With the completion of Amtrak's $1.9 million project at the Connersville, Ind. station, Amtrak customers will now be able to utilize enhanced station accessibility features, including a new concrete platform meeting the specifications of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Other upgrades include the installation of new lighting, ramp, new connection to the public right of way and upgrades to the parking lot.
The Amtrak Cardinal travels three days weekly between New York and Chicago, with a stop in Connersville.
“Making our stations accessible to all customers is a priority and we’re actively performing construction, renovation, repair and upgrade projects at stations across our national network,” said Amtrak Vice President Dr. David Handera. “We want Connersville and all of our stations to be a welcoming and comfortable environment to all of our customers.”
“The City of Connersville is overjoyed with the upgrades that have been made here in our community,” said Mayor of Connersville Chad Frank, who spoke at a ribbon-cutting event held on Aug. 29. “Connersville is seeing growth in our community and we anticipate that the recent improvements to the station will encourage an increase in travelers.”
Amtrak has invested $770 million since 2011 in accessibility upgrades and improvement projects at 118 stations across the national network to ensure a safe, efficient and comfortable travel experience for customers with disabilities. The improvements include repairs and upgrades to platforms, ramps and sidewalks, renovations to entranceways and restrooms, with 20 stations brought into ADA compliance last year. Another 20 stations are targeted for completion this fiscal year at a forecasted investment of $125 million.
Furthermore, Amtrak is advancing 143 station designs and 39 station construction projects as part of Amtrak’s ongoing commitment to providing accessibility by working toward 100 percent completion by 2029.
