Jefferson City, MO (KSDK) - The Amtrak Missouri River Runner ridership is up 16 percent for the fiscal year. High gas prices are believed to be the main reason behind an increase in train passengers.
"More and more customers are relying on Amtrak to take them to their destinations," said Rod Massman, Missouri Department of Transportation rail administrator. He also points out it's a more economical and environmentally cleaner way to travel.
The reliable service is another reason some are opting to ride instead of drive. The Missouri River Runner trains are reported to have an 89 percent on-time performance rate for the fiscal year.
The state's rail service will continue to be improved with several upcoming projects. Missouri received $75 million from the Federal Railroad Administration to remove bottlenecks along the St. Louis - Kansas City corridor. The money will also be used to create a comprehensive state rail plan, acquire new passenger rail equipment and improve access to the St. Louis Gateway Station.
Rail station renovations were recently completed in Sedalia, and construction on a new station in Hermann is expected to begin in the fall.
KSDK