Earlier this week, the current federal administration introduced a $2 trillion bill to improve public infrastructure in the United States. National rail service company, Amtrak, will be given $80 billion in federal funding to repair current lines and expands into new territories including Las Vegas, Nashville, Phoenix and Columbus.
This major change in Ohio would connect Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati; the state's three largest cities. From ABC 13:
"Amtrak’s new vision includes a route from Cleveland to Columbus, which is the nation’s second largest city without rail service. The route from Cleveland to Columbus would also connect Ohio’s capital city to Cincinnati, connecting the state’s three largest cities via rail."
This announcement has been met with mix responses. CEO of Amtrak, Bill Flynn said:
"In addition, Amtrak has a bold vision to bring energy-efficient, world-class intercity rail service to up to 160 new communities across the nation, as we also invest in our fleet and stations across the U.S. With this federal investment, Amtrak will create jobs and improve equity across cities, regions, and the entire country—and we are ready to deliver."