On Wednesday, the Kansas Department of Transportation provided an update based on a recent feasibility study evaluating a passenger rail extension from Oklahoma City to Newton. “Right now, since we’re trying to facilitate the first connection to the Southwest Chief,” Mark Alvarez, rail project coordinator for KDOT, said. “Perhaps in the future, it’s something that can be explored.” The current timeline would mean an early morning hour layover for passengers in Newton if they transfer between Heartland Flyer and Southwest Chief trains. Local proponents of the project had hoped for evening service, which would have boosted Newton’s downtown. According to the discussion, the extension conference project is still on track, with an estimated completion date set in 2029.
Source: Harvey County Now