Transportation officials in Indiana and Kentucky are studying plans to expand passenger rail service, aiming to improve travel options for riders in the region.
The Indiana Department of Transportation received a federal grant in 2023 to evaluate expanding rail service in Indianapolis. One proposal includes restoring daily service between Indianapolis and Chicago along the existing Amtrak Cardinal line.
A spokesperson for Amtrak said Indianapolis currently has limited rail access compared to other state capitals. Officials believe adding more frequent and convenient train times could significantly boost ridership.
“When you only operate three times a week in the late night and early morning, you are much less likely to use us,” spokesperson Marc Magliari said, noting the push for daily service and multiple departures.
Travelers say the current schedule creates challenges, particularly for those without access to a car.
Meanwhile, the Kentucky Indiana Regional Planning and Development Agency also received a federal grant in late 2023 to study a new rail connection between Louisville and Indianapolis.
For traveler Cyle Ayers, expanded rail options would make visiting family easier. He said current travel can take up to 12 hours due to limited schedules and long wait times.
Some travelers added that the U.S. transportation system has historically prioritized cars, limiting the development and use of passenger rail.
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