There are more than 20 universities along the Amtrak routes that are in jeopardy by The State funding cuts. Students who use this service will be faced with even more burdens. Not only in loss of the productivity time they previously had while using The Flyer for the commute; but, also in the financial strain of extra miles on vehicles, adding to the already over-congested conditions of the roads. 

Oklahoma Senator Mark Mann filed a resolution urging Texas to Continue supporting the Heartland Flyer, and Kansas legislators authorized "no limit" funding for the Heartland Flyer Extension through 2026 and in the 2024 session authorized a $5M infusion to kick start the program in 2025. As other states pour into these connections and take action to expand our infrastructure nationwide, Texas also needs to take every measure to ensure that Texans are connected and have options for transportation. 

These positive developments have come from communities coming together, and sharing both community Letters of Support and the results of the Economic Impact Study of the Missouri River Runner which operates 2 trains a day between KC and St. Louis. In 2021 they found the River Runner generates a $208M economic impact, $22M in tax revenue generation and $65M in labor income. The $22M in tax revenue generation is $12M more than it costs to operate the train. 

For me, an ardent supporter of mass transit, it's beyond belief that the US, a developed nation, lags its peers in passenger railway services. Such transportation eases congestion, reduces emissions, and fosters community interaction. I firmly believe it's time for the US to catch up. Recently, the 117th U.S. Congress laid the groundwork for this by enacting the "Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act." Signed by President Joe Biden on November 15, 2021, this law offers the potential for tripling passenger services in places such as Gainesville.

The city of Oklahoma City (OKC) has already shown its commitment by issuing a proclamation in favor of this expanded service. It's time for our Gainesville City Council to do the same. It's crucial that they, too, issue a proclamation supporting AMTRAK's tripling of passenger service. This move would remarkably improve accessibility for all, lower carbon footprints, and send a clear message to the nation – Gainesville stands for progress and innovative means of transport.

Gainesville City Council, I, along with many others in our beloved community, urge you to take a firm stance in support of expanding AMTRAK's passenger service per the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Please listen to the voice of your citizens, advocate for our city's growth, and strive to make Gainesville a model of sustainable transportation. Sign this petition to urge our Texas leadership members to publicly support this necessary upgrade to our public transit system.