quality entertainment. This year’s tagline – “New Attractions, Old Favorites, Timeless Fun” – highlights the more than two dozen new events and attractions and the expansion or enhancement of several Fairgoer favorites.

In addition to the annual New York State Fair, the Fairgrounds host dozens of agricultural events throughout the year, including some of the Northeast’s most prestigious horse and livestock shows.

The home of the Great New York State Fair is a 375-acre exhibit and entertainment complex that operates all year. A year-round schedule of events is available on the Fair’s website. Find The Great New York State Fair on Facebook, follow @NYSFair on Twitter, and enjoy photos from the Fair at Flickr.com/photos/NYSFair. Also, New Yorkers are invited to send their ideas for the Great New York State Fair at statefairideas@agriculture.ny.gov.

Media Contacts:
Joe Morrissey
Public Information Officer
NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets
518-457-0752

Dave Bullard
Public Relations
New York State Fair
315-487-7711 x 1377