Amtrak reaches new milestone with Twin Cities-to-Chicago Borealis route
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Amtrak said its new Borealis route connecting the Twin Cities and Chicago has carried more than a quarter of a million passengers since it began operating in May 2024.
Amtrak said it reached the milestone over the Fourth of July holiday weekend. The route operates under contracts with departments of transportation in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois.
“A quarter of a million riders demonstrate the desire for safe, equitable and reliable transportation options in Minnesota,” said Nancy Daubenberger, Minnesota’s transportation commissioner. “We remain pleased and encouraged by the early success of the Borealis and look forward to its continued growth.”
Borealis trains originate from St. Paul at midday and from Chicago in the late morning.
"Some of these guests have never before used Amtrak,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “Now all of them can enjoy the benefits of train travel while avoiding the long drive on Interstate 94."
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