nmrxabqfan101
Train Attendant
I have noticed allot of you have information that is all rumor or speculation? Here is what is going on....Several Studies were done on the Southern route which concluded that if the SWC went to Clovis & Been that would be more money for Amtrak's pocket. Well the studies also recently donebper request of NMDOT and Governor Martinez shows New Mexico would loose money and ridership would be much less. Amtrak has shown that they do not want to be a add and subtract business. I personally met with Joe Boardman in which we discussed the Southern route and what stops Amtrak from running there? First off the amount of trains running through that segment would delay the Chief due to low Track capacity, Making or Building ADA platforms at older stations, Build New Track, upgrade current or older sidings....etc basically allot of red tape and money to go through just to send the SWC on the southern route. I personally saw a copy of NMDOT findings and Ridership Numbers, and Future Holdings. Looks like NMDOT concluded the SWC is better where she is. Amtrak CEO AND BNSF Chairman Matt Rose agreed the Southwest Chief is better served on Raton than to re route her over the southern route, both CEO's are working with DOTs from all states to find a long term plan for continued service and operation of Raton. Now New Mexico's position is they want to find out exact prices of rebuilding the track will cost, and how much operating costs will be once the line is upgraded.NMAC and NMDOT along with other state & city agencies have agreed a solution needs to be found soon. NM Governor Martinez has not fully commented on the recent findings. The current cost if rounded is around 6 million for NM portion of the track. NMDOT Secretary mentioned that if the Chief ever want to the southern route the state will step in. But as of now NM wants a commitment from Amtrak and BNSF That service will continue before any state funds are handed out.