The presidents of of 11 area chambers of commerce will head to Washington, D.C., Tuesday to lobby for better air and rail connections, and lower energy costs. But they wont fly directly to Reagan National Airport in the capital city. Instead, theyll take Southwest Airlines to Baltimore, and then either take a train or drive to the Capitol.

Chuck Steiner, president of The Chamber of Schenectady County, said the group looked at flying to Washington, but that the fare was higher and the times not as convenient.

Theyll leave Albany at 6:25 a.m. and return at 9:30 p.m.

In Washington, the group plans to meet with U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Reps. Chris Gibson and Paul Tonko. Theyd like to see more reliable passenger rail service, including improved track conditions and higher priority for passenger over freight trains, as well as more service to Montreal.

Its a huge trading partner, Steiner said of Canada.

The group also seeks other long-delayed rail improvements, including a second track between Albany and Schenectady, and a fourth track at the Rensselaer CDTA rail station.

And theyd like express trains between the Capital Region and New York City, and the ability to bring bicycles on board Amtrak trains.

With air service, theyd like to see additional destinations, better timing for connecting flights when travelers have to go through an airlines hub city, and more competitive fares.

Weve got a wonderful airport, he said of Albany International Airport. But he worries about leakage, when passengers drive to Boston, New York City or other airports when they cant get the fares or schedules they want here.

Chamber officials also want an improved exit to the airport from the Northway.

Steiner said the issues theyll discuss in Washington originated with the 11 chambers members.

Participating  chambers, in addition to The Chamber of Schenectady County, are the Adirondack Regional Chamber; the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce; the Chamber of Southern Saratoga County; the Colonie Chamber of Commerce; the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce; the Fulton County Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry; the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce; The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce; the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce; and the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.

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