Amtrak services in Ohio could face major setbacks after the Senate removed key funding from the state’s proposed two-year budget, alarming passenger rail advocates across the state. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Amtrak services in Ohio could face major setbacks after the Senate removed key funding from the state’s proposed two-year budget, alarming passenger rail advocates across the state
Photo by: Bill Sikes/AP

The cut affects Ohio’s planned reentry into the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Compact (MIPRC), which promotes regional rail development. The removed provision allocated $25,000 annually to cover Ohio’s membership.

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MIPRC includes states like Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin, allowing coordination on planning and access to federal grants. Ohio joined in 2002 but withdrew funding in 2013. Advocates say restoring the funds is crucial now.

Public Support Grows, But Amtrak Services Face Political Resistance

All Aboard Ohio, a leading advocacy group, criticized the Senate’s decision. President Mitch Radakovich said Ohio risks losing influence in regional rail planning by staying out of the compact.

He stressed that being part of MIPRC improves federal grant eligibility and long-term savings through shared equipment. The group has urged citizens to contact their senators to reverse the budget cut.

Despite House support, Senate opposition emerged without public hearings. Radakovich said the lack of transparency is troubling, especially given that 75% of Ohioans support better rail infrastructure, according to a 2024 ODOT study.

Senate Restructures Rail Commission, Downgrades Passenger Voice

Besides slashing MIPRC funding, the Senate budget also alters the Ohio Rail Development Commission. It increases freight rail seats from one to two and removes the only seat for passenger rail representation.

Vacancies still exist for all passenger and public seats on the commission. Meanwhile, the budget includes one-time funding for developing the Midwest Connect line linking Chicago, Columbus, and Pittsburgh.

Senator Jerry Cirino said rail proposals deserve debate outside the budget process, possibly through separate legislation. But a past standalone bill failed to gain traction in committee last year.

A 3C+D route (Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati) could add $106–107 million to Ohio’s economy and create over 1,100 jobs, according to Scioto Analysis. Still, advocates face a tight deadline, with final budget revisions due by June 6.

Source: www.wcpo.com

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