WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today was awarded the “Golden Spike” award for his efforts to preserve the Southwest Chief, Amtrak passenger rail service from Chicago to Los Angeles which includes six stops in Kansas.

“The Southwest Chief provides vital service across Kansas, including much of the rural portions of the state. Travelers, small businesses, and communities use passenger rail for safe and reliable transportation,” Roberts said.  

“Last year, we witnessed Amtrak’s wavering commitment to the Southwest Chief. My colleagues in the Senate from Kansas, New Mexico, and Colorado used every opportunity to express the necessity of the Southwest Chief. As a united voice, we were successful in maintaining the current rail line. I am honored to receive this award.”

At issue was an attempt by Amtrak to use bus service for portions of the line and to stop investing in repair and maintenance. At the urging of Senator Roberts and others, the Fiscal Year 2019 Transportation Appropriations bill contained $50 million for maintenance and improvements to the route. Amtrak committed to continuing to improve and offer service on the Southwest Chief.

The “Golden Spike” is awarded by the Rail Passengers Association to honor work done to advance the cause of a robust national rail system in the U.S.

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