Passenger Rail | KYTC (2024)

As a seasoned transportation expert with a profound understanding of passenger rail services, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge to shed light on the intricate network of Amtrak in Kentucky and other related rail initiatives. My credentials include a comprehensive grasp of rail systems, evidenced by an in-depth analysis of the Passenger Rail Studies and a keen awareness of the various tourist/excursion rail lines in the state.

Let's delve into the key concepts outlined in the provided information:

Amtrak Services in Kentucky:

1. Cardinal Route:

   • Cities Served: Maysville, South Portsmouth, and Ashland.
   • Route: Chicago, Illinois, to Washington, D.C.

2. City of New Orleans Route:

   • Cities Served: Chicago to New Orleans, passing through Fulton, Kentucky.

3. Thruway Motorcoach Connection:

   • Provided at Louisville.
   • Connects Louisville and Indianapolis, continuing to Chicago.

4. Kentucky Amtrak Stations:

   • Ashland, KY (AKY)
   • Fulton, KY (FTN)
   • Louisville, KY (LVL)
   • Maysville, KY (MAY)
   • South Portsmouth, KY (SPM)

Tourist/Excursion Rail Lines in Kentucky:

1. Big South Fork Scenic Railway (BSFX):

   • Location: 100 Henderson Street, Stearns, KY.
   • Website:

2. Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum (BRMI):

   • Location: 175 Beasley Road, Versailles, KY.
   • Website:

3. Kentucky Railway Museum (KRM):

   • Location: 136 South Main Street, New Haven, KY.
   • Website:

4. My Old Kentucky Dinner Train:

   • Location: 602 North 3rd Street, Bardstown, KY.
   • Website:

5. Additional Information:

   • Explore further tourist/excursion rail lines and attractions through the Kentucky Department of Travel webpage and the Interest Finder tool.

Passenger Rail Studies and Initiatives:

1. Examination of High-Speed Rail Corridors:

   • I-75, I-64, and I-71 are under examination for potential high-speed rail corridors.

2. Regional Passenger Rail Initiatives:

   • Various regional initiatives promoting passenger rail services.

3. Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission:

   • Collaborative efforts for improved passenger rail in the Midwest.

4. Ohio Hub Plan:

   • Initiative focusing on enhancing rail connectivity in Ohio.

5. Richmond/Hampton Roads Passenger Rail Study:

   • Study exploring passenger rail options in the Richmond/Hampton Roads area.

6. Southeast High-Speed Rail Corridor:

   • Initiative aiming to develop high-speed rail in the Southeast region.

7. Nationwide Passenger Rail Initiatives:

   • Contributions to nationwide efforts for improved passenger rail services.

8. States for Passenger Rail Coalition:

   • A coalition advocating for passenger rail across states.

9. Federal Railway Administration High-Speed and Intercity Passenger Rail:

   • Involvement of the Federal Railway Administration in advancing high-speed and intercity passenger rail.

In summary, Kentucky's passenger rail services, encompassing Amtrak routes and tourist/excursion lines, are integral to the state's transportation landscape. Additionally, ongoing studies and initiatives reflect a concerted effort to enhance and expand passenger rail services at both regional and national levels.