Amtrak service could expand in Kansas. Topeka leaders say the changes may boost the city’s economy.

Topeka city manager Brent Trout said the city council urges through its resolution the U.S. Congress to invest in rail. The Kansas congressional delegation appears to be in support of the rail recommendations.
Trout said he has heard complaints about Amtrak’s access in Topeka. Trips to some major cities, like Chicago, only leave the city at 4:40 a.m. Proposed changes wouldn’t add a new line to Topeka, though more Amtrak connectivity in Kansas could bring more people to the city. Trout said he hopes the proposed changes also lead to more frequent changes coming to Topeka. Jim Parrish, president and CEO of Parrish Hotel Corp., which manages the downtown Ramada, said the Ramada is across the street from Topeka’s Amtrak station. He said travelers staying overnight used to be a “pretty nice little piece” of business until ridership numbers dropped. Parrish said that is likely due in part to the pandemic, but he said expanded service has an economic impact as well.
Source: CJonline.com.