Amtrak’s Recent Announcement
Rail enthusiasts may soon have a new option for exploring the United States. Amtrak recently announced a partnership with the Southern Rail Commission to explore extending rail service connecting New York City, Atlanta, and Dallas/Fort Worth via the I-20 Crescent train line. This initiative has been in development for over 20 years, and only recently, following the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, has it started progressing toward possible implementation.
Significance of the Project
The announcement represents a crucial first step for the project, as Amtrak and the Southern Rail Commission collaborate to study the feasibility of this service. Both organizations emphasize that the concept has garnered support from various levels of government and rail industry leaders.
“With the encouragement and support of federal, state, and local officials, this application is the first step in determining the feasibility of expanding Amtrak service to the I-20 route, including federal funding commitments, benefits, and challenges,” noted Amtrak Vice President Nicole Bucich in a statement shared with iBestTravel.
Crescent Line Details
The Crescent line, renowned for its journey from the Big Apple of New York to the Big Easy of New Orleans, currently operates daily and takes approximately 30 hours to complete. This proposed service would extend the train line from New Orleans across Mississippi and Louisiana, concluding in Dallas/Fort Worth. Presently, Amtrak operates only 15 long-distance routes.
“This will provide cities previously unconnected to rail with the opportunity to get connected. From tourist hubs to college towns, this initiative will open new avenues for exploration and access,” asserted Knox Ross, Chairman of The Southern Rail Commission, in an interview.
Amtrak boasts over 21,400 miles of rail service within the United States, with customers taking over 22 million trips last year. This expansion could represent a significant enhancement to rail travel options across the region.
