October 2026 Newsletter
Northern Flyer Alliance, Inc. Newsletter
Newsletter
October
2026
Check out the latest Northern Flyer Alliance, Inc. updates!
New Amtrak System Expansion Committee
Spotlight on new MO Rail Caucus Chair!
New Airo Sets make their Amtrak debut!
Kansas City MPO holds first meeting about increased regional interest in passenger rail
Colorado Connector (Front Range train) to be operational by 2029!
After 1st train, 2nd frequency is much easier. Just ask Pennsylvania
Reauthorization for Corridor ID still in jeopardy
Ride the Heartland Flyer!
Join the Alliance!
1. Announcing New Amtrak System Expansion Committee!
Mardi Gras Service in New Orleans, LA during its inaugural run last year.
Following its July meeting, the Amtrak Board of Directors established the System Expansion Committee. This comes at an exciting time for passenger rail following on the overwhelming successes of the new Mardi Gras and Borealis routes.
2. Highlighting Missouri Rail Caucus Chair, Rep. Travis Wilson
We are delighted to promote Rep. Travis Wilson in his new role as MO Rail Caucus Chair. He has many exciting things planned in the coming year, including celebrating River Runner Day along with Train Day this coming May 10 in Kansas City, Missouri!
3. New Airo Trainsets bought with $3B in USDOT Grants make their Amtrak debut!
New trainsets to be delivered across the country
Airo train interior
New Airo trainsets are also planned for Missouri's River Runner within the next few years.
In the recent past, the Heartland Flyer's capacity has been constrained by a lack of available coach cars. These new train sets will build capacity across the country by moving existing, viable coaches from trains such as the River Runner to other corridors such as the Heartland Flyer and its Extension.
4. MARC holds first Regional Passenger Rail Discussion
From Kansas City, MO to south Johnson County, the region wants more rail options.
Latest example: City of Olathe, KS fixed-rail ideas gain momentum. Click Learn More button below to watch TV news coverage.
5. Colorado Connector (Front Range train) to be operational by 2029!
Funding competition for new state-supported passenger train corridors is STIFF! One of many reasons why Kansas must continue the full court press on funding and constructing the Heartland Flyer Extension!
6. After 1st train, 2nd frequency is much easier...
Construction of the second frequency (in orange) on the Pennsylvanian is along a 304-mile corridor.
The Second Pennsylvanian will begin operation on November 18, 2026!
In December 2023, Governor Josh Shapiro announced over $140 million in passenger rail investments though the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail grant program and the Corridor Identification and Development program. These funds will help support the expansion of passenger rail along the Keystone West corridor between Harrisburg and Pittsburgh. To support the expanded operations, the Commonwealth has invested more than $80 million towards construction underway or completed.
Compare the 180 miles for the Heartland Flyer Extension (above) to the 260 end to end miles on the Colorado Connector and the 304 miles end to end on the 2nd Pennsylvanian.
7. Reauthorization for Corridor ID still in jeopardy!
If you haven't called yet, call now!
If you called last week, thank you!
Problem: Corridor ID is taking TOO LONG!
Appropriations are needed NOW for the Heartland Flyer Extension!
Action: Contact Senator Moran. Let him know appropriations for the Heartland Flyer Extension are needed Right Now!
8. Ride the Heartland Flyer!
Heartland Flyer Train
in Arbuckle mountains
Take the Bus Bridge from the Southwest Chief stop in Newton to Oklahoma City where you can connect with the Heartland Flyer!
Stay Informed!
9. Join the Alliance!
876 N. Diane Dr. Olathe, KS 66061 913-827-8380
https://www.northernflyeralliance.net/
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