PHOENIX — The potential for Amtrak service connecting Arizona's two largest cities just got a little more real.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs announced Friday the state received a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to "continue studying the potential of restarting" the service.
Gov. Hobbs said the service would reduce pollution, expand the economy and better connect the two cities. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said this is one step closer to establishing the much-needed rail service.
“In Phoenix, connectivity is everything – from investments in our light rail system to expanding bus routes, we know that transit unleashes opportunities that help families and businesses prosper,” Gallego said.
State leaders had already committed $3.5 million for planning the passenger rail service. Amtrak service has not been available in Phoenix in 25 years.
“Not only will daily passenger rail service connect our communities–it’ll boost our regional economy with better access to jobs and more private investment along the route," said Congressman Greg Stanton. "I’ve worked hard to make Amtrak expansion in Arizona possible, and I’ll keep working with Governor Hobbs and ADOT to get this project across the finish line.”
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