Tough sell for Amtrak route through southern North Dakota
A feasibility study of an Amtrak route through southern North Dakota finds the route would bring economic benefits, but officials say its cost would be hard to justify.
The study covered the North Coast Hiawatha route that served the southern half of the state until 1979. Amtrak's Empire Builder route now runs to the north, between Fargo and Williston.
The report projects more than 350,000 passengers a year on the North Coast Hiawatha Line, including about 65,800 likely taken from the Empire Builder.
It estimates a $1 billion capital investment would be needed to cover the cost of track, cars and other equipment.
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Sen. Byron Dorgan says it would be difficult to get support for such an investment, especially when some oppose any Amtrak subsidy.
William Thoms is a transportation researcher. He says, "Man will step on Mars before someone steps off of a train in Bismarck."
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Information from: [[link:http://www.bismarcktribune.com type:ext text:Bismarck Tribune]]