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Funding set to run out for Indianapolis to Chicago train

Posted at 10:06 PM, Apr 17, 2019
and last updated 2019-04-17 22:07:57-04

INDIANAPOLIS — Advocates for an Indiana passenger rail line are making a last-minute plea to keep it on track.

A handful of state senators and representatives urged Governor Eric Holcomb to continue funding for the Hoosier state Amtrak line on Wednesday. As it stands, the money will run out on June 30 all because the money is not earmarked in either the house or the Senate's budget proposals.

The train runs four days a week between Indianapolis and Chicago.

"I drive I-65 from Lafayette to here, for 21 years. I know what that nightmare's like," Sen. Ron Alting, R-Lafayette, said. "I would much rather go down to Riehle Plaza and get on my passenger rail and take that in. Nice big, wide seats. And if I want a little glass of wine, I can do so. Or a little breakfast. I can do so."

The legislative session will end by April 29, so we'll know soon if the line will get funded. It costs around $3 million per year to support the line.