Texas May Lose Heartland Flyer Rail Link Without State Funding

Texas may lose the Amtrak Heartland Flyer rail service by October 1, 2025, unless the state government provides critical funding to sustain operations between Fort Worth and Oklahoma City. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The Heartland Flyer has connected these cities for over two decades, offering reliable transportation that eases highway congestion and supports workforce mobility across the I-35 corridor.

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Texas Urged to Act Before Heartland Flyer Shutdown

Jointly operated by Amtrak, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT), the route depends on financial support under Section 209 of the PRIIA.

Amtrak President Roger Harris noted that dependable rail service improves regional mobility, encourages tourism, and drives local economies, especially in cities like Fort Worth.

The service transported more than 80,000 passengers last year, generating $2.2 million in ticket revenue and reducing vehicle traffic between two fast-growing metro areas.

It connects to other national Amtrak lines, such as the Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited, and future expansion plans could establish links to Kansas and the Southwest Chief route.

Texas Cities Highlight Economic Value of Rail Connection

Fort Worth’s $3.5 billion tourism economy benefits directly from this connection. The Heartland Flyer supports nearly 30 local jobs and drives $5.3 million in direct and $23.7 million in overall economic activity.

Because the Dallas-Fort Worth region will host several 2026 FIFA World Cup matches, officials say continued service is essential to handle increased visitor demand.

However, a TxDOT request for $7.05 million to maintain the service through 2027 was left out of the most recent budget, raising concerns among city leaders and transportation advocates.

Amtrak confirmed it remains in talks with the state and will announce a suspension date if no funding agreement is reached in the coming months.

Local officials from Fort Worth, Gainesville, and Oklahoma City stressed that rail connectivity boosts accessibility, cross-border cooperation, and long-term regional development.

Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker stated that the Heartland Flyer is central to the city’s economic competitiveness and essential for maintaining its status as Texas’ busiest Amtrak station.

Source: railway-news.com

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