Also it makes a lot more sense to tackle low hanging fruit, IE low speed bottlenecks, than it does bumping speeds from 80 to over 100. You just don't save much time, especially when there are blocking 50mph commuter trains that restrict any potential 100mph running even if totally legal.
Speed up interlockings, junctions, etc...
Put higher speed crossovers in
Ensure trains depart originating stations on time, IE make sure ample power is serviced and ready
Ensure ample track capacity.
This will go much farther in making the Empire trains a viable service than 110 mph possibilities.
Also consider the soft side of the equation. Try not to make NYP seem like the Lubyanka, especially the metro lounge. Allow all business class users to use the metro lounge. Have some real refreshments waiting rather than what you'd find at 7-11 in da Bronx. Have a real business class aboard, not archaic amfleet food service cars with a giant line waiting for $9 microwave pizza. Fire the a**clowns at ALB that make you line up and march around for boarding, as half the time they don't know what each other are doing and are just aggravating to the passengers. Most of those passengers ride MNCR, NJT, or LIRR on a daily basis back in the city and don't need a 7-11-type clerk giving them marching orders.
The new Acela: It's not Aveliable.