15 New Amtrak Routes Proposed to Transform U.S. Rail Network

The U.S. Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has proposed 15 new Amtrak routes in a landmark study aimed at expanding intercity rail connectivity. These new corridors could double the size of Amtrak’s network and significantly improve access to sustainable transportation across the country.

According to the railway transport news portal Railway Supply, the FRA estimates the total cost of implementation between $45.6 and $59.3 billion, with the potential to reconnect millions of Americans — especially those in underserved regions.

Connecting More Communities Through New Amtrak Routes

The FRA’s detailed blueprint identifies key gaps in the current rail network and suggests how the new Amtrak routes would bridge them. The initiative emphasizes links between major metropolitan areas and rural communities, offering a powerful alternative to highways and air travel.

Currently, Amtrak operates 15 long-distance routes in 39 states. However, cities like Phoenix, Nashville, and Louisville lack any passenger rail service. The FRA believes these new corridors could extend rail access to over 39 million people, including 7 million in rural areas — enhancing mobility, reducing emissions, and stimulating local economies.

Don’t miss…Amtrak Unveils New Cascade Trains for 2026 I-5 Service

Costs and Infrastructure Investment

The study breaks down projected infrastructure costs:

• Track and systems upgrades: $17.85B–$23.32B
• Stations and maintenance facilities: $18.44B–$23.96B
• New locomotives and coaches: $9.3B–$12B

Notably, the proposed expansion could also restore historic routes, such as the Sunset Limited between Jacksonville and New Orleans (suspended since 2005) and enhancements to the Cardinal route, connecting Washington, D.C., Cincinnati, and Chicago.

Why These Amtrak Routes Matter?

The FRA stresses that expanding rail service aligns with U.S. climate goals by offering a low-emission alternative to cars and planes. Improved rail service supports regional development and provides more equitable access to public transportation.

Jim Mathews, president of the Rail Passengers Association, called the FRA’s plan a “transformational roadmap” for U.S. rail, urging Congress to fund the proposals. “We must act now to build a rail system that meets the needs of future generations,” he said.

What’s Next for the 15 Amtrak Routes?

While the plan has generated widespread public support — including 50,000+ comments and feedback from 21 cities — challenges remain. Funding, political consensus, and local cooperation will be key to turning proposals into trains on tracks.

Importantly, the FRA has excluded high-speed rail and Northeast Corridor upgrades from this plan, instead focusing on neglected corridors across the Midwest, South, and West.

Source: www.railjournal.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: