The modeling record remains unresolved.
The October 2024 feasibility study cited operational modeling that supports its conclusions. Public-records responses and newly released NJ TRANSIT materials now present accounts that are difficult to reconcile.
"did not reveal any simulations or modeling data in Amtrak's possession"
Amtrak framed the issue in custodial terms: whether Amtrak possessed the requested records.
"the work was led by MTA (and their consultant)" and "no simulations were performed"
The later response went further, stating that no simulations were performed for the work at issue.
"Penn Station-specific RTC model developed in coordination with MTA and Amtrak"
Newly released records show FRA asking NJ TRANSIT to release a Penn Station RTC model involving all three agencies.
Those records do not prove, by themselves, which agency holds each technical file or how each agency defined "simulation" in its FOIA responses. They do show that the underlying modeling has not been publicly produced. The MTA production due June 4 should clarify what exists in agency hands and whether the public record supports the October 2024 conclusions.