Texas Funds Amtrak Heartland Flyer, Securing Route’s Future

Amtrak Heartland Flyer secures $3.5M funding, ensuring continued service. Texas Transportation Commission approves vital railway support.

Texas Funds Amtrak Heartland Flyer, Securing Route’s Future
September 6, 2025 6:24 pm
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Introduction

The Texas Transportation Commission has approved a $3.5 million commitment to maintain the Amtrak Heartland Flyer service, which runs between Fort Worth, Texas, and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. This decision, based on the Regional Transportation Council’s (RTC) recommendation, ensures the route’s operation for the coming year.

Funding Approval

The Texas Transportation Commission approved the commitment of $3.5 million to the Amtrak Heartland Flyer. This action addresses potential funding exhaustion, as stated by Amtrak officials in a press release.

Service Background

The Amtrak Heartland Flyer has been in operation since 1999. The service faced potential termination due to the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) funding request not being included in the state’s final budget. The route spans 206 miles and is jointly funded by TxDOT and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation.

Stakeholder Response

Amtrak expressed its appreciation for the Texas Transportation Commission’s funding approval for the Heartland Flyer. Jennifer Mitchell, Amtrak Executive Vice President, stated, “On behalf of our Amtrak guests who rely on the daily Heartland Flyer trains, we thank the Texas Transportation Commission for approving the state’s share of funding from the North Central Texas Council of Governments and its Regional Transportation Council. We will work with the commission, TxDOT, NCTCOG and other interested parties in Texas for a longer-term state funding solution.”

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Conclusion

The Texas Transportation Commission’s $3.5 million commitment secures the Amtrak Heartland Flyer’s operation for the next year. This funding stems from the Regional Transportation Council’s decision and addresses potential funding shortfalls. Amtrak, along with other stakeholders, is looking for a long-term funding solution.

Company Summary

Amtrak: Amtrak is a passenger railroad service.

Texas Transportation Commission: This is the governing body responsible for transportation decisions in Texas.

Regional Transportation Council (RTC): The RTC is a council focused on regional transportation planning.

Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): TxDOT is the state agency responsible for transportation in Texas.

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