South Dakota Lawmakers Support Amtrak Expansion for Better Connectivity

South Dakota lawmakers have advanced a resolution supporting Amtrak expansion to improve connectivity. The measure moves to the Senate, aiming to strengthen transportation and economic opportunities statewide. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Legislators Back Amtrak Expansion to Strengthen Connectivity

A resolution backing Amtrak’s expansion into South Dakota has cleared the House and now moves forward. The Senate will consider the measure, which aims to demonstrate strong legislative support for the project.

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House Concurrent Resolution 6008 signals to Congress the state’s interest in adding passenger rail services. The Federal Railroad Administration’s proposal includes 15 new routes, two of which would serve South Dakota directly.

The House Transportation Committee approved the resolution unanimously, showing bipartisan agreement on the issue. The full House later passed it with a 49-21 vote, moving it one step further.

Because the measure lacks direct funding, its passage serves as a formal endorsement of expansion. Supporters argue that South Dakota must seize this opportunity to connect with national rail networks.

How Amtrak Expansion Benefits South Dakota?

Representative Tim Goodwin (R-Rapid City), the resolution’s sponsor, emphasized the importance of securing Amtrak service. He compared missing out on this opportunity to not having access to the Interstate Highway System.

“Imagine every other state having an interstate while South Dakota had none,” Goodwin stated. He believes that neglecting passenger rail connections places South Dakota at a significant disadvantage.

Tourism groups in South Dakota have already voiced support for expanding passenger rail services. Legislators argue that reliable train routes would increase accessibility and strengthen the state’s economy.

Goodwin and Representative William Shorma (R-Dakota Dunes) stressed that expansion benefits both residents and visitors. They see the proposal as a long-term investment in South Dakota’s transportation future.

“This would improve tourism, business opportunities, and transportation infrastructure across the state,” Goodwin added. He believes the project mirrors the economic boost provided by the interstate highway system.

Shorma highlighted the broader impact of linking South Dakota to national rail networks. He emphasized that expanded rail access would connect South Dakota with travelers across the country.

“This isn’t just about Sioux Falls, Pierre, or Rapid City getting train service,” Shorma explained. He said that connecting with Amtrak provides better access to the world beyond state borders.

While Goodwin acknowledged that implementation could take years, he urged lawmakers to act now. He believes laying the groundwork now ensures that South Dakota remains competitive in transportation development.

“This won’t happen overnight, but we must take the first step now,” Goodwin said. He views this resolution as the first move toward integrating South Dakota into national passenger rail systems.

Source: www.msn.com

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