Denver Direct: Save Amtrak in Southern Colorado and add a stop in Pueblo


Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Save Amtrak in Southern Colorado and add a stop in Pueblo

Today is the first step in the process of saving Amtrak in Southern Colorado and adding a stop in Pueblo!
This Chicago to Los Angeles route has served passengers through southeastern Colorado since the 1880s, including a stop in Pueblo until 1971. Amtrak is considering alternative routes due to maintenance issues that would divert the Southwest Chief rail line and discontinue passenger rail service to Colorado, Kansas and New Mexico. The Colorado portion of the line serves over 13,000 passengers per year at scheduled stops in Lamar, La Junta, and Trinidad.
However, we have a solution proposed to partner 5 ways to save it; while adding a stop to Pueblo! Adding Pueblo will add ridership and new travelers to the train.
An economic impact study shows that adding a stop in Pueblo would generate $67 million over 10 years. And if the replacement rail is produced in Pueblo another $33 million dollars could pass through our State.
Thanks to Rep. Leroy Garcia (D-Pueblo) and Sen. Larry Crowder (R-Alamosa) House Bill 1161 starts its journey through the General Assembly today to save this Amtrak route and add a stop in Pueblo.
Thanks for your help,

Sal Pace