The Rail Passengers Association (APA) this week honored six sitting U.S. senators with the Golden Spike Award for efforts made to save the Amtrak train known as the Southwest Chief.
That train network runs through the Midwestern and Southwestern United States, and was in danger of replacement. However, an RPA study determined that actions by U.S. Sens. Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Pat Roberts (R-KS) and Tom Udall (D-NM) will save their states around $180 million in annual economic activity.
“I’m so proud that we came together in bipartisan fashion in the Senate to keep the Southwest Chief chugging along, and I’m grateful for this recognition from the Rail Passengers Association. This victory is a testament to what we can accomplish when we reach across the aisle and work together to advance our common interests,” Udall said. “Long distance passenger rail lines are absolutely critical to connecting towns and cities across the American West, especially in New Mexico. For many in New Mexico and beyond, the Southwest Chief is more than a railroad line; it’s a journey through time—through the historic West—and a vital link between rural communities from Raton to Gallup. By ensuring a strong and stable future for this historic route, we’ll create jobs, promote tourism, and boost economic development.”
The recently passed Fiscal Year 2019 budget now includes funds for preservation work along the train corridor. Additionally, Amtrak itself has reversed a previous decision to withhold matching funds on the project, allowing an additional $26 million to go into maintenance efforts.
“At our first Southwest Chief meeting years ago in La Junta, Colorado, we joined a coalition of community leaders and pledged to find the funding to keep the line running,” Bennett said. “Amtrak’s decision to uphold its commitment to match the TIGER grant is because of the dedication of these leaders and validates the importance of the Southwest Chief.”
With the preservation, the RPA estimates the train will generate $135 million in economic activity due to positive train control construction. The route will also allow dozens off universities and hospitals to maintain train service.
“The Southwest Chief is a critical link for the many Kansans who rely on passenger rail to reach destinations around the country,” Moran said. “I wish to extend my appreciation to members of the Rail Passengers Association for their steadfast advocacy to protect not only the Southwest Chief, but all rail transportation which plays such an important role in our economy and local communities.”