Update: Responses from Amarillo city leadership I wanted to share a transparent update on outreach

I wanted to share a transparent update on outreach related to passenger rail in Amarillo.

I recently emailed local officials about the potential for passenger rail expansion and have now received responses from both Mayor Cole Stanley and Councilmember Les Simpson.

Councilmember Les Simpson responded with encouragement and expressed clear interest in the idea. In his reply, he said passenger rail service would be “a great addition for Amarillo” and could bring real value to the community, especially in terms of downtown connectivity and continued growth. He also shared that he has reached out to Congressman Ronny Jackson’s office for an update on where the proposal currently stands and said he will look into whether there is anything that can be done locally to help move it forward.

Mayor Cole Stanley also responded. In his email, he thanked me for reaching out and for sharing the information, and said he would keep his eyes open for any opportunities that may come up. He also noted that the city is currently focused on public safety and infrastructure improvements, especially due to some outdated systems.

I wanted to share both responses as they were, because I believe transparency matters. While these are not commitments, they do show that the issue has reached local leadership and is being acknowledged. That is an important step forward.

Thank you to everyone who has signed, shared, and supported this effort. Every message, signature, and conversation helps keep passenger rail on the radar for Amarillo.