Texas Faces End of Vital Amtrak Route Amid Budget Cuts

Texas lawmakers have excluded rail funding from the budget, putting the long-standing Heartland Flyer service in jeopardy as transportation advocates warn of consequences for both Texas and Oklahoma. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The Heartland Flyer, which connects Fort Worth to Oklahoma City, has operated since 1999. It transported over 80,000 passengers last year, offering a vital alternative to road travel.

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Texas typically contributes around $2.5 million to fund the service, but rising costs have increased the state’s share to $3.5 million in 2024. Lawmakers, however, removed this amount from the new $337 billion state budget.

Texas Cut May Disrupt Travel and Hurt Local Economies

If the train halts, over 50,000 extra vehicles could return to Interstate 35. Local economies may suffer as tourism, hotel stays, and restaurant traffic decline across regions served by the train.

Oklahoma still contributes $4.5 million annually to maintain the service. The recent increase in ridership—up nearly 15% from 2019 to 2024—proves the route’s growing relevance despite its financial challenges.

Earlier this year, the North Texas Regional Transportation Council stepped in to prevent service disruption by allocating $100,000 from toll revenues. That move temporarily covered a $72,000 shortfall.

Texas Decision Triggers Regional Pushback and Future Planning

Kansas transportation leaders have plans to restore the line northward from Oklahoma City to Newton. That expansion could cost up to $573 million and include cities like Ponca City.

Ponca City Mayor Kelsey Wagner expressed disappointment at Texas’ decision. She called on state and federal leaders to protect rail access for rural communities and warned of negative economic fallout.

Unless Texas revises its position, the Heartland Flyer could make its final run by June 30. Advocates remain hopeful the state will act before the deadline to avoid disrupting regional rail service.

Source: www.chron.com

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