Do you use Amtrak? Illinois Department of Transportation and Amtrak announced Friday an agreement to keep existing service levels on state-supported routes at a savings to taxpayers and at no change to fares. The agreement through June 30 – the current fiscal year – will cost $38.3 million compared to $42 million in the last fiscal year.
IDOT used credits – such as equipment upgrades – and negotiatiating a $2.7 million dollar reduction from Amtrak’s original request for equipment maintenance. All state supported daily round trips end in Chicago. In total, there are 4 routes originating in St. Louis, 2 in Quincy, 2 in Carbondale and 7 daily round trips from Milwaukee. Wisconsin routes are 75% covered by Wisconsin Department of Transportation.