Suspension Looms For Unfunded Heartland Flyer

By Jim Mathews / President & CEO

Amtrak is warning today that its Heartland Flyer service between Dallas-Fort Worth and Oklahoma City could evaporate by October 1 unless Texas can secure its share of the Flyer’s funding.

TxDOT asked the legislature for $7.05 million in this year’s session to fund Flyer operations for the next two years, but the legislature didn’t approve it. That leaves the Flyer in real jeopardy, and Amtrak has said that while it’s working with “state and local partners” to find a way out of the problem, the service will have to be suspended absent that funding.

“Reliable rail service provides a vital transportation option for residents and visitors alike, strengthening regional mobility, economic development, and tourism,” Amtrak President Roger Harris said in a prepared statement this afternoon. “With service that supports Texas’ continued economic growth and the region’s connectivity, sustaining the Heartland Flyer is essential to maintaining momentum and ensuring long term mobility in the region.”

Amtrak estimates that the Heartland Flyer generates $5.3 million in direct economic benefits and an estimated $23.7 million in overall economic benefits to the two states served. The service also supports jobs that are at risk if funding is not restored.

Amtrak also notes that the Dallas-Fort Worth region is scheduled to host more 2026 World Cup soccer matches than any other U.S. city, making it even more important to keep the Heartland Flyer service in place for transporting fans and visitors from Oklahoma and beyond.

Your Association is working with regional advocacy partners on the best steps we can take together to keep the Flyer in service.